Got Plans?

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's City 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 City Guide or read transcripts of past Got Plans? discussions .

The transcript follows.

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The Going Out Gurus: Good afternoon to all of you out there. Leaves are changing colors. Go hiking to check them out before it's too late, but bundle up. It's getting chilly out there. I'm Erin and I'm in the pilot's seat today. Anne, David, Julia, Fritz and Rhome are with me to tackle your questions. Lots of you are talking turkey, so let's get to it.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you know when the NGA's ice skating rink in the sculpture garden will open? Their site says mid-November, and it would be great to go skating while it's not so cold, but is the warm weather going to delay the opening?

Julia: Right now, the NGA is shooting for Nov. 20. This date does depend on the weather, though, so if the warm temperatures keep up, I'd call before trekking down to the skating rink in late November.

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Soccer City, D.C.: Fritz,

Can you please tell Lucky Bar that they are being silly for not showing the Turkey/Switzerland qualifier on Saturday? The web site says they wouldn't be able to distinguish viewers. How about having the games on in different rooms. Or have patrons wear a plastic bracelet. Or maybe their hands are tied by the satellite people. In any case, now where am I supposed to go to watch the game? Fado's is charging $20! Summers says it doesn't know yet.

Also, I think I'll be able to get some friends to go with me, but if not, what recommendations do you have for a late 20s girl to go by herself?

Thanks for the help!

Fritz: Summers is showing the game, and like Fado, they're charging $20. That cover is set by our friends at the satellite company Setanta, who enjoy a virtual monopoly on international matches in the U.S.

As for having the game in different rooms -- I don't think anyone would want to go upstairs (the third level) to watch it, and you couldn't give the whole second floor to people watching Turkey and the Swiss; I'll bet you the England-Argentina game outdraws them 3-to-1.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey GOGs! I have a friend visiting who is Muslim, and she keeps Halal. Do you have any restaurant suggestions in DC, which serve Halal meats? She's an accommodating friend and is willing to eat Kosher meats or at vegetarian-friendly spots as well. Places in or around Dupont would be much appreciated!

Erin: Eli's is one of the only kosher spots in D.C. Also, Vegetate is spanking new and vegetarian. Finally, Caravan Grill and Moby Dick both assure that they serve Halal meat.

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AdMo (Washington, D.C.): Hey GoGs,

Long time reader, first time submitter. Quick question... meeting up with friends at Saint Ex. What Belgium beer(s) do you recommend? I tried their Eggenberg (sp?) last time, and it was awesome!

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Fritz: Eggenberg is Austrian, actually.

I was at Saint-Ex last night and they have the Chimay and Delirium Tremens on draft right now. I like the DT -- strong, malty stuff -- but if you want something lighter, they have the Allagash Wit Beer, a very good Belgian-style white made in Maine.

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Greenbelt, Md.: Hi!! we're going dancing at DC9's anniversary party tomorrow night! Know of any great places nearby for lite fare? We don't want to cramp up while dancing and were interested in something like a bunch of tapas, small appetizers..

Fritz: Honestly, your best bet is to go to one of the nearby Ethiopian joints (Etete, Sodere) and order one dish per person. It will all arrive together on platters of injera bread, so you can graze and share.

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Washington, D.C.: My friend's birthday is coming up and she wants a group of us to go out for dim sum on Sunday. Any suggestions?

Erin: Are you stuck in D.C. or can you venture out to the 'burbs? Fortune in Falls Church does a good one. Mark's Duck House also won't let you down. I also think that Lei Garden and Tony Cheng's are worth it if you're sticking with Chinatown. A & J gets high marks in Md.

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Alexandria, Va.: I'm trying to teach myself how to knit, with the end goal being a pair of gloves to replace the sad-looking ones I have now. Are there any fun knitting groups in Alexandria or D.C. so I can yell expletives at my dropped stitches in public?

Anne: Knit Happens , Springwater Fiber and Stitch DC are all good places to find a group.

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Washington, D.C.: Now that Kingpin and Red are gone, I'm at a loss for good late night places. Help! Recommendations for dance places, late-night food (aside from bens, afterwords, pizza, bistro francais)?

Rhome: Five is one of the last non-sketchy late night dance spots around. That's why I make sure I'm out by 2:30 because when everything else closes, there's a crush of drunk frenzied folks that are pressed to not have to go home yet, and they rush the spot. D.C. Sanctuary has the same great music without the pre-dawn drunken bozo factor. Late night eats are more plentiful and definitely varied. I tried to be all-encompassing in this list despite a few "D'oh!" inspiring omissions.

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Maryland: Is there anywhere to play dodgeball in the area? Leagues? Tournaments?

Rhome: Do any readers recognize themselves in this article and have anything to add?

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Virginia: I want to go see the show on monday night at IOTA...having never been there, the website says they don't sell tickets in advance. therefore, how early do i have to show up on monday night before (8:30pm show) in order to get in. do they sell tickets earlier in the day of the show, that i can stop by and buy 2 tickets and then go to the show later? and also do they get over-sold/crowded?

David: Man, we really need a search function up in here, this is one of those questions that seems to come up pretty regularly. It's true IOTA doesn't sell advance tickets. And that show Monday is going to be pretty crowded unless the weather is especially miserable and lots of people have a case of the Mondays. If you're really worried, I'd say get there on the very early side, eat dinner at the cafe and you'll be fine. In the past you've been able to stop by in the late afternoon/early evening to pay and get your hand stamped, but a couple weekends ago there wasn't anyone there until about an hour before showtime. As always I'll advise you to call them the day of the show and they'll be able to tell you what kind of crowd they are expecting and how early you can show up.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi guys, submitting early in hopes that I might actually accomplish something at work today. Fritz you mentioned in your blog a few weeks ago that a place called Bourbon is going to be opening up in Adams Morgan. Help a whiskey lover out, whats the story with this place.

Fritz: Bourbon, which has been open for a year in Glover Park, has my favorite selection of bourbons and whiskeys in the city. It's owned by the guys who also own the Blue Room, and that Adams Morgan lounge is turning its first floor into a separate bar called Bourbon. They've received permission to operate under two names in the same location (which isn't something the ABC likes, apparently), and were supposed to open in the next few weeks.

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Dupont Circle, D.C.: I am going to be here in DC for Thanksgiving and would be interested in helping out serving lunch/dinner at a homeless shelter, or something along those lines. Oh wise ones, do you know where I can get involved in something like that and who to contact? Thanks!

Julia: Greater DC Cares has listed several volunteer activities for Thanksgiving Day and several meals during the week before. I'd look into these programs soon because there has already been a big rush of volunteers. S.O.M.E. already has enough volunteers for Thanksgiving dinner and Martha's Table, which is hosting Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 20, may be full or close to full. The DCJCC is still looking for volunteers for its Everything . . . But the Turkey event, which happens on the Monday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

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Bethesda, Md.: Hi gurus! I have a friend coming in from out of town this weekend and she is interested in checking out some museums. Are there any good exhibits this Saturday worth checking out? Also, I think I am going to take her out to the strip on 16th and 17th Street (Fox and Hounds, Local 16, etc) and was wondering if you could recommend a place to grab dinner beforehand? There will be a group of about 6-8 of us and we want to be able to talk. Thanks so much for your help. You rock!

Erin: In that greater area, I'm inclined to suggest Busboys and Poets , Merkado Kitchen , Rice , Raku in Dupont and Alero .

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City Guide Feedback: Hello GOGs! While I like the new City Guide and the ability to narrow down the choices by neighborhood, type of bar, etc. using the buttons on the left side of the page, I do have one minor beef about the navigation. I have yet to see how to enter a new search, e.g., change the neighborhood, without going all the way back to the main City Guide page. For example, after browsing a list of bars in Georgetown, I decided to see what U St. had to offer. There was no way to just re-set the neighborhood without going back to the main page. Am I missing something?

Anne: You can do a new search from the top of every City Guide page, to the right of the words City Guide. It's just like the search options in yellow at the top of the main City Guide page. So you can type "bars" in the keyword box and "Georgetown" in the neighborhood box. To change it, leave "bars" in the keyword box and type "U Street" in the neighborhood box. Or, just type bars in the keyword, click on the plus sign or the word "D.C." on the left side, and choose your neighborhood from there. If you don't like your choice, click the X next to it, or click the back button and pick a different one. Let us know if that doesn't get what you need.

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Washington D.C.: What are some good local liquor stores that offer informal wine tasting in DC that isn't $30-$40? Cleveland Park Liquors is good, but I was curious to know some others.

Fritz: I like the occasional tastings at the Wine Specialist, though they can be a bad thing. I've stopped in on the way to meet people somewhere else, found a tequila tasting in progress, and wound up sticking around for 20 minutes. They're pouring Italian reds on Friday (5:30-8) and a mix of Italians and Californians on Saturday (4-7)

Best Cellars is pretty cool -- the one in Clarendon has a tasting bar, and I'm partial the Curious Grape in Shirlington, which has a well-stocked, frequently rotated tasting bar and a smart staff.

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re: Dim Sum: Good Fortune in Wheaton is excellent as well. It's close to Wheaton Plaza-on University, I think.

Erin: That's true. I forgot to mention Good Fortune, but they do a delicious dim sum.

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Washington, D.C.: Looking for something new and cheap for happy hour in the south Dupont area; I've been trying out the new city guide, but am not finding it terribly user-friendly, so I thought I'd try to get your opinion. Is Heritage India HH a good deal? Beacon hotel? I need someplace where I can have a conversation over a cocktail or beer or two, with snacks.

Rhome: What specifically stumped you about the CG? Were you not able to generate these results ? I've been sending 1st daters to the Firefly happy hour and getting rave reviews. Heritage India is a good deal fiscally but a bit lacking in action. If you just want to chill, munch and sip after a long workday it's cool but not if you're looking for a scene. The Beacon Hotel gets a Guru gas face for lackluster service.

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NoVa. help! I need help: My sister and her kids (ages 3-8) are coming into town over the x-mas weekend. Since we aren't Christian and don't celebrate x-mas, we are looking for something to do that day (Sunday the 25th). Please!!!! Does anyone have any suggestions?

Julia: This is a tough one. Aside from the movies, I can't think of any kid-friendly events that'll be open on the 25th. Chatters, we could use your help.

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Alexandria, Va.: My family is coming into town this weekend for a wedding and I have been asked to pick a place for breakfast on Sunday morning after the wedding. My family is staying in Roslyn and would like to eat somewhere around there. Do you have any suggestions for brunch in Arlington?

Erin: Well, my favorite Sunday morning spot is Carlyle , but that's a bit far out. Whitlow's , Tallula , Harry's Tap Room and Boulevard Woodgrill should be able to satisfy Sunday hunger.

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Washington, D.C.: For the love of all that is holy, don't eat Ethiopian food before going out dancing! The bread will expand in your stomach to three times its normal size and you will find yourself doubled over in misery, which could I suppose be construed as a new "dance," but not one you probably want to do. Ethiopian food is delicious, but I usually need to go lie down somewhere after eating it. Isn't the new Vegetate place kind of near DC9? Seems like that would be a better option...

Fritz: I've never had a problem, actually, but maybe that's just me. Vegetate is a good option, though it's pretty far down 9th. You can drink lots of designer water (I liked the Welsh stuff that our server suggested) and save yourself for those $2 Yuenglings. Skip the sliders, though, as they felt a little heavy to me.

Other option: 24/7 over at 14th and U has great falaffel and gyros.

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Dupont Circle, D.C.: Happy Thursday GoGs!

I'm semi-miserable due to the fact that I'm studying for the GREs and have been confined to my apartment because I can't find a good coffeeshop for studying. I'm looking for a place in the Dupont (or nearby) area that isn't too loud (I love Busboys but there's a little too much commotion) or too expensive. Bonus if they have wireless internet. Thanks!!

Fritz: I think SoHo is hit or miss, I've been there when it's packed, I've been there when it's absolutely dead, and they have free wireless. It might be worth popping in there.

Also with free wireless, for some reason: Uni, A Sushi Place. Perfect for when you need a snack.

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Tattoo?: I am buying my boyfriend his first tattoo for his birthday at the end of this month. I know there are tattoo shops listed in the phone book but that doesn't tell me if they are any good. Does anyone know of a good place to go, and even better...a specific tattoo artist? Thanks!

David: OK, I can't dish out any firsthand knowledge on this subject since getting a tattoo is about 9,493rd on my list of things to do, right in between "Go see Broken Social Scene in concert" and "contract avian flu," but I'll try to help. Anyway, one of my daily diversions is to lurk on the 9:30 club message boards and watch the folks there snipe at each other. The topic of tattoos recently came up and Josh, a "don't call me a bouncer" who works at the club and someone who I would consider an absolute expert on tattoos and the sort (you'd know him if you saw him) chimed in. Some places in and around the city that he recommended were Fatty's (in Dupont, talk to Fatty), Jinx Proof (in G'Town, talk to Tony), Ambroto's (in S. Spring, talk to Mike), State of the Art (in Winchester, VA -- talk to Jesse).

Now again, these aren't firsthand recommendations, but both Fritz and I agree that Josh is an authority on these matters and he suggested the above.

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Meat and Potatoes Guy: Oh mighty GOGs, where is the very best place in the area for an outstanding, lip-smackin' steak? Thanks!!

Erin: Ray's the Steaks , Charlie Palmer Steak and Buck's Fishing and Camping all have delicious steaks.

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Washington, D.C.: I hate to complain about the website, as I know that a lot of work goes into it...BUT- evey Thursday I search around for your "nightlife agenda." Sometimes it is linked on the front page, sometimes it is not, sometimes it is linked in this chat, and sometimes it is not...is there a way to always have it in one place? I cannot find it all this week!

Alright, I feel better. You guys/gals do an amazing job!

Fritz: The Nightlife Agenda is always -- and I mean ALWAYS -- on the Bars and Clubs page. (Shortcut: www.washingtonpost.com/nightlife)

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re: Brunch in Rossyln: I've had a pretty good experience at Rhodeside Grill's brunch too.

Erin: Yes, I haven't eaten there for brunch, but I've been meaning to check it out.

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Washington, D.C.: David has a bit of a sass-mouth. Just sayin'.

David: Erm, yeah. Sorry, Grandma, I'll try to be less sassy. Maybe.

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Washington, D.C.: What's your opinion of Blue Fin in Adam's Morgan? I've heard extremely different impressions - digusting v. wonderful. Gotta love a new sushi joint.

Julia: I know a few people who disagree with me on this one, but I think Blue Fin is amazing. The restaurant's traditional rolls are good, but Blue Fin is worth the trip (and the cost!) because of its "New Style" rolls that blend non-traditional tastes with the fish. I had a roll of unagi dressed in a warm thyme sauce was that was simply delicious. That roll wasn't on the menu when I went; we just asked the chef to come up with something new for unagi, so if it's not busy, it's worth it to talk to your server about other options.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi GOGs!

One of my bosses is leaving us and we are having a farewell lunch for him next Friday. He likes Indian food, so I said I'd research some good Indian restaurants in the area. We work near the White House, so Dupont Circle may be a bit of a walk. Any ideas of Indian restaurants closer to us?

Thanks!

Erin: I'd point you to Bombay Club or Nirvana . They're both fairly close to your work area with great lunches.

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What's a Jew (or anyone not Christian) to do... on Christmas: Join the rest of the tribe in chinatown! Dim sum is a Christmas tradition for us!

Julia: One vote for Dim Sum.

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Arlington, Va.: So my brother will be gracing DC with his presence soon, and I'll be taking him for dinner/drinks. He's quite the urban hipster. Let's put it this way: He was over the nose ring thing by 1993 - like 5 years before it was trendy, and I'm pretty sure the songs on his i-pod are all by bands that not more than 15 people have heard of. Anyway, would love to prove that DC can be as much fun as his beloved Chicago. He's not really a cocktail type. Last time he was here we went to Dremo's (which is my favorite neighborhood haunt), and he actually kind of liked the vibe and the beer. What compares in DC?

Rhome: The Black Cat , Warehouse Next Door and Velvet Lounge will satisfy the indie band and good beverage requirements. Warehouse is the only one of those three that doesn't have a variety of good dinner options within a block or two but a walk from the downtown area isn't onerous. You should also look into The Raven , Bar Pilar , Pharmacy Bar and Toledo Lounge .

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Petworth, D.C.: Re: Tattoo...the one and only place in the area to go is Marlowe Ink on Main Street in Fairfax. Both James Marlowe and his wife Anna are nationally respected tattoo artists.

James R Marlowe & Anna Marlowe

(703) 383-0699

10405 Main St - Fairfax, VA

David: For those looking to get inked...

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Arlington, Va.: We have a friend moving out of the area soon. We want to get him a good bottle of scotch before he heads out. What would you recommend in the $50-$70 range.

Thanks

Fritz: It's really hard to say, because there are so many kinds of Scotch, each with their own distinct flavors. I don't usually overload on the peaty varieties, for example, so I'd love a bottle of McCallan's cask strength single malt from the Highlands over an aged Laphroaig.

I think the Wine Specialist does a good job recommending single malts; I'd talk to someone there rather than, say, an ABC store.

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Alexandria, Va.: Hi,

I just discovered your column and I have two questions:

1. Do you have an archive where old questions are listed by topic? That would be fantastic.

2. My folks are coming into town for Thanksgiving. I'd really like to take them out for a fun Thanksgiving meal/event. They're not big foodies and we don't want to spend big bucks but they love historical homes and museums (I was hoping to take them to the cafeteria at the Museum of the American Indian but it's closed T-day.) Any ideas?

Anne: Part one, we do have an archive .

Part two, hmm. The

National Museum of the American Indian

is open on Thanksgiving Day, as are all the Smithsonian museums, and so I understand the cafeteria will also be open. I like the theme you've started with this idea. The

Renwick Gallery

(part of the Smithsonian) says the exhibit George Catlin's Indian Gallery will reopen on Thanksgiving Day, so you can also head there, admiring the nearby Federal style houses along Lafayette Park on the way.

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Virginia: Is there a cheap bus service from D.C. - Philly? The amtrak is a bit too expensive. i need a way to get to philly in the morning and come back that evening.

Rhome: I've taken this bus a couple of times. Short drive, low cost.

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Arlington, Va.: Hey GoG's! First, but important submission: do you know of any bars/clubs with a good vodka selection (imported, authentic polish or russian). I spent time in Poland and have a craving for the good stuff!

Fritz: Russia House, Russia House, Russia House. They have everything you need in a richly decorated room that used to belong to the Russian government. For obscure-but-amazing brands, plus house-infused vodkas (currently boysenberry), this is the place.

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Petworth, D.C.: Do you all have any info on Temperance that is set to open at Georgia and New Hampshire, NW? Is it a bar? A restaurant?

Fritz: We just had a big discussion about Temperance last week. It's a restaurant with two bars that's set to open in early December.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi GOGs...

My favorite Mexican dive has tragically been transformed into a chain burger place. Any suggestions out there for a cheap and no-frills - but quality - Mexican place in the Northern VA area?

Erin: How about La Mexicana Bakery and Taqueria on Arlington Drive off the Richmond Hwy in Alexandria? I also love the tacos at El Charrito Caminante on Washington Blvd. in Arlington.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus - Rumor has it the Cap Lounge is reopening on thursday (Nov. 10). Can you either confirm or deny? Thanks!

Fritz: It's amazing what one blogger with a camera can do. The Lounge isn't reopening for a while. I blogged about this yesterday, but the short answer is that any work there is the staff taking kegs out of the cooler. They don't have permits to do any rebuilding yet.

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Arlington, Va.: Well, I experienced the most ridiculous display of DC elitism (or so she thought) this past weekend. I was at Lucky Bar and was talking to this very nice and outgoing girl who I found out had just moved here from Omaha about 2 months ago. My group was heading out and she asked us where we were going and I told her that we were going to hit up 11th Street in Arlington. She responded by saying "oh, you are so 703". Huh? So I asked her where she was planning on heading and she responded by saying she was going to Lulu's and that she never crossed the bridge. Huh? Again, just goes to show that having a well known zip code/area code have nothing to do with social graces and living in the city for a whooping 2 months does not make you all that.

Fritz: Ha! I think the choice of Lulu's over Eleventh says everything, really.

People need to stop frontin'.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi GOGs- LOVE your chat. I'm trying PR Partners in Friendship Heights for the first time. I described my hair and they set me up with Karina. I was just wondering if you or other chatters have been to her or heard any reviews about her? My hair tends to have a mind of its own so I'm always nervous trying someone new. Your thoughts would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

Anne: I've never worked with Karina, but I go to Driss at that salon, and in the last week I've discovered that he has amazing vision. Anyone know about Karina?

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Salsa dancing for a Brit?: I have a friend coming from England this weekend. She wants to try salsa dancing, but the only available nights to go are Monday-Wed. Any ideas other than Habana Village? We live in Ballston but can go anywhere in the metro area.

Fritz: Zanzibar on Wednesdays, Clarendon Grill on Mondays, maybe Cecilia's on Columbia Pike? It's not usually as busy early in the week.

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Rockville, Md.: Going to the Blackcat on Saturday night and I'm faced with the eternal question; What to wear? Oh wait, no. I mean how to get there? Metro? Or Drive in?

Any recommendations?

David: Man, that Broadcast show on Saturday is going to be really great, I am looking forward to it a whole lot. Metro will be running late enough that it's an option, but I always like to drive. There can be long waits for the train late at night and it can be a drag especially if you have to transfer, which would be the case if you're coming from Rockville. I never drink too much, so if you're planning to get wasted, then obviously go with Metro. Parking can be a bit of a pain down there on Saturday nights, but I've always found something within a few blocks. So yeah, my vote is for drive, but you might not want listen to a sass-mouth like me.

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Bethesda, Md.: Fritz, I wanted to put my 2cents in on Bailey's. I'll never go there to watch football again, and it isn't just because of the lousy service and music (though both are a problem). It is because of this: Despite their written policy (right there on the schedule of games) that they will show all games in their entirety, they recently switched away from the game that I, people in my alumni club, and people from the opposing team's alumni club were all watching... with 51 seconds left in the game ... and with one team ahead by 2 points and the other in field goal range. We finally got them to put the game back on with 20 seconds left, but all the action -- lots of it -- happened during our hiatus. They were apologetic, but not enough. Terrible.

Fritz: Wow. That's just ... wow.

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Petworth : Hm, obviously my neighborhood is getting more popular. It's strange not to be the only Petworth around any more!

Anyhow, for the person looking for vodka - don't forget Domku! They've got good stuff.

Fritz: Ah, right. And Baltika beers! And house aquavit!

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Washington, D.C.: The poster asking about wine tastings reminded me... where do you recommend for wine tasting classes? Either a course that runs a few weeks or a night full of lots of wine and guidance.

Erin: TasteDC often offers wine classes. The Wine Tasting Association is also a good start. Planet Wine often hosts dinners with Vermilion, Evening Star and Tallula. The fall wine dinner is coming up at Tallula. Also, Curious Grape often has guided tastings.

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Metro Center, D.C.: Oh Gurus:

This may be more of a Tom question, but I'm trying to look for a restaurant gift certificate for a friend. Do all restaurants offer them? Thanks so much, and you guys rock my every Thursday afternoon!

Erin: Not all restaurants offer certificates, but most do. Depending on what kind of restaurant you're looking for, you could get your friend anything from a gold coin (better than paper) for Clydes or a simple certificate to Nora.

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Alexandria, Va.: Hey Gurus I am in need of some serious help. I am pretty new to the area and have a first date planned for this Sunday afternoon. Any chance you could recommend a museum or sight to check out that will give us lots to talk about in case the conversation falters? And maybe also a restaurant we could go to afterwards? Thanks so much!

Julia: If you're into modern art, the new Gyroscope exhibits at the Hirshhorn are supposed to be pretty cool. The museum reinstalled some of its permanent collection to group the artworks thematically. The FDR Memorial is my favorite one in the city and can certainly spark conversation. If you go out downtown, Rosa Mexicano is a good bet. Tableside guacamole service is surely a conversation booster.

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Arlington Ice skating: For the person wondering about NGA's ice skating rink. The one at Pentagon Row has been open for a few weeks now if they want to try there before it gets cold.

Julia: An idea for the ice skater.

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Turkey Time: Hi Gurus,

Random question but I'm going to my boyfriend's family's house for thanksgiving and don't know quite what to bring- he's got a big family and I want something that everyone can enjoy. Do you know of any places that sell affordable Thanksgiving treats? I checked out a cookie place in Bethesda but each one was $6.50, any ideas?

Anne: Where do cookies cost $6.50? I'm curious. Even Firehook won't set up back that far. I recently sampled some decadent pumpkin bread from Best Buns , and I bet that would be a crowd pleaser, as would anything from baked by you .

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Arlington, Va.: Hi Gurus! Had a terrible waxing experience a few weeks ago. Do you know any place in the Pentagon City/Clarendon area to get a decent bikini wax without breaking the bank? Thanks!

Erin: Salon Cielo should suit your needs.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi, GoGs,I'm kind of new to the city and am celebrating my first birthday in DC on Friday. I have a bunch of friends coming into town for the weekend, so I'm looking for some fun places to go for the big night and was thinking Adam's Morgan/U st. area. I want to find a place for us to have a great dinner (and strong drinks) for just the girls and then a fun bar for later when other friends meet up with us. I don't want anything too dressy or loungy but something where the bar is easily accessible and we can dance when the mood starts to strike. Thanks for your help!

Rhome: AdMo (ha! I'm just being contrary for the sake of it): Start off with the girls at Soussi , Meskerem or Perry's . Meet up with everyone else at Bossa later.

U Street:

U-topia

then

Chi-Cha

.

Make sure you come back and let us know how it went!

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for Chicago brother in town: You might also want to add Saint Ex to that list. I used to live in the Windy City and that joint reminds me of a lot of the bars I used to hang out at there. Just my two cents.

Fritz: Will do.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus-

Is there any possible way I can see the new Harry Potter on an IMAX screen in the area?? Seeing it on a regular screen is a fate worse than death.

Jen: As far as I know, no "Harry Potter" Imax for us. We don't have a mainstream Imax theater in D.C., so that's part of the problem.

And seeing it on a regular screen is hardly a fate worse than death. But Imax would be pretty cool.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi GOGs!

Hypothetical question: If your parents were coming to DC to visit you for Thanksgiving, and you thought there was a good chance that your attempt at making turkey would result in setting your apartment on fire, where would you take your parents out for a nice, traditional Thanksgiving dinner? You know, hypothetically. Many thanks!

Erin: Hypothetically, I would consider 701 , Vidalia and Corduroy .

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Dupont Circle: To my fellow GRE prep sufferer: I have truly found the best Metro accessible coffee study spots (after trying just about -all- of them, trust me). My picks, based on atmosphere, comfort, noise, hang-all-day ability, lighting, , wi-fi access, coffee and actual food availability: Mayorga in Silver Spring, St. Elmo's in Del Ray, Greenberry's in Clarendon/Courthouse Arlington, and Savory in Takoma. Open weekdays and weekends each of them. Also Teaism Penn Quarter, all round if tea will do instead. Good luck!

Fritz: Mayorga is the absolute bomb ... but it's in Silver Spring. Not sure you'd want to metro there from Dupont. Now Teaism - there's an idea!

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Annapolis, Md.: For the Bummed Bono Fan, U2 -always- releases tickets on the days leading up to and ON the day of their show to deter scalpers. They've done it since I started going in the 1980s as a teenager. I've never had a problem getting tickets. Sometimes, you have better luck actually going to the box office on the day of the show than going through Ticketmaster.

Jen: Annapolis speaks truth. If you don't mind the stress of getting last-minute tix while traveling to another city, you should definitely give it a shot.

I saw that tickets were available to see them in Oakland earlier this week. Unfortunately, I wasn't in Oakland at the time, so the tickets were of no use to me.

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Washington, D.C.: hi there - I'm trying to find a good after work bar that hits the 30's crowd, but isn't terribly loud or crowded. Something a little nicer than your standard neighborhood dive, but not terribly uptight either. Preferabley the Dupont area. I've tried Cafe Ciron, too dirty, crowded and loud, I've trided Dragonfly - too steril and uptight, tried Ozio's - same as Citron....help!

Fritz: Firefly or Topaz. Maybe the Beacon Bar and Grill if you get desperate?

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Washington, D.C.: ok, gurus (and chatters) - what's the scoop on vegetate? has anybody actually been yet? is it any good? worth checking out this weekend w/a group of 6-8 (mixture of vegetarians and adventurous friends)?

Fritz: I think it's worth visiting. I'm not a vegetarian -- far from it -- but I enjoyed the dishes I tried (peppery chili risotto croquettes, and the sliders, despite the heavy rolls that the tasty "burgers" sat on. (Veggie "steak sauce" provided just the right kick.)

The three-level space is attractive, and I can't wait for the back deck and the small DJ lounge to open.

Rhome: Yeah, what Fritz said. Get the beignets!

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Washington, D.C.: Where will the new Harry Potter movie open first?? I'm DYING to see it! And when does it open everywhere?? Thanks so much!

Jen: It opens everywhere next Friday, Nov. 18. I just came back from a screening and can report that it's quite good.

More on the movie tomorrow morning in the GoG Blog ... (don't you just love teasers?)

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Arlington, Va.: What are you saying? Don't tell people to go to places that do tableside guacamole. Proper guac needs to sit for the flavors to mingle. This tabelside prep trend has made it impossible to find edible guac anywhere.

Erin: Oh, yes. Let's let it sit until the avocado turns nice and brown. That sounds dreamy. I'm sorry, but we beg to differ. There are fewer than a handful of restaurants with tableside guac, so you shouldn't have TOO much trouble finding some. That service allows you to direct the flavors of guac to suit your tastebuds. I like to force my maker to throw in extra jalapeno. YUM.

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U Street D.C.: I love the chats, and am a regular lurker, but today I desperately need your help. I am looking for a place that has good (read not soggy) sweet potato french fries. In NW would be easiest, but if any of you lovely GOGs would stand behind some good ones outside that admittedly limited geographical area I'd be willing to venture out. Thanks!!

Fritz: When I was at Saint-Ex last night, I managed to snatch some sweet potato fries. They were pretty tasty.

Anne says Luna on Connecticut, which I totally agree with, now that I've been reminded.

Can anyone else help?

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Washington, D.C.: A question for David. I need a good verbal smack-down to give to my boss(bad day today). Any suggestions, Mr. Sassy-Mouth?

David: I'm sorry, I've turned over a new leaf. Mr. Sassy-Mouth no longer exists. Say hello to Mr. Polite and Sincere to All. I suggest that you tell your boss that despite the fact that you are having a bad day today, you still enjoy working for her/him and consider yourself lucky to be part of the team at (fill in company).

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Washington, D.C.: Speaking of wine, I know that good wine doesn't have to cost a fortune, and I have a couple of favorite brands that are available for under $10. Just an informal poll, do you guys have any favorite cheap-o wine brands?

Julia: Erin: Tait the Ball Buster

David: Manneschevitz

Fritz & Anne: Like going to their favorite stores and checking out the wines under $10.

Me: Cabernet Sauvingnon and Shiraz are my favorites and I pretty much just pick 'em for the labels. Right now I'm fond of Aaku, Big Tattoo Red and this one with a green and gold label and a name I've completely forgotten. If you want to step it up to $20, there's a wine bottle that has a picture of a bear breathing fire -- a merlot-cab blend of some sort. That one's awesome.

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McLean, Va.: Can you recommend an authentic Greek restaurant?

Erin: Baltimore has the best Greek restaurants, but Mykonos Grill and Aegean Taverna make me happy.

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Alexandria, Va.: My friend and I are into some "old school" music. He calls it Slow Jamz, and I call it Bump and Grind. We are looking for a place to sit and relax and listen to some of the golden oldies like Keith Sweat, R Kelly, and Al Green.

HELP!

Rhome: R. Kelly is golden oldies now?

*confused*

You won't get "between the sheets" R&B in a nightclub setting but the

Soul Stew

crew rocks as many of the dance classics as anyone.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi, GOGs! Could you provide the lowdown on this year's Beaujolais Nouveau festivities? Some friends of mine and I would like to party it up, preferably at Bistrot du Coin. First of all, is the event going to be held on the night of the 16th or the 17th? I've heard conflicting details. Second, I know it may be too late to make reservations or get on the guestlist, so do you think we'll have luck waiting in line at the door. It worked out for us at the Bastille Day party (after about an hour's wait). Thanks, guys!

Fritz: It's Wednesday night, since the wine is (legally) opened on Thursday. Tables for the night are pretty much done, or were when I asked earlier this week. I think they had some around 7, but you'll get kicked off your table before 9. There's no "guest list," either. What you need to do is get to the bar early -- before 9 -- and wear shoes you can stand in for a few hours. The DJ starts after 10, and there's plenty of dancing and free wine to go around... say Hi to the mayor for me, as I'll be drinking somewhere in Paris.

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Washington, D.C.: Vegate has sweet potato fires

Fritz: Yes! And apparently I'm a bad person because I didn't share any with Rhome.

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Sweet potato fries: Luna Grill in Dupont has them too.

Fritz: Didn't we say Luna?

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Washington, D.C.: Which one of you knew the Green Island Monsters (The group of fusion musicians, Pena, Rickman, Keys)from last week, and how would I get in touch via email? Was it Fritz?

Rhome: That was me. What more do you need to know? Unfortunately I don't think those cats are playing together in the area right now. You can catch Marshall with his own group(s) from time to time.

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Dupont: Hi there. Fritz said in an article a while back that there was a paucity of cabs on H street on weekend nights. Is that still the case, or would it be advisable to drive if going out there?

Fritz: I'd drive.

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Mitchellville, Md.: Are there any good comedy clubs in the area?

David: Well the Improv is the old stand by. Lots of the relatively big names come through there. I saw a bunch of great Mitch Hedberg shows there. Brings a tear to the eye... Jokes On Us in Laurel and The Comedy Spot in Arlington are some other options worth checking out. If you're looking more for comedy shows than clubs, Lisner Auditorium actually books a decent amount of comedians. And always keep an eye on the area universities, they regularly have comedians and those shows are usually open to the public.

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DC Elitism: I take the "So 703" comment and the like is another example of DCers wishing they were able to be like NYC.

The Key Bridge leads from GEORGETOWN to ARLINGTON. People walk it EVERYDAY. TWICE.

I mean, whatever, it will just keep people away from the cool spots in either location if the Potomac becomes a major social barrier. Buncha bunk if you ask me.

Fritz: I might use a phrase stronger than bunk. Everyone knows that people from P.G. County are better than people from Arlington County, anyway.

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Mt. P: Going up to Great Falls this weekend- mini fall trip- and would like to visit a farm stand on my way back- any options?

I know I should just look it up but thought y'all might have a creativeguru answer.

Julia: If you continue on Georgetown Pike past Great Falls Park (i.e. turn right as you are leaving the park) and head that way for about 10 minutes, you'll see Krops Crops farm stand right after the intersection of Georgetown Pike and Utterback Store Road. That's a good one.

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Bethesda, Md.: Fritz, you are so 301!

Erin: Word.

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Washington, D.C.: Dig this chat. New to D.C., and with college hoops on the horizon, I'm looking for a pub where I can catch as many Kentucky Wildcats (incidentally, the winningest programin D-I) games as possible. I figured there has to be a D.C. contingent of the Big Blue Nation somewhere around here. Any ideas? Thx.

Fritz: Grevey's. Owner Kevin Grevey played in the National Championship Game for the Wildcats before going on to play for the Bullets. His sports bar is a great place packed with alumni groups.

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Washington, D.C.: just moved from southern region. was wondering if there are any clubs that play music from down south/hip-hop. most of the clubs here are strictly hip-hop or go-go?

Rhome: All the big fancy clubs (Dream, H20, Pearl, etc.) that play popular rap music will play some southern stuff because that's really large these days. You're not going to hear it all night but you'll get a good dosage of Swishahouse, Yin Yang and the like. Those are the chart toppers. Even if you go to a go-go show, you'll find the bands often cover the top southern rap hits. Fortunately for you, DC folks often have identity crises that make them prefer hip-hop from every region except for this one.

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Reston, Va.: Almighty GOGs!! Please help a Dad out here...The kids (three teens) are hitting me up to start planning a couple of ski dates for this year. Does the Post plan on having a "ski report" or a special skiing guide this year? Hopefully I haven't already missed it! Any hints on resources for planning/comparing ski options?

Thanks!

Anne: Nope, haven't missed it yet. Stay tuned, the ski guide is coming next week.

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Arlington, Va.: Eleventh Street has great sweet potato french fries.

Rhome: You're so 703.

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Arlington, Va.: I have 2 friends coming into town, and am trying to come up with something fun to do. All 3 of us have just ended relationships, so a little girls's night fun is just what we need. One of my thoughts was to hit a few of the hotel bars. Any recomendations for which ones? it would be helpful if they were close to metro stops too! of course any other suggestions would be helpful!

Fritz: My favorite hotel bars: Start by walking between Helix and Rouge (it's a block down Rhode Island) for cocktails and cool decor. Firefly would be a good place for wine and mixed drinks, with great service and friendly bartenders. All three are pretty lively. If you want something quieter, I like the art deco Le Bar and the clubby Off the Record. (both near Farragut).

Degrees, in Georgetown's Ritz-Carlton, is the spot if you don't mind dropping some cash and you want to show off your new shoes.

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Arlington, Va.: Hey gurus! Can anyone tell me what's up with Andalu? It used to be one of my favorite places to hear some great, deep house but the last few times I've gone both on Fri. and Sat. it's been hip-hop only. I need my house fix in the 'hood, especially with Red closing.

Thanks.

Rhome: Andalu has long forsaken its house cred, partly because T.Kolai have been gone from there for a couple of years. Hit Dragonfly on Sundays, Sam just moved over there from Red.

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The Going Out Gurus: Ok, this has been productive. We're off to take on the town. Y'all come back now, you hear?

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