ALEXANDRIA. Birchmere is an interesting mix between a bar and a concert hall. You will always find great live music, including names like Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Nancy Griffith. There are pool halls, their own famous brewery, and a full-service bar. You are likely to hear folk, blues and bluegrass performances while you are here. METRO: Braddock Road

OLD TOWN. This two-story establishment boasts a lively atmosphere, authentic Latin American cuisine, and a wide selection of drinks. While you're there, choose a favorite drink, and accompany it with scallops and squid mixed with red onions and lime juice, a steaming bowl of fish soup, or even a grilled steak. After 10pm, salsa dancers take over the restaurant's main floor, pushing back tables and dancing. The upscale decor features wooden floors, large mirrors, and yellow walls. Smart casual dress. METRO: King Street

ARLINGTON. This popular bar offers something for everyone, including pool,darts, great food (especially the barbecue), and, of course, plenty of drinks. A youngish crowd gathers to see and be seen, and throngs get rowdy as the night wears on. Regulars say that the music is great and the pool tables are even better; owners have invested in top-notch tables and equipment that have won awards from "Billiards Digest." The 50s-style, automobile theme is appropriate given that the building was formerly a gas station.

ARLINGTON. An upscale but relaxed place for a date or to meet up with friends, this restaurant and bar features great food, an extensive selection of beer and wine, and an upbeat outdoor patio that's perfect for warm summer evenings. The clever decor focuses on a construction site theme, with blueprints decorating the tables and a collection of tools and scaffolds on the walls and at the bar. The result is a surprisingly comfortable and fun atmsophere. Live music is often on the agenda, with a focus on modern rock and dance covers, and the house band draws a big crowd on Tuesdays. Have dinner first and then make a night of it.

CLARENDON. Set in the heart of Old Town, this popular neighborhood pizza place draws crowds with its friendly ambience, attractive interior, and irresistible, brick-oven pizzas. Homemade crusts serve as a foundation for everything from homemade meatballs to basil and sundried tomatoes. Tasty pastas (like rich fettucine pesto) and hearty sandwiches (like the Italian grinder) round out the menu. Children's options are available, as are outdoor tables. The relaxed atmosphere is ideal for families or groups.