ARLINGTON. A bounty of Thai favs ­ ginger soft shell crabs, spicy eggplant, sweet and sour tempura chicken ­ and an inviting bar make this eatery a winning choice for a fun night out. Choose among beer, sake, and 20 martinis and cocktails to enjoy while watching the staff concoct creative eats in the open kitchen. Outfitted with linear black furniture and a seaside mural, the interior is subtle, but stylish.

ARLINGTON. This stylish eatery, located along Columbus Pike, has emerged as one Arlington's hipper gathering spots. Sharp geometry, pendant lights, exposed ducts, a sleek lounge area and Zen-like balance characterize the space, making it a popular spot for the area's cool young professionals. Headliners from the menu include crispy catfish curry; roasted duck with fresh chili peppers, garlic and basil leaves; and shrimp and cellophane noodles served in a clay pot.

GEORGETOWN. Sleek and modern, this restaurant sits just a stone's throw from Washington Harbor, and the waterside location makes it a favorite haunt of Georgetown U students and faculty. Chef-owner Aulie Bunyarataphan's dumplings steal the show, with the Foie Gras N' Shrimp and Winter Squash Potstickers among the more creative selections. Tasty rice and noodle bowls make appearances, as do a handful of choices simply dubbed "Not Your Ordinary Joes" ­ for example, grilled five-spice filet mignon and coriander-crusted Maple Leaf Farm duck. Close proximity to the nearby Loews Cinema makes Bangkok Joe's a popular place to gather before or after catching a flick. METRO: Foggy Bottom

GEORGETOWN. Attracting Georgetown up-and-comers, this Thai restaurant is popular with ladies who lunch, political types, and business moguls alike. Consistently good, Busara offers both traditional and innovative Thai dishes. The signature appetizer, shrimp bikini, features deep-fried morsels in a spring roll wrapper. Pad Thai, pad broccoli, and soft shell crabs are must-trys as well. The large dining room has an open feel, thanks to a series of picture windows. Reservations recommended. Smart casual dress.

FAIRFAX. Trendy decor and a cocktail bar enhance the Fairfax digs of this Thai kitchen, and 100 menu items ensure diners plenty of choice. Curries, noodles and rice dishes display prominantly, and numerous specials are worth consideration. Try the deep-fried catfish, sauteed in oyster sauce, basil leaves, rhizome slices, young corn pepper and chili pepper.