There is hardly a more civilized dining experience than the one offered at Plume, where you can rest assured of some seriously well-dressed and good-looking company.Tucked inside the stately Jefferson Hotel, where signed documents by the eponymous president double as design elements, this dining room echoes that mood without ever feeling fusty or musty.

Dinner is a well-orchestrated symphony composed of five courses focused on vegetarian options. Commence with a neat mound of kohlrabi, slightly warmed, crunchy; and garnished with chervil pesto and sunflower seeds. Polenta dressed with a broth redolent of blackberry leaf, king trumpet mushrooms, and poached apricot is an exalted creation; and may be followed by a striking ensemble of seasonal white asparagus, pistachio paste, and basmati rice "cream" infused with morello cherries. It's so good, you may even want to take a swipe at sopping up every last drop. An almond-and-orange confection coupled with rich chocolate mousse and spiced wine sorbet makes for a delectable finale.

The wine list spotlights the world’s top regions, but ask the sommelier about top selections from Virginia’s best producers for an ultra-special experience.