The food: This vegetarian restaurant uses local and organic produce to inspire creative plates both large (sesame-crusted rice cakes with gingered cabbage, smoked-tea polenta with heirloom beans) and small (miniature veggie burgers, risotto croquettes). There are also vegan options, such as noodles made from root vegetables and tossed with sunchokes and sage, and house-made seitan with chipotle, caramelized onions, and crisped blue corn. Brunch choices include the Vegetate Scramble—tofu or eggs with organic cheeses, vegetables, and home fries.

The scene: Well-known local DJ Dominic Redd (DJ Dredd) and wife Jennifer oversee this upscale restaurant with a chic lounge atmosphere. Set in a former apartment building, the narrow space has three floors: The ground floor is the dining room, the second has a bar and DJ booth, and the third is used for private parties. Spring-green walls, exposed brick, and furniture from the hip boutique Muleh add plenty of cool.

What’s nearby: The Washington Convention Center is less than three blocks south on Ninth Street, as is the Mount Vernon Square Metro station (Green and Yellow lines). U Street, crowded with boutique shops, nightspots, and restaurants, is five blocks north. Logan Circle is three blocks west.

Insider tips: Though DJ Dredd spins when he can, DJ Dave Nada, a regular at DC9, appears Wednesdays from 7 to 9 PM. On Sundays, wines by the glass are half price.