Amsterdam Falafelshop   

It's three in the morning. You've had a long night of partying. Now where to eat? There's jumbo pizza aplenty in Adams Morgan, but for a more unique (but just as greasy) late-night treat, look for the sign that reads 2425 Achttiende Straat -- that's Dutch for 2425 18th Street. There you'll find an authentic falafel shop modeled after the abundant falafel joints in Amsterdam. In addition to its more dubious attractions, Amsterdam is known for its falafel shops, which serve the fried balls of mashed chickpeas and spices nestled in warm pita. Adams Morgan's Amsterdam Falafelshop caters to the young bar-hopping set with hours that extend until 4AM on the weekends and prices that keep things under $5. The choices are simple: a whole or half falafel (the whole is about a six-inch round pita), fries, Red Bull and a few other drinks. Decision time comes when you're faced with the self-serve toppings bar, which boasts about 20 or so choices. Stuff your falafel with pickled veggies, hummus, tahini, chopped cucumber and tomato salad. The fries, served crisp and piping hot, beg to be eaten with a side of Dutch mayonnaise. Justify it this way: It might make you feel better in the morning, right? -- Amanda McClements