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.

CAPITOL HILL. Escape the high-stress environment of the business world and decompress in the relaxed atmosphere of this contemporary bistro, enjoying lively conversation and sophisticated French cuisine. Owner-chef Jeffrey Buben's classically-inspired menu includes lamb chops Niçoise, escalope of salmon Gascone and duck confit prepared with garlic and thyme. The glass-enclosed kitchen allows guests to watch the skilled chef and his team as they hone their culinary expertise. A destination in its own right, Bistro Bis has become a haven for the trendy and the powerbroker alike. METRO: Union Station

DOWNTOWN. This restaurant successfully juxtaposes traditional French cuisine with Far Eastern flavors. While the menu primarily features standbys like snails and roast chicken, it also offers chicken satay and a few Asian appetizers. Fish selections are fresh and well-prepared, as yellowfin tuna and salmon attest. A friendly waitstaff and cheery surroundings add to the appeal, along with pre-theatre dining options. Conveniently located across from Ford's Theatre. Smart casual or business dressy attire.

ALEXANDRIA. Classic French ambience and cuisine distinguish this elegant restaurant, romantically decorated with linen cloths, soft lighting and charming European prints. The menu changes regularly but might include jumbo lump crabcakes, steaks, fresh salmon, or Italian specialties like pizza or calzones. Decadent desserts are always worth the extra calories, and the wine list and outdoor seating add to the appeal. An excellent choice for special occasions. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended.

GEORGETOWN. Classic French cuisine is the mainstay at this charming bistro, which is open until the wee hours of the morning. It's especially good after a late theater show or when you have an insatiable craving for pommes frites at 1am. Seafood, poultry, and pork are favorites, as are stews, couscous, and roast lamb or pigeon. They also have great appetizers, such as crab-stuffed avocados or baguettes spread with minced duck. The townhouse setting is comfortable and relaxed, perfect for leisurely dining. Make sure to ask about the prix fixe menu from 5pm-7pm each day. It's a great value.