As of today Winter Restaurant Week is underway in Beantown. This is your chance to try any one of 130 restaurants for a three-course $22.07 lunch or $33.07 dinner. If you don't already have a reservation, don't bother trying to book Meritage or Chez Henri. They're long gone, though it's worth calling in case of last-minute cancellations. You're much more likely to find the $$ and $$$ dining options still available, many in the North End, which are not to be overlooked -- they're just not highly sought after.

Consider some of these restaurants still showing decent to plenty of availability:

209 Boston ($$$): In this Columbus-Ave. restaurant adjoining Club Cafe, you'll find excellent service and an optional $12 wine pairing for each dinner course. (Take the wine pairing.) The RW menu even features skate for the more adventurous.

33 Restaurant and Lounge ($$$): More lounge than restaurant, 33 is good if you're looking for some less adventurous RW dining options (salmon, chicken and pork entrees) and an excuse to go out on the town.

Metropolitan Club ($$$$): This is an excellent find late in the game, just keep in mind it's out in Chestnut Hill and you'd better be prepared to back up your reservation with a credit card.

The Elephant Walk ($$): If you're not into typical American cuisine, The Elephant Walk's French and Cambodian menu may be up your alley. They also have a more extensive selection of RW entrees than most participating restaurants, two of which are available as vegan.

The Wine Cellar ($$$): You won't find many ideal times for dinner still available here, but it's worth a shot if you like wine and fondue. If you're not sure what wine to order, take their recommendations -- they won't steer you wrong. Bring a couple of friends for a fun evening of dipping and sharing.

Happy dining!

- Foodie Chick