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.

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The Going Out Gurus: Hello everyone and welcome to another chat that will almost certainly change your life. This is Joe and I'm hosting the discussion today. Fritz, Maura, Jen, Alexa, Rhome, Janet and Anne are here as well and we will all try to answer as many of your questions as we can. OK, let's go.

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Rockville,MD: Love the chats,first time question, Looking for a getaway for a long weekend w/my husband. Someplace within 2 hrs of driving, indoor pool, fireplace just to relax and unwind from the stresses of work. Looking at maybe over Presidents weekend in Feb. Thanks !;!;!;

Janet: Prepared to spend big bucks? The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels, Md. is worth the drive and the money. There are lots of inns in the Middleburg area as well, but I don't know any that have indoor pools. In Charlottesville, there's the Clifton Inn and Prospect Hill. Too far to go?

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Arlington VA: This may not count as going out, but since it is a hobby, I'll ask. I'm looking for a great thrift store. Specifically, I'd love to find a store that has some classic 70s or 80s fashions (real ones, not the new clothes made to look old). I'm ready and willing to travel the DC Metro area if it means I can get a great Bon Jovi shirt!;!; Many thanks GoGs and chatters!;

Janet: Try Best Kept Secrets on 4890 Boiling Brook Parkway in Rockville. Can't guarantee that you'll find a great Bon Jovi shirt, but there's a whole warehouse of stuff to choose from. Good luck picking.

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Alexandria, VA: As a follow up re: good, fairly inexpensive salons, I've had great experiences at Bubbles. Tara at the K St salon has given my fine, straight hair great cuts. So has Mansour at Pentagon City. My friends with curly &/or color treated hair also say he's great. Prices range but I usually spend around $40 + tip. A good deal in this area.

Janet: Thanks for the tip on good, fairly inexpensive salons. Great information for all of us!

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Washington DC: Hey GOGs. I am in need of new specs. Any places with cool frames? DC, VA, best.

Janet: For cool frames and reasonable prices, try See in Georgetown. Blink, which has branches in D.C. and Virginia always has fashionable choices, as does Georgetown Optical. Have a blast browsing.

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Curious in DC: I heard about a new club yesterday while getting my haircut (gotta love the gossip) called chloe. the woman did not know where it was or what type of club, just that it was opening last night. have you heard anything?

Fritz: Chloe is opening on 18th St. next to Asylum. I've heard it's going to be a loungey bar, but other than that, there's a refreshing lack of hyperbole.

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Craving...: ... tamales!;

Hi GOGs!; Thanks for all your good advice.

Tell me where a transplanted Texan (miss the good Tex-Mex, but not all the crazy Bush supporters) can find good tamales in DC or MD. I've had some good ones at El Golfo in Silver Spring but can't seem to find any other places. Can you help?

Alexa: Tamales aren't my specialty so let's bang this out to the gang. Tamales, anyone? Besides El Golfo?

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Arlington, VA: What have you heard about Pearl?

Fritz: Quite a bit. You can read my review here. I'm still not sold on the dance floor, which feels like it was shoehorned it, or the "pay to sit" policy, but it's crowded and there's usually a good vibe. I have been to the Friday night "international" party, though.

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The Going Out Gurus: Janet clearly has a lot of energy today.

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Washington DC: Im planning a birthday for my girlfriend and a group of our friends (about 10 people). Im in the mood for a restaurant that includes the full package. Not just great food, but an upbeat enviroment, and some interactive entertainment. Something on the lines of Marrakesh, but not quite. Any recommendations? Thanks

Alexa: Zaytinya would be fun for your group, though I think they only have belly dancing on special occasions. Still, the place has the feel you are after. Upbeat and bustling. Not overly expensive.

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Alexandria, VA: Last Thursday's Got Plans discussion is not up on the website ... what gives?

Maura: It's not you, it's us. We didn't have a chat last week, Alexandria. Inauguration day and all. We're back now. Did you have a question?

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NW DC: How's the $20 all-you-can-drink special on Friday's at 1223? Is it crowded? Do you have to wait forever to get drinks? Is it worth the price? Thanks for your opinion!;

Fritz: It's ... okay. Yes, the area around the bar is packed with people trying to get their drinks, and yes, the crush means you occasionally have to wait to get served. I thought there was too much bustling and jostling, and you're going to have to stand, so it's not a place to go if you're trying to hang out and chat with a group of friends. That said, if you want to drink a bunch of martinis for one low price, it's worth it.

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Fair Oaks, VA: Every time I see you recommend Chef Geoff's in this chat, I blister. Horrible experience there (Downtown location) last fall , where the manager came out and wouldn't replace our 'corked' wine (it was putrid), then complained to me about markup (?) and insulted us. I won't even mention the food. I heard the New Mexico Ave location is much better. Perhaps they thought us to be tourists headed to the Warner. A friend had a bad Restaurant Week experience there, as well.

Could you, instead, mention some of the dozens of better places about town?

Alexa: Do you mean now?

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dress help: Good afternoon kids!;

I'm going to the 2pm performance of Democracy on Sunday...do you have any insight as to what the dress is? It's an opera, but it's also the afternoon...ideas?

Jen: Since it's at Lisner Auditorium and in the afternoon, I think business casual is fine. In other words, a sweater and a decent pair of pants should suffice. Anyone disagree? Feel free to pipe up.

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Dupont, DC: The S.O.'s birthday is coming up and I'm trying to come up with a fabulous new place to take him for dinner. Looking for something unique, great atmosphere, hopefully great food, preferably in DC, price not an issue. Past favorites incl: Marrakesh, Blackies, Sushi Taro, Anna Maria's, Utopia (atmosphere, although food was meh). Looking for romantic and as interesting as possible. Suggestions, oh wise ones? Thanks!

Alexa: If price really isn't an issue then look into CityZen or Minibar. Oyamel is fun too.

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Mclean, VA: Are there any local bars where expatriate Philadelphia Eagles fans are likely to gather for the Super Bowl (i.e. bars Philly fans frequent during the regular season)?

Joe: As a lifelong (and long suffering) Eagles fan, I'm happy to let you know anything related to the Birds finally making it back to the Super Bowl. My favorite place to watch games with Eagles fans is the Park Bench Pub in Cleveland Park. And Fritz tells me that the Rhino Bar in G'town is also going to be all Eagles fans for the game. I'm sure there are plenty of others. If any readers are aware of them, let us know. And in the spirit of fair play, I'll grudgingly post info about Patriot bars as well.

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Washington, DC: Hi --
The parents are coming in town next weekend and we're going to catch the 9:30pm show at the KC Jazz Club on Sat. night. I'd love to hear your restaurant suggestions for dinner before the show. (not at the Kennedy center restaurant - overpriced and not all that impressive as I remember)
It doesn't have to be really close to the Kennedy Center, just a relatively quick cab ride. Seafood or American would be best -- and somewhere not smoke-y and not too loud.
Thanks for your help!

Alexa: You could certainly find seafood at Marcel's and then grab the freebie bus to the KC. Do you know about that?

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Craving the Bubbly: I'm organizing a Champagne Girls Night Out -- any suggestions for bars or restaurants that have a wide selection of Champagnes by the glass of half bottle?

THANKS!;!;

Fritz: My first instinct is to send you to Firefly for the "Wine Down" happy hour -- I hear they're reintroducing "Bubbles For The Ladies," which featured discounted blanc and rose champagnes every Friday. Also, the Park Hyatt (on M) is getting rid of some inauguration leftovers with a large new champagne-by-the-glass menu which includes Pol Roger, Dom Pérignon and even Cristal. (You'll pay anywhere from $9 to $45 for a glass, though.)

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Washington, DC: While my fiancee and I don't think that engagement rings are important (good thing too since we can't afford it), we both kinda want something to "seal the deal". Half joking, half serious, we were toying with the idea of making some sort of ring - clearly without the big expensive stone. Any idea of where we could do such a thing?
Thanks!!!

Janet: Some suggestions for creating a custom ring: There's a place called Zsuzsi Wolf in Alexandria and another place called The Nugget on 123 S. Fairfax. In D.C., Jewelerswerk Gallerie on Pennsylvania Ave. has wonderful, unusual ready-made pieces. I don't know if they will actually make something for a customer. Fun idea. Best of luck.

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Arlington, VA: Submitting way early, because this question just struck me and I'll forget by Thursday. I have a leather jacket (Eddie Bauer, sorta a distressed leather) that I love, and wear regularly. I've never done anything to "care" for it, and realized in the past week that it's looking a little less sharp, sorta dull somehow. Are there any suggestions for a good, and reasonably priced, leather specialist if it just needs some TLC - not sure what you can even do to a leather jacket?

Janet: Question: is there any kind of label on the jacket that specifies what to do in terms of dry cleaning? I would take it to a cleaner who specializes in leather care. There's one at 3201 New Mexico Ave NW.

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Maryland: So why do all of the hotel and restaurant bars in Penn Quarter seem to close up so early? This past Saturday, my fiancee and I were out and found that everyplace seemed to stop serving by 12:45. There were still hordes of people out even with that deadline, and if a place or three stayed open later, I'm sure they'd make a killing on their high-end mixed drinks. Witness the packed bar and lounge at Indebleu... Why don't more places stay open until the legally required closing time in a cosmopolitan city like DC?

Fritz: You know, Maryland, I've complained about this before. Friends who live over that way, though, have been steering me to the Irish Channel Pub in the Red Roof Inn (5th and H). Friendly Irish bartenders, good Guinness and they're open until last call. (I've never ordered cocktails there -- well, I don't think I've ever ordered cocktails there.)

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Shaw, DC: With the Chinese New Year and Valentines Day so close together, any suggestions for "romantic" Chinese feasts. Sounds like an oxymoron to me, but my man-friend loves the Chinese fare. If nothing cute and cozy comes to mind, then something involving lots of courses and crazy Lazy Susan action would do in a pinch.

Alexa: Yanyu is a treat if he loves his Peking Duck. And the pan-Asian TenPenh is certainly romantic.

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Washington, DC: GOGs, I've been taking good care of my flu-rideen boyfriend all week. He's on the mend and I need to get out of the festering apartment!; I'm looking for something fun to do on Saturday. Any great museum offerings or something else that doesn't require I ply anyone with fluids? I'm new to the area and willing to try something new.
Thanks!;
JG in A-mo

Maura: How new to the area are you? I'd urge you to see some of the less-traveled museums, if you haven't already. The Freer/Sackler and the National Museum of African Art are good places to start. The "Treasures" show at African art is worth a look. You could also check out the Berthe Morisot show at the National Museum of Women in the Arts (I know, another impressionism show, but Morisot was radical in her day). It's worth a look.

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Washington, D.C.: The Academy Award nominations are almost overwhelming...so many movies, so little time. Will you guys rank these in order of must-see? Ray, Sideways, Hotel Rwanda, Aviator, Million Dollar Baby?

Jen: It's a great time to catch up on all the good movies you've missed, especially since most of the new releases hitting theaters are pretty pathetic. Here's the order in which I suggest you see those: "Million Dollar Baby," "Sideways," "Hotel Rwanda," and "The Aviator." If you're making your decision based on award potential, however, see "The Aviator" second, since I think it and "Million Dollar Baby" are the front-runners for Best Picture. As for "Ray," wait until Tuesday when it comes out on DVD. For more Oscar coverage, stop by our Academy Awards page where incensed Paul Giamatti-lovers are still voting for him in our "who got snubbed" survey.

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Washington, DC: Hi GOGs!;!;!; I have a recently-turned-21 brother coming into town soon and, being from a tiny town up north, he wants to experience a real "club." (I think he's watched too many movies, because he specifically mentioned a balcony!;) Honestly, I think he'd be impressed with anything with a hopping dance floor that he can watch. Definitely not something "trendy," though. I doubt he has anything but jeans in his closet...although I've already told him to leave the baseball hat and sneakers at home!;
Thanks so much...it'll mean a ton to me AND my lil bro!;!;!;

Fritz: If they're "nice" jeans -- not stonewashed, not torn, not too baggy -- you can take him to Home or Platinum, which are exactly what he's thinking of when he says a "real club." Go to their respective Web sites -- homenightclub.net or platinumclubdc.com -- to get on the guest list. Won't he be impressed when his big sister can say, "I'm on the list?"

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Chevy Chase, Md.: Gurus:

Having been to Vancouver a few times, I have found Canadian women to be very polite and easy on the eyes. Are there any in DC (isn't one of the Gurus Canadian)? where do the ladies hang out?

merci

Joe: So, you like the Canadie ladies, eh? I'm not sure dropping French on someone from Vancouver will work, but hey, try it out. As for Canadian hangouts, have you visited your local curling hall? Maybe we've got some readers at the Canadian embassy who can help you out. Any northern North Americans care to advise Chevy Chase?

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Arlington: Hey GoGs!; How far in advance do you suggest I make Valentine's Day dinner reservations? Seems like some of the better places are booking up fast!;

Alexa: Yes. People go berserk for Valentine's Day and I fear you and your question are about start a stampede. (I can hear the hooves now). Get bookin'.

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Herndon, VA: A friend is taking me to Nation on Saturday to see Simple Plan. I've never been there before but I've heard that there have been some bad incidents there in the past. Are things better now? I assume that I can plan on standing for the show, right? Also, would it be best to drive or take Metro?

Fritz: You will most likely be standing, yes. Getting there depends on your comfort level: A kinda-sketchy three-block walk from Metro, or paying around $10 for parking in a dark lot next to the club. I'd rather park and pay, but avoid the homeless guys who will "help" you park and then ask for a couple bucks to "watch your car." Common sense: Don't leave ANYTHING of value in sight in your car.

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Arlington, VA: I am looking for a good jazz club for Friday night, any suggestions? DC, NVa are both possible locations. THANKS!;!;

David: We always like to recommend HR-57 because of it's relaxed atmosphere and the fact that you can bring your own booze, so that's certainly an option. But there are other good choices for Friday, as keyboard legend Chick Corea will be at Blues Alley, and Twins Jazz hosts the Nasar Abadey Trio. The local drummer has played with the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Pharoah Sanders and Dizzy Gillespie.

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Washington, DC: I am having a horrible time finding someone who cuts men's hair well. I need someone around Dupont who can give a 31-year old, gay professional an up-to-date, modern look with some edge. Everyone seems to want to cut off all of my hair to make me look like a shaved rat. I need something beyond the razored "gays with too short hair" clone look. I need someone willing to not treat me as if I am a product on a factory assembly line. Cost is not a factor at this point in my misery. Please give a name and not just a salon. If you call cold, the salon invariably gives you the least experienced person who is ready to razor all of your hair off. I just want to look cute.

Janet: Several guys around here like Demian. Ask for the man himself. Other options: Trim in Adams-Morgan and Paul Bosserman in Gtown. Ask for Paul. Good luck.

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Petworth, Washington, DC: Another grand old theater gone. Ok folks, rally 'round the Uptown and the Avalon! Don't let us lose them too.

And on from the depressing part to the fun part - Can I get some shopping help? I used to buy party supplies at a catering place in MD called Marjax. Well, they're gone now, only selling wholesale. And so I am left with no cool and affordable place to buy funky colored paper plates and napkins and cups, and nice disposable catering platters and that kind of stuff. So, any ideas about good places for party supplies?

Janet: Anyone you know belong to Costco???

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Columbia Heights, DC: Okay, so I search the Post's Entertainment Guide by location and notice that Columbia Heights is NOT a neighborhood choice in the selection. Why? Is The Tivoli, Columbia Heights Coffees, Wonderland, Tonic, The Raven, and the slu of ethnic fairs not tasty enough for the Editors? Do I have to wait until Target opens before this neighborhood is worth a look?

Anne: This is a great question -- one that's already sparked discussion among us this week. We certainly all agree with you about the happenings in Columbia Heights and Mount Pleasant -- just take a look at writeups on Raven, Wonderland, Tonic, the Tivoli Theatre. But if we add every neighborhood that exists, our list of choices will end up a mile long, and we think that can be frustrating too. So that's why we only add a neighborhood to the list when we have a certain number of locations to fill it. For example, we recently added Logan Circle and Sterling/Ashburn neighborhoods. As we speak, we're thinking about ways to improve the search options, so please keep the feedback coming.

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Washington, DC: My company is having our holiday party next weekend at the National Building Museum. (yes I know it is February) Six of us are looking for a place to have cocktails ahead of time. Ideal is a place where we can all sit and hear each other. And the party is black tie, so we are trying to avoid jeans/sneakers type of bars. Any place immediately in the vacinity of the museum will likely get crowded with the hundreds of other people having the same pre-game thoughts so multiple suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks Gurus!

Fritz: Two options spring to mind: the new Indebleu, which is pretty classy and has an excellent (pricey) cocktail list, or Poste, the bar in the Hotel Monaco. I think you might have an easier time getting seats at Poste; when friends and I were at Indebleu recently, we were told there was a $200 minimum tab required for tables in one area and $500 for another. Six of you might be able to hit the lower mark (one of my favorite cocktails, which involved champagne and basil, was around $15), but I'm not sure you'd want to do that before the party.

You could also try Zola, but I think it tends to be too crowded for a group of three, let alone six, to stand around and talk.

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Spy Museum: Do the Gurus or anyone in the gallery know if I will need advance tickets to go to the spy museum this weekend (if not I'd rather avoid ticket master fees b/c I hate ticket master :). Also, any opinion on paying the extra $4 or $5 to see the special exhibit or is the permanent exhibit enough? Thanks so much!;!;

Maura: You might be all right winging it on Saturday. I'd just be sure to get there early enough in the day. You can always pick up a same-day ticket for later in the afternoon.

The special exhibition is interesting enough, although the Post gave it a mixed review. I can understand your hesitation -- admission plus the special exhibit comes to a whopping $19. Yikes.

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CUA/Brookland: Hello all,
I got an iPod for Christmas and I want to show off my superior taste in music (would it be correct to say "floss" here? Or "flex"? What is it the kids are saying?). Are there any bars that have iPod nights. I know Saint-Ex has one. Anywhere else? Danke.

Fritz: The iPod Jukebox night at Saint-Ex is the only one that occurs on a regular basis.

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Arlington, VA: To follow up on the leather jacket question, I have a nice one but it's got a small tear in it -- any good places to go get it fixed?

Janet: Is the leather itself torn? If so, I'm not sure that can be fixed. But that doesn't mean you have to stop wearing it. Leather jackets in my opinion should have a rugged, used look. That said, there's a leather care specialist on New Mexico Ave. NW.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you have any recommendations on where people without a lot of experience can take acting classes? I did drama when I was young, but gave it up and would like to find something that gets my creative juices flowing in a way my job does not. Thanks for any pointers!;

Jen: Some local theaters offer acting classes, even for beginners. Check with places like Round House Theatre in Bethesda and Woolly Mammoth, both of which offer theater courses; I'm not sure when their semesters began, so you may have to wait until next time around before you can start. Good luck.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hey GoGs, you guys rock! This is actually more related to staying in and cooking, but since you're the local experts...
Any idea where I can find an Asian/Japanese market in Bethesda or nearby (DC?) I need white bean curd.
Alternately, do you know any restaurants that serve miso marinated sea bass?

Janet: There's a Japanese market in Bethesda called Daruma. It's at the intersection of Arlington and Bradley Blvd. Has a good reputation so I assume they would carry white bean curd. Try it.

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Adams Morgan, Washington, DC: Hi, I'm looking for a great brunch to go to with my dad who will be in town Sunday. I'd like something in the city that is on a par with Georgia Brown's, but not southern food. Can you think of anything? Thanks!!

Alexa: The enormous spread at the Kennedy Center's Roof Terrace? The brunch at Seasons in the Four Seasons?

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Grub at the Beacon?: Off to Happy Hour tonight at the Beacon, the new joint on 17th and RI. Have you been? Tom seemed to like the food. What's the vibe like?

Thanks!;

Fritz: I was there earlier this week. I think it's pretty lame, to be honest. I was disapointed with my drink -- "Diamonds Are Forever," a medicinal-tasting house "specialty" mixing Tanq 10 and Johnnie Walker ... yes, I know it sounds nasty, but I do this so you don't have to.

I like the high ceilings and large round booths, but the decor in the bar is bland and beige, the drinks are nothing to tell your friends about and they were out of the draft beers I wanted. Not sure what else to say. I'd much rather walk a block or two to 15 ria, Topaz or Rouge.

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Dupont Cubicle: Submitting early so I don't forget and hope you can help even though it's not a typical going out question. Any suggestions of where to take a beginning sewing class in DC or MD? I barely know how to sew a button on and now that I'm becoming a mom I thought I should at least learn the basics. Thanks so much!;

Anne: I took my beginning sewing class -- made pajama bottoms and a tote bag -- at G Street Fabrics in Rockville, but any major fabric store, like Joann's, will have classes. There are lots of choices. I aspire to reach the level of a class called Fearless Zippers.

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Laurel, MD: Love you GOGs!; Have a friend coming over to my work neighborhood for lunch tomorrow (Dupont Circle). We're both smokers (I know, I know) and would like someplace fun, where we can indulge our habit and still chat and enjoy decent-priced lunch and great conversation. Don't get out much for lunch, so don't know what's around. Any suggestions, without recriminations on our "nasty habit?" Thanks and keep up the good work!;

Alexa: Bistrot du Coin. They let you. Anyone else care to advise...?

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Fellow Eagles Fan: SHHHH about the Rhino!; Huge Eagles place - going to be very crowded during the Superbowl...although alot of Pats fans frequent, too, so the crowd will be very boisterous. Still not sure whether we will go, although we always watch the games there. Do you have a list of (or can you recommend)superbowl happenings in the area??

GO EAGLES!;!;

Fritz: We're working on it right now, with a bigger list to come next week. While the Ugly Mug doesn't have affliations yet, it's hosting an all-you-can-eat-and-drink-for-$40 party, and that the best I've heard of -- I'd rather eat mini-burgers and pizza than go to the Front Page's "buffet."

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King's Contrivance, MD: Do you guys know what the format of the tsunami benefit event at the 9:30 club friday night will be? I take it DJ sets from Thievery Corporation, but is everyone going to just watch the stage?

And what is Brazilian Girls, also listed as an act? Thanks!;

David: Yes, it will be DJ sets from Rob and Eric. People might very well just watch the stage, but maybe people will dance, although the 9:30 club will be very sold out, so who knows if there will be much room for that. As for Brazilian Girls, I was just listening to a few of their songs online. First off, they are not Brazilian, and of the four people in the band, only one is a female, the singer. They sort of have that ESL sound, very chilled out, a bit jazzy, some touches of reggae, a little bossanova. And apparently the singer sings in five different languages, too.

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Washington, D.C.: Most beloved Gogs,
My friends and I are bored; bored of Gtown, Dupont, Adams Morgan, and (almost) 14th St. Any alternatives? Public trans accessible would be nice (or cheapo cab), as none of us have cars.

Thanks!;

Fritz: Clarendon? Barracks Row? Both have strips with a bunch of bars, restaurants and shops. The Row doesn't have many clubs, though -- it's more pubs, live blues and martini bars, but that's different than what you'd find in Georgetown.

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Columbia, MD: Hello Friends,

Is there any way a family of 3 can afford to go to the theater in the D.C. area without spending a fortune. I'm interested in good quality perfomances that I can take my 11 & 13 year old to.

Jen: You could try taking them to a performance at Imagination Stage, where prices are pretty affordable and the shows are usually entertaining (even if you're not a kid). Another option: Get discounted seats from TICKETplace, where seats are usually half-off. Some tickets are same day and others can be purchased in advance.

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Reston, VA: You always have great ideas and have kept me boredom free for the past year I've been living here. I'm having a hard time finding any good information on cross country skiing in the area. Got any ideas?

Anne: This story on cross-country skiing should help you get started. Click on the related link for local venues that welcome X-C skiers.

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Late night in Chevy Chase: This is more of an after-goign out question, but I am stumped! Is there anywhere in the friendship heights/chevy chase area that delivers food 24 hrs? or at least until 1? Also, I was in Chicago last weekend and saw that you can get ANYTHING delivered there, including alcohol. Is there anything like that in DC? I'm not lazy, just don't always have time after work...

Maura: Goodness, I'm stumped too (and I used to live in that area). Mei Wah only delivers until 10:30 p.m. and your 24 hour Giant isn't even open for pick up.

Anyone out there with ideas?

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Alexandria, Va.: I have put in charge of searching for Bridesmaid dresses that does not look like bridesmaid dresses. I have checked out JC Crew, Banana, Brooks Brothers, both Ann Taylors, Talbots. Any other thoughts out there? Many thanks!

Janet: Invariably, they do look like bridesmaid dresses, despite themselves. Here's a possibility. Let the bridesmaids wear their own dresses as long as they're all in the same color family. I recently went to a wedding where the bridesmaids wore their own black dresses. They all looked great.

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Arlington, VA, : Hello,

I would like a suggestion for a good place or two to take a new female friend/date for happy hour tonight, probably in midtown 18th& M area. Something reasonable, casual and with decent atmosphere, not young college crowd though. Thanks, tim

Fritz: Right there, I'd head for Karma (19th and I). Good cocktails (I like the pommegrante house drink and the caipirinha), art on the walls, good snacks and it's not too loud so as to preclude conversation.

Chatters?

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College Park, MD: I just moved to College Park and am a little lost as to the fun places that are local to the area. I heard there are really only about three happening bars to go to, and I was wondering how this could be in a town chock full o' young people?!; I know this is just a few people's opinions, so please help orient me as to some places with dancing, cheap food, drink, etc. that would fit the bill on assorted nights of the week. ( College student budget, and live music always a plus!;)

Rhome: In College Park you can drink. You can eat (a little) and then you can drink some more. College Park really gives you many good options to drink. Word. You can drink at the Santa Fe, you can drink at the Cornerstone, and you can even drink AND dance at Lupo's. My man PMD is spinning hip-hop there tonight. If you want to get away from drunken madness, head to Franklin's. Once you exhaust those options, you can walk yourself (or catch the shuttle) right over to the Metro and head to D.C.

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Arlington, Va: Taking one of the Bush daughters out to party tonight. The secret service wants to know pretty far in advance about plans, so I thought I'd open it up to suggestions - how do I get her away from Smith Point and out to see how the more 'ethnic' half lives while providing a cozy, secure (>100 people) environment?

Joe: See, if we answer this then everyone's going to know where she's going to be. Anwyay, we think the daughters are contractually obligated to appear only at Smith Point. Though you might try taking her to Third Edition.

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Washington, DC: hey gog--
listen i have a question. where in DC (or near DC) can a height-impared woman get some jeans hemmed with the original hem?? and hemmed well?
thanks SO MUCH

Janet: Two suggestions: Do's Custom Tailors or Imperial Valet.

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Springfield, VA: I'm wondering if you or the readers would have any recommendations on where to get a good game of pickup indoor bball in the Springfield/Fairfax area. We're willing to pay a few bucks to go to a recenter i.e. Wakefield, South Run....any ideas GOGs? Thanks for you help!;

David: Anyone out there with some ideas? Here's our list of area places with basketball courts, and you can see that Wakefield and South Run are two of the top choices.

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Downtown girl: To the fabulous gay man looking for a fabulous haircut...my roommates and I all go to Bang on U St. I personally don't know men who've gone there but there are plenty of other fabulous gay men in there who seem quite happy. Check them out on their website (bangsalonspa.com) for a list of who and what they do.

Janet: Another idea for the guy in search of a good haircut in town ..

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Alexandria, VA: Back in my day, I used to go out and cut a rug at clubs which played "techno" (e.g., Crystal Method) and also "alternative" (e.g., everything from NIN to Ben Folds) music. I've been unable in recent years to keep up with what the young whipper-snappers are calling this music these days. What are the circa 2005 terms for techno and alternative?

Rhome: *Snatches the high-falutin' music critic cap off of Joe's desk and clamps it onto the dome*

I'll take a stab at this one. Techno nowadays emcompasses a narrower aesthetic than Crystal Method, which was the type of group that could creep out of the raves and into MTV-land and even the radio sometimes. Now the pounding robotic beats and acid synths have reverted back to the club culture that spawned them.

And if you weren't monitoring the death of 'HFS, "alternative" no longer exists.

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Alexandria, VA: Hey GOGs, i just came back from new york and became addicted to lychee martinis there...do you know anywhere in dc that offers these delish drinks??

Fritz: I've had good ones at Blue Gin and Indebleu (and the soon-to-reopen Savino's), but I know Antoina at Blue Gin stopped making them for a while because the lychees she was getting were out of season. Indebleu had 'em a week ago, I think, but I didn't try one.

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Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: A little off topic, but...
Where can one drop off clothes for goodwill? what about old electronics and other non-clothing items? THANKS!

Janet: There are places that pick up clothes and non-clothing items. Value Village and Purple Heart are two that come to mind. I think you have to bring stuff to Salvation Army drop-off places. Hope that helps.

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Washington, DC: Sorry, but what is the appeal of Wonderland? Was there on a packed night- what a fire hazard!;

Fritz: The appeal is that it's in a neighborhood with few other choices, it's incredibly comfortable and the beer is cheap. The jukebox is awesome, and there are frequently good DJs upstairs.

It can get crowded, though.

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Arlington: Hi GoGs!;!; Is there a cover at Blue Gin?

Thanks!;

Fritz: If you arrive after 10 on a Friday or Saturday.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you know of any restaurants that offer sushi-making classes?

Alexa: Sometimes, Sushi-Ko does, I think. I took one there once.

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Crowsfeet, VA: I need Botox. Anyone done it and pleased with their results to the extent they'd recommend a doctor?

Janet: Yes, I did. The dermatologist's name is Dr. Ugel; he's on Wisconsin Ave in Chevy Chase.

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Arlington VA: RE: Bridesmaid Dresses

BCBG has fun dresses that don't necessarily look bridesmaidish. And they have petites at Bloomingdales in Tysons.

Janet: thanks for the tip.

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Washington, DC: to the gay guy, i have had good experiences at molecule. Remy does a great job, but the others aren't bad either. It is at 18th and M, and certainly better than other places i've tried. is there some reason the salon got dropped off the washington post's recommended list? Or do they have to pay to be on there?

Janet: Whew, another suggestion for the guy iso a good haircut. Actually, I've heard good things about Molecule, too.

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Georgetown, DC: Hey guys, i know that a lot of the top restaurants are booked for valentine's day, but any ideas for something elegant and romantic, with a touch of chic? i was thinking cafe mozu at the mandarin oriental, but the food there is only ok. it is impressive though. Any ideas for romantic things to do that night? Or any night? I have to try to do something creative, not involving going to a lounge and getting trashed.

Alexa: CityZen at the Mandarin. Don't be forgetting that.

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Arlington, VA: Hey Gurus, now that it's finally snowed my girl and I want to try snow tubing. I know you've done articles in the past about where to go, but I can't find them online. Which place within a three hour drive has the best tubing?

Anne: Here's the goods on snow tubing. For more info on each resort (like drive time) see the Ski Guide. But let's ask the crowd for recommendations.

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Takoma Park, MD: After years of coveting other people's pets, I finally got a big dog!; What's some fun stuff I can do with him in the area? We already walk and play n the nearby park, but could travel farther on weekends. Dog, while awesome, is also eating me out of house and home, so free or cheap activities would be best!;

Maura: Lucky you, Takoma Park. (I'm going through serious dog envy these days). When the weather warms up, you'll find doggie happy hours and plenty of hiking trails, until then I know plenty of dogs who visit my local Barnes and Noble, but I'm not sure everyone approves. You could also sign your pooch up on petster.com and see what they recommend. Our very own Anne Kenderdine wrote about your very own pet-friendly Takoma Park.

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Arlingtonienne: I will second that shout out to bang salon. I love Brennan. Ask for him, he's great. I've seen his work on both men and women. He has a good eye for making a hot man hotter.

Janet: Well, that's a good endorsement.

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Acting Classes: The Shakespeare Theatre has some great classes, taught by company members. I've taken some non-Shakespeare classes there too (basic acting, improv, etc.)

Jen: Great suggestion, thanks. Yes, explore all the theaters in the area. You'll be surprised by how many offer classes or other educational opportunities.

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Asian Market, DC: There's a seafood market far north on Connecticut, almost to Chevy Chase Circle. It's across the street from the Starbucks at CT and Livingston. It's owned by a lovely Asian family, and they tend to have a huge selection of Asian ingredients.

Janet: Thanks for the info.

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Washington, D.C. : Hey there Gurus! We missed you last week. I have a question about private parties. Myself and two female friends are planning a joint birthday party in early March. We're looking for a bar to rent out on a Saturday night in Adams Morgan or Dupont area for about 100 guests. We¡¦ve heard that some places have little-to-no fees and just require us to fill the room and/or meet a bar tab. However, we'd be willing to pay a fee if there are nice drink specials for our friends. We want to rent something for a few hours; 9-11, or 8-11, before it gets packed for the night. Do you know of any bars that have great deals for private parties? We have called around to some places in Adams Morgan and want a place less like Adams Mill or Angry Inch and more like a Felix. Something with good dance music because we can certainly get our groove on. We're in our mid-20s so the dive bars aren't exactly what we are looking for. Any ideas for private party places with good set-ups?

Fritz: The Blue Room will do that for you, as will Felix -- Maura had a birthday party there where a minimum tab was required. Before their makeover, Felix asked that you hit minimums to reserve the space, or pay some money for drink specials.

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Arlington, VA: I've got some friends coming in from out of town who on Sat. night who like to dance to hip-hop. Would something like the Thievery Corp. at the 930 be in that vein or would I have better luck staying safe at something like Dream? or any other place you could suggest. Thanks!;

Rhome: You won't be anywhere near the realm of hip-hop at the 9:30 Club this Saturday, but I thought that show was sold out? Dream is a safe bet, just make sure your people have no trouble with the unavoidable acoutrements of jiggy clubland (lines, $$$ expenditure, dress codes). Similar Dream options include H2O and Platinum. Your best bet might be Modern. You could also try the Blue Room this Saturday, we just got word that Orbit122 is there. It'll probably be less dancy and more loungy but we're big fans of the renovated downstairs level and the re-done sound system.

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Thrill-Seeker, USA: What's fun and crazy and different to do around here? Been skydiving, been rock-climbing, been WW kayaking, looking for a crazy fun weekend adventure. What do you guys do to let loose and pump some adrenaline (G-rated and fun for the family)?

Anne: Wow, my heart is pumping just reading this question. My first thought is the snow tubing idea, above. Are you actually bringing kids? It's pricey, but certainly warmer -- this weekend's Travel Expo has a zip line, scuba lessons and a high-up rope bridge. I bet you could find lots of ideas for adventures there.

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Hair cuts: It seems like Bang is always getting recommended on this chat. I have been a couple of times and had bad experiences each time.

Janet: Oops. bang gets a thumbs down.

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Clarendon, Va.: Anyone been to the Desperate Housewives viewings at La Tasca? Fun? Lame?

Fritz: I went to the opener last week, and the crowd was somewhat sparse, but there were $1 glasses of all nine varieties of sangria, and an MC asked "Housewives" trivia questions at every commercial break (winners got restaurant gift certificates). If you like the show, it could be fun.

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The Going Out Gurus: Just a note to let you know that the Thievery Corporation show at the 9:30 tomorrow is sold out.

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Re: Bridesmaid Dresses: One suggestion about letting each of the maids-in-waiting pick their own dress in the same color family: put parameters on the style a bit (ie, should be long, not too casual, etc.). Had a friend who didn't do that and ended up with one in a floor-length formal, another in a short cocktail and the last one in a crushed velvet thing from the 80's (oh, BTW, it was a July wedding!;)

Janet: Good thought. Yes, indeed, along with color, the dresses should be in the same style (short v. long) as much as possible. Bridesmaids should look good and be comfortable as well.

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Washington, D.C.: So... where do all the 30 somethings go after work? Every time my friends and I go out, we are either the old hags at the bar or the only ones at the bar. We are looking for something to do this evening and are located in the Logan Circle, Dupont, Farragut, Adams Morgan area. We're a pretty easy-going bunch, but have failed to find a place that we can call home. If it helps, we're old Cap Lounge regulars that have outgrown the drunken pick-up scene and have moved from Bud bottles to Grey Goose Martinis.

Fritz: Aroma or Tonic would work. What about Helix? Topaz? The Reef? If everything goes well, you sound like the kind of people who will love Cloud, the new Savino's Lounge on Dupont Circle -- it's exactly the demographic he's shooting for.

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Lychee Martinis!;: Asian Bistro in Pentagon Row has really yummy ones - they even have the lychees at the bottom.

Fritz: Thanks.

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Arlington, VA: I'd like to get some friends together to celebrate Chinese New Year on the 7th. Can you reccomend a good restraunt that serves traditional chinese "hot pot"? Anywhere in MD, DC, or VA is fine.

Alexa: Does Mark's Duck House do it?

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Alexandria, VA: Why would the Pats go to Rhino when we have our very own bar - Murphys in Old Town. Come on down fellow Pat fans and watch what is hopefully going to be a great game!;

You know...the Steelers fans have been awfully quiet this week...what cat got your tongue or was it NE's defense? (sorry...but the Steeler fan's trash talking was getting ridiculous before the AFC Title game. It's time for a little payback).

Joe: There you go Patriot fans.

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Need a Vacation!;: Im lucky to be going to Aruba next month, and now I'm searching for some cheap resort wear. Anything out there?

Janet: J. Crew, the Gap, Anthropologie. Target??

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Alexandria, VA: Photography exhibits this weekend in Alexandria and/or DC? Any suggestions?

Maura: There's the series of portraits in the Archives, "The American Presidency" and Govinda Gallery in Georgetown has a new show of Bob Dylan images. Wait one more week and you can find Andre Kertesz at the National Gallery.

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China Town: GOG's (Rhome?), since getting an ipod, shuffle-mode has re-exposed me to much of my older music, and particular to this question, GURU's Jazzmatazz. I was wondering if there was anywhere that spins this sort of Hip-hop/jazz fusion? And beyond that, which DC clubs/bars have regular live hip-hop, and are there any local groups that play their own instruments a la the Roots.
Thanks

Rhome: Try Dub's Pub, Moody Tuesdays and Bar Nun on Fridays on the upper level (get there early to avoid the cover). Since 3LG and Opus Akoben are on hiatus and Poem-Cees only get down with a dj these days, your only other options for live band hip-hop that I know of are RPM and Mello-D & The Rados. They gig pretty regularly too, I've seen RPM in and out of the Grog & Tankard as of late.

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Arlington, VA: Hey Gogs. Quick question--looking to celebrate a 27th bday here soon and am trying to come up with some good places in Adams Morgan. Something with a loungy vibe, but also has a dance floor, no cover, and not where all the 22 year olds hang (not that 22 isn't a great age!). Slightly sophisticated, but still where people can get silly and have a great time. I'd rather not bar hop, but Adams Morgan is the place to do that. . .looking very. . mainstreamish--something like what Cities used to be like I guess. Any reccs? I've heard Reef, Angry Inch, Mantis. . .nothing too too pretentious. I feel like it'll be a mixed crowd--bar flies and dancing queens. THANKS!

Fritz: The Blue Room and Mantis are good ideas -- both have separate lounge areas and dance floors. Angry Inch can be a little young, and the Reef doesn't have dancing.

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Chevy Chase: To the other Chevy Chaser looking for late-night food- Booeymongers is open til 2AM weekends (maybe even 3). (corner of Wisconsin Ave. and Jenifer St.) Not too much 'round these parts unfortunately- oh and there's a late-night McD's off River Road.

Maura: Yes, Booeymongers is open late, but they definitely don't deliver. I think our friend is out of luck on that score.

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Washington, DC: The Four Seasons in G-town has lychee martinis.

Fritz: Right. I should have remembered. Thanks.

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WDC: Late night delivery: Try Cafe Romeo on Wisconsin Ave in Glover Park. I don't recall if they deliver all night, but do know that they stay open MUCH later than most places in this city. They have ENORMOUS panini, salads, etc. Pretty tasty stuff.

Maura: Worth a try. Thanks.

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Goodwill: There's a Goodwill in Arlington at the intersection of Rt. 50 and Glebe Rd. (just south of Ballston). They take just about everything.

Joe: OK, thanks for the info.

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Rockville, MD: As to bridesmaid's dresses--try Camille la Vie in Montgomery Mall. The girls in my wedding party hit the clearance rack and were each able to get beautiful dresses for about $100. Also, having all the 'maids wear dresses of the same cut but different colors to suit their complections worked well.

Janet: More follow-up on the bridesmaid dresses.

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Washington, D.C.: Where can cool, successful professional women in the late 20's/early 30's go to meet normal, successfully, professional single men in the same age group? Adams Morgan and Georgetown appear for the most part to be filled with college kids and young 20-somethings. Thanks!;

Fritz: I've never seen any college kids at Blue Gin, Degrees or Mie N Yu, but maybe I'm not looking hard enough. (Then again, you have to be 25 to get into BG.)

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RE: Delivery in DC: I too am a bit saddened by the lack of delivery in DC, but sometimes you just have to get creative. During last week's snow, my roomate and I were having a chocolate craving. We searched the many pizza place ads that end up in our mailbox and found a place with a bunch of desserts listed. We ordered enough chocolate cake, baklava and cheesecake to meet their $7 delivery minimum and promptly satisfied our craving.

Maura: Clever you! Thanks.

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Washington, DC: Hi, just started reading the chat and want to counter the entry about chef geoff's. I went to the one on New Mexico Ave for Restaurant Week and had a wonderful meal and fabulous service. So don't downplay the whole chef geoff experience on one bad experience!;

Alexa: Some support for Geoff.

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Acting Classes, DC: Check out The Theatre Lab!;

Jen: Another good suggestion: Thanks.

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After-Dinner Stuff in Penn Quarter: Hi Gurus!;

I am looking for after-dinner stuff (music, bars, maybe even dessert, etc.) for after my birthday dinner Saturday night at Zola. Bonus points if activities start early since we have a 6:45 reservation...Thanks!;

Fritz: If it's your birthday, head for the trendy new resto-lounge Indebleu, where they have some great DJs (Steve Raskin of Thunderball and JonH of Fort Knox Five) and fantastic cocktails. Even better: You can get a seat early without having to drop big bucks.

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Washington, DC: Wha? A $200 minimum at Indebleu? A friend and I were thinking of heading there to check it out and have a few drinks one night after work (just the bar). Fourteen-dollar martinis I can handle from time to time. But $200? Has this place levitated out of my price range already?

Fritz: That's just for seats in a back lounge. If you want to hang out at the bar, there's never a cover charge or dress code.

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Georgetown, DC: Cityzen, Citronelle, 1789--all booked, but I definitely want to get to Cityzen soon. I'm trying to find a top-notch restaurant with a great atmosphere, but don't really want to sacrifice on food either, and there is nothing worse than getting stuck with a "special" menu with way exorbitant prices. Anything else maybe along those lines? Been dating the girl like 3 months, been to indebleu, jaleo, zaytinya, etc, and things on that level, so looking to step it up...especially on romance (not so much on price)

Alexa: Palena, Oyamel, Eve?

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Fairfax, VA: Where are some places to visit for a newcomer who has relocated to the DC area. I'd like to get a flavor for the excitement and culture in the DC area. Thanks!;

Rhome: First thing's first, DC is a patchwork quilt of unique scenes and cultures. There's nothing that can singularly speak for the essence of DC. The only way to get that flavor balance right is to be as varied as possible in what you sample. Have you perused our Visitor's Guide yet? That is your assigned jumping off point. Since you haven't provided that much specificity to your preferences, here's a rapid fire list that is your second homework assignment. Research the following places: Ben's Chili Bowl, The Lincoln Theater, National Arboretum, DC Arts Center, the 9:30 Club, Player's Lounge, Horace and Dickie's, HR-57, D.C. Sanctuary, The Black Cat, The Warehouse Theater.

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Washington, DC: Hello-

I'm trying to find a wine tasting class (the one shot deal, not a series) that's affordable, metro accessible, and good for twenty something aspiring wine snobs. I looked at the Washington Wine Academy, but was wondering what some of the other options in the area are. Do you have any thoughts?

Thanks very much for your help- it is appreciated!;

Fritz: If you want something informal, I had a blurb today in our This Week in Nightlife column about the every-other-week wine tasting seminars at Grapeseed in Bethesda. You pay $20 and get to taste four or five themed wines (Aussie Reds, Rhone varietals, etc.) and the bartenders know quite a bit about them. This Tuesday, they're taking you on a tour of Italian reds.

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Rhino Bar: I can't believe you told the masses!; Now all of us who've spent our hard-earned dough there cheering for Bobby Hoying during the Dark Years will have to share our tables with bandwagon fans. (Sigh) Nevertheless, please tell me Rhino isn't doing anything "special"--just same old open at 12, first-come, first-serve seats, and $8 Yuengling during the game, right?

Joe: $8 Yuengling? I hope that's for a case.

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Silver spring, MD: Where can I go for free or relatively inexpensive live music this Saturday? I'd like to go somewhere neither too loud nor too crowded that plays jazz or world music.

David: HR-57, Bohemian Caverns, Twins Jazz, Twins Lounge, all fine choices.

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Washington, D.C.: hey folks.. I moved here from S.C. last May and my girlfriend followed a few months later; we're college grads in our mid-20s. A couple difficulties: Money is incredibly tight and, partly because both of us have few co-workers, we've had difficulty making new friends. So, ideas for me on how I can be romantic and spontaneous on the weekends in this city, and ideas on how we can meet people with similar interests.. We just joined the Smithsonian Institution young members thing, and I'm sure to accept any invitation to any gala or event that ever is offered.. But what else?
Thanks!

Anne: See, that's exactly the kind of thing we usually recommend, so you can be our poster poster. You're already on a roll: Pick something else you're interested in and get to know the similar people. And remember it doesn't have to come with a membership fee. Could be a book group at Politics and Prose, or a poetry reading or dance party night. Or your neighborhood community association or local bar or your yoga class. Just be a regular at whatever you like, and you'll start seeing some familiar faces. Since you're recent graduates, use your alumni office too. Maybe an old aquaintance now lives down the street.

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Arlington, Va.: I dont get what Indebleu is! Is is a lounge/bar/restaurant? What time do they DJs start? Is there dancing?

Fritz: Yes! Yes! Yes! It's a restaurant with large bar and lounge areas. DJs start at 10 Wednesday through Saturday. There's not really any place to dance, but the music is more of an Eighteenth Street Lounge vibe than uptempo party music.

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The Going Out Gurus: I know you're not going to believe this, but this week's chat is over. So over. Thanks for your questions. We'll do it again next week.

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