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.

Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion.

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.

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The Going Out Gurus: How's the snow treating you today? We're a bit thinner today for it: David, Fritz, Janet, Jen, Maura and Anne (myself), are here, and word is Rhome should join us any second. We've recently been talking about Oscar parties, Terps basketball (not to be confused with the ACC Craft Show) and our new blog. What's on your mind?

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Arlington, Va. : This should stump all of you, at least for a bit. I have a date tonight and the woman I am seeing alluded to wishing she could skip work and go sledding. Bingo!!! Great date idea for tonight since it should be snowing. Sledding followed by drinks by the fireplace. Am I good or what….One big problem though, where the heck to I take this girl sledding tonight???? S-O-S, Please Help!!!

Anne: Just take it ice and easy, Arlington. You'll find sledding ideas and fireplaces in one snowy weather page.

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Dupont Circle: Hey guys! Thanks for taking my question. I finally got the go-ahead from my employer to discreetly pierce my nose... I am so pysched! But I have no idea where the good piercing places are. Any recommendations? I am looking for someplace really good, with good follow up if needed. Close to Dupont a bonus but not necessary.

Janet: Hi, there, Dupont Circle,
No personal experience here, I'm afraid, but we hear good things about Fatty's in Dupont Circle.

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Arlington, Va.: Hey there! I heard the Smithsonian YB's are having an event tomorrow night, and I cannot seem to find out the details, do you guys have any idea? Thanks!

Fritz: We have all the details in our This Week in Nightlife column. I like the sound of this: guided tours of the Museum of African Art's "Tresures," a performance by African drummers, a talk by the museum's curator and an open bar.

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Woodley Park, Washington, D.C.: What is the prognosis on the "Tryst 2" that was going to open in Woodley Park where that little grocery store used to be? Is it happening? It seems like it was a long time ago when I heard that rumor.

Fritz: Well, it's not a rumor -- the owner of Tryst bought the property like two years ago, but the opening date been pushed back so many times that I'm kind of losing faith (and patience), to be honest. I walk by it all the time and don't see much happening; but last I heard, it's going to open this spring. We'll see, but I wouldn't hold your breath.

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16th & U: Hello Gurus! Are there any informal Oscar parties/screenings at DC bars? I'd like to get a drink and watch them - but I'm looking for something much more low-key than 'red carpets and champagne'. Thanks!

Jen: The party at the the International Bar sounds pretty low-key. If it's not quite what you're looking for, let me know and I'll see what else I can dig up.

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Washington, D.C.: Any suggestions on where to watch the Oscars on Sunday night ?

Jen: Try one of these Oscar parties. Or you can watch it online with (shameless self-promotion) me.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I love these chats! Where can a gal without a ton of money get good highlights in the Montgomery County area? I'm such a wimp when it comes to trusting other people with my hair, so any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Janet: Here are two side by side: Zin Hair & Colors and PR@ Partners. Happy highlighting!

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Washington, D.C.: I have a friend who gave up liquor for Lent. Do you guys know of any restaurants in the area that have caught on to the gourmet (non-alcoholic) drink craze?

Anne: Fritz and I put our heads together on this one. Halo is his top choice, and we both like the tropical/exotic drink menu at Sala Thai. Fritz also recommends Health Bar, where you can have a smoothie while your friend has a beer; I find the wafting locker room odor a deterrent at first, but you do get used to it after a while.

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Washington, D.C.: Any pay-what-you-can previews coming up?

Jen: Yes, as a matter of fact. There are two next week -- one Wednesday and one Thursday -- for Theater J's "Betty Rules." It's a musical starring the band Betty, about the band Betty. Sounds like fun to me.

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Arlington, Va.: Hey Gurus -- Is there any way to ensure entry into Iota on a show night without getting there an hour or two before the music starts? Got there an hour before Colin Meloy of the Decemberists went on and was one of the last five or six folks allowed into an already sardine-packed club. Guess I'm wondering whether another name-brand show like Lou Barlow on March 5, for instance, will be similarly crowded just as early and whether Iota ever sells tix in advance. Love the chats; looking forward (hint) to more frequent postings on y'all's blog!

David: Sorry, Arlington, but that's the way IOTA works. They don't sell advance tickets, although as they continue to get bigger and bigger names, you'd have to think they'd at least consider it sometime in the future. The best way to make sure you get it in, as you are aware, is to show up really early. They have no problem with you showing up a few hours before the show, getting your hand stamped and coming back later. Since you are from Arlington, it's not the worst scenario. I suspect the Lou Barlow show will sell out, maybe not quite as early as the Colin Meloy show. The Decemberists have got a lot of buzz going on right now, whereas Lou Barlow's popularity probably peaked about 10 years ago.

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Washington, D.C.: Group of friends have decided to go swing dancing on Friday. I just wanted to see if you have checked out the swing dances at the Chevy Chase Ballroom. Are they any good? Do a lot of people show up or do you need to bring your own dance partner? Is the $15 cover charge worth it? Basically I want to know if it's worth it before I trek up to Friendship Heights. Thanks!

Fritz: I like Chevy Chase Ballroom -- the floor is fast, there are always people to dance with, and promoters Tom and Debra do a good job booking a mix of bands. (Though I have to say I don't know the Slicked Up 9s, who play tomorrow, but they sound like a rockabilly combo.) The only caution I give people going to Chevy Chase is that it's basically a dance in a big dance studio -- mirrors on the wall, that sort of thing. There's no alcohol, no food, and not much room to sit and talk to your friends if you get tired of dancing. If you could wait a night and go to the historic Glen Echo on Saturday night for the exceptional Tom Cunningham Orchestra, I'd do that -- especially because the whole night is a tribute to the late Artie Shaw.

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Fairfax, Va.: Hey gogs! Do any of the trendy loungy hotel bars have small dance floors (Helix and the like)?

Fritz: Nope. But you could make your own...

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Arlington, Va.: I have tickets to The Graduate tonight. Does Warner ever cancel or postpone shows due to inclement weather?

Jen: They do every once in a great while. According to their Web site, though, tonight's performance of "The Graduate" is still on. Keep checking the site periodically in case something changes. Or you can always call 202-783-4000 for telephone updates.

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Pam Bricker Memorial?: GOGs, I was so sad to read about Pam Bricker's death from the blog! What a loss. Is there going to be any kind of memorial or event held? If she had family or a particular cause I'm sure there would be a lot of us out there who would make a contribution in her honor. Her talent will be missed...

Rhome: I was down at U-Topia last night talking to the staff. There will be a gathering Sunday night of musicians that Pam has worked with. They will be sharing remembrances of her and performing material that she favored in her sets. I'm still in a really bad way about this. It was nice to cop that U-Topia double cd though, it has some sweet live bits of her performances from the restaurant. Her website makes note of a charity that she supported. Donations can be made in her name to Heifer International.

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D to the C: Moving into my first apartment all by lonesome. I need to make the big couch purchase. No idea where to shop. I am looking for something more expensive than Ikea, but less than $2,000 and I would love to get a vintage couch. Any ideas?

Janet: If you really want vintage, it might be more expensive, but the place to try is Daniel Donnelly. Otherwise, as an alternative to Ikea, I would suggest Bo Concept in Georgetown.

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Columbia Heights: I'm looking for information on the Andy Goldworthy sculpture exhibit at the National Gallery. I know there was an article a while back in the Arts section, but I can't find it listed in the Entertainment Guide. Thanks for your help and all your tips!

Maura: No problem, Columbia. You're thinking of the installation of Andy Goldsworthy's Roof. It should be finished any day now (if it isn't already) and will be on view until May 15. Definitely check it out.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi GOGs! I haven't seen this question asked before: I'm very interested in joining a WAKA kickball team but can't seem to find any brave friends to join me. On the web site it talks about pre-season parties. Do you happen to have the scoop on these? Or should I just pick a neighborhood team and join by myself? Thanks, I love your chats!

Anne: I say go for it. Joining should tell you about the parties, right? I understand the kickball people are a very friendly-like-to-meet-new-friends bunch. Keep us posted on your season.

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Washington, D.C.: Please help!! I'm trying to find a kosher restaurant in the area so I can enjoy a meal with a friend of mine who has recently moved to the area. It does not have to be Metro accessible. Thank you!

Maura: Bethesda's Red Heifer springs to mind. Any readers with more ideas for kosher dining?

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For Dupont Piercer: Jinx Proof in G'town is another good place!

Janet: thanks for that suggestion.

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Petworth: For furniture, the couch-buying person should check out Reincarnations on 14 and Rhode Island. Affordable quality furniture, honest and plesant staff, just a great place to get good furniture.

Janet: Prospective couch buyer, take note.

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Rockville, Md.: Sorry, but this isn't a bar or club question. I would like to know what is the best time to go to the Eastern Market? When they first open in the morning or later in the morning? And how far is it from the Metro? Thanks.

Anne: Hey, this chat isn't limited to bars and clubs. That's what we're all here for. Eastern Market is just a block across Pennsylvania Avenue from the Metro. Very easy. It's all hopping by brunch time, say 11-12, but I think your timing depends on whatever you want to buy. If it's breakfast at Market Lunch, then arrive early on Saturday. If produce, then I'd wager earlier is better to have the best choice. You can probably negotiate better deals at the flea market later in the day, I guess.

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Washington, D.C.: Submitting early this week. Joe, loved your review of the Music show. Very funny. Is there any can't-miss show this weekend?

David: Joe's not here today, but his review of The Music was rather amusing. That's one band neither of us get. Unfortunately, a couple of the better shows this weekend are sold out. Joe and I are both fans of Kings of Leon, whose new album adds some nice intracacies to their Southern-fried garage rock, but the last tickets were scooped up yesterday. The second night of the Teeenbeat 20th Anniversary, with reunions from Tuscadero and Versus is also sold out. Nils Lofgren is at the Birchmere Friday (Saturday is -- you guessed it -- sold out). I'm not a fan of Ratatat's electro-tinged rock, but a lot of people are, and they'll be at the Black Cat on Saturday.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi guys! I'm trying to think of a cool place to have a few people get together for my birthday next thursday. I'd ideally want someplace with a laidback, loungey-type feel that has good food for those that want to eat, but i don't want someplace too prentious or expensive. I was thinking about Eyebar, but i read that they have a dress code. does that apply on Thursdays? Also, if the bar is within walking distance of a Metro stop on the Orange Line, that would be a plus. Thanks!

Fritz: I've skipped around eyebar's dress codes by going early for happy hour (and I mean wearing jeans and sneakers, not shorts and a t-shirt). How dressed-down are you going to be? It's a great place to lounge, but it might also be worth noting that eyebar really doesn't have much food. How about skipping down a few blocks to Karma, a coffee-bar-cum-bar? If you want to stay in Arlington, I'd say Eleventh would be the best bet in Clarendon.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hi GOGs. I need your assistance and the help of the 'nuts! For the first time in my life, I am going skiing (WAAHOOHOO!!). But, alas, spring clothes are in the store. Does anyone know where a full size lady (sizes 14-32) can get ski clothes? Heck, what do you wear to go skiing???

Janet: Congrats. May as well look the part. Ski Center in Spring Valley D.C. says they carry plus sizes in ski pants and jackets. I checked the Ski Chalet locations, but they say they're pretty much sold out due to their big sale.

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Washington, D.C.: Is there a place to go hang out and eat really good cheese (and get some beer or wine)? The Brickskellar has the beer covered but their cheeseboard leaves a little to be desired.

Fritz: I like the cheese plates at Bistrot du Coin, Palena and Bardeo, and all have bar space where you can hang out and have a nice glass of wine (or a flight, in Bardeo's case). The Bistrot's Belgian beer goes quite nicely with some firmer cheese.

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Washington, D.C.: What do you think? Should I grab a drink in DC or rush back to Arlington after we get let out early?

Maura: Hmmm...do you want to trust the gurus for a weather report? I'm sure you've seen the latest updates, but I say if you're Metro-ing home, why not stay and have a drink. I'd think places wouldn't be too crowded. If you're driving, I'd err on the side of caution (whatever that means).

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Washington, D.C.: Since watching Boston Legal, I find myself incredibly attracted to lawyers. Where do hot, single lawyer types happy hour in DC?

Fritz: Every Wednesday, the 51st State has a "Lawyers Happy Hour" with discounted drinks from 8 to 10. That might be worth looking into.

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Washington, D.C.: Can you tell me a little about Chloe in Adams Morgan? Would it be a fun place to take a group of 25-year-old girls for dinner, or is it more of a bar than a restaurant? Any info about it would help- Thanks!

Fritz: I haven't eaten there yet, but I hear good things about the (surprisingly affordable) food. I've only been for the club, and I like the looks of it -- lots of room to dance, three bars over two floors (with a mezzanine that looks down on the main area), and plenty of seats. I'm hoping it doesn't go the way of Saki (was fun, now too crowded for my taste). Go check it out and let us know what you think.

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Laurel, Md.: Can you suggest a good restaurant for celebrating a woman's 57th birthday?

Maura: How many people, Laurel? For a start, these restaurants have private rooms. If there aren't too many of you, you might try booking the large table or a section of Oyamel. I'm not sure you can still book the big center table at Buck's but you might give them a call.

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Re. kosher: There's Siena, an informal pizza/salad place in Rockville... also in Rockville there's the cafe at (formerly Katz's) KosherMart on Boiling Brook Parkway -excellent yummy falafel, shawarma, and deli specialties. I think there's another kosher pizza (or is it kosher Chinese?) place near KosherMart but I've not spoken to anybody that's eaten there.

Maura: Thanks! From my understanding, not everything at Siena's is kosher, but just ask the server and you should be fine.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm going to see The Graduate this Saturday at Warner Theater. We're eating dinner beforehand, but what are some ideas for getting a drink afterwards? We'll be dressed up a bit so want something a little fancy. Thanks!

Jen: There are plenty of options in that area, though some may require more of a walk than others. Take a look at these and see which appeals to you, Mrs. Robinson: Le Bar, Poste, Round Robin or Zaytinya.

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SW Washington, D.C.: Hey guys & gals - What's this rumor about a De La Soul concert at the Lincoln Theater next week? Hoping and waiting to jump on this here!

David: Yes, De La Soul will be at the Lincoln Theatre on Wednesday. And yes, details are still sketchy. Earlier that day the group will take part in a symposium at Howard University's Blackburn Center. That's free. Tickets for the show that evening are apparently only $1.20, which is a bargain of absolutely insane proportions. As for getting a hold of those tickets ... that remains a bit of a mystery. We think they'll be available at the symposium, but that's pretty much speculation. Once we get concrete details, we'll let you know the scoop on the blog.

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Chloe Response: I just went to Chloe for dinner as part of a group of 9 last Friday. The food was, as stated, suprisingly good and affordable. We went relatively early, and it still seemed to be functioning quite a bit as a restaurant. Perhaps that changes as the night goes on . . .

There were 2 drawbacks that I experience --the service was odd. I wouldn't say bad, because our waitress was attentive. But when the first of our party walked in, nobody really knew how to treat them. Or where to seat them (though we had made reservations). And then they waited at the bar for over 5 minutes before a bartender showed up.

Also, they have a _really_ small wine list. From what I remember, 4 or 5 whites and 4 or 5 reds. And they were out of at least 1 white and 1 red (which we found out after ordering them).

But I think the service was getting rid of early kinks. As for the wine list --well, it is what it is.

Fritz: Thanks for the heads up.

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Chevy Chase, Md.: I heard about a new restuarant called Rock Creek in Bethesda. Do you know anything about it or if it has opened yet? I would love to try something new!

Janet: It hadn't opened yet as of last weekend. As for the menu, it's supposed to be a bit like Thyme Square in concept. So, we'll wait and see.

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Washington, D.C.: I am in need of quick advice. I met a guy while I was out on Friday night. I broke my cardinal rule and gave him my phone number. He will not stop calling! I am getting bombarded by calls and text messages, even while I'm at work. He is driving my nuts, and he's killed whatever interest I might have had! Where would be a good (i.e. busy, loud, and completely not romantic) to meet him for a kiss-off drink?

Maura: Do you need to give him the kiss-off in person??? If you just met him, I would just cut it off now and not lead him on any further. My opinion: Be as kind as you can, but blunt. It so much better to be honest and just tell him that you are sorry, but not interested. I'm not claiming to be an expert (I'm no Rhome Anderson), so maybe some readers have ideas?

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Petworth: For kosher food there's also Max's, in Wheaton.

Maura: More follow up on kosher eats.

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eyebar: Just a heads up: I've seen a few guys turned away at Eyebar (even during the week) for sneakers and the sort. Girls, on the other hand, seem to be cut more slack. Anyway, Karma is definitely a better option for a casual (and cheaper!;) celebration.

Fritz: That's my feeling, too.
Just out of curiousity, what time did you see guys getting turned away, and what kind of sneakers?

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Market Lunch fyi: I was at the Market Lunch back in January and it was the last Saturday brunch they were doing--only lunch on Saturdays now. The owner said he just didn't want to do it anymore. Boohoo.

Anne: No breakfast at all? Say it isn't so.

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RE- Kosher: Sometimes strictly vegetarian or vegan palces are kosher; and I know in NYC there are some Chinese and Indian places that advertise as kosher- glatt and otherwise. You might look for that in DC.

Maura: More tips on kosher dining.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey guys, I was thinking about heading to the new place Cloud in Dupont for dinner...I heard they are having an opening discount. Have you been yet? Wanted to get your opinion first. Thanks!

Rhome: We think you should give it a try, but only armed with some of our advanced reconnaissance. The tapas are indeed half-price right now, and they are quite tasty. They are also quite small though, so take advantage of that discount and get an array of plates laid out before you. The service was slow when we were there but that's no biggie when you take into account that they just opened. The bartender plied us with bread and good customer service while we waited.

Fritz: I'll second what Rhome said. The place is so new they don't have a cocktail list yet -- I mean created, not just printed -- but the food was good, and service tried hard. I miss the cocktails at the old Savino's, but this place, decorated white-on-white-on-white looks nicer and may have more staying power than its previous occupant.

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Washington, D.C.: Scoop on Chloe: Was there last Friday night and it was slick. It's two stories but very open so the people on the second floor can watch the people on the first floor. It's sort of Euro, lots of people dressed in black head to toe, and the music was kind of a Euro/techno beat, some people dancing, some not, but neither were out of place. I think it's refreshing from some of the dark, cramped places in AM - loved it and can't wait to go back.

Fritz: Yeah. That's about what I thought (minus the "Euro" vibe, which I didn't quite get on a Thursday or Saturday).

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Washington, D.C.: Ok, I know that you can meet a lot of guys at bars- but what about places without the alcohol induced haze? Are there any volunteer groups for twentysomethings? I have heard of some but don't remember where, and don't know if people actually go!

Maura: You might be thinking of Single Volunteers.

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Iota question, VA: What about Saturday's Shawn Mullins' show? What time should I arrive if it starts at 9:30?

David: Here are my basic rules when figuring out what time to get to a show: 1) Always call the venue beforehand. They will be able to give you a good idea of what kind of crowd they are expecting, based on how many calls they've had that day and on other times the performer has played there. 2) When in doubt, the earlier the better. What's worse, you show up early and have to sit at the bar for an hour or so, or you show up later and get shut out? If it's someone you really want to see, why take the risk?

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Northeast Washington, D.C.: Any chance Live on Penn will resume this summer? That was the best!

Fritz: After last year's debacle, I kind of doubt it, and haven't heard anything from the promoter. But if I do, we'll blog about it.

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Arlington, Va.: I'm throwing a bachelorette party for my sis in a few weeks with a Cowgirl theme. Any ideas on bars to head to that would go with the theme (or at least close to it), or at least have good dancing that we can do in jeans and cowgirl hats?

Fritz: Remington's on Capitol Hill. If you want linedancing and the like, it's your best shot. (Also, there's Nick's in Alexandria, but it's kind of an older crowd.)

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Washington, D.C.: I've got a friend coming in from NYC, who's been to the biggest clubs and heard the best DJs spin live. Where can I take him that's as top-notch as the clubs in NYC?

Rhome: D.C. has nightclubs and djs that match or exceed anything one can find in any major city internationally. Yeah, I said it. There's really broad variety in styles/genres. That's really great, except when you haven't mentioned which type your friend prefers. Someone who loves drum 'n' bass might not really be moved by an amazing house dj. Fortunately for us in Washington and for you and your friend, Five has a nice mix of styles on their various nights, an amazing sound system, great dance floor and that major dance club aethetic you're probably looking for.

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Jewelry Question: For Christmas, my boyfriend got me a beautiful - but not subtle - silver necklace. However, all of my rings are gold. How "incorrect" is it to mix silver and gold jewelry?

Janet: In my book, not incorrect at all, but chic. The most stylish people on earth -- the Italians -- do it all the time.

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Arlington, Va.: Ok, your question about Choloe got me thinking, that sounds like someplace I'd like but I hadn't heard it existed. Where can I find info about new openings around town?

Fritz: Well, we try to mention them in this chat or on our new blog; yesterday, we had details of at least six (!!!) new British-style pubs coming to the Washington area. Once the places settle in, we'll stick a review in the Bars and Clubs or Restaurants section, as appropriate.

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Eyebar and sneakers:
The spurned guys were wearing white Nikes and it was probably around 7 or 8 in the evening.

Fritz: Thanks for the recon.

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Bethesda, Md.: Thinking about venturing out to Fur this weekend (weather-permitting.) This will be my first time there, and I understand that the place has already developed a Black Night/ International Night distinction. Is this true? If so, which night is which? I guess it wouldn't be an authentic D.C. club if this hadn't happened eventually.

Fritz: I believe that you're referring to Friday, which seems to actually draw a really mixed crowd (more so than Dream, at least) for hip-hop and house. Saturday's crowd is mainly drawn by Glow, which is a hugely popular night of trace and house; Deep Dish is spinning next Saturday, which should be great.

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Market Lunch follow-up: I believe they still do breakfast on weekdays (but I've never made it over then).

Anne: Right. Who are the lucky people who can go then?

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DC: Re: the annoying caller. Um, don't go meet this person. If he's creepy enough to call constantly, he's going to be creepier in person. I like the honesty approach - answer one of his calls and say that you don't typically give our your number, not sure why you did and would rather not pursue things any farther. Add that you're sorry for sending a mixed message. It's hard to say, but the guy can't get mad. Too few people use this approach (because it's hard to say), but think about what you'd do if someone said it to you . . . probably sit there for a second, digest it & then realize there's nothing you can say but "OK."

Maura: Ah, D.C., you said it perfectly.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Guys! Going to the 9:30 club this weekend. Where are some good places to eat first?

David: You can never go wrong with the Chili Bowl. If that's not what you're looking for, here is a list of places within walking distance of the club. You're sure to find something to your liking in there.

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Downtown, D.C.: I recently discovered the Warehouse Next Door and want to drop by tonight...if there's anything going on. But the phone recording's out of date and no one answers my calls...anyone know how to find out what's on the schedule (music, a movie?)

Fritz: For intimate rock shows, I really enjoy the Warehouse. They've FINALLY redone the Web site, which you can now find at http://www.warehousenextdoor.com/.

But, uh, I don't see anything happening tonight. Sorry.

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Gaithersburg: For Bethesda who was looking for ski clothes. You may want also want to try the Ski Raquet at the corner of Georgia Ave and Rte 108 in Olney. I was there last week (bought some new boards onsale) and they still seemed to have a fairly good inventory.

Maura: Good tips from Gaithersburg. Thanks.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm headed to Strathmore for a concert next week and would love to eat at Addie's,but I seem to remember that they don't take reservations. Is that correct? If so, what time would I need to arrive at Addie's in order to get to Strathmore for an 8pm curtain? Alternately, are there other places near the venue that would be good to eat? There are four of us - my boyfriend and I, and my parents.

Maura: They do take reservations, just not on Friday and Saturday. Does that help? Otherwise, you might want to arrive by 6, if you can't make a reservation. One more tip: Try the mussels. Delicious.

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Adam's Morgan: We're throwing a pirate-themed housewarming party this weekend. We're looking for a tropical type of punch. Any good recipes?

Fritz: Ah, man. If only you'd sent this question ahead of time -- I collect old Trader Vic's cocktail books.

One of my favorite rums is Pusser's (formerly given by the British Navy as part of rations), and their Web site -- http://www.pussers.com -- has a bunch of recipes.

I'll open this forum to anyone who wants to suggest a good book (or site) that has a great recipe for Planter's Punch.

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Re: kiss-off: I agree that you don't need to blow this guy off in person, but if you must, The Front Page in Dupont Circle is about the loudest, busiest, most unromantic place in D.C.

Maura: Yes and yes.

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Re. kiss-off drink: Definitely don't meet the guy in person--you'll only encourage him!; If you've already let him know you're not interested, it's time to stop all communication. You might have to screen your calls for a while until he gets the hint.

Maura: Well, I think she needs to be sure she's told him directly that she's not interested. No further communication needed after that. It's rude to just never pick up the phone. That's leading him on too, in a way.

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re: Cloud: What is the crowd like? Is there a wait? I know its new, but before my friends trek down there we want to make sure it fits the bill. Sort of the same as Savino?

Fritz: There wasn't a wait when Rhome and I met up with some friends last Thursday. And yes, the crowd seemed very international -- very Savino's -- but this could be a great date spot.

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Washington, D.C.: A while ago I saw a piece in the post about an exhibit done by Scottish stonemasons, and for a time you could go watch them work. Unfortunately I didn't write down any of the info. What's this exhibit? Are the still working, or is just the finished product on display now?

Maura: See the link above. It's the Andy Goldsworthy installation at the National Gallery. Even if the stonemasons are done, the work will be up for a couple more months.

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It's My Birthday: My friend is organizing a bar crawl for me for my 24th birthday. I want to go to U Street since I haven't really explored that area much. Are there a lot of good bars? There will be about 10 of us, ages 23-29. I need some good bar suggestions! More of a chill/pub scene than club/dancing. And of course if we get the munchies there's Ben'S Chili Bowl! Please help, Thanks!

Fritz: It all depends on the night, but Here's one itinerary for you: Start off at Chi-Cha (early) for world music, tapas and drinks. Move down a block to either Stetson's (pubby, reeeeally laidback, High Life drink specials) or Local 16 (fancier, more expensive, good cocktails). Next up could be Cafe Saint-Ex (14th & T, one block south), and finish at the Saloon, one of our favorite hangouts, where they have an awesome beer selection and board games.

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The Going Out Gurus: That's all for today. Thanks for joining us.

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