Vegetarian

Vishnu. Very popular, crowded at lunch. The plate of the day ($3) includes soup, whole-grain rice, a vegetable dish, salad and dessert. Three locations: Ave. 1 Calles 1/3; Ave. Central/2, Calle 14 and Ave.4, Calle 1.

Italian

El Balcon de Europa. (tel. 221-4841). This long-term favorite serves traditional italian cuisine in an upscale atmosphere. Reasonable prices. Ave. Central, Calle 9.

Oriental

Arirang. (tel. 233-2838). Second floor of the Centro Colón on Paseo Colón. Korean and Japanese food. Delicious seafood soup and kimchi. Propietor speaks English. Tin-Jo (tel. 221-7605).

Thai and Szzechwan recipes. Try the Thai Curry or Kung-Pao Chicken. This is favorite spot for locals and has been around for years. Calle 11, Ave. 6/8.

Middle Eastern

Lubnan (Tel. 257-6071). Lebanese delicacies, including Urus, Falafel and Shish Kabob. A relaxe atmosphere where regulars play backgammon and checkers. In front of Mercedes Benz, Paseo Colón.