Cheap Eats

Malaysia Kopitiam www.malaysiakopitiam.com

Okay, this might take some persuasion, but the wonderfully authentic food here, coupled with low prices, has made this one of the most prized of Washington's ethnic restaurants. The illustrated menu will clue you in on the unfamiliar food and allow you to choose wisely. Don't be afraid to ask questions. You'll have a hard time deciding on the many delights offered. The kids might go for the noodle dishes, or skewered meat satays. Appetizers go for $2.95to 6.95; entrées from $7.95 to $15.95.

Moby Dick House of Kabob www.mobysonline.com

This is a very popular restaurant with the locals, featuring Persian food, mainly kabobs and grilled meat, laced with a secret house seasoning. Although it's near Georgetown Harbor, the name refers to the puffed pita, not the whale. There's hardly any seating, and it seems like it's always crowded, but there's a reason. Entrées cost $6 to $13 (for the super combo), sandwiches $5 to $7. Quiet the kids with hummus for $3. There are daily lunch specials. Only cash is accepted. There's another Moby's at Dupont Circle, 1300 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-833-9788.

Nam Viet 202-237-1015

This is one of the older and best Vietnamese restaurants in town. Everyone recommends the pho (beef noodle soup) and the fresh crispy fish, as well as the spring rolls and the shrimp toast. Entrees run $12 to $15. The kids will be happy with an appetizer. Most major credit cards are accepted.

Moderate Options

Circle Bistro www.thecirclehotel.com/circle_bistro.htm

Located near the Kennedy Center and Georgetown, this stunning American bistro with a Mediterranean flair serves up signature dishes including Moroccan-style lamb with figs, caramelized plantains and couscous, curried veal with grilled papaya and pineapple, ravioli with lobster and jumbo lump crabmeat, and vegetable strudel with zucchini, squash, eggplant, and peanut essence.

The pretheater menu offers three courses for $30. The lounge, with its oversize sofas and widescreen TV, features tempting cheese and chocolate fondues, a favorite among kids who can handle a skewer. Also available are sandwiches and appetizers. Dinner runs $19 to $26, but the appetizer portions are large enough for smaller appetites. Breakfast runs $8 to $11; lunch, $12 to $17. Several items are offered at $1 apiece during the 5 to 7 P.M. happy hour. Major credit cards are accepted.