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.

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.

This establishment bills itself as a "restaurant billiards bar," but the emphasis is on "billiards" and "bar." An upscale pool hall, Blue Cue features valet parking and a classy interior. The place is packed on weekends with crowds who show up for varied music on the sound system, a good selection of beers and mixed drinks (try a cue-tini), a long list of scotches, and some of the area's top people-watching.

Amaretto French toast, breakfast burritos, eggs Bernardo (eggs and hollandaise on toasted rosemary bread), freshly squeezed juices and bakery muffins ­ what more could you ask for? Well, there's plenty to go with that, including huevos rancheros, buttermilk pancakes, chorizo and eggs. You'll also find fragrant coffee drinks, including cafe au lait and a robust Italian roast. Bountiful breakfasts in an energetic atmosphere.