When it comes to the way Richmonders dine, we tend to be pretty predictable.

We flock to new restaurants en masse, rely on a handful of well-known staples for special occasions and, too often, fall back on national chains (if the lines around Short Pump Town Center are any indication).

But, sometimes it seems that we Richmonders forget about all of the other local restaurants.

Perhaps it's because we tried a restaurant a few years ago and weren't wowed. Or maybe, after a few months of hype, we forgot about a newbie we wanted to try. Or it could just be that some restaurants seem to exclusively rely on word of mouth and an ounce of hope to get their name out there.

In any case, Richmond is filled with restaurants that seem to get neglected by local diners ... and local media. So maybe it's time to give them a second, or even a first, taste.

Forgotten Favorites:

Carena's Jamaican Grille: It's hard to say whether or not this place has been forgotten, as it's still relatively new. But its Cloverleaf Mall-neighborhood location was always a little but risky and the buzz has certainly died down on this place. But it lays claim to Richmond culinary legend Jimmy Snead and an incredibly affordable (and flavorful) menu of Jamaican food. So go. 7102 Midlothian Turnpike, (804) 422-5375

Enoteca Sogno: When this Italian "wine bar dream" first opened everyone I know said they planned to go. Three years later, it seems that few of them have made it. When Fan restaurant response is generally, "Oh yeah, Enoteca Sogno, where is that place again?" For the record, it's a block down from Cabo's on Broad Street, across from Pleasants Hardware. It's like Edo's Squid, but fancier (though not pricier) ... and without the groupies. 2043 W. Broad St., (804) 355-8466

Ipanema Grill: Remember when Brazilian Churrascaria was new to Richmond and everyone drove all the way out to the Far West End to try this place? Then that big chain opened at the mall and everyone forgot about how awesome Ipanema was? It's just like the chain, carved meat and a buffet, but it's not a chain. And that makes it better. 3641 Cox Road, (804) 346-5554

Karsen's: It may well have been that Karsen's always got more press for its staff than its food or maybe it was that the buzz about Karsen's was that it was very expensive, but this upscale Carytown restaurant seems to be getting overlooked. It may not be the cheapest place in Carytown, but with most entrees around $25, it's hardly the most expensive. Plus, with several fish and seafood selections on the menu, summer is a great time to stop in and try it. 3411 W. Cary St., (804) 353-5277

Melito's: OK, this West End gem hardly flies under the radar, but I bet plenty of non-West Enders don't even know about this place. Its menu is fairly standard, affordable American-grub fare -- sandwiches, salads and a handful of pastas -- but what makes this place so great is the taste. Everything is delicious. It's like the Sidewalk Café of the suburbs. Only less bar-like and not nearly as smoky. 8815 Three Chopt Road, (804) 285-1899

Pomegranate Euro Bistro: Everyone I know who has been to Pomegranate Euro Bistro loves this place. I mean they rave and rave about it -- pomegranate in all the entrees, a beautiful dining room, terrific service and fabulous food. And yet I only know about five people who have ever been there. Why? 1209 E. Cary St., (804) 643-9354

Sensi: When this Shockoe Bottom Italian spot first opened critics and diners alike went crazy over the hip location and swanky interior. Then a few years went by and we forget all about this upscale, dinner-only spot with entrées priced around $30. Plenty of Richmond foodies count this place as one of their favorites, which certainly makes it a place worth trying. 2222 E. Cary St., (804) 648-3463

The White Dog: Last year a vicious rumor was started (that I'm sure I helped spread) saying this Fan place would be closing. It wasn't and it didn't. Its menu of pastas and entrees is affordably priced at around $20 or less per and everything is fabulous. Plus, its cozy dining room and below-ground location just make you feel like you're discovering something. 2329 W. Main St., (804) 340-1975

Writer's note: These are just a few of the spots that I think fly under the Richmond dining radar but, please, tell us yours. Just leave it in the comments section below.