Late Night Dining in Washington, D.C.

Top off a night of barhopping with a stop at one of these delicious late-night haunts.

Adams Morgan

The menu at Amsterdam Falafelshop might consist of only three items—falafels in pita, Dutch-style french fries, and brownies—but the choices are far from limited. At this cash-only spot, choose from nearly 20 different garnishes and a variety of dipping sauces. 2425 18th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20009. 202/234-1969. Woodley Park/Zoo, Adams Morgan.

As the bars clear out after last call, make your way off crowded and chaotic 18th Street and into the pleasantly low-key El Tamarindo for cheap heaping portions of Mexican and Salvadoran cuisine. You can enjoy a full sit-down meal at 3 am, including quesadillas, enchiladas, and Salvadoran-style pupusas (tortillas stuffed with cheese and other fillings). 1785 Florida Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20009. 202/238-3660. Dupont Circle.

Dupont Circle

It's not only the literati who flock to the charming Kramerbooks & Afterwards for a book and brew. This all-inclusive bookstore, bar, and café is a popular after-hours destination attracting hip, young Washingtonians. Open 24 hours on Friday and Saturday, and late at night during the week, this is the perfect place to wind down after a long night. 1517 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20036. 202/387-3825. Dupont Circle.

Once a popular gay hangout, Annie's Paramount Steak House now attracts a more varied crowd. Anyone who craves steak and eggs in the middle of the night will appreciate this reliable and relatively cheap steak house, open 24 hours on Friday and Saturday. 1609 17th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20009. 202/232-0395. Dupont Circle.

Georgetown

After a night of hobnobbing with politicos, stop in at Five Guys Famous Burger and Fries. It's famous for a reason—their award-winning ground-beef burgers with all the fixings and crispy, twice-fried fries hit the spot. If you're going to fill up on the free peanuts, make sure to select the "little" burger, which is one patty instead of the usual two. 1335 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20007. 202/337-0400. Foggy Bottom.

Amid all the hubbub of Georgetown's M Street is Mon Cheri Café (3015 M St. NW, 20007. 202/338-2745. Foggy Bottom), a sandwich-to-go shop. What it lacks in ambience, it makes up for in the food. Serving everything from burgers to gyros to cheesesteaks, this unpretentious café is a nice departure from its somewhat haughty surroundings.

The name says it all at Georgetown's Bistro Français, where you can expect straightforward French fare. Open until 3 am Tuesday through Thursday and until 4 am Friday through Sunday, this neighborhood landmark is where many local chefs relax when they're finished cooking. 3128 M St. NW, Washington, DC, 20007. 202/338-3830. Foggy Bottom.