DOWNTOWN. This Spanish restaurant's sleek, stylish decor is accented with hand-painted ceramics and colorful murals depicting flamenco performances. A long list of tapas ably satisfies, or try the specialty of the house, paella, which feeds four! Bold, fruity sangria is a nice complement to your meal, as are Spanish wines. Stay for dessert; options include rum-and-butter-soaked apple charlotte or chocolate hazelnut torte. Service is friendly and efficient even when the dining room is packed. Business casual dress. Reservations recommended. METRO: Chinatown or Gallery Place

BETHESDA. In the mood for Spanish tapas? This trendy Bethesda place offers more than 50 types. Thanks to a lively, upbeat atmosphere, a young, hip crowd packs Jaleo most nights, especially when flamenco dancers perform. If the munchies hit, sample eggplant flan in red pepper sauce or savory, vinegar-cooked mussels. There's also an outstanding Iberian wine list and sidewalk dining during nice weather. Smart casual or trendy dress.

ADAMS-MORGAN. Lauriol Plaza sits right at the juncture of the Adams-Morgan and Dupont Circle neighborhoods. A rather nondescript facade belies the restaurant's lively, welcoming interior, which features a window wall and brightly colored murals. Guests relax at linen-covered tables and enjoy tangy Mexican-Spanish-Cuban fare, including fajitas, tamales, and seafood. The rooftop deck is great for people-watching during warm weather. Smart casual or dressy attire. METRO: Dupont Circle

DOWNTOWN. This is the area's most elegant place for fine Spanish cuisine, and the showstopper dining room boasts ornate carvings, plush seating, silk drapes, and high, dramatic ceilings. As you're serenaded by Spanish guitar or entertained by flamenco dancers, choose from a long list of tapas or choose a full meal such as marmitako, a rich stew of tuna and potatoes. Or try cocido, a savory soup of thin noodles and roast meat with chickpeas, all served bubbling hot in a lidded earthenware pot. The staff will treat you like royalty. Reservations recommended. Business dressy attire. METRO: Farragut West