Pub Trivia at McGinty's Public House

On a block of fluorescent-lit signs touting Red Lobster and Macaroni Grill, it would be easy to miss Silver Spring’s unassuming McGinty’s. But inside at the upstairs bar on Monday nights, the scene is anything but subdued. Quick-witted quizmaster Katherine Mocho (who has an NPR-ready voice) calls out six rounds of 10 questions ranging from geography — and no, the capital of Pakistan is not Pakistan City — to an entire round devoted to “South Park.”

About 12 to 18 teams typically show up, but a recent Monday found 25 groups (of no more than six) with golf pencils at the ready. Even so, ample seating means players won’t have to show up too early to score a table.

Aspiring trivia hosts, take note: Mocho will be passing the baton next month, so McGinty’s is looking for a new emcee; NPR voice not required.

Pro tip: Check the McGinty’s Facebook page on Mondays for a sneak peek at one of the rounds.

The prizes: $35 gift certificate for the winning team; $25 for second place; $15 for third; random drawing for $25 bar tab.

-- Stephanie Merry (March 15, 2012)