Al fresco by Metro

Looking to take advantage of the warm weather this weekend? Dine outdoors with these great options right off the Metro nearest you.

RED LINE

• Guapo’s — Guapo’s is part of a Tex-Mex chain in the area with typical Mexican food such as tacos, enchiladas and burritos. Their margaritas are to die for, strong and flavorful. They have a great patio perfect for lazy spring afternoons dining with all your friends. Get off at Tenleytown Metro and you’re right at Guapo’s doorstep.

• Bambule — Bambule, located in the Friendship Heights area, is famous for its Mediterranean cuisine and its huge covered patio. For the more adventurous of heart, try steamed octopus mixed with onion, pepper, tomatoes and capers. They also offer steaks and other types of seafood in addition to their tapas.

BLUE LINE

• Brasserie Beck — Brasserie Beck is classified as a contemporary Belgian brasserie. Their outdoor seating is some of the best downtown. I spent a few spring evenings there last year with my two best friends, and it’s quite easy to lose track of time over their extensive beer menu and delicious mussels and Belgian frites appetizers. Get off at McPherson Square and walk approximately three blocks to 1101 K St.

• Mr. Henry’s — Mr. Henry’s, located near the Eastern Market Metro, is a great place for families. It even has a family dining night on Tuesdays, where children eat free with a dining adult from 5:30-9 p.m. Their patio is apparently the place to be seen on a balmy summer evening, as you enjoy traditional American fare.

YELLOW LINE

• Landini Brothers — Landini Brothers is a classic Italian restaurant located in Old Town Alexandria. They have outdoor seating that adds a romantic flair to any meal, whether it be a sunny afternoon lunch or a candlelit evening. Their pastas are large and filling, and their oysters on a half shell are noteworthy.

• Jenny’s Asian Fusion — Located off L’Enfant Plaza on the Waterfront, Jenny’s Asian Fusion was voted best Chinese by WUSA-9. An outdoor patio is home to this Asian cuisine establishment. Try the General Tso’s chicken or orange chicken for all your Chinese food cravings.

GREEN LINE

• Tabaq Bistro — Located just off the U Street Metro, Tabaq is a great place to go for tapas, or small plates. They offer delicious hummus as well as vegetarian, meat and seafood tapas. The zucchini cheese fritters look to be a great happy hour selection. Speaking of happy hour, Tabaq also offers an extensive wine list and 13 different types of martinis.

• Dukem — Just off the U Street Metro, Dukem is an Ethiopian food restaurant with outdoor seating available. It’s a great place to visit if you’re tired of all the usual American food and wish to be daring. They also have a lot of great vegetarian selections.

ORANGE LINE

• The Occidental — The Occidental recently re-opened its doors in January 2007 to a year-long celebration. They were named “Best Outdoor Dining” by the Washingtonian and their famed patio is one to see. Spend lunch outside dining on swordfish sandwiches and potato gnocchi or dinner by outdoor candlelight noshing on filet mignon or mahi mahi. Get off at Potomac Avenue to access the restaurant.

• The Clarendon Ballroom — The Clarendon Ballroom, off the Clarendon Metro, is home to a rooftop deck open from 5 p.m. to midnight on Wednesdays and from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. Enjoy great bar food under the stars and dancing in their nightclub.