Bar Rouge
1315 16th St NW, Hotel Rouge, Washington, DC 20036 202-232-8000

Description: DOWNTOWN. Bar Rouge occupies a long, narrow space and is dotted with armchairs and comfortable seats upholstered in leather and mohair. The modern atmosphere, along with upbeat acid jazz and international music, provides a pleasant atmosphere for sampling the establishment's many cocktails and small-plate offerings (which are great for sharing with friends). The lack of both a cover charge and a dress code make Bar Rouge perfect for impromptu gatherings.
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Felix & Spy Lounge
2406 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Description: ADAMS-MORGAN. Felix, both restaurant and lounge, attracts an upscale crowd. The long, narrow interior features high ceilings, warm wood flooring, and sleek furniture. The globally inspired menu offers everything several tapas, as well as more traditionally-sized entrees. Perhaps best known for its martini bar, the 18th Street establishment has many creative drinks, including Passion Melon and Cossack Coffee from "Felix Selections" and KGB and Dr. No's Madness from "Bond Selections." Live music is generally house, jazz, Latin, or rock. METRO: U Street/Cardozo
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Jaleo
480 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 202-628-7949

Description: 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
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Jaleo ­ Bethesda
7271 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-913-0003

Description: 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.
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Meze
2437 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009 202-797-0017

Description: ADAMS-MORGAN. Superior Mediterranean-Turkish tapas join an outstanding selection of martinis to make this restaurant a must-visit. The menu boasts over 28 different tapas options and six entrees, so most folks come to sample a variety of the zesty dishes. Notable selections include hummus topped with pureed chickpeas and mucver, zucchini pancakes topped with a tangy sauce. Outdoor patio dining is available. A stylish, trendy set gather here to nibble, sip, and be seen, so dress in your best.
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Sake Club
2635 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 202-332-2711

Description: WOODLEY PARK. Stylish, tasteful and refined, this restaurant gives those living on DC's north side a place where they can sport their trendiest threads while savoring upscale Japanese fare and any of the 45 imported sake selections. The dinner menu lists, of course, sashimi, maki and nigiri; however, those seeking something beyond the raw can go for grilled selections like beef, chicken or pork bulgogi barbeque and Chilean sea bass with saikyo miso kinko sauce. A delightful option for large groups is the tapas menu, whose eclectic mix of dishes includes octopus ceviche and grilled flounder fin. METRO: Woodley Park
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Taberna del Alabardero
1776 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006 202-429-2200

Description: 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 casual attire. METRO: Farragut West
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