DOWNTOWN. This restaurant has swiftly become a favored stop for downtowners seeking home cooking with an edge. Simple foods such as pork chops, catfish, brussels sprouts, and squash become culinary masterpieces. Seasonally-inspired dishes, like marinated quail, are delightful, and desserts are just as appealing ­ chocolate brownie sundaes and double chocolate cake. The bar specializes in high-end bourbons. Sunday brunch available. Smart casual dress. Reservations accepted.

GEORGETOWN. Outfitted with beautiful stonework and blond wood, this restaurant's striking interior emphasizes natural materials and sunlight. Implementing meats and produce from several independent farms, the kitchen uses primarily organic ingredients. Especially tempting, the brunch menu offers goodies like pan-fried country ham with garlic cheddar grits and red eye sauce. Fresh fish and several vegetarian items highlight the dinner menu, and the bar offers many original cocktails, artisanal beers and an interesting wine list.

CLEVELAND PARK. Its name means "passion" in Latin, and Ardeo exhibits this zest by serving the best and freshest meals. The American menu is influenced by a variety of geographic locations, including Asia and the Mediterranean. The '40s-era interior features high-backed banquettes and frosted glass, which impart a retro look. Noteworthy menu items include soft-shell crabs, spicy black bean soup, smoked salmon or trout, and roast chicken. Smart casual dress. METRO: Cleveland Park

BETHESDA. Located in a stylish, modern building, this restaurant brings a taste of the Southwest to the suburbs. Fun and casual, it's a good place to meet friends and catch up on the week's events over zesty salsa and crisp chips. Entrees include everyone's favorite, the fajita, and other Mexican standards, such as burritos and enchiladas. The kitchen also has a way with seafood; the crabmeat quesadilla is a particular stand-out. Vegetarian entrees and outdoor dining also available.

CAPITOL HILL. When you long for good Southern food, whether it be Cajun, Creole, or soul, this grand Union Station restaurant satisfies the cravings. The menu sports dishes like jambalaya, cheese grits, and Virginia trout, but the hottest entree is the "Swamp Thing," an assortment of seafood served over Southern-style greens and accompanied by a mustard-based sauce. Desserts are definitely worth your time, too, and although portions can be large, save room for the sweet potato pecan pie. Classic jazz plays in the background, adding a mellow note to this fine lunch spot. METRO: Union Station