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 .

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The Going Out Gurus: Hi, everyone and welcome to Got Plans. We're a bit shorthanded today, so bear with us while we try to answer your questions. And while we do that, here's something for us all to think about. Every discussion we get questions from newcomers to town about ways to meet new people. We'd love to hear your ideas on this subject. So, let's get started. Happy Thursday.

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Washington, D.C.: Is there another great outdoor club in the DC area in the absence of AIR nightclub? We would love to hear hip hop music at such a club.

Rhome: Nope! Ever since it was run into the ground last year, no one has had the mettle (or the dough) to give it another shot. *pours out some of my company subsidized Nestea in memory of AIR and.... Blossoms*

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Arlington, VA.: Has anyone heard anything about the new seafood restaurant that opened in Clarendon right across from Mexicali Blues? I think it's called Clare & Don's Seafood.

Erin: Yes, I've been meaning to blog about Clare and Don's Beach Shack for a few weeks, now. They have a great happy hour with cheap miller lites, $4 frozen drinks and wing specials. As for the menu, they offer several different types of fish prepped your way, fish and chips (I'd recommend them!), crab cakes and some veggie options. It's a good reasonably-priced seafood spot for the area.

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Washington, D.C.: I was just wondering about the times of Jazz at the Sculpture Garden. What are the start/end times for the Friday night performances? Thanks very much.

David: The general performance times are 5 to 8 p.m., although it might not start that early or go quite that late. The Sculpture Garden is open until 9 p.m. on concert nights.

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Arlington, Va.: Is there anywhere local that has a movieoke night?

Jen: Excellent question, Arlington. I've not heard of a D.C.-area movieoke night, but I wish someone would start one.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, it's like karaoke but instead of standing up and singing, you stand up and recite movie dialogue while the film plays in the background. There are at least a couple of these going in New York, but so far it hasn't made it to D.C. Of course, if there is one here and I'm not aware of it, by all means share.

I'd love to have the opportunity to recite Molly Ringwald's tirade against Andrew McCarthy in "Pretty in Pink": "What about prom, Blaine? What about prom?!"

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Washington, D.C.: For meeting new people, try joining a gym or athletic class. Also try an alumni organization or one of those kickball teams that seems to invade DC every summer. There's also thingstodoindc.com which has group activities you can sign up for. DC is such a transient place that's there are always newcomers looking for people to meet and things to do.

Janet: Thanks, good suggestions all.

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Washington, D.C.: Happy Thursday! I'm finally headed to the Blue Room tonight for the first time. So I know the music will be good (I like Dredd) and feel confident the scene is nice since ya'll recommend it but I don't know the bartenders or anything. Any recommendations on good drinks? I'm trying to step outside my apple martini-cosmo comfort zone. Though good inexpensive drinks are always good, I don't mind paying $10 or $12 if it is tasty and strong. Any spirits (except coffee liqueurs and creams) would be fine. I love sidecars but I find bartenders outside of really traditional bars can't always make them. I'll be getting there around 9:30 or 10, if that matters. I hope you can help!

Erin: I think that, if you are willing to describe your sidecar to the bartenders (before it gets too hopping), they should be able to mix up a decent batch. If you're not willing to risk it, you can try the fruity Blue Goose. You should also take advantage of their eclectic beer selection while you're there. I leave you with this thought: If you start the evening with a couple tequila shots, does it really matter what your poison is?

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Meeting people tip: Volunteer for a cause you are interested in. There are so many groups/causes in this town and you'll obviously run into like-minded people (or at least those that have one similar interest) during the course of your activities.

Janet: Anybody belong to any political groups that need volunteers?

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Bethesda, MD.: Hey gurus! Really appreciate the work you guys do. Looks like the Entertainment Guide has been re-designed a little bit, and I can't figure out how to search Bars and Clubs for your editor's picks. I can only find Editor's Picks for bar and club events, or the straight-up bar and club search engine, and that's not what I'm after. Thanks for the help, apologies in advance if I've overlooked something obvious.

Rhome: It always gives us hope when folks at least try to use the search engine first so we're glad to help.

You won't get bar and club events unless you choose 'Bar/Club Events' in the search engine drop down menu. To get this set of results I started on the Entertainment Guide front , selected 'Bars/Clubs' in the 'Category' menu and then 'All Areas' in the 'Neighborhood menu'. Then I clicked 'Editor's Pick' in the tab at the top of the results that says 'Sort Results By:'

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Washington, D.C.: What's deal with traffic and Nissan Pavilion these days? I recall the traffic being horrific when Nissan first opened but how is it these days? Going next week for Jimmy Buffett, just want to know how much tailgating we'll need to do before and after the show. Thanks.

Jen: As far as I know it hasn't gotten much better. I'd encourage you to leave as early as possible, but I'm also not sure how much tailgating can be done given these guidelines on the Nissan Pavilion Web site. Take particular note of the part that says, "No alcohol or barbecue grills permitted in lots." That kind of defeats the purpose of going to a Jimmy Buffett concert, doesn't it?

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Tea in DC: I originally hail from Old Europe, and will admit missing one thing: a good cup of tea, served in proper china (plastics kills teatime for me), if possible accompanied by some moist scones or a slice of good cake. Is there a place in DC that would fulfill my criteria, or do I have to hop in a plane to Paris or London?

Erin: Can you head up to Royal Tea Room ?

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Arlington, Va.: Any suggestions on family-friendly seafood places near the water in Annapolis? I'm new to the area and will have guests this weekend who are expecting steamed crabs. Thanks!

Janet: Cantler's is a great place to eat crabs. It's not only near the water; it's on the water.

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College Park, Md.: As for meeting people, there are like a million organizations to join. The sports-related ones (like WAKA) seem to have a lot of social aspects. I liked taking art lessons through the Smithsonian, although I met many people outside my age bracket (like retirees), but I think there are other places to try these. Check out the "classes" section on Craig's List for DC.

Janet: Thanks, CP. Sorry, but what is WAKA stand for?

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Washington, D.C.: Hey! Just wondering if you have heard anything about Bar Pilar. I know it was supposed to have already opened, but isn't. Anything you can tell us? Thanks!

Rhome: According to Fritz last week , it was supposed to open... last week. They're still working on the place evidently.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, Any word on another summer concert series like Live on Penn? I realize Live on Penn went belly up last year. Just wondering if they're trying it again. Thanks!

David: Doesn't look like Live on Penn will be making a comeback, which isn't a big surprise. There are still tons of cheap music options this summer, check out our Summer Music Guide and you'll find plenty to like. Some possibilities include Weekend's Weekends , free series in Herndon or Strathmore , and Fort Reno whenever they get around to announcing their schedule.

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Washington, D.C.: WAKA = World Adult Kickball Association

Janet: For anyone else who was wondering what this stood for ...

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Alexandria, Va.: Hi gurus, I'm looking for dog-friendly happy hours in the Arlington/Alexandria area. I seem to recall hearing of one in Old Town but can't remember. Thanks!

Rhome: Looking for this ? I ran into all kinds of stuff just searching for " dog ".

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Washington, D.C.: That thingstodoindc.com site doesn't work. Can you give us the right link?

Janet: From the poster who suggested this site, is this the right link?

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Washington, D.C.: Hey guys, I almost feel geeky asking this, but here goes. I just moved to a great apartment in AM and have lived in DC for the past year. It seems as if all my friends are too busy coupling up and it's beginning to get a little lonely. I am a 24-year-old female who is outgoing, friendly, smart, etc. I'm looking for activities/ideas on how to meet new people/make new friends in the city, both men and women. I don't make a ton of money, so something too pricey probably isn't the best idea. But how do you all meet people out here? Any ideas on good yoga/pilates, classes, cooking classes, clubs, religious stuff etc. I'm open to anything. I know this town is full of people who grew-up elsewhere. How are they meeting people?

Erin: I know that it's rough to get out there. I'm considering starting a whole blog with ideas for social singles. In the meantime, Things to Do and Pros in the City put together lots of activities. While I'm not sure that I'd condone their dating events, they offer classes, discounted tickets to sporting events and parties at embassies and other neat locales. Taste DC also has some food-based events (with a name like that, go figure!). I meandered by Flow, an interesting yoga studio next to the Logan Circle Whole Foods, a few weeks back. In all honesty, walk up to people and introduce yourself. Go to pay-what-you-can previews , Millennium Stage events and museums.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi gurus! I need a happy hour spot in the Farragut area, low key, with fairly cheap beers for this evening. Can you help?

Rhome: The Happy Hour Master is vacationing this week and I rarely hit the streets before happy hour is over. Can we get some group think focused on this query?

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Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus, I'm looking for a place to take the fam this weekend that is serving soft shell crabs. Do you know any good restaurants that currently have them on the menu? Thanks!

Erin: Depending on your price range, there are lots of options. Upscale restaurants like Eve , Corduroy , Nora and Tosca have them on their menus these days. Johnny's Half Shell also has them for a little less cash. If you can hold them off until next week, C.F. Folks has a tasty soft shell crab sandwich each Wednesday, while Breadline offers a rival on Thursdays! Now, if you're willing to travel, the best soft shell that I've had in quite a while was a tempura-style critter (cooked before my eyes) at a great spot disguised as a greasy spoon in Old Town called Lite "N" Fair . I advise you to call ahead to any restaurants with specials to see if they're offering them!

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Silver Spring, Md.: When I moved here three years ago I just tried everything (even things I thought I might not like) just to meet people and make a community. Kickball (sucked!!), gym (yay), writing groups (eh), book clubs (yay), volunteering at a cooking school (double yay), protest rallies, restaurant hopping, high school theater performances, dance lessons, sheltered-animal-walking, on and on. Just go at it with a spray gun and see what sticks. While you're trying out and evaluating all these new things, you won't have time to be bored!

Rhome: You sound like you've been walking around in the brain of a Going Out Guru.

I hereby decree that everyone tape this to their bathroom mirrors in the morning and recite it daily like a Stuart Smalley affirmation!

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Washington, D.C.: Consider volunteering at a museum; they usually have lots of behind-the-scenes stuff to do, like research or membership/advertising/development besides the public tour stuff. And they are usually dying to get free help.

Janet: Are you listening out there? We're getting good ideas for how to get out there and meet new people.

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thingstodoindc ?: Could that be confused with meetindc.org ?

Janet: Anyone know?

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Re: Tea: The lady specifically asked for a place in D.C.

Janet: If you're willing to spend some bucks, hotels such as the Willard, the Four Seasons and the Mandarin Oriental all have very proper teas, complete with luscious scones, bite-size sandwiches and petits fours.

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Washington, D.C.: Love your online chat, love your advice. A friend's birthday is coming up at the end of the month, and a group of probably 4-6 will go out to dinner to celebrate (we're mid-to-late twenties). He mentioned Mini Bar as a place he'd like to try -- is it a good place for a group, or is the focus more on the food and cooks? On another vein, we were thinking Cashion's as well, which we haven't been to yet. We usually like something eclectic and different, like Zola and Zaytinya. What do you think?

Erin: Minibar is great for adventurous eaters, but it's hard to snag reservations and the bar itself only seats 6. Cashion's would be a good pick. My first vote would be for Indebleu for eclectic food, a scene and the ability to hold a conversation. Oya is around the corner from Zaytinya.

Indique is also good and a little less formal, but further from the restaurants you've mentioned.

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Washington, D.C.: Any good shows in town tonight? I'm in the mood for some interesting live music.

David: There are a plenty of options, as usual, tonight. A popular Israeli rock band called Mashina is at the 9:30 Club, but tickets are $50, which just blows me away. The Warehouse Next Door always has something interesting going on, tonight it's local sorta-punk band 1905, Finnish punk band Selfish and three other bands that are probably loud. If you want to head out to Virginia, there's hip-hop/funk/reggae/rock band Ozomatli at the State Theatre, playing with Restoring Poetry in Music who just won the D.C. portion of the Emergenza Music Festival. And Chuck Prophet at Jammin' Java is always a good bet.

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Washington, D.C.: The beautiful weather we've had lately (though not the past few days) have led me to increase my running mileage which has left me with shin splints. Do you know of a Metro accessible store that can help me pick out a pair of running shoes (CitySports is not helpful at all) and for switching it up, is there a relatively affordable and Metro accessible place for Bikram Yoga? What can I say? I like to sweat.

Janet: For running shoes, try Fleet Feet in Adams Morgan. They're experts. As for bikram yoga, check out this guide .

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Alexandria, Va.: Hey GoGs - I was at a party on the Embassy Row Hilton roof in Dupont a couple of weeks ago and enjoyed the view and vibes. Is this an every week thing or once a month or what? I didn't hear about anything happening last week. On a totally different note - where would you get a $100 restaurant gift certificate in the Clarendon area for our free dog-sitters(already did the pet store)?

Rhome: Afterlight is pretty fresh. Fritz has been raving and I keep missing out, but not for long.

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Reston, Va.: I'm looking for a place that has the best authentic Philly cheesesteaks in the area! Where's a ex-Philly girl to go?

Erin: Hey Reston, don't despair. Al's Steak Shop at 1504 Mt. Vernon Ave in Del Ray could be just the ticket!

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Washington D.C.: I'm a devoted reader of you fine folks. Lately it seems like you're all trying to step the chats up a notch with pre-emptive answers to predicted questions and pleas for more specifics when asking about a night on the town. And I think one thing you'd all like to see is more contributions from the readers of new discoveries and creative ideas. I'd love to see that, too. But I find myself really holding back from mentioning a great little restaurant or a kick-ass bar I've stumbled on for fear of the masses descending. No one wants to see a line at what was their favorite, private-feeling find just the week before. I guess the only solution is to try to get everyone to contribute enough ideas that there aren't three good places getting hit by 2,000 Guru readers. I know we're all doing different things in different places and having a great time. Ante up.

Rhome: Challaawnnge!!!!

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Reston, Va.: A slew of summer blockbusters either have or are about to hit movie screens. Therefore, please rank your favorite theaters within 30 miles of DC based EXCLUSIVELY on sound and picture quality. Honestly, I really don't care who has the best popcorn!!! Thanks.

Jen: This is a tall order, my friend. I've been to a lot of our local theaters, but my knowledge of Virginia locations is woefully limited. Most of my personal picks are in D.C. (where most press screenings are held) or in Maryland (where I live), which is an unfair overview. I'm sure there are Virginia theaters that belong on a best-of list, so I'll let some of you residents of the Commonwealth weigh in with your picks. This also makes me think that maybe I should hit more Virginia theaters so I can devise a more complete list in the future. Here's my top five; again, these are personal selections based solely on sound and screen quality:

-- The Uptown : I know it's overrated to an extent, but I think the theater's wraparound screen and booming sound turn even bad movies into big events. And I like the fact that it's an old-fashioned, single-auditorium movie house, not a cineplex.

-- Loews Rio : I live in Bethesda, so it takes a little time to get to Gaithersburg. But I almost always go to the Rio to see the latest blockbuster because they have good-size screens (including some with digital projection) and stadium-seating.

--Tied: Regal Gallery Place and Loews Georgetown : Both have decent screens and sound and stadium-seating, which is always a bonus for a shorty like me. (I saw "Batman Begins" last night at Georgetown, and the sound was quite good.) The drawbacks: Parking, although Regal Gallery Place is easily accessible by Metro, which is a plus.

-- Cineplex Odeon Wisconsin Ave. : I'm not crazy about the theater because it needs some refurbishment. But if you see something in the largest house here, you'll be impressed by the sizeable screen.

Also, for your info, here's a list of all the THX-approved theaters in the area. Their certification is not based on size of screen or loudness of sound so much as whether the placement of screen and speakers create optimal viewing.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm from DC and my brother is coming back into town for dinner. I need an impressive place that as he said, "doesn't need to be Ruth's Chris but can't be Friday's either." I want to escape our DC power steakhouse traditions and find something fun, fresh, hearty, and most importantly, a place with really good food. Have any restaurant suggestions for the Hill, Dupont, or Adams Morgan? I'm from Adams Morgan-- not impressed with Perry's or Cashion's. My experiences were OK but not great.

Erin: How about the cafe at Palena ? They've got one of the best burgers in town. The Little Fountain Cafe is a safe bet in AdMo. If you like fish, I adore the charming Pesce in Dupont and DC Coast on K St. I'm also hearing rave reviews about Hank's Oyster Bar .

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Washington, D.C.: Am I the only one that thinks this Kickball thing is scary and cultish? One of the keys to meeting people -- from someone who's lived here for five years and still struggles with that feeling -- is to say "yes" whenever anyone asks you to a happy hour, dinner party, lunch, play, concert. Even if you think they're asking out of pity, still go.

Janet: In the nothing-ventured, nothing-gained philosophy!

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Bethesda, Md.: Hey. Thank you for the chats; they always are interesting and have given me some great ideas. Do you guys know of any bar in Bethesda or DC (but preferably Bethesda) which has a Foosball table? Thank you.

Rhome: Yup .

Our search engine is a BEAST, son!!!

*channeling Dave Chappelle*

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Things to do/meet in DC: I think they're different groups, but I know several people who are involved with MeetIn and swear by it. You just have to register as a member (free) and can then chose from a multitude of events to attend. They have everything from happy hours to museum events to outdoor activities. Most tend to be in DC but there are some out in the 'burbs.

Janet: Here's a vote for MeetIn.

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Falls Church, Va.: Hello Gurus! I was wondering, are there any places in the area where you can rent a canoe? Preferably in DC or VA?

Erin: The legendary Boathouse at Fletcher's Cove would be my pick for canoes, bikes or rowboats!

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Washington, D.C.: Hi gurus, This isn't so much a "going out" question, but I recently moved to Adams Morgan and much to my mother's delight I have decided to finally join a temple. I am in my mid-20s, grew up in a Reform Jewish household but am greatly interested in my religion recently. Where do the young, hip, (single??) Jews of DC hang out? I also don't have a car, so it must be Metro accessible. Thanks!

Erin: David's place?

Rhome: DCJCC? (don't mind me, I'm just there to get my soccer on)

David: It's certainly not my place. Nobody hangs out there, I make sure of it. The DCJCC seems like a good bet, especially this Saturday when One Ring Zero plays there. And the 9:30 Club will probably be packed with young Jews tonight with the Israeli band playing there. Anyone have any suggestions as for more regular spots?

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Re: Meeting people: Don't forget InternationalClubDC.com. They have lots of fun stuff for those who are international or just internationally minded. Enjoy!

Rhome: They've gotten some run in these pages with a nice slate of activities. Definitely worth a try.

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Re: Wisconsin Ave. Cineplex Odeon: You forgot the best part about this theater!!! It has purple velvet seats. I don't know why, but I REALLY love those seats.

Jen: I'm a fan of purple, don't get me wrong. But some of the seats (not all) are getting a little rickety. They could definitely use an upgrade.

But don't let that stop you from appreciating their purpleness.

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Another way to meet people: The person who mentioned getting invited and going to happy hours, etc. reminds me: If you get invited to a house party, go! Seems like people are more accessible there (maybe because they figure you must be cool if you were invited?) and it's fairly easy to strike up convos with strangers. And yeah, kickball is a weird cult, one filled with cheesy party people.

Rhome: I've definitely got to co-sign on this one. House parties are like, instead friend aggregators. I've seen the phenomenon where circles of friends that didn't previously intersect expand rapidly due to the social cross-pollination that house parties encourage. And truthfully, a really good house party will almost always beat a night out at a club.

No opinion on kickball heads. Maybe I should seek out the dodgeballers.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey all! My mom is coming to visit in August and she really wants to get some tasty Maryland crabs. We don't have a car, but I am open to any restaurants that are Metro accessible. (I live in Adams Morgan, but anywhere on the Metro is fine.) We are from Boston and therefore have very low tolerance for bad seafood. We are just looking for a fun and tasty summer treat. (If we have to crush them with mallets and get down and dirty that's ok as well.) Thanks so much!

Erin: For crab houses in the area, I'd say any of the local Ernie's locations , Dancing Crab up Wisconsin or Quarter Deck in Arlington.

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Arlington, Va.: For the runner with shin splints, you can't beat (or run away from, maybe?) the service at Gotta Run in Pentagon Row. It's through the Pentagon City Mall and in that outside mall thing with DSW and Lebanese Taverna. The staff is super helpful, they really know their stuff and they often have sales. I was having random problems with my arches and their advice really helped (and I'm a larger runner, so help is often hard to find). Plus, after realizing that the guy that was waiting on me for the last year was the owner, I was astounded. It seems like a real stand-up, start-up type place.

Janet: Thanks for the suggestion.

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Washington, D.C.: First, tips: For meeting people -- DC has so many fabulous museums and historical homes and most of them are begging for volunteer docents. I am a docent at the Corcoran and I love it. I get to learn about art, spend lots of time in the museum and meet other art lovers. Along those lines -- with regards to the question about tea -- I just found out that Hillwood House has a high tea. I haven't been, but I bet it's great. Plus, just being at Hillwood is fun.

Erin: Thanks for the helpful recs!

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Pentagon City, Va.: Re: running shoes that are Metro accessible - try Gotta Run in Pentagon Row on Joyce St, a short walk from Pentagon City Metro.

Janet: Another thumbs-up for Gotta Run.

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Gift certificate for Clarendon restaurant: Even though you didn't answer their question, I will. $100 would make for a very nice meal at Boulevard Woodgrill or if they like steaks and seafood, go for Harry's Tap Room.

Janet: I've eaten and both and am with you.

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Jewish in DC: GOGs, I think you may have misread the question about where Jews in DC hang out. I think the poster was asking for a synagogue. My suggestion for a Metro-accessible one where singles hang out is Adas Israel in Cleveland Park. I've heard good things.

David: I just re-read that question and I'm not sure if the person was asking for a synagogue, but if so, I think that's beyond our bounds. But thanks for this tip...

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Young and Jewish: Check out Washington Hebrew Congregation's(www.whctemple.org) 2239 club.

David: ... and thanks for this one as well.

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Arlington, Va.: What's a good watering hole near the stadium? I've heard Ugly Mug, but not sure of anywhere else where the atmosphere is very low key.

Janet: Try these suggestions .

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Seafood goodness: The fam is coming into town this weekend and they want seafood. I was thinking of Hank's Oyster bar as an option. Do you have any take on that? I'm looking for DC, ideally NW DC.

Erin: Hank's is great, new and fun. I'd also recommend Johnny's Half Shell or Pesce down the street.

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Jewish "singles": First thing, and others are free to differ, but with all due respect to my fellow Jews, Jewish singles activities per se in DC are not hip. A good place to meet other 20- and 30-somethings who are actually engaged with Judaism is the Traditional/Egalitarian minyan at Adas Israel. It's a Conservative synagogue, but friendly and open. You may want to take a friend, though, because it can be a little overwhelming. Another good option is Yedid-DC, which has Friday night services at least once a month - lots of singing, with socializing afterward.

Janet: In response to the Jewish single quandary --

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Washington, D.C. : Hi GOGs, After wearing suits to work for this one week (yuck), I am now able to welcome summer! So I have a quick question: What evenings does Morrison Clark serve those yummy mint juleps? Thanks!

Erin: Sip those up Wednesdays during their happy hour (5-7).

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The Going Out Gurus: We're out of here. Until next week!

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