Montmartre   

Montmartre was established by bistro veterans Stephane Lezla and Christophe Raynal, who together cut their teeth at Lavandou in Cleveland Park and Bistrot Lepic in Georgetown. Proving that French fare doesn't have to be served up with attitude or be the least bit intimidating, the pair offers its guests an intimate yet casually chic dining experience in a location adjacent to the Eastern Market. Although the simple distressed wood tables are arranged a tad close, this is a bright, comforting space featuring large windows looking out to the sidewalk, cheerful yellow walls and an open kitchen. The compact menu makes Montmartre an agreeable venue for lunch or dinner. Order a glass of Sancerre, a food-friendly French wine with a crisp acidic backbone, and savor the escargot in a warm bath of garlicky butter or the creamy cauliflower soup with saffron mussels. If it's cold outside, nothing is as tempting as braised rabbit leg or succulent roasted chicken. Chef Lezla also shows his flair with monkfish medallions and seared tuna with tomatoes capers and black olives. Desserts are simple: Think apple tart and creme caramel. -- Elisabeth Frater