Bistro 1521

Arlington has plenty of good spots for a casual weeknight dinner, but Bistro 1521 is another one you should add to your Wednesday-night rotation. The space is plain - the most exciting piece of decor is a caricature of boxer Manny Pacquiao on the wall - but the Filipino food is not. The menu is traditional rather than fusion-y, and most of the very tasty entrees are less than $20. We’re fans of the chicken adobo and the crispy bata (pork leg). If you work in the area, it’s also a good option for lunch.