The Going Out Gurus
of the washingtonpost.com City Guide
Thursday, July 6, 2006
1:00 PM
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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washingtonpost.com: Got questions about where to go this weekend? We got answers, and we're crossing our fingers that we'll have good weather, as promised by the weather folks.
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Alexandria, Va.:
Hi GOGs, I've been craving authentic, freshly made pierogi, and after much web searching and querying of long-time locals, it seems we don't have one authentic Polish restaurant or market anywhere in or around the District. Can this be true? Is there a place to get real, freshly made Polish food somewhere in the city or environs?
Erin: Have you tried W Domku ? I believe they have 2 varieties of pierogi. Anybody out there have a pierogi paradise to share?
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Rockville, Md.:
Is the Folklife Festival still going on this weekend? If so, when does it end?
Julia: Folklife is still going on this weekend. It ends next Tuesday, July 11. I'd check out some of the evening concerts .
If you want a taste of what the basketry section of the festival has to offer, check out this video, by one of our talented videographers.
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Alexandria, Va.:
Any good places in Old Town to take some coworkers new to the area for lunch?
Erin: How about the lickety split lunch at Restaurant Eve ? I haven't made it out there for lunch, but I aim to in the very near future.
Other notable lunch spots are A La Lucia and Majestic Cafe, but you could hit Vermilion, too.
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Arlington, Va.:
Are the blue tiki cups free at the new Tiki Hut? Is there a real moma quan? If there is do you think she is a hottie or an old salty sea hag?
Fritz: I don't think you can keep them -- the waitress came and removed those plastic monstrosities from our table -- but you can probably buy a similar one at a dollar store. I've had luck finding old glasses and mugs at vintage stores, especially in Takoma Park.
Can someone please, please, PLEASE open a real tiki bar inside the Beltway? Something like Honolulu?
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Washington, D.C.:
Where are the Italians (and fans) gathering in DC for the World Cup final?
Fritz: The nice folks at the Italian Cultural Institute (or the Istituto Italiano di Cultura), the Embassy's official cultural arm, recommended heading over to Sette in Dupont Circle, where the game will be on a big screen.
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Alexandria, Va.:
The city of Alexandria is having a huge birthday party celebration on Saturday, July 8, complete with fireworks, entertainment, food, etc. We don't have all the details, so do you guys have more information? The event celebrates Alexandria's birthday, and, four days later, the U.S. birthday.
Anne: Alexandria must be hoping for lots of presents, reminding everyone about your birthday like this.
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Arlington, Va.:
Have to post early today: Headed to the beach this weekend with the new boyfriend. Any suggestions on where I can find a killer bathing suit? I am hoping to find a store with many shape and size selections.
Janet: Why oh why didn't you think about buying a bathing suit earlier? If there's a great store here devoted to bathing suits, I'd love to know about it. Department stores now have sales on bathing suits -- that's the good news. The bad news is that there's not a lot left anywhere. Try Nordstrom in Tysons Corner; I recently went to the one in Montgomery Mall, and the pickings were very slim. Can any chatters offer more help?
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Pierogis:
Ze Mean Bean in Fells Point, Baltimore (Fleet st) has really good ones. I'm told they're made by little old Polish ladies.
Janet: Suggestion for the chatter iso a pierogi.
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Pierogi:
There is a place in wilkes barre that is only pierogi next to the adult super store. Day trip it and bring your water wings, hear there is some flooding. Mrs T should open up her own pierogi location in the city.
Janet: More for pierogi fans.
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Raleigh, N.C.:
Best sushi with a scene?
Erin: How about Dragonfly or perhaps Blue Fin ? Cafe Japone kind of has a scene, too.
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Arlington, Va.:
Hello! I was visiting a friend in Philly a few weeks ago and she took me to this fabulous wine bar. They had hundreds of bottles hooked up to taps behind the bar. Their bar menu had pages and pages of wine flights to choose from. I've tried to find something similar in the DC area but haven't had any luck. Does it exist? If not, is there something similar with wine flights to choose from? I'm looking for a place where you can sit for several hours tasting wine and chatting with friends.
Fritz: Sonoma and Tallula both have wine draft systems; Sonoma brings more than 30 to the Hill, while Arlingtonians can sample more than 70. Tallula doesn't do flights per se, though they frequently host wine dinners.
For flights, I'd try Ardeo or Grapeseed.
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Fritz:
After all these years you are still my adult beverage drinking hero. What will you be drinking on Sunday for the Cup? I think I'll get me some Kronenbergs. What say you (other than you won't be drinking peroni or moretti unless you plan on diving on Sunday).
Fritz: There's no way I can root for the Italians, though they're not as bad as the Portuguese.
I don't know where I'll be watching Thierry and Les Bleus yet, but I watched the Brazil game on a big screen at the Alliance Francaise, drinking Normandy wines, Belgian beers, a little bit of Champagne and free Grand Marnier crepes.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hey Gurus, I am in desperate need of a happy hour locale for this afternoon. I'm searching for a place that (1) serves mojitos and (2) bar-type food, not looking for a restaurant with a full menu. And if the place were reasonably priced, I wouldn't mind at all! Thanks in advance for your help!
Fritz: Try Caribbean Breeze (half-price apps, deeply discounted drinks, decent mojitos) or Cafe Citron ($4 mojitos, cheap apps.)
And let's open the floor to other suggestions...
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Washington, D.C.:
Hi Gurus! Question for you: a friend and I are planning a bachelorette party for our third best friend; think we're looking at Saturday, June 22. We want to take her to a comedy club to kick off the night, and would love for you to recommend a good spot. Also, we have underage sisters of the bride (over 18, but not 21)who we want to be included in at least part of the night's activities if at all possible (we figured comedy clubs might let over 18 in if they don't drink?) Any thoughts of suggestions would be most welcome.
Julia: The Improv allows the over-18-under-21 crowd. They've got hypnotist/stand-up comic Flip Orley that night.
If your crew is into dancing, many of the big dance clubs -- like Home
-- allow the under-21 crowd. If you're not into dancing, leave those sisters at home and check out my bachelorette post from a few weeks back -- with several suggestions from readers.
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Alexandria, Va.:
My aunt and uncle and 4 kids (ages 10-18) are coming to visit all day Saturday. I have no idea what to do with all of them to entertain all their ages - something outdoorsy would be good, maybe boating or biking but are there age restrictions? They are all different personalities but mostly laid back except for the 2 youngest kids who are a little hyper. Any help you guys can give would be appreciated.
Anne: You could take them to scramble over rocks on the Billy Goat Trail , or rent bikes in Alexandria and bike down the shady path to Mount Vernon.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hey GOGs, I come to you in my time of need. A friend's birthday is tomorrow and I'm pulling together a group of six to ten mid-to-late 30-somethings for dinner. I'd like to do something fun, like Island Jim's Crab Shack, which apparently doesn't exist anymore. Would Indigo Landing be fun? Can we reserve an outdoor table? We go out for amazing food pretty frequently, so I'm more focused on a casual, fun summer atmosphere. We're looking in the District or Alexandria/Arlington.
Erin: Indigo Landing's beautiful. I wasn't thoroughly impressed by the heavy food, but that view is enough to offset the food. You can request to sit outdoors. I would call and speak with the manager about that. They're more accommodating with groups. Another idea is the new Agraria in the Georgetown Harbour. Things aren't quite at full capacity, but it's beautiful, there's plenty of space for groups and it's always fun to try new places. My other thoughts are Jaleo/Oyamel in Crystal City and Poste.
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Washington, D.C.:
I have a date Friday night and I'm on a budget. Can you help me out? I know she's itchin to get down to Georgetown/waterfront and enjoy the nice weather. Is there anywhere to go down there that's nice and fun but won't cost a gazillion dollars? I'd also be open to any other suggestions you might have.
Fritz: Not cost a gazillion dollars? Man, you haven't been to the Waterfront lately, have you? It's always crowded (for my tastes) at Tony and Joe's or Riverside, and while there's more room at Sequoia, it's not the cheapest place to go on a date.
If you're going early (between 4 and 7:30), try Cabanas, as they have a decent happy hour: $4 beers and cocktails, $5 frozen margaritas.
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Washington, D.C.:
I'm a California transplant and have been craving real Mexican food since I got here. Are there any hidden gems worth checking out or should I just learn to live with Baja Fresh and Chipotle (blah).
Erin: No need to live with mediocrity. It depends on what you're looking for. Soft tacos and spicy chicken tamales are the best at Tacos Pepitos Mexican Bakery II . Crispy tacos are worth a drive to Taqueria Poblano. Burritos at El Charrito Caminante are delicious. If you're mobile, take a drive to Little Mexico in Riverdale.
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Washington, D.C.:
I'm going on a first date Friday and my date is not from the DC area so he has asked me to pick a restaurant. He also told me he's a very picky eater - no red meat, Mexican, Thai, pizza (he doesn't like the tomato sauce, so I'm guessing Italian -gasp- is out too), among other things. He mentioned chicken is OK. What do you suggest?? I'm looking for something pretty unique to DC (no chains) on the red line and a mid-price range ($10-20 for entree) with a low noise level so we can have a conversation.
Erin: Cheers to you for forging ahead with this boy. If I were to date somebody like that, I imagine I'd spend a lot of time out on the town eating either alone or with the girls.
So, on with the show. How about dining at Dino
in Cleveland Park? They have a lovely and simple roasted chicken and some non-tomato pasta dishes.
Spices is right there, but the Asian cuisine might be a bit on the adventurous side. The name alone might freak him out.
Off Farragut North, Georgia Brown's does some savory fried chicken. Up in Bethesda, Cafe Deluxe (do local chains count??) or Persimmon might work.
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Wasabi:
Hi GoGs- I got an e-mail the other day about a new restaurant, Wasabi, that has a sushi-go-round cart. Have you guys had a chance to check it out? Is it worth it? And, do the prices add up and make it more expensive than it is worth?
Erin: Wasabi just opened yesterday. It's quite high-tech. I haven't eaten there, but it's definitely worth checking out.
The prices add up the same way ordering sushi from a menu adds up. I learned my lesson the hard way at Yo! Sushi at Harvey Nichols ages ago. I was so curious to see what everything was as it sailed by me that I kept grabbing things. The policy is along the lines (understandably, I guess) of anything you grab is your grub, but I ended up with a lion's share of sushi. There was another episode involving sushi on boats at a place in Berkeley, but I'll save that for when/if sushi a'float opens here.
So, it's much more thrilling to watch food arrive with some pomp and circumstance. Probably thrilling enough to justify the surcharges for conveyor belt maintenance.
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Washington, D.C.:
Speaking of Mama Quan's Tiki Hut, what is the deal with that place? Every time I walk by, regardless of the day or time, it is packed with people. The menu looks fine, but nothing mind-blowing, so do they have awesome drink specials? Or are they just the newest scene on Clarendon Boulevard?
Fritz: $2 beers every day at happy hour.
Erin and I blogged about the place -- we're "obviously clubbers" because we didn't love it -- but large patio + cheap beer = potential place to check out after work. That's about it.
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Wine Draft Systems:
Mendocino in Georgetown (Sonoma's sister restaurant) also has a wine draft system but their bar is small; however if you can get a seat I have had very nice bartenders there.
Fritz: For DIY flights? Sounds like a plan.
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Pierogi:
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church on Massachusetts Avenue (just up from the VP's place) has a cafeteria in the basement open on Sunday mornings where everything is cooked by a couple of Babushkas. It doesn't get more authentic than that.
Erin: That completely slipped my mind. I keep making plans to go and then getting sidetracked, but solid recommendation.
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Re: Bathing Suit: Have you tried Water, Water Everywhere? There's one in Tysons and one in Fair Oaks. It's a whole store of bathing suits.
Janet: Water, Water Everywhere for bathing suits gets some nods.
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Takoma Park, Md.:
I'm sure you've been asked this question before. Can you give me some places to go that cater to or at least attract the young professional African American crowd. I keep hearing that DC is booming with young black professionals but I can't find them. I HATE clubs!!
Fritz: Do you hate clubs or do you hate lounges? Slight but very important difference. For example, I tend to think of MCCXXIII as a club and Jin as a lounge. Both attract professionals (esp. for MCCXXIII's Flirt happy hour on Wednesdays), but Jin's a little more intimate and a little less claustrophobia-inducing. You can also try Bar Nun on Fridays, Duke City, Busboys and Poets, maybe the new Republic Gardens happy hour on Wednesdays?
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Restaurant help:
Boyfriend's parents are coming in town tomorrow and we are looking for a place to have dinner. These are there specifications: Must be casual (can wear shorts and flip flops), not expensive, in DC, and no Asian. Pizza Paridiso and Cactus Cantina come to mind, but I am looking for something a little more exciting than pizza or Mexican. Any ideas?
Erin: I think you can go pretty casual at Pesce. It's always nice to take out-of-towners for crab cakes or other oceanic fare. As for your recommendations, I like Pizzeria Paradiso, but I agree that it's nothing special. Cactus Cantina is typically a mob scene that never strikes me as being quite worth the wait, so I'd shy from that.
In Georgetown, J. Paul's is pretty casual and Old Glory has a roof deck and some good bbq. Jaleo by the Verizon Center is fun and different as well.
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Kensington, Md.:
What's the gallery schedule for joint openings again? I know Dupont Circle is 1st Fridays and Bethesda Art Walk is 2nd Fridays... but what about Georgetown and Alexandria?
Julia: The galleries at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria stay open until 9 on second Thursdays .
Georgetown galleries stay open late on the third Fridays of the month.
Some of my favorite Dupont galleries won't be open for tomorrow's First Friday event -- Conner Contemporary, Kathleen Ewing, and others -- but it should be a good night nonetheless.
After the Storm sounds like a great exhibit and a cartoon exhibit
and film series at Provisions sounds pretty dope too. Get to Provisions early if you want to see the art; the film starts at 7 p.m.
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Washington, D.C.:
To the new-beau-bathing-beauty, check out Target for an itsy bitsy teeny weeny bikini. Surprisingly they have a great selection, good quality and you won't have to go broke like you would if you ordered from Victoria Secret and had one overnighted. Also, just as a dating tip, it's not usually the suit that the guys are interested...you could just wear an old one.
Janet: I have heard that about Target but have had no personal experience. Definitely worth a try especially since bathing suits aren't long-term investments. And I agree with the poster-- it's not the bathing suit that counts.
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Fairfax, Va.:
Hey Gurus, Got tickets to "Spamalot" this weekend at the National Theater and I'm on the hook to find a good dinner restaurant for our very large crowd of 14! Unfortunately, I'm a suburban girl who rarely ventures downtown so I'm at a total loss for great places to go. I need your help! I am looking for something that appeals to any age (teens to senior citizens) and a variety of tastes. Walking distance would be great but not required.
Erin: I bet Les Halles would be able to accommodate a large party. Depending on the weather, you could possibly get something out on the patio. Just across the street from the theater is the Willard Hotel's Willard Room . It's more opulent, but is group-friendly. You could check in with Old Ebbitt Grill -- a good group destination -- or Ceiba , which is one of my favorite places in that area.
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Washington, D.C.:
When is the big Nation closing party? And, along those lines, is the owner of Nation planning to re-open a new, similar club anywhere else? The closing of Nation is a huge deal in the world of clubs, concerts and local music, of course.
David: There's no single closing party for Nation, but next weekend is it for both of its big weeklies, as Cubik and Velvet Nation will throw their final parties in the space. Both are pretty heavy on the local talent and residents that have been regular performers over the years, but Cubik's also bringing in some big names like Rabbit in the Moon, Dave Ralph and Micro. As always, tickets are cheaper the earlier you get 'em, and this would be an especially good time to do that, I'd think.
Fritz: The problem with Nation is that the owners of the building and the people who run the club are entirely different. The incredibly simplified version is that Nation's parent company Primacy, owned by John Boyle, leases the space from an investment company, and then various promoters organize events through him.
As far as other events ... Buzzlife (who run Cubik) have had offers but haven't found the right deal, I'm told. Velvet, the Saturday night party, looked at buying its own venue in D.C. but hasn't purchased anything yet.
And I'll co-sign on what David just said. If you want to go to the Buzzlife closing, buy tickets now.
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Silver Spring, Md.:
Bathing Suits: I was just in Sylene's in Chevy Chase and they seemed to have a good swimsuit collection, but not cheap.
Janet: I agree on both counts. They have a reasonably good selection but they're on the pricey side. They do carry Eres, that French brand so coveted by Europeans.
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Washington, D.C.:
Allez les bleus! Where to go on Sunday for the final World Cup match? I know about the Alliance Francaise, but was wondering where else France supporters will be? Merci!
Fritz: I heard Pigalle was showing it on big screens last time around...
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Washington, D.C.:
Hey David, I've heard a buzz about the bands playing DC9 Saturday night- Middle Distance Runner and Third Programme. Any good? I wanna rock!
David: Oh you've heard a buzz, have you? But yeah, MDR was all over the place -- at least in terms of local rock-centric press outlets -- when their album came out back in May. We wrote about 'em, the blogs were writing about them, Express ran a big feature which included like 48 pictures. In any case, if you wanna rock, they'll happily oblige. I'll probably be there as I'd like to see Third Programme. The one time I saw them wasn't really the best way to see 'em. They were playing at Galaxy Hut but it was so crowded inside that I couldn't/didn't want to squeeze in so I stood on the sidewalk for a while and watched them through the window for a bit until I felt like a weirdo (more so than usual) and left.
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Arlington, Va.:
Gurus: I'm moving west in a couple weeks and would like to have a going-away dinner with ten or so close friends before I hit the road. I'm thinking someplace in NW or Arlington -- nothing fancy, just a fun setting where we can reminisce over a few drinks and some decent food. I'd thought about a family-style Italian place, but wanted to see if you had any suggestions.
Erin: You could probably share pizzas and salads at Faccia Luna in Clarendon. If you're leaving the area, you should break injera and enjoy a cuisine that's less available at Dukem or the Virginia branch of Lalibela.
The roof of Perry's would be a nice farewell spot and Bistrot du Coin's drinks would surely spice things up.
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Washington, D.C.:
When is Johnny's Half Shell moving from Dupont Circle to The Hill?
Erin: The Dupont location is set to shutter at the end of this month (or so I've been told).
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PSA about Modern::
A public service announcement so nobody makes the trip to Georgetown and gets their hopes dashed: Modern is apparently closed for emergency renovations (due to flood-related damage, I think) for the next 6 weeks or so.
Fritz: Thanks. Just checked and got a confirmation e-mail about this. So, uh, don't go to Modern tonight. Get your Jessie Tittsworth fix at Five tonight or the big birthday bash for DJ Dave Nada at Wonderland on Saturday...
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Washington, D.C.:
My boyfriend and I (both 23) want to do some outdoors things on Saturday, since it's supposed to be nice. We were planning to go to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in the morning/midday. Any other ideas? We'd like to stay downtown or in DC, but we can do anything that's Metro accessible. We've been to most of the monuments, but thought about doing the Tidal Basin paddle boats. And I have to be home by 6 pm for a birthday party dinner for my uncle, so nothing at night. Ideas? Thanks!
Anne: I think you're smart to hit Folklife right when it opens, because it will be cooler and less crowded then. Nuestra Musica and the Alberta section both have programs starting at 11. Erin and Julia liked the food at the Basketry tent , so pick that as your first food stop unless you are into the idea of bison burgers. Before heading off the the paddle boats , I'd stop to take a mental snapshot at the soon-to-close-for-renovations American History (take our podcast with you for the highlights tour). And when you want some downtime, the quiet of the Haupt Garden is a perfect, romantic place to take a date.
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Drum and Bass Fever:
Hey GOG's! With Nation closed or closing, have you heard or do you know if there will be anywhere in town to hear drum and bass?
Fritz: Five has the occasional party. Check 2tuff.com for more info as well.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hey Gurus, What do you know about the concerts at the Mall this weekend for folk festival. I was real impressed by the hot 8 brass band when I saw them at Jazz Fest in New Orleans in '05. What time does it start? How long will it last? What's the food like there? Any crayfish?
Julia: The Hot 8 Brass Band will be playing at a two-hour concert from 6-8 p.m. on Friday. I think these shows are some of the best parts of Folklife this year. Keep in mind that the Hot 8 is sharing the bill with a Mardi Gras Indian tribe, so they'll probably each get a 45-minute set.
No crawfish, but Erin and I did enjoy the sausage at the New Orleans food stall. Check out our blog post about Folklife food for more info.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hi GOG's, My friends and I are catching a Friday night Nationals game and were looking for a bar to meet at beforehand. I checked out the CityGuide and it looks like Trusty's Full Service or one of the bars on Barrack's Row might work. Are there any nearby bars you especially recommend? How much time should we leave to get to the game?
Fritz: I like Trusty's. It's a good 10-15-minute walk from the stadium, though you could hop back on the Metro and be there in less than 2 minutes if you're running late.
Several bars are also running shuttles to RFK, including Tunnicliff's, the Hawk and Dove and the Pour House.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hey Gurus? What ever happened to (I think it was called) Daylight?
Fritz: Bidness. It's a shame.
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Desperate:
Please tell me about a new and exciting restaurant that will open soon (and I have already been to Wasabi). After living here for 5 years, I am sadly so bored with the restaurants here right now, that I need to have the excitement of a new place on the horizon!
Erin: That's so sad! Have you been to the Blue Duck Tavern? I'm still bursting with excitement about that place. It's already open, though.
If you consider Old Town to be "here," Cathal Armstrong of Restaurant Eve told me that he's hoping to open Eamonn's, his fish and chips spot within the next 2 weeks. It will feature Irish-style fish and chips, several sauces and fried mars bars. There's going to be an upstairs speak-easy for some more magical sipping from Todd Thrasher.
Other than that, Carole Greenwood of Buck's Fishing and Camping should open Comet Pizzeria in the near future and it's ping pong-themed.
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Washington, D.C.:
Where is Wasabi located? Thanks!
Erin: Wasabi is at 17th and I next to the Firehook.
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Washington, D.C.:
I've been out of town for a long time but I'm back for the summer and I'm wondering: Are there any good hip hop nights left? I used to love Thursdays at Chief Ike's but I know it's over. Has anything replaced it?
Fritz: Orbit122 and Eurok are currently reviving Reunion Thursdays once a month at Ike's. You can also catch Eurok tomorrow night at Wonderland in his usual first-Friday slot.
Other non-commercial hip-hop nights I'm feeling lately: Uncle Q's at Bohemian Caverns (Thursday), Bar Nun with W. Ellington Felton (Friday), Oh Snap! at Wonderland (monthly, but this Saturday).
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Washington, D.C.:
Oh, send the Californian to Mixtec too! I really think they're one of the best Mexican places in the District.
Erin: Thanks for the recommendation. I remember liking my enchilada at Mixtec, but it didn't arrive until well after more than a few margaritas, so my tastebuds weren't, well, sober.
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Washington, D.C.:
I'm new to the area, so forgive me. I heard two coworkers talking about indebleu saying it was a gay bar, but you guys are always talking about it like it is some hot spot for everyone. Is it straight or not?
Fritz: I'm sure IndeBleu has both gay and straight patrons, but I'm willing to bet the vast majority of people sipping cocktails on a weekend are straight.
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Washington, D.C.:
FYI - We tried to do part of the Billy Goat Trail (Section A) last Friday, but it was closed due to flooding. We were told that it would probably be closed for at least another week - so I'd call before I got my heart set on that. We ended up hiking another section, but it also had some flooding and I wouldn't have wanted to try it with a 10 year old.
Anne: Good point, and thanks for the words of caution. Well, if you can't beat flooding, join it. I bet all those kids would relish an afternoon at the waterpark .
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Bethesda, Md.:
I am getting together with people to watch the World Cup game Sunday but the problem seems to be where to meet since some are from Bethesda, some from Baltimore and some from DC. Is there a middle ground location with great TVs?
Fritz: Friends in Bethesda have been going to Union Jack's. Don't think much of it as a "British pub," to be honest, but they have screens.
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Washington, D.C. :
Suit suggestion: I've had good luck at Ross for bathing suits. I got 2 suits three years ago for a Bahamas trip and they're still in good condition. Granted I don't swim every day and they are mostly used for vacations. Another tip: sometimes at places like ross and tj maxx the suits are reduced because they have the wrong sizes on them, so take a few minutes to hunt in the other sizes for a cute suit and try it on.
Janet: More bathing suit suggestions. Thanks!
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Arlington, Va.:
Is Island Jim's actually closed as a previous poster noted? I have been there a few times although trips to Brookland usually involve its neighbor, Colonel Brooks.
Fritz: Island Jim's is not closed -- most days. It's not open Sunday and Monday, but I just spoke to a manager and it's all good over in Brookland. Well, except for the whole "threat of rain" thing.
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Washington, D.C.:
I just got back from a nice long weekend in Cape Cod and I find myself craving clams in general and clams casino more specifically. Any suggestions where I might find this locally? Reasonable prices are a plus.
Erin: I'm pretty sure that I remember them from the new menu at Nage in Scott Circle. You might also find them at Au Pied Bistro. I'm always a fan of Pesce in Dupont Circle and Hank's does some delicious little mollusks. Try their clams on the half-shell and fried oysters.
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Re: Bathing Suits:
I love the selection at J. Crew. They have lots of colors and styles, and you buy the tops and bottoms separately (great if you want to mix and match colors or sizes). Or try Target (really!). They have a huge selection of inexpensive suits.
Janet: Another possibility for the chatter iso a bathing suit to dazzle her new beau.
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Blue Duck Tavern: What are the prices like? Thanks.
Erin: Prices are pretty reasonable for the quality/style of food. They're about $20 per plate with sides in the $7 range. Desserts are under or around $10.
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Washington, D.C.:
Janet, you're my favorite. I'm ready to upgrade my lingerie collection (VS no more) and need some recommendations. Nothing over-the-top, just everyday stuff that's comfy and sexy. Where shall I go?
Janet: A couple of suggestions: there's Romance of the Senses in Alexandria, Coup de Foudre downtown, Trousseau in Vienna and Abrielle in Foxhall. Also Sylene in Chevy Chase.
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Bored? crazy!:
For the poster bored with DC restaurants -- there is such variety around here I can't imagine thinking there's nowhere out there to go! Do go to Blue Duck for the fries (in duck fat) but if you're culinarily adventurous you should also get out to Komi, and minibar, and Agraria (for the drinks) and all the other wondrous stuff we're lucky enough to have here.
Erin: Oooh, I'm glad to see people who're thrilled with D.C. restaurants. Those Blue Duck fries are indeed mouth-watering.
There's also been a lot of turnover in kitchens recently, so places you might've written off (Ardeo and Dino, for example) are worth another look.
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Washington, D.C.:
What's your suggestion for a Friday night after-work bar crawl in DC for our interns who are in graduate school (not including Georgetown)? Can you suggest a list of 3-4 bars, not just general areas? Also, it would be great if we could add a karoake bar to the crawl.
Fritz: Without knowing what your interns are down for or how much they'd like to spend, I'd pick these; all of which cover a few different scenes/crowds. All should wind up at Peyote Cafe in Adams Morgan sometime after 9 for karaoke.
U Street
The Saloon, Busboys and Poets, Stetson's, Local 16
(You can substitute Chi-Cha Lounge for Local 16 if it's raining)
Capitol Hill
Lounge 201, Union Pub, Capitol City Brewing Company, Dubliner or the Irish Times, depending on whether they want old Irish or young people drinking Guinness Irish.
Dupont
Science Club, Porter's, Cafe Citron, Front Page OR Big Hunt.
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Alexandria, Va..:
Hi! I have tried to submit a recurring event to the City Guide three times. I followed all the instructions on the submission page and sent it to the e-mail address listed. Is there some other e-mail address I can use?
Anne: The e-mail address to use is events[at]washingtonpost[dot]com. Are your emails bouncing back to you?
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Bethesda, Md.:
Hello there, Heading to the Kelly Clarkson concert tonight! Only downer, is there ANY way to get to the Nissan Pavilion besides driving? Would appreciate any input, thanks!
David: You can always try clicking your heels three times and saying "There's no place like Nissan Pavilion." Jet pack? Hang glider? One of those things Fan Man used during the Holyfield fight? Leave now, or right when the chat's done...
Speaking of Nissan Pavilion, we have a bit of breaking news for those of you heading to the Def Leppard/Journey show tomorrow evening. (Be sure to say hi to Erin, btw.) Steve Augeri, Journey's replacement singer, is being replaced by Jeff Scott Soto starting with tomorrow night's show, due to Augeri's throat infection. Not that would have really noticed anyway, but still.
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Washington, D.C.:
Please help! I'm taking an Italian friend to the airport to catch a flight after the World Cup. You can imagine the game is more important than catching a ride home to the boot...so where out by Dulles can we catch the finals?
Fritz: I'm looking and not finding much, though I'd guess anywhere would work, since it's on national tv. Not knowing what time your friend's flight is, I'd say O'Faolain's in Sterling or Kirkpatrick's in Ashburn would fit the bill.
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Fairfax, Va.:
The perpetual question - where to take repeat visitors? I have friends coming in this weekend, and they have both been to DC a couple of times. I definitely do not want to coup them up at home doing nothing. Any ideas? No museums please, they have already done most of them.
Erin: I'm going out to pick peaches and tart cherries at Homestead Farm this weekend. I figure that your guests aren't interested in manual labor, but I thought I'd just throw it out there. Other suggestions include Eastern Market and the Alexandria birthday celebration .
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Washington, D.C.:
Any word on the drinking/jazz happy hour events at the newly opened American Art Museum? I heard they exist but couldn't find any details.
Julia: Those events are called Take Five! and will happen on the third Thursday of the month.
You don't have to wait for the third Thursday, though. The newly reopened
National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum
now offer later hours, from 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Downtown workers now have the opportunity to grab a drink on the museum's Portico Cafe any night of the week.
I was a bit skeptical when the director of the National Portrait Gallery said that the cafe was going to be "the best place in the city to get a drink," but I have to say, I kind of agree. The porch offers a great view of downtown and a yummy fried green tomato BLT. Haven't tried the drinks yet, but I'm looking forward to it.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hi GOGS, I am soon to leave DC to go back to school down south and have realized that there are many places that I haven't yet been! One is the Russia House where I've noticed the huge list of vodkas. Fritz, I read your review, but it's a couple years old. What's the scene, do they ever do vodka tastings like wine tastings? Could friends and I go there and do our own tasting (within reason)?
Fritz: Oh, Russia House. The cause of (and solution to) many of life's problems. They've done some vodka tastings, but not on the regular. Sit at the bar, tell the bartender what you'd like to spend and ask him to pick a few samples. (Expect to pay about $5 a shot, minimum.)
BTW, Russia House has one of the most interesting crowds around on weekends.
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Arlington, Va.:
Ever since Hope Key closed, my husband and I have been unable to find a good Chinese restaurant in Arlington that we both like. Any suggestions??
Erin: Have you tried China Garden ?
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Springfield, Va.:
Which VA (within an hours driving distance) winery has the best views and has a good picnic area? Are those weekly leisure driving routes published on the Post available online? How about for past issues? What's the URL?
Anne: Erin and I are thinking that Oasis or Veritas could hook you up with a view. And sure thing, you can find an archive of Sunday Source's trips at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/linkset/2005/04/07/LI2005040700365.html . Click on the link for Maps to get printable maps of each trip.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hi Gurus! My sister's in town this weekend and I'm looking for indoor things to do in case she can't take the heat. Catching a matinee at a local theater could be fun. Is there anything playing now that you'd recommend? (Prefer something light/fun over super-artsy/serious.)
Erin: You should try to snag tickets to " Spamalot " or " Love's Labors Lost ."
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Washington, D.C.:
Looking for good crabs -- steamed and ready to bring home for a crab feast. Anywhere in DC to get these summer delicacies?
Julia: Prices at the wharf were really good two weeks ago: $75 a bushel and you could have them steamed for $5 more. People I know from Maryland scoff at buying crabs at the wharf -- they're too small, they don't pack a full bushel, etc. -- but I put it out there anyway. I love getting seafood down there.
If the whole wharf thing freaks you out -- as it does some people -- the
or other crab shacks probably do to-go orders as well.
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Washington, D.C.:
You guys haven't failed me and now I'm back for more advice. A friend of mine just moved to DC and we're supposed to meet for happy hour tonight. I'd love to take him to a place that's very "DC" to prove that he made the right choice coming here. I know, I know - that could mean a lot of things, but if anyone is able help me, I know it's going to be the GOGS.
Fritz: What's "very D.C." varies from person to person, I believe. I mean, the Tune Inn is *so* D.C. (and also so *not* D.C.) that it hurts. Same with Off the Record in the Hay-Adams, the Capitol Lounge or Hawk and Dove (for younger Politicos), the Georgetown Waterfront, heck, Ben's Chili Bowl.
If you're asking for a cool place to take him to happy hour today, though, here are some places we'd go to impress new arrivals (again, it all depends on what they like): the Courtyard at Poste, the roof of the Reef, Science Club, Busboys and Poets, $2 Bud night at Lucky Bar (see? told you this list was diverse), the roof of Tabaq...
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washingtonpost.com: We're outta here. Root for Italy!
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