Busara (Mclean, VA; Washington DC)

Blue, purple, red, yellow: vibrant colors speak as loud as the food at this popular and trendy Thai restaurant.  The colors add to a sense of whimsy, and create a relaxed backdrop for casual business meetings or more social occasions. Those in the Tyson’s area might need to hunt a bit to find the location, just parallel to Route 7, which makes it surprisingly easy to get to.  At lunch, nothing is priced over nine dollars, and you’ve got a wide menu to choose from.  Our suggestions: Bangkok Bouillabaisse (coconut milk soup with seafood and Thai spices), Som Tum (spicy papaya salad), Ped Pad Phet (roasted duck sautéed in bamboo shoots, fresh peppers, and basil leaves) or the Soka Lamb Curry. 

Mei Wah (Chevy Chase, MD)

Mei Wah is deservedly popular as a chic business dining experience that only gently massages your expense account.  The combination of slate tiles, wrap around windows, high ceilings and generous dining areas makes a perfect place to talk business or entertain clients.  A private dining room set off by large glass doors can be used for private parties. There’s also an outside garden roof for more casual summer dining.  Oh, the food.  Imagine a traditional Chinese restaurant where the chef has mastered the art of providing a dash of western flavor.  Its signature dishes are Fried Jumbo Shrimp with Butter, Twice Cooked Duck, and Pan-Fried String Bean Szechuan Style.  Mei Wah’s more mainstream approach to its cuisine will fit the bill for those who love the everyday Chinese food.