ROCKVILLE. Experience an authentic culinary tradition at this casual Japanese eatery. Diners cook raw meat, cabbage, onions, mushrooms and other goodies in a pot at their table and concoct dipping sauces with their choice of ingredients. Afterwards, the leftover stock may be enjoyed with noodles. In addition to shabu shabu, the kitchen offers sushi and cooked Chinese fare.

ARLINGTON. Cafe Asia's eclectic menu boasts entrees from Vietnam, China, Japan, Indonesia, and Korea. As a result, there are plenty of options for everyone. Start with gyoza (Japanese dumplings) or hot and sour soup. Then, order an Asian Green Salad, tempting nasi uduk (sampler platter of Indonesian delights), or traditional pad Thai. Lunch specials and dinner bento box combos are especially affordable. Happy hour also helps out the budget with discounted drinks and sushi. Outdoor dining available. Casual dress. Reservations suggested for large parties.

GEORGETOWN. Stressed out? This Asian tearoom's lovely atrium dining room adds a welcome measure of peace and quiet to a busy day. You'll find an assortment of herbal and Asian teas, as well as a collection of appetizers and light lunches. Dumplings, puff pastries filled with lotus-seed paste, and bento boxes are among the delectable offerings. Sip tea and dine on floor cushions, or take your repast at low rosewood tables. Smart casual dress. Reservations not accepted.

DUPONT CIRCLE. Great food in an attractive, convenient Dupont Circle location contributes to the popularity of this Chinese eatery. Try anything in the pungent ginger sauce and you'll be in for a mouthwatering treat. Due to eager crowds, service is brisk and no-nonsense, but don't let that deter you. Fresh, interesting dishes ­ ginger-flavored baked jumbo shrimp, shark's fin soup, and Cornish hen in cinnamon and soy ­ showcase some of the best Asian cooking in town. METRO: Dupont Circle

BETHESDA. A reliable choice for Cantonese, Szechuan, and Hunan food with American flair, this neighborhood restaurant accommodates a host of regulars. Its reputation for high-quality ingredients and attentive cooking makes it a dependable, if not overly adventurous, choice, and the kitchen makes a special effort to accommodate particular requests. Look to the specials (which often include a choice of seafood, meat, and vegetable entrees) for the most intriguing dishes.