CLARENDON. Partake of a Mediterranean feast at this authentic restaurant, which specializes in dishes from the Greek Isles. A stuccoed dining room and grapevine-shaded patio evoke a beachside village along the Aegean. Start with melt-in-your-mouth spinach and feta dumplings wrapped in phyllo, and then try seafood and lamb dishes, like braised lamb shanks with orzo and tomato sauce. Lighter dishes include gyros, Greek salads, and dolmades. In true Greek style, accompany the cuisine with a glass of fiery retsina.

BETHESDA. This downtown Bethesda French restaurant has a casual, laid-back feel. Although small, the charming interior features walls of windows and a picturesque mural. Small vases of flowers grace the tables, and stone flooring adds a rustic touch. The menu is just as put-together. Daily specials are excellent, as is mushroom ragoût with shallots and parsley or grilled salmon. Reasonable prices make the restaurant an especially superb choice. Smart casual dress.

DUPONT CIRCLE. Set in the historic Mayflower Hotel, Cafe Promenade features a Mediterranean menu whose eclectic dishes hail from Spain, Greece, Portugal, Italy, North Africa, and France. Appetizers and entrees are created from the freshest seasonal foods and prepared by expert chefs. Skillful servers and a well-selected wine list also provide appeal. The upscale dining room draws a well-heeled, sophisticated crowd. Business dressy attire. METRO: Dupont Circle

CLIFTON. Set in a charming clapboard structure dating to 1869, the Hermitage Inn offers intriguing French and Mediterranean dishes. The elegant dining room, with its country French decor, and the idyllic patio are perfect places to enjoy duck-filled crepes, chateaubriand, and spicy seafood paella. The fixed-price menu offers chef's specialties, made from top local ingredients. Don't miss the unbelievable French pastries either, made fresh daily. Reservations recommended. Business attire. Sunday brunch $25.

ARLINGTON. French and Mediterranean culinary influences are evident at this undiscovered find, where couscous, lamb chops, grilled fish, and crisp salads keep regulars coming back for more. A cozy dining room and neighborly ambience make the place a great choice for romance or an evening out with friends. Three-course set meals (which include the chef's daily specials) are always a good option. Excellent wine list. Reservations recommended. Business casual attire.