This casual bistro occupies a colorful, polished space within a red-brick building and specializes in regional American cuisine. It features grilled panini sandwiches, hardwood-roasted meats, and delectable desserts; a large variety of salads can be ordered in small or large sizes. The signature spinach salad is made with toasted walnuts, roasted red onions, chevre, and citrus-shallot dressing. Homemade soups are always popular, as are desserts like a plum tart in a shortbread crust. No reservations. Casual dress.

This restaurant has earned a loyal following thanks to its Californian cuisine, which features oak-grilled meat dishes, fresh seafood and pasta creations, crisp salads, and hand-tossed pizzas.

Traditional Spanish and Andalusian cuisines make this restaurant one of the most popular lunch spots in the area. The extensive menu features a long list of tapas, not to mention adventurous dishes like white bean soup with chorizo, octopus with potatoes, Spanish tortillas, and shredded cod salad. Lunch sandwiches, made with hearty coca bread and featuring lamb or pork, are grilled and served in cozy, romantic environs. A guitarist plays Friday and Saturday evenings during dinner.

This small café in the heart of the Capitol District is frequented by a host of loyal locals. Coffees are superb, and breakfast wraps are fresh and delicious. The comfy enterprise also offers sandwiches, pastries, and bagels.

Years ago, a little girl helped her mother pull fresh mozzarella. Today, Biba Caggiano, author of six northern Italian cookbooks and host of a national cooking show, lovingly prepares authentic dishes like nutmeg and ricotta tortellini, grilled scallops wrapped in sage, and smoked prosciutto and spinach lasagna. For dessert, try classic tiramisu ­ Italian chocolate brandy mousse topped with clouds of mascarpone cheese. Great service makes even first-timers feel like part of one big family.