Mosaic Modern Fusion

With its low lighting and shades of red and green, Mosaic offers a space-age feel that suits its adventurous small-plate menu. This is a place that takes its fusion cuisine seriously. The chef conjures up an interesting mix of seasonal dishes: lobster salad with guacamole, Valencia oranges and chive sour creme edamame wontons with pickled radishes, shiitake and lemongrass or the cherry-braised short ribs with green-apple whipped potatoes, crisp lotus root and petite carrots. In particular, the chile-braised Rensing Farms pork cheeks with white-cheddar grits, sprouts and ancho jus is outstanding. Prices range from $6 to $14.50 per plate, making it easy to sample more than one and to share with your dining companions. It's also a nice place to stop by for a drink. The bar area is big part of the restaurant's feel, and its wine list is extensive. Not only can you order two dozen different red and white options by the glass, they also serve dessert wine, ice wine, port and sherry.