Don't let the glittering chandeliers, dark walls, and creative cocktail list fool you — you didn't just teleport to an uptown boîte where you'd better order appetizers only if you want to keep paying rent. Instead, Jackie's Sidebar offers the quirky-cool ambiance of a new-age speakeasy with the wallet-friendly menu options of a good old-fashioned dive bar. A short walk from the AFI Silver Theatre, it makes for a perfect pit stop after a movie — order up some sweet corn hush puppies with collard greens and cayenne butter for a Southern twist.

Where: 8081 Georgia Avenue (at Sligo Avenue), Silver Spring; 301-565-9700.

Photo: Courtesy of Jackie's Sidebar