Got Plans?

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's Entertainment Guide experts share their best bets for local flavor, great dates and family fun. Got plans? Great. Need plans? Just ask. We have the skinny on the bars and clubs, concerts, kitchens, theaters and special events that keep life interesting. We're going out gurus, and we're at your service.

Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours.

Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the Entertainment Guide.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

_____________

The Going Out Gurus: Yesterday felt more like spring, but there's no doubt it's in the air. The Cherry Blossom Festival is this weekend -- check out our cool time-lapse Blossom Cam -- and March Madness is wrapping up. What's your favorite way to celebrate the new season? This is Fritz, and I'm joined today by Maura, Janet, Jen, Alexa, Anne, David and Rhome -- everyone sans Joe.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: A friend of mine is coming in from NYC this weekend, and wants to "explore" Arlington. Can you guys think of a good restaurant to go to?? Tallula comes to mind, but you can make reservations and I worry about the wait. TIA!

Alexa: No, not for two peeps and yes, the waits -- people speak of terrible ones. What about heading to the Crystal City area of Arlington. Oyamel is there, Jaleo. You'd like both, I think.

_______________________

Sushi and Sake: Before I drop $100 a person, has anyone been to the Sushi and Sake Celebration at The Landmark Restaurant at the Melrose Hotel?

Alexa: No. None of us. But let's bounce it out to the group ...

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: What bars do you recommend for the traditional bachelorette party? All types are fine, but chic/trendy ones would be great too.

Fritz: Going by what I've seen, Coyote Ugly, Rumors and Polly Esther's remain popular with the veiled "Suck For A Buck" crowd. For something finer, try Modern, the Blue Room, maybe Blue Gin (call ahead), but many of the chic places don't particularly care for the veils and "party toys."

_______________________

New York, NY: I am coming to D.C. to stay with my boyfriend for a weekend but wanted to stay at a nice, romantic hotel. Do you have any recommendations?

Alexa: If you take a look at the Tabard Inn's website, you can see what each room looks like. I think it's a wildly romantic place and not at all stuffy.

_______________________

Gaithersburg, Md.: Hey Gurus!

Was strolling by the old Visions Cinema in Dupont Circle last night, and saw the doors open with giant fans appearing to air the place out. Is this a sign that it will be reopening, under new management, or that something new is about to come to my dearly beloved/sadly missed movie house?

Jen: I haven't heard any news about what's coming to the former Visions Cinema, though it remains dearly missed. I may be in that vicinity this weekend, so I'll try to stop by and have a look-see. If anyone else has heard any gossip about this spot, by all means, share.

_______________________

Bethesda, Md.: It's my roommate's birthday tomorrow and she says that she wants to go dancing somewhere, there will be a group of 5 of us (3 girls, 2 guys) roaming around. We're hitting 1223 happy hour and then looking to cab it to... (that's where you come in). We were thinking maybe Modern? Any other fun Friday dance places with lines of less than 10-15 mins?

Rhome: Most places that you can get to before say, 10:30 pm will be lineless. It's part of the instinct wired into our vestigial reptilian brains that says "CAN'T GET TO THE PARTY BEFORE MIDNIGHT OR I'LL LOOK SILLY". Thankfully, I've conquered this urge through social evolution and frequently enjoy prime real estate in nightclubs before the door rush happens. You can't go wrong with Modern. Other options are Aroma and Mantis.

Fritz: Yeah, I'd go for that. If you go after happy hour, you can skip lines for Chloe or Eyebar, and even get in to Blue Gin without paying cover (this is before 10 or so).

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Does the Marx Cafe still do Soundclash and if they do, when is it?

Fritz: Yep -- but you just missed it. It's always the last Friday of the month. Mark your calendar for April if you need a fix of vintage reggae and ska.

_______________________

D to the See: I'm trying to remember the name/address of a restaurant. My friend took me here for a soul food dinner at a family restaurant in the hood -- but it looked like it used to be someone's house. Crowd was a mix of African American families and people who were in the know. There is a bar and an awesome jukebox. The chicken and collards were so bangin' (to use an expression), I had to go home and chastise my mom. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks.

Rhome: We could nail this one down if you were a bit more geographically specific. Florida Avenue Grill perhaps?

_______________________

Vienna, Va.: Your opinion: best bar and restaurant in D.C. for mingling with (or at least seeing)the creme de la creme of this area (e.g., high-up military brass, top politicians, CEOs, etc.)

Fritz: Easy: Cafe Milano. Other options include the Palm and Charlie Palmer Steakhouse.

_______________________

Alexandria, Va.: Hi GOG's. I'm in need of your advice. I'm trying to plan a surprise party for my husband. I'm looking for a location that isn't really a club but more exciting than a bar. Something lounge like. I want him to be able to catch up with his friends without screaming over music or the bar. A venue with a semi-private room would be ideal. What can you suggest? Thanks for your help!

Alexa: Have you been to the little lounge upstairs at the Evening Star (Number 9 Lounge, or something?). It's quite a nice spot for a party. Cozy, comfy, disco-balled and twinkly. Or else, the Evening Star's sister Vermilion that Fritz says closes off it's downstairs bar area. That could be nice too.

_______________________

Chinatown: Anyone go to Interpol? Incredible. Anyway, this question is about tickets at the Black Cat. Do you know if they release more tickets on the day of a show?

David: Now, when you say incredible, do you mean the performance or the incredible ridiculousness of Carlos D's wardrobe/hair/accessories/general existence? I haven't seen Interpol since they toured behind "Turn on the Bright Lights." They were OK. Really good at recreating the record, for whatever that's worth.



In any case, your question about the Black Cat. Sounds like someone missed out on Bloc Party tickets. It's kind of an unknown because nothing ever sells out in advance at the Black Cat. We are entering unchartered territory here. The Bravery/Ash show sold out the afternoon of the performance, and I suppose the Teenbeat anniversary shows sold out a day or two beforehand, but this is a true rarity, three weeks in advance. I certainly would not count on more tickets being released. Clubs like the Black Cat and 9:30 have a specific capacity/number of tickets they can sell. Tickets are often released after the fact for shows at places like Constitution Hall and MCI because after the stage is configured, they realize that some seats thought to be obstructed view are actually OK. Not the case at the clubs.



Whatever you do, don't pay the almost $100 a pair that people are asking on eBay. That's just encouraging bad behavior.

_______________________

Ratio of Men to Women in D.C.: In response to last week's question regarding the ratio of women:men in DC - How naive do you have to be to believe the ratio is 7:1? And the scary thing is I've had people say this to me. In about 18 seconds on the census.gov website I found out the ratio of women to men in DC is 1.13:1, which is slightly higher than the national average of 1.04:1. The ratio of single women and men over 15 years old in DC is 1.30:1, but still a far cry for 7:1. Now, just to give you an idea of what 7:1 is actually like, that's the approximate ratio of people in DC who are 65 and older to everyone else.

Rhome: I was on vacation so I missed all of this but I'll say this until I'm blue in the face - if you can't find eligible interesting women in this town, you're just not applying yourself. And if you're trying to find more "mature" company, you're definitely golden! (if this poster has his figures right)

_______________________

Alexandria, Va.: My sister and brother-in-law are passing through town with their two daughters 6 months and 2 years on Saturday. While we have dinner plans it doesn't look like the weather is going to cooperate to do the park and window shopping on King Street thing in Alexandria. We'll have a few hours to kill Saturday afternoon and I was wondering if there was anything going on that would be child friendly for us to do. I know the Cherry Blossom Festival is going on so going downtown really isn't an option they'd go for with the crowds. Do you have any suggestions?

Anne: Saturday is looking rainy so far. If you want to see some cherry blossoms but want to avoid downtown, I'd try the National Arboretum. There are even more varieties of trees there than around the Tidal Basin, so you can spy some early bloomers. Plus, there's plenty of room for kids to play. Alternately, the indoors Super Pet Expo could be a hoot for kids and parents, particularly the live auditions for Stupid Pet Tricks on Letterman.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: On the off chance last week's spirited NYC vs. DC discussion continues... I lived in NYC for 6 years, and after one year in DC I am happy as a clam. However, the libertarian in me thinks the government shouldn't tell a business owner when they can or can't serve their customers. So here's a question: when it's 2 or 2:30 in the morning, and I'm just getting my second wind, what are my options? -Rodney

Rhome: Y'all are so lucky I missed the whole DC/NYC exchange... it could have gotten ugly. So rather than fan the flames, let's get to the practical issue here. As much as I love DC, we are indeed short on late night partying options. Red, Five, Mantis and D.C. Sanctuary are pretty much all you have to work with.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Do the GoGs -- or anyone else out there -- know about any cheap movie theaters in the region?

In every other city I've lived since I was 18, there have always been theaters that run movies several weeks past their prime for $1.50 or less (one place, in Little Rock, Ark., had a two-films-for-50-cents special on Tuesday nights).

I know about Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse, but I wonder if there are any other cheap theaters around here?

Jen: Back in the day, there were lots of cheap, second-run theaters. Why I can recall (she says in a crotchety, old-lady voice) when a moviegoer could hit the Roth's Parkway 3, the Aspen Hill theater or the Foundry in Georgetown to see slightly less current movies for less. Now, aside from the Cinema and Drafthouse, I can only think of two options: the University Mall Theatres in Fairfax and the Annapolis Cinema Grill. I wonder if second-run theaters will soon become a thing of the past, especially since movies are going to DVD so quickly.

_______________________

Adams Morgan: Hey GOGs, I too am a William and Mary grad and have to agree with last week's less than positive reviews of the Trellis. Even though their Death by Chocolate is one of the best desserts I've had, the service is consistently mediocre and the main fare not much better. If you're looking for a great meal in Williamsburg check out Cities Grille, a true gem with an exceptional wine list in a town packed with ye olde taverns and chain restaurants.

Jen: Thanks for this; I'm sad to hear of another poor Trellis experience but appreciate the Cities Grille tip. I'll have to check that out next time I'm in Williamsburg.

_______________________

SW Washington, D.C.: Hello Gurus! hope you can help-
Have any of you or other chatters checked out the Strathmore yet? Do the Upper Tier seats provide any kind of decent view? I am hoping to go to Savion Glover, but the only seats left are Way Up There (specifically upper box seats). Can anyone weigh in with their experience from any seat or how the whole theatre looked to others? The WP review is helpful but was written pre-opening & their website give a very basic graphic. THANKS!

Rhome: For real? I wanted to check out that show but I've been bumbling on getting tickets and obviously everyone else jumped on it. I'm not mad though, I want to see this place win. I've been there once and my assessment is that the sightlines are great throughout the entire venue. I think they're still working out the kinks with amplified sound but acoustic stuff sounds gorgeous. Let's get some more input on this one please.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: From last week (I have a meeting every Thursday afternoon, but still have ideas!):

I have a great metro-accessible shoe repair shop at Clarendon in Arlington. It's actually called "A-1 Arlington Clarendon Valet", but you'll walk right past it if you walk on Wilson towards say Whitlow's. I've had a ton of shoes reheeled there for about $10, and they come back shiny and beautiful.

On downtown happy hours, it's funny how I don't know anymore whether "downtown" means the Farragut area or Metro Center. It can be a surprisingly long walk. Anyway, my happy hour spot near the Reagan Building is actually the ground-level cafe at Red Sage. They have happy hour-priced drinks and appetizers that are yummy, and the ambiance is a little upscale without being too crowded or obnoxious. I used to think it was an expensive happy hour, but that was before $10 "martinis" became the norm everywhere else.

Maura: Good tips from Arlington. Thanks!

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Was there ever a place in DC called Club Z? I have these cloudy memories of going to someplace with that name around five years ago, but I can't remember where it was and whether in fact such a place really existed.

I'm most interested in finding out where it was if it indeed existed.

Oh and speaking of long lost places, does Geppeto's still deliver?

Fritz: You're thinking of Club Zei, which lived at 14th and Zei Alley. It was the birthplace of Glow (the trance night now at Fur), among other events. Very Euro-heavy.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Is it just me, or does Chloe create a line simply for the appearance of being popular? I went with several friends the other weekend, and after waiting in line, found the place to be practically empty once we were admitted. This struck me as a completely lame way to attract patrons.

Fritz: Yes. It's true, and something that really, really bugs me about that place. They're not alone -- I've seen the same gimmick at Home and MCCXXIII -- but it's irksome, as is the doomen's attitude, which I've mentioned here before. Shame, because I like the space and the bartenders have been friendly enough.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: Hey Alexa,

I am in the lucky position of being a 22 year old who apparently is still entitled to go on family vacations, which this summer involves going to London. My little sister and I would like to treat my parents to a romantic dinner date in London as a thank you. Any suggestions on restaurants, they're fairly big foodies who would be up for almost anything (though preferably a quiet romantic setting). I was thinking of the $150 range. Thanks for your help!

Lauren, a fellow doxie fanatic

Alexa: I am extremely sad to say that though London is my beloved hometown, I don't get there nearly enough to report reliably on restaurant scene. Usually when I'm there, I'm too busy gobbling up home cooking or sending out for fish and chips. For a more up-to-date take, see Tom's recent Postcard. Or grab last month's copy of Gourmet that may still be on the stands. The whole issue is about London. I was just about to ask what a doxie is, but I think I know.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: Gurus, one of last week's chatters asked about "the best sushi restaurant in DC." For my money, Kaz Sushi Bistro has the city's best take on the cuisine. When I moved here a couple years ago, I tried upscale sushi bars and mom-n-pop joints all over the region. None made me excited about their offerings until I tried Chef Kazuhiro Okochi's creative riffs on the traditional style. Don't miss his nigiri suhi with foie grois and plum wine jam, seared scallop with lemon and sea salt or, if it's in season, the lightly smoked monkfish liver. Trust me on this!

Alexa: Yes, and I think he's serving fugu as we speak.

_______________________

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: My Dearest GoG's,

I'm daydreaming about warmer weather, skirts, open toed shoes, patios for happy hours. I was wondering if you could add on to this. Where would you go for a great outdoor happy hour that has delicious drinks like- margaritas, sangria, and mojitos? Also a place where you can people watch, i.e. Dupont/Adams Morgan area. Thanks!;!;

Fritz: Helix's patio or the rooftop of the Reef come to mind. The rooftop has been open lately, but I'm not sure about Helix's garden gnome-filled outdoor area. And I hear Clarendon Ballroom's rooftop is opening soon, complete with Wednesday afternoon happy hours...

_______________________

Alexandria, Va.: Posting early as I have a meeting...

Please help!; My in-laws are coming next week Thursday-Sunday specifically for the Cherry Blossoms...the forecast is calling for rain on BOTH Thursday and Friday. Any good suggestions for indoor fun??? It doesn't have to be in metro-Washington as long as it's close enough to make a day trip (2 hour drive or less).

They like art, history, and cultural activities. They are originally from Germany (dad) and Denmark (mom). They've already been to all the museums on the Mall, and the Library of Congress, Supreme Court, etc...any cool ideas for how I can entertain them on those two rainy days?

Thank you oh mighty GOGs!;!;!;

Anne: Sounds like you've given them a thorough tour, but there are still many more places to visit: Phillips, Corcoran, National Building Museum, National Museum of Women in the Arts, for starters. And if they haven't been here since last September, then they haven't seen the new National Museum of the American Indian on the Mall. If they're keen for a day trip, I'd suggest the Baltimore Aquarium.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: I'm going with my son to RFK Stadium on Apr. 14th for the Nationals' home opener.

Does RFK have a kosher food stand, as do Camden Yards and FedEx Field? If not, can we bring in our own food? Especially at Passover, we'll be very hungry during the games if the answer to both questions is "No."

David: Here is the latest word on the food options at R.F.K. No mention of a kosher food stand, and I'm not positive that they'll let you bring your own food in, but if the miserly Peter Angelos allows it up in Baltimore, the Nats should as well. Then again, it could be like FedEx Field, which considers a bag of peanuts the equivalent of a dirty bomb as far as bringing it into the stadium.

_______________________

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Dear GoG's
My boyfriend and I drive by Zoo bar all the time (it's literally across from the Zoo), has anyone ever been? How are the drinks, food, ambience? Looks like a cute neighborhood find from the outside.
Thanks!;!;

Fritz: It's kind of grotty, but in a good way. Live blues, God-awful draft beer (drink bottles), fried food. It's a real neighborhood bar, all right -- the tourists are all gone after happy hour.

_______________________

D to the See: Re: Mystery Soul Food. It's not Florida Grille, I don't think. But I'm from Cali, so my call on the neighborhood will be vague at best. It was in the hood, the house/restaurant was on a corner. You had to walk up some steps and through a kind of screen door before going into the restaurant proper, and there were banquettes and a long bar across the front. It's a small place.

Rhome: Can't call it bro. But I will tip my hat in fond memory of Webb's that used to be next to State of the Union. D.C. has all kinds of areas that could be designated "the 'hood" (i.e. non-gentrified) and many greasy spoons that have small furtive existences only known to the immediate population around them. These days though, when I want my mac & cheese just right, I'll usually be hitting one of the spots popping up in PG County.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: How late does the Common Share serve its new chicken and waffles?

Fritz: So far, I'm too afraid to venture in and find out. But I guess I will have to eventually. Truth be told, I'd rather go to Gladys Knight's new jont at Largo Town Centre -- especially now that Metro goes there, and I can hit up the Red Star Tavern for a drink afterwards.

_______________________

Chevy Chase, MD: I'm not sure this is exactly the right place to post this, but I'll give it a try...

I have significant concerns about the Regal cinemas in Bethesda on Wisconsin. On the weekends, it is essentially overrun with children and teenagers, hopping in and out of movies, smoking, drinking, coupling on the floors (literally).

I know a lot of good intentioned parents drop there kids off there, thinking they are being responsible for knowing where their children are, and not realizing what is really going on there.

My major issue, however, is with the theater management and ownership, who seem uninterested and obvlivious to the problems. No one I know would even bother to go to a movie there on the weekends, because the constant stream of misbehaving kids sneaking in and out of one show after another with little regard to the patrons who have made the mistake of thinking that you can see a movie there. I have literally seen the management turn away ticket holders at the door to R-rated movies that were full because so many children had snuck in to the theater and taken seats.

Last Thursday, not realizing that it wasn't a school night, we made the mistake of going to the theater. Five minutes into the movie, the theater was increadibly noisy, with multiple packets of young teens who made it clear that they had no interest in watching the movie and were only there to socializing. We left, because even if management did come in and ask them to be quiet, it was only a matter of time before another group would float in and be disruptive. But, when we asked for our money back and told management why, they gave us back our money, but then went back to doing what they were doing. They didn't even go into the theater to try to quiet the obnoxious kids in order to help the other patrons.

Has Regal simply written off the adult movie population of Bethesda for the weekends in favor of running a social club for a bunch of ill-mannered brats?

Jen: Good heavens. I have not been to that theater since they officially changed the name from United Artists, but I didn't care for it much then. The auditoriums were outdated and it was notorious for being a teen hangout. I have to say, though, I have never seen any "coupling" on the floor or smoking and drinking. If that's true, it sounds like a total disaster.
Perhaps this explains why so many people go to the Landmark around the corner instead; it screens more sophisticated fare, so the people who go there -- including teens -- tend to be more respectful and interested in watching the film.
As far as what to do about this, I suggest calling and trying to talk to a manager during a calmer weekday, when he/she might have more time to listen to your concerns. Beyond that, writing a letter to someone at a higher level in the Regal chain might be a good idea. But if it's a really unpleasant experience, clearly you're better off going elsewhere. If enough people start to feel that way and business drops off, perhaps management will be compelled to do something.

_______________________

Adams Morgan: How does the Dupont Galleries First Friday work? What time does is start? Is there a starting point? Is it free?

Keep up the great work GOGs!!

Maura: The galleries around Dupont stay open late on the first Friday of the month -- usually from 6-8 p.m. Some offer wine, others just the chance to mingle. It's absolutely free (unless you buy an artwork) and you can start anywhere you like. Sorry to say we're having search problems at the moment so I can't send a list of participating galleries. Once it's working again the link to Dupont galleries in this blog post will tell you where to go.

_______________________

Former Williamsburgian: Spent 9 great semesters in Williamsburg and just wanted to direct all comers to the Greene Leafe cafe for drinks, Cheese Shop and Pierce's Pit BBQ for lunch, and King's Tavern for dinner. If you go all the way to Williamsburg, you gotta eat at one of the colonial jernts.

Jen: In last week's chat, I recommended the Cheese Shop and Paul's Deli, which is right next door to the Green Leafe (also a good bet). In fact, all of these are good bets. Thanks for the tips, fellow Tribe alum.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: First off, thank you all for being so informative and witty. My birthday is coming up and I am hoping to go out for a nice Italian dinner with 6 friends somewhere in Georgetown, Dupont Circle, or Adams Morgan. Where could we find ourselves with homey dishes and lots of wine? Sette Osteria? Al Tiramisu? Bistro Med? Spezie?

Alexa: And to think, the wittiest, most informed one of us isn't even here today. We limp along in Joe's absence, but perhaps it doesn't show too much.
You seem to be pretty informed yourself. Sette Osteria, yes. Al Tiramisu, yes. Spezie, yes and all pretty good value. You don't need me.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Will I be alright as a solo female at Nation tonight? I'm a bit of an oddity in my circle of friends so I have no one to check out the Nine Inch Nails Album release party with.

David: I mean, it's not the greatest neighborhood, obviously, but if you park in their lot or get a cab you should be fine. I can't imagine it being an issue inside. Maybe you'll get hit on by a guy wearing lots of eyeliner, but that will probably be the worst of your woes.

_______________________

Adams Morgan: So I keep hearing that a new Tryst is coming to Woodley Park. Have you heard this rumor, and if so is it true? That would be a nice addition.

Thanks!; Love the chat!;

Fritz: It's true, but it's been like two years in the making and isn't open yet. It'll be at the corner of 24th and Calvert.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: My parents are coming this weekend and want to see the fireworks on the SW waterfront Saturday night. Where would a good place be to view the fireworks? And can you recommend a not-too-expensive restaurant nearby?

Anne: Here's some restaurants on the southwest waterfront. Cantina Marina is definitely the most low-key of these, but maybe the fam would prefer H20 -- if earlier in the evening.

_______________________

Speaking of Patios...: I'm in search of a bar in Northern Virginia with a patio - similar to Grevey's, if you're familiar - that'll be open, sayyyyy.. next week?

Fritz: Oh, I'm familiar with Grevey's. You mean a place with a covered outdoor bar with televisions?

I'm drawing a blank.

But I'm looking forward to lazy summer days at Mango's Mike's in Alexandria with a coconut husk full of rum a plate of jerk shrimp.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Hey gurus,
My West Coast transplant of a girlfriend has been miserable in DC since she moved here in Sept. Now that the weather's getting nice, I need to get her out of the city. First, do you know of places to rent camping equipment?

Second, can you suggest resources for finding hills to climb, rivers to tube, and just generally crunchy activities?

Anne: I just checked with REI's College Park store (ask for the rental office), and they rent sleeping bags, tents, stoves, climbing shoes and backpacks. You're all outfitted. As for resources, may I recommend the Recreation search box -- click on the Recreation tab and choose whatever you like. For starters, you might hit Great Falls or Catoctin Mountain Park. Any most outfitter stores in the area are often staffed with knowledgeable outdoorsy types, themselves.

_______________________

London Dining: I have been to St John and Hakkasan (which sounds Japanese but actually serves Chinese) and both were fantastic experiences. St John has a clean, spare decor that perfectly complements the amazing variety of its offerings, and is rather a "those-in-the-know" kind of place. Hakkasan's interior was an exotic backdrop for original cocktails I still dream about, and it's a see-and-be-seen paradise. The OXO Tower restaurant is in a historic building and has the best views of the city. Bon voyage!

Fritz: I went to Hakkasan for cocktails on the advice of Edward Sullivan (who writes bar reviews for the Evening Standard) and loved it. Exotic and pricey, but oh-so-stylish, like some ancient opium den.

Alexa: And St. John, take note, is not for the vegetarian. From nose to tail, chef Fergus Henderson is all about the MEAT.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Hi all-I was wondering if anyone had heard about Joss Stone coming to DC. A friend and I heard something (a rumor) a while back about the 9:30 Club, but in looking at their website we couldn't find anything.

David: I haven't heard anything about Joss coming to town. She seems like she'd be a good fit for Wolf Trap at this point, but she's not on their summer schedule. Pollstar is usually a good place to find tour information. Maybe she's too busy with her new Gap spokesmodel duties.

_______________________

Zoo Bar: I was just there last night - completely randomly. A friend and I were trying to find a place 1/2 way between us.

It is definitely a dive, but cozy - not icky. So smokey, but once I was there for a minute, I got used to it (is that a good thing?). Bartender and waitress were both incredibly nice. The people sitting at the bar were all chatty and acted as though they've been going there forever.
I had a really good hot dog and fries. FYI - the menu says that the applesauce is homemade, but it's not.

Fritz: It's cozy, but ... those paintings, the deep frier ... Well, with a bottle of Bud and Flatfoot Sam and the Educated Fools onstage, everything is fine.

_______________________

Bethesda's best bets?: Hi GOGs, I have come to the experts for help!; We are trying to find a spot for Tuesday Happy Hour in Bethesda that is walking distance to the metro, good atmosphere, fun drinks and affordable. The other requirement- no Jaleo, Mon Ami Gabi, or Indian food...we go there too much already!;

Many thanks!;!;

Maura: Tuesday night is quiz night at RiRa -- and drink specials are usually involved. Also on Tuesdays, you have karaoke night at Tommy Joe's and Salsa night at Divino's. The happy hour at Morton's runs every weeknight. No drink specials - and the drinks can be steep -- but the app's are $3 or less.

_______________________

Mystery Soul Food: Was it on Capitol Hill? Rhome, what was that spot on Penn Ave, SE, near the gas station that started doing parties then got all kind of complaints from neighbors? It closed ...

Fritz: That was Heart and Soul. The 911 Band used to do go-go shows there -- it gets a shout out on "Brown and White," something like "Friday night, Heart and Soul!"

But they broke all their voluntary agreements with neighbors, there were fights (and a stabbing or two), and they were closed down.

_______________________

Cleveland Park: You guys rock!;!;!;

I have three friends in town tomorrow night. We are all males in our late 20s and looking for a loungy/pimpy place somewhere in NW. We're all single and looking to mingle.

Would Mantis be a good option?

Thanks!;!;!;

Rhome: Trying to get your pimp on? You might want to move south a few blocks. I will offer no more specificity on that point. Otherwise, Mantis ain't bad. You'll have seen Chloe (line shenanigans duly acknowledged), Blue Gin and Panache already mentioned here. Add them to your list.

_______________________

Rockville, MD: I started taking bellydance classes about 6 months ago and I'm now OBSESSED. I was thinking about heading out this weekend with a bunch of similarly minded classmates - we've done Marrakesh and Casablanca already and wanna try something new. Where else can a bunch of shimmying-girls get a dose of dancing? If we can dance afterward (to a DJ or something), so much the better. Thanks, GOGs!;

Fritz: Karma, tomorrow night -- read all about it in This Week in Nightlife.

_______________________

Sushi and Sake: This event was held at the Mandarin Oriental last year, and it was packed. While the sushi was plentiful, we ended up standing in line for every plateful. I went away full, but the "exhibitions" were hokey and I could get the same amount of sushi goodness in a restaurant for less. Count this as one recommendation "against."

PS - While I've never stayed at the Tabard Inn, I thought their restaurant was dark and claustrophobic. But I do like the rooms at Monaco.

Alexa: How many platefuls did you have?

_______________________

RE: Regal: On Regal's website, they have a form to fill out that allows you to state the day, time, movie you went to see, etc., and give a complaint. I can't say for sure if they respond but I did see it one day thinking I was going to give a good review to one of the manager's near my house. But if you can't get anyone to listen another way - try that avenue and submit it a few times with dates you remember and see if anything happens.

Jen: This is an excellent suggestion. Thanks.

_______________________

Fritz: I thought I recognized you at Hakkasan!;

Fritz: I haven't been there in like two years, though. I'm sticking to the East End these days.

_______________________

Dupont Circle: Perhaps I'm wrong, but I could have sworn that you or one of your readers posted the name of a fabulous vintage furnishings shop in Pennsylvania on your chat within the last couple of months. I've searched the archives, but can't find it! The place looked amazing from their website. Any clues?
Thanks

Janet: I remember something about that as well, but, unfortunately, can't remember the name. Anyone know?

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Ever since I moved here from California, I've felt weird about going for a mani/pedi. You see, I'm a (straight, not that it matters) man. Is there anywhere you can recommend that welcomes men who like pedicures? I thank you and my feet thank you. -- Glover Park Brother

Janet: Why don't you try the The Grooming Lounge?

_______________________

Patios in NoVa.: Clarendon Grill has a heated patio with two televisions at the bar.

Fritz: Ah. Right. They redid the patio last year, and it's really nice. I think they have space heaters, too.

_______________________

Washington D.C.: My date wants to take me to Bistrot du Coin really bad but I walked by it and it looks like a cafeteria to me. What am I missing?

Alexa: No, it's not a cafeteria, just French as Disney might have it. You know the thing -- Lautrec-ky and Gitane-ed. But it's fun and rediculous and has a good steak frites.

_______________________

Foggy Bottom: What are some great dive bars that arent too regulars-only? I'm talking low-lit, great jukes, cheapish drinks, pool table, but not dirty looks when strangers come in.

Fritz: Townhouse Tavern. Wonderland (without the pool table), Lil Pub.

_______________________

Nouguchi: Can I put in a plug for the Noughchi at the Hirshhorn. It's fantastic - one of the best curated shows I've ever seen. Each room has a different flavour, atmosphere. It's divine.

Maura: Glad to hear you enjoyed it. For those who want a sneak peak of Noguchi, check out our photo gallery.

_______________________

Capitol Hill: I've already submitted this to Tom as its a dining question, but it involves the Ugly Mug, so I thought it also might be appropriate for you as well...Anyway, here goes:

I would like to share the deplorable experience my boyfriend and I had at the Ugly Mug last Friday night.

Upon deciding to dine at a bar during the NCAA tournament, we decided to check out the Ugly Mug. We submitted our name to be seated, and after a brief wait at the bar, the host seated us immediately at the only table for two avaliable- a high table located near the door. Throughout the course of the meal, the bouncer would open the door and leave it open, creating a substantial draft for us and those who happened to be standing near the door. Upon asking if the door could be kept closed, we were informed that he had to leave it open for a certain period of time in order to cool down the back of the bar. We shrugged it off, and sat with our coats on. Service was slow throughout the meal, but that was understandable, considering that the bar was full as a result of the tournament.

However, what occured about 15-20 minutes after we had recieved our food was inexcusable. We were dining away on our miniburgers and pizza, when all of a sudden, a bartender comes over to our table and informs us that we have to get up immediately because he has to get into the closet that our table is leaning up against. We grudgingly get up, and then he asks us why we moved the table to block the closet. We inform him that we did not move the table, that we were seated here in this exact location. He then shrugs off our comment by saying, "oh, well, that table shouldn't have been there." After getting what he needed out of the closet, he simply walked away, leaving the table askew and the closet open. During his brief reprimand, the bouncer walked over and informed him that the table was moved by an earlier party and hadn't been moved back. The Bouncer then shut the door to the closet, but failed to move the table (with our half-eaten entrees still on it). We then requested the check and informed our waitress what happened, and she was kind enough to take off the miniburgers from our bill.

In spite of the generosity of the waitress and the volume of the bar, we still left with an extremely poor perception of the place. Personally, I have never experienced an incident like that anywhere, and that includes dining at other bars with table service. The Ugly Mug has a long way to go regarding customer service. The only thing I can compliment it on is its TVs.

Fritz: I have serious reservations about the service at the Mug -- so much so that in a recent Weekend article, I advocated sitting at the bar rather than a table.

_______________________

Clarendon, Va.: Hi Gurus!
Happy Thursday!

So I have a notortiously lazy friend coming into town this weekend. Got any ideas for low key activities that are more interesting than staying home and watching movies, but way less ambitious than the normal friend-in-town-tour of museums and monuments?

I'd appreaciate any help!

Anne: You live in such a swell neighborhood, surely it wouldn't be too much to ask to shamble out of the house and sit in a restaurant along the avenue, watching the people go by? A visit to Lazy Sundae sounds like it could fit your friend's mood exactly. Or sign on for a Segway tour.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Going to watch basketball games on Saturday at Porters - what is a good place to go late night in that area? Is there anything new besides Sign, Madhatter? Please don't say Rumors, too young.

Fritz: You can try Yuca, which has salsa and hip-hop. Honestly, though, there's not much right there. If you want a lounge, Cloud (two blocks up towards Dupont) is worth a visit.

_______________________

Reston, Va: Do I need reservations for Dragonfly on a Thursday evening. And how early would I need to get to the Improv to snag a decent seat?

Thanks!;

David: Can't help you out with Dragonfly, but if your plan was to eat somewhere, then go to the Improv on the same night, that means you probably won't get the greatest seat. It's not like there are any terrible seats there, but if you want to be front and center, get there an hour or so before show time, eat there, and you'll be set.

_______________________

Bethesda, Md.: Gurus,
I'm going out for happy hour tonight with co-workers and we've decided on Eyebar. Some are worrying that we won't be able to get in or that this place might be too "trendy". Is it possible that this is the case on for a Thursday night happy hour? Should I start looking for another happy hour location?

Thanks.

Rhome: Just make sure you're well put together. Slacks or neat jeans, no sneakers, you know the routine. No tourist tees and flip-flops.

_______________________

Foggy Bottom: GoG have never steered me wrong so hoping you can help with this. There's a small group of girlfriends who want a really different kind of night on the town. We have decided that we are all going to dress up in formal or semi-formal (depending on where) and just have fun being all dolled up for the sake of being all dolled up. Problem is many of us are on a budget and aren't familiar with places to go in such attire. What would you recommend?
Thanks and keep up the great work!;

Janet: Mmmm. We've been ratting this around, and figured that most any place you go dressed formally would wind up being fairly expensive. One of our ideas was a fancy hotel bar for drinks, but that's not exactly a night out, and the drinks would set you back big bucks. I understand your desire just to get dolled up for the fun of it, so here's a suggestion off the top of my head: give yourselves a formal dinner party. You'll look smashing in your fancy clothes.

_______________________

Dupont Circle: Greetings. New to DC and Going Out Gurus, but absolutely love both so far -smooches-.

I'm a ell-traveled gal in my early thirties, and wanted to know your take on these "planned social event networks" I've been hearing about via e-mail, like Things to Do, Learning Escapes, MeetinDC, Professionals in the City, Euronet, EuroCircle, International Club DC, etc. (I'm sure there are more).

All of them seem like they have much going on, but are these outfits really just more about boozing and clubbing and "meet market" stuff, or is there some real substance and opportunities to interact with a cross-section of folks in some diverse settings around the area? Any picks on the best mix in terms of diversity, substance, and quality?

New Gal in Town

Fritz: I think that, for reliable ways of meeting people while exposing yourself to culture and new activities, Euronet, the International Club, Pros in the City and ThingsToDo are all pretty good. The first two are more likely to host events at embassies and art galleries, though they also organize hikes through Great Falls and salsa lessons. They're frequently very diverse.

The latter are spinoffs of the D.C. Society of Young Professionals, and offer frequent speed dating and pseudo-dating (Lock and Key parties, etc.) events, as well tours, cultural events (dinner at the embassy of Saudi Arabia or Ukraine) and nightclub parties.

_______________________

Pub Trivia: Your blog on Stetson's pub trivia has me intrigued. What time does it start? Do you need a certain amount of people for a team?
Other specifics would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!;

Fritz: Starts at 7. Eight or less on a team (last week, the winners had 7 people, and we came in 2nd with four). You get kicked out if they catch you using a cell phone to get answers from friends.

_______________________

D to the See: Re: Mystery Soul Food - I was going to give up, but the suggestion piqued my interest. Nope, it was definitely not on Cap. Hill. And good point Rhome, the particular "hood" in this case was Kenyon street kind of. What I think might be Columbia Heights. And it definitely used to be someone's home -- there were family pictures on the wall...

Anne: The service is iffy, but Cafe Japone always has a crowd up for a singalong. Is your birthday on April 15? If so, you could see local Tommy Davidson at the Improv. Or you could wait a day and get tix to the Nationals vs. Arizona, the second home game. Or steal a tip from the limo idea, above.

_______________________

Washington, D.C.: Anyone going to see Chuck Brown at the Warner Theater? I was thinking about it but am having reservations because (1) have never seen a musical performance there (2) have never seen Chuck outside of a festival or club and I don't know if the concert setting will be conducive to the requisite cranking. Thoughts?

David: I understand your concerns. The last show I saw at the Warner was Bob Dylan about a year ago, and it was probably the worst I've seen him, and I think that the setting might have had something to do with that. The annoying thing about theater shows is that awkward "should I be standing or should I be sitting?" quandary that most people have. It's basically up to the people in the first few rows to set the tone. Still, the sound was fine and Chuck's a well-seasoned vet, so he'll know how to make it work.

_______________________

Bethesda's best bets: Headed with friends to RiRa two Tuesday's ago for happy hour and the place was dead. Ended up at South Beach which also has salsa on Tuesday nights and stayed until 1am which surprised me for a weeknight in Bethesda. The bartenders were great and it was a fun atmosphere. I would highly recommend it.

Fritz: Hmmm. I think I'd enjoy Ri-Ra more if it was dead at happy hour. Haven't been to the new South Beach salsa/hip-hop night, but I'm meaning to get there.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: Hey - how come you guys didn't take my question about waxing? I'm looking for a place that does bikini waxes but not just traditional ones -- I'd like to try a Brazilian but maybe something not quite that extreme. Any ideas?

Janet: Hi, there,
Skin Beauty Lounge gets raves from folks for their bikini waxes, esp. Brazilians.

_______________________

Ledroit Park, D.C.: Hello Gurus!; Need a little help. Where do 30 and up, professional, African Americans hang out if they're not interested in a big club like Dream?

Rhome: Juste Lounge? Kolumbia on Saturdays? Republic Gardens? Fridays at Bar Nun too.

_______________________

Arlington, Va.: Hey GOGs!; I'm an Arlington gal so I know the city and the inner 'burbs pretty well, but I'm going to visit a friend tomorrow night who lives out in Herndon!; What's the nightlife like out there? Any good restaurants/shows/bars we can hit up? Thanks!;

Fritz: Jimmy's Old Town Tavern is the best thing in Herndon. It's a real neighborhood pub with great bartenders, a local clientele and an owner who's a true character.

If you want to shoot pool, try Carpool's Herndon branch, which is often more fun than the orignal Ballston location.

_______________________

Friendship Heights, D.C.: Thank god its thursday!;
Going to see Cowboy Mouth tomorrow at the 9:30 club- first time goign there. My friend and I want to hit some bars afterwards, are there some fun one in the vicinity (if youre female, mid-twenties)

David: DC9, Saint-Ex, Polly's. Those should work. Here's the return for our fabulous "What's Nearby?" search for the 9:30 Club, for more options.

_______________________

Rhome...: ...I think it's "Friday Night, Tradewinds y'all", not "Heart and Soul"

Fritz: Nope. It's "SUNDAY night, Tradewinds." This is Fritz, and I'm listening to the song right now. I loved me some 911 Band. "You can drink the Remy, the Hennessey, Yellow Alize or the Red Alize ..."

_______________________

The Going Out Gurus: Okay, that wraps up another week of questions, answers and witty comments. Join us next Thursday, when Rhome and I will expound on the continuing cultural significance of Rare Essence's "Overnight Scenario."

_______________________