Animal

Though its name conjures images of hunting lodges and big-cat prints, this intimate (yet noisy) eatery eschews heavy woods and fur for a much more understated set. Bright bare bulbs, wall-length benches, scorched-wood tables and cement floors create a sparse but upscale-gallery ambience smack dab in the center of the Fairfax District. The small, frequently changing menu is similarly more subtle than the moniker suggests: Created by chef-owners Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo (aka the Food Dudes), it features seasonal, internationally influenced ingredients. Highlights have included soft-shell crab with pancetta vinaigrette and avocado; country pork ribs; and fried quail with white grits and chard. There's also plenty of bacon on the menu, from a bacon potato-salad side to the restaurant's signature bacon-chocolate crunch dessert bars.