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.

OLD TOWN. Enter another world when you step through the doors of this exotic restaurant. From flamenco and belly dancers to a stunning interior and extravagant menu, Casablanca is an unforgettable sensory experience. Surrounded by aromatic incense, cozy couches, rich fabrics, silk-screened walls, and intriguing Moroccan music, diners are swept away. Flavorful courses include tender lamb dishes, kebabs served over saffron-scented rice and fresh breads. Impeccable service and an interesting wine and beverage list also appear. Five-course prix fixe: $19.95; six-course prix fixe: $22.95; seven-course prix fixe: $24.95.

BETHESDA. Named for a province in northern Afghanistan, this Middle Eastern restaurant caters to meat lovers and vegetarians with its lamb, chicken, beef, kebabs, and vegetables. Start with turnovers of either scallions and herbs (bulanee) or beef and potatoes. You'll also be enticed by challaw kadu (sauteed pumpkin with yogurt sauce) and badenjan (eggplant stew). Linen-covered tables and photos from the Middle East help set the scene. Casual dress.

ARLINGTON. Open daily, Kabob Palace serves authentic Pakistani food for dine-in or take-out. The menu offers regular specials along with lamb, beef, and vegetable dishes. However, kabobs (both lamb and chicken) are the house specialty. Not in the mood for a kabob? Try charred lamb chops and fresh, warm pita bread, or sample the daily vegetable special. Prices at this Crystal City eatery are sure to make you smile ­ they're around $5 per entree. Casual dress.