Deals: Restaurant Week Returns

The restaurants: Nearly 200 area restaurants are participating in the summer Restaurant Week, which runs from Aug. 16-22.

The deal: You guys know the drill — three-course lunches run $20.10 and three-course dinners, $35.10. Be on the lookout for extensions and restaurants offering their full menus.

The deets: Start dialing now for tables at the hottest spots, which are sure to book up fast. To get the biggest bang for your buck, choose higher end restaurants like Adour, 1789, J&G Steakhouse or The Oval Room, where you'd be hard pressed to stay under $30 on a regular night.

Looking to try someplace new? New York Italian export Carmine's and its nearly 700 seats will be have just opened at 425 Seventh St. NW. Also newish: Ris, Lyon Hall and Trummer's on Main in Clifton, Va.

A few more Metrocurean picks: Bibiana, Birch & Barley, Kaz Sushi Bistro, PS 7's, Rasika and Westend Bistro.