WOODLEY PARK. This pizzeria stays busy, but don't let that keep you away. While 2 Amys' wood-fired pies are topped with everything from eggplant confit to cockles, their authentic Neapolitan pizzas steal the show. Recognized by the Italian government as Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC), Neapolitan pizza is prepared using soft-grain flour, fresh yeast, fresh oregano and basil, Italian plum tomatoes and mozarella di bufala, and 2 Amys proudly displays its Verace Pizza Napoletana Association certification. Hands down, one of the best ­ and tastiest ­ deals in the capital city. METRO: Cleveland Park

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

CAPITOL HILL. Occupying a renovated storefront just minutes from the Capitol, Belga delivers the gastronomical artistry and charm of a Brussels sidewalk café. Though the kitchen adds Asian splashes to their "Eurofusion" dishes, many of the menu items hold true to Belgian culinary traditions, as evidenced by delightful main courses like Flemish beef stew with Belgian fries, and mussels with white beer. As for drink, six Belgian beers are on tap, including Leffe Blonde and Brune, Hoegaarden and Stella Artois; dozens of others are available by the bottle. METRO: Eastern Market

U STREET. Although you can get wonderful chili (including vegetarian) at this family-run restaurant and have it served with just about any dish, you'll also find true Southern breakfasts and other tasty items. The Chili Half-Smoke is reported to be a favorite of Bill Cosby's, and you're likely to see other familiar faces from entertainment, political, and sports circles at this U Street eatery. The decor is retro '50s, a perfect backdrop for chili dogs and the like. METRO: Cardoza/Shaw

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.