BETHESDA. Among the area's Middle Eastern restaurants, this Lebanese establishment is considered top-notch. Frequented by natives of the Levant and newcomers alike, Bacchus serves traditional cuisine that's given careful attention by its Beirut-born owner. An extensive range of dishes includes kebabs, rice pilafs, and stuffed phyllo delicacies. You'll also love baba ghanoush, hummus, eggplant dishes, and dolmades. Especially popular in recent years is the mezze, a host of appetizers chosen to share with others at your table. Servers are happy to help make selections.

DOWNTOWN. Bacchus' zesty Lebanese cuisine is usually served in appetizer-sized portions to allow patrons to sample several offerings. The innovative, exotic interior is a fun place to relax with friends and test the highly-recommended meze, a huge platter of tapas-sized favorites. In fact, hummus, zucchini pancakes, and flaky phyllo pastries can easily serve as an entire meal. You can also try such à la carte options as tender kebabs (made with any combination of meats and vegetables), cumin-flavored rice pilaf with lamb, or traditional baba ghanouj. The friendly staff will help you put together an unforgettable Middle Eastern feast.

ARLINGTON. Lebanese cuisine and hospitality go far to recommend this exotically decorated dining spot. Amid opulent wall coverings, rugs, and artifacts, patrons enjoy zesty hummus or hearty sausages in spicy tomato sauce as a first course. Lamb, then, is a hands-down entree favorite, especially baked lamb shank with your choice of flavorful sauce. Plenty of chicken, seafood, and vegetarian dishes are available as well. Complete the experience with a good Lebanese wine, and end the occasion with a honey-and-nut-infused pastry. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended.

WOODLEY PARK. For those unfamiliar with Lebanese cuisine, this restaurant will certainly turn you into a fan. If you already know the pleasures of Lebanese dishes, you'll be thrilled by flavorful falafel, hummus, bread from the wood-fired oven, and fresh kebabs made with top-quality meats and veggies. The mezza appetizer is the best way to try it all, with 22 fantastic items impressively presented. Rotisserie chicken melts in your mouth, and pinenut- and spinach-stuffed turnovers are light and flaky. Finish with a glass of arak, an after-dinner drink with an anise-flavored kick. Reservations recommended. Business casual attire. METRO: Woodley Park/Zoo

ARLINGTON. This family-owned Lebanese restaurant is a casual, cozy place for a filling Mediterranean meal. Warm yellow and brown tones create a homey atmosphere, and high ceilings and distinctive archways add a touch of class. The menu centers around mezze, small plates meant to be shared around the table. Stuffed grape leaves, lamb and beef sausage, hummus, and other goodies help comprise the tasty list. Entrees include lamb, beef, and fish dishes. Casual dress.