The phenomenal tapas and fun times here might be the best example of what Jose Andres has done for DC eating.

Hit Oyamel in Penn Quarter for delicious Mexican food in a fun space.

A Thai restaurant with a made-for-date night tasting menu.

The Ferris Bueller of DC restaurants, The Royal is cool without trying too hard. Come for great Colombian food and cocktails.

A highly attractive spot located on the highly trendy Blagden Alley, The Dabney will impress both your date and your Instagram followers.

Estadio’s tapas will be familiar if you’re used to eating Spanish food, but it will be better. Use Estadio to woo sources, dates, or anyone else.

Fainting Goat isn’t great, but you’ll end up here at some point. When the time comes, go heavy on the drinks and light on the food.

Fancy Radish is an upscale vegan place on H Street that’ll make you think, “If vegetables always tasted this good, I’d eat them way more often.”

Zenebech in Adams Morgan is a DC classic, and the Ethiopian is some of the best in town.

For a fun group dinner in Arlington, go to Ambar and do the unlimited small plates option for $35.

Beefsteak has things like beet burgers on the menu, but also rice bowls for the less health-crazed. Use it for a quick lunch in Foggy Bottom.

Get familiar with Laotian food at Thip Khao in Columbia Heights. Be prepared for spiciness.

Ethiopic is a casual spot in Shaw. Come for a group dinner, a catch-up with your vegetarian friend, or a late-in-the-game date.