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. Step back in time as you enter this elegant Federal-style country inn. Indeed, the early American antiques, Limoges china, Currier and Ives prints, and rustic fireplace create a comfortable yet luxe dining space. Skillfully prepared American dishes such as fresh Maryland crab cakes, Chesapeake rockfish, and rack of lamb with creamy feta potatoes keenly remind patrons why 1789 is praised as one of the area's most distinguished restaurants. The superb wine list and strict dress code only add to the legend, as does a cast of regulars that includes members of DC's "old money" crowd and the occasional public servant. METRO: Foggy Bottom

FAIRFAX. Don't expect modern decor or newfangled dishes at this traditional diner, which has been around for decades ­ more than five, to be exact ­ and wisely chosen not to fix what isn't broken. Architecture, classic signs, and nostalgic decor appear as they did in the 1940s, and some menu items are the same, too. After soaking in the ambience, fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Enjoy a Western omelet on toast, or try delectable French toast with country ham and home fries. Great for lunch, too, not to mention milkshakes made the old-fashioned way.

FALLS CHURCH. Its office park location may not sound promising, but hold your hat - this suburban gem boasts a lakeside view, impeccable décor and exquisite cuisine. The menu combines French delicacies with the latest culinary trends and includes vegetarian dishes such as wild mushroom risotto with aged parmesan and mascarpone. Roasted fois gras and stuffed quail breast, herb roasted veal tenderloin, and bittersweet chocolate coolant topped with Tahitian vanilla ice cream highlight the ten-course tasting menu, which is enhanced by select European wines. For $87, create your own multi-course meal with an appetizer, two main course items and dessert of your choice.

DOWNTOWN. Fusions of cuisines are presented in a glamorous, upbeat atmosphere at this popular bar and restaurant, known for its vast selections of caviar and vodka. Conveniently located for a pre-theater meal, the establishment boasts an affordable fixed price menu for early crowds. The sophisticated decor has an artsy edge, as do the dishes: barbecue duck strudel, blue marlin on black bean puree, and Iowa corn and shrimp chowder with sherry and chives. Large windows offer panoramic views of Pennsylvania Avenue. METRO: Archives