DOWNTOWN. Bar Rouge occupies a long, narrow space and is dotted with armchairs and comfortable seats upholstered in leather and mohair. The modern atmosphere, along with upbeat acid jazz and international music, provides a pleasant atmosphere for sampling the establishment's many cocktails and small-plate offerings (which are great for sharing with friends). The lack of both a cover charge and a dress code make Bar Rouge perfect for impromptu gatherings. Trendy dress.

ALEXANDRIA. Tucked inside a pleasant yellow house, this dining room offers excellent views of the bustling street, and in winter, a fire usually blazes. Great service adds a gracious touch, and seafood specialties include cedar-planked salmon or fresh yellowfin tuna. Vegetarians enjoy tortilla pizza, potato pancakes, and delicious pastas, while meat lovers relish beef tenderloin studded with sun-dried tomatoes. A nice wine list and homemade desserts, like bread pudding made with homemade raisin bread, make the place a neighborhood favorite. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended for groups.

ADAMS-MORGAN. Felix, both restaurant and lounge, attracts an upscale crowd. The long, narrow interior features high ceilings, warm wood flooring, and sleek furniture. The globally inspired menu offers everything several tapas, as well as more traditionally-sized entrees. Perhaps best known for its martini bar, the 18th Street establishment has many creative drinks, including Passion Melon and Cossack Coffee from "Felix Selections" and KGB and Dr. No's Madness from "Bond Selections." Live music is generally house, jazz, Latin, and rock. Trendy or dressy attire. METRO: U Street/Cardozo

DUPONT CIRCLE. Gabriel's cuisine has been categorized as Nouveau Latin, South American, Spanish, and Southwestern. Although regional influences are debatable, high-quality ingredients and innovative combinations get unanimous praise. You'll swoon at a taste of roast pork, fabulous empanadas, grilled quail, and lush paella. Other menu temptations include perfectly cooked seafood and a variety of tapas options. Plus, Sunday brunch offers a huge spread, including suckling pig on a spit, cassoulet, and Indian fry bread.

BETHESDA. As the name suggests, this place celebrates the grape. Fascinated by the compatibility of particular foods with certain wines, chef and owner Jeff Heineman prepares a new menu every day, taking advantage of fresh, seasonal foods. Along with regular-sized portions, he also offers small sampling selections that allow guests to try several items. Peppered beef filet with oxtail ragout is a signature; tapas-sized dishes include braised veal cheeks, sautéed shrimp, and cornmeal-coated fried oysters. An extensive wine list offers oenophiles pure bliss.