Raku

Choosing between Thai, Japanese, Korean or Chinese restaurants can be a bit difficult. But at Raku, you don’t have to. The menu includes staples from all four national cuisines, including fried egg rolls, sushi (try the tuna tartare sushi roll with peanuts, lemon and basil) and pad Thai. If you feel like trying something new, go for the sea urchin or eel. Raku bills itself as an "Asian diner". The atmosphere inside is appropriately frenetic, while the food is simple and satisfying.

Other locations: 7240 Woodmont Avenue, at Elm Street, Bethesda, MD (1-301 718 8680).