Just when we need encouragement to brave the oppressive evening air and go out among the living this summer, instead of ordering bad Chinese takeout again from the comfort of our air-conditioned sofas, along comes the Restaurant Week parade. There is not one, not two, but three chances to get out there in the next month or so and test drive that swanky new place you’ve always wanted to try or the neighborhood favorite you haven’t checked out yet.

First up is Bethesda-Chevy Chase Restaurant Week from July 17-23, when you can get a two-course lunch for $15, and a three-course dinner for $22 or $30. A short trip up Wisconsin Avenue and across the District line leads you to a cluster of coolness in Bethesda, and at these prices, you can afford to venture into the wine cellar at Grapeseed and sample the healthy and properly-portioned plates of Rock Creek. New this year to the Maryland suburban scene and worth checking out during Restaurant Week is Praline Restaurant and Bakery, opened by former colleagues at Filomena’s in Georgetown. It’s tucked away an unlikely space – a refurbished shopping mall off Sangamore Road near MacArthur Boulevard. Just follow your nose for the signature brioche à la praline.