Old Glory American Bar-B-Que   

Down-home barbecue in Georgetown? Apparently. Saloon-style bar stools and booths, paper tablecloths and six-packs full of various sauces lure mostly tourists to this two-level restaurant in the heart of Washington's busiest neighborhood. Wedged into the M Street strip, lucky diners can snag a table in either of the two huge front windows that open up on nice days. If you miss those tables, ask about the back deck with views of downtown (and a dark alley). A wide selection of beers and hand-crafted bourbons are poured here to wash down heaping portions of ribs, pulled chicken and hoppin' john -- a centuries-old low country dish of rice and black-eyed peas. All the meats -- from beef brisket to pulled pork to seasoned lamb -- are slow-smoked over real hickory in keeping with tradition. Potato salad, barbecue beans and other predictable side dishes abound, and those who have saved room can sample one of a few decadent desserts. Live blues makes the evening complete. Barbecue and vegetarian don't tend to mix well, but those who don't favor meat can find solace in a salad or a side dish. Dress comfortable and casual (you may very well get messy), and bring the kids early if you like -- the menu offers items for all ages. If you stay past nine or so, get ready for a collegiate invasion from nearby Georgetown and George Washington universities as the bar becomes one of the many places undergrads love to stumble out of. -- Nick Freshman