The Going Out Gurus
of the washingtonpost.com City Guide
Thursday, September 7, 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: It's 1 p.m. and you know what that means: Time for another edition of Got Plans? Let's get right to the point and go right to your questions.
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Cleveland Park, Washington, D.C.: What is the deal with the movie premiere tonight at the Uptown. Will people be able to get autographs and such? Why the need to close three lanes of Connecticut Ave.?
Jen: The deal is it's the premiere of "The Guardian," a new movie starring Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher. And yes, both Mr. Costner and Mr. Kutcher will be there. I expect it to be a bit of a madhouse, so I doubt getting autographs will be possible. But if you're in the neighborhood and curious, it doesn't hurt to wander over that way.
As to why they need to close so much of Connecticut Ave., I have no clue. It strikes me as a little excessive, but I guess they anticipate there will be lots of rubbernecking and they want to get the celebs in and out fairly easily.
I have to head that way myself today, and I'm a little frightened about the traffic.
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Longhorns Fan: Do you all know of any bars in the area that have a large Longhorn contingent?
Fritz: While I've seen Texas alums at bars across the Hill -- the alumni chapter here is apparently the largest outside of the Lone Star State -- Rhodeside Grill in Arlington is taken over by the Horns every week. Of course they have cheap wings, quesadillas and $10 pitchers of Shiner Bock.
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Washington DC: Can you recommend a low key bar in Adams Morgan where a group of friends could gather on a Saturday night and not have to fight huge crowds?
Fritz: See, here's the thing: Adams Morgan is probably the number one destination for the 21-30 crowd in Washington on Saturday night. Because of that, you're going to have to fight crowds just about everywhere you go -- there are only so many bars competing for your (and everyone else's) business.
There are places that are
less
crowded -- Soussi, the sometimes abysmal The Attic (formerly Zucchabar), Kokopooli's -- but they're not anything I'd go just to Adams Morgan for. Maybe Pharaoh's for live music, but I'm not getting that you want to hear the best Jimi Hendrix covers around.
I was about to ask if you live in the 'hood and want to stay local, but I'm pretty close to the Morgan and *I* try to avoid it as much as possible on weekends. Why not pick a new area with less hassle and try that? For example -- check out my Weekend cover story tomorrow on H Street NE. I could see myself bringing friends to the Argonaut, H Street Martini Lounge or Ohio Restaurant, depending on the mood we were in.
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NW Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus,
I am a rabid female football fan. I used to love every Sunday making my way to Park Bench Pub in Cleveland Park to watch all the games. Since its demise, I have drifted aimlessly from place to place. I want to settle down. Do you all have a suggestion on where I can go?
Fritz: Go back to Cleveland Park for a spot at either the Uptown Tavern -- the old PBP -- or the fancier Cleveland Park Bar and Grill. I imagine this will be a great weekend for watching games on the flatscreens that have been installed behind the bar on the rooftop deck.
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Washington, D.C.:
Hello, I have just moved to DC and I am looking for schools, academies or salons where I can get a free or cheap decent haircut. Thanks!
Janet: Try Aveda Institute in the Chinatown area.
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Washington, D.C.: Submitting early because I'm desperate!! Help! My mother and grandmother are visiting my boyfriend and I (first meeting, YIKES!) this weekend. They are both from Iowa, and while they are willing to be adventurous with food, they are again from Iowa, home of the bland, and so I don't want to be too adventurous. Any recommendations (metro accessible) in the city proper where we can have a "DC" meal, that isn't too loud for a good conversation, and won't make their eyes bulge out from the price (11-20 per person is ok).
Thanks!
Erin: Don't get yourself too worried about it, though it's not the most enviable situation. Flip through reviews on Kinkead's , Poste , Notti Bianche , Ardeo and Zola . Kinkead's is my go-to restaurant for family visitors. Poste is fun and lively right across from the Portrait Gallery, so you could hit that beforehand. Notti Bianche is a bit subdued for the occasion, but it's quiet and the pastas are sublime. Ardeo and Zola are both fun, nouveau American restaurants. For Zola, I'd suggest going early to take advantage of the pre-theater bargain. Its location above the Spy Museum makes it quirkily cool.
I would be inclined to recommend
, but I'm worried that the chairs are not grandmother-friendly.
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Washington, D.C.: What time do shows start at the Velvet Lounge? Their web site doesn't give any information.
David: That's the million dollar question, isn't it? The Velvet Lounge isn't really the best about providing information about their shows -- set times, cost, even who's playing. Their Web site looks straight out of 1995. And shows there have a tendency to run ridiculously late, the order of the bands changes, all that stuff. Theoretically most shows should start by 9:30 or so, maybe a bit later on the weekends, but you can never be sure.
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Bethesda, M.D.: What's the deal with the new Kimpton lounge?
Fritz: Urbana? Very chic, with plenty of couches and low tables (open seating) and a medium-sized bar. It's not trendy or a place to party -- that's Helix or Rouge -- but the Italian-influenced cocktails are well-made. The martini, which is just Plymouth Gin, a healthy pour of Noilly Pratt vermouth and orange bitters, is my current favorite in Washington, but there are other reasons to go: bracing Campari-based apertifs, the English Summer, made with Pimms and ginger beer, and a too-sweet-for-me-but-you-might-like-it Watermelon Collins.
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Capitol Heights, Md.: My husband would like to take his sister that is turning 39 out to dinner for her birthday Sep 16, I was looking for a place in MD or DC that was exciting but not the club scene. She loves steak, brandy and classy service.
Erin: Oh! You should treat her to Ray's the Classics . Newly opened, reservations are hard to nab, but it's very happening and of-the-moment in downtown Silver Spring.
Only other thought:
is exciting, but more as a political scene than a "scene" scene. It's surely a steak-lovers' destination, though.
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Intern Guide: Gogs-
Sorry, I know this is annoying, but my intern just started today and I wanted to share the intern guide with her. For some reason, I can't find it. Can you help? Also, any fun ideas in addition for her? She's not 21, so anything for the youngins? Thanks!
Fritz: It's always on the front of the Bars and Clubs section -- the easy-to-remember address is washingtonpost.com/nightlife -- or at this link .
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Invasion of the Body Snatchers???:
A few weeks ago something took over my body and forced me to go to G Street Fabric. Once there I bought a few hundred dollars worth of fabric and suit patterns, convinced I could learn to sew. Thankfully the alien invasion ended before I thought I could build my own car from scrap metal. Unfortunately, I've blown my winter clothes budget and I can't sew a stitch. Is there some wonderful service that will take the patterns and fabric and return finished garments to me? I called G Street, they can't do a return and all of the dressmakers they offer want to do couture not my patterns. Help!
Janet: Ouch. There's a woman named Billie Meyer (202.337.7175), who was recommended to us by the Clothing Doctor, but I'm afraid she's more of the variety that G Street Fabrics already gave you. Then there's a place called Linea Pitti on P Street in Gtown which does great alterations. You could call them. Finally, right next to Sur La Table there's a very good tailor, but again I don't know whether he'll make something to order. Anyone have ideas? If you can wait until Sept. 21, the Home section in the paper is doing an issue related to sewing, and they may list some people who provide the service you're after.
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Arlington, Va.: Gurus,
Going to the zoo this Sunday and wanted your expert advice on any place good near the zoo or at least on the metro line to catch a nice afternoon meal after our visit?
Erin: Spices and Dino would probably be my first destinations up in Cleveland Park.
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Arlington, Va.: Hey y'all! Hope you had a good holiday on Monday. This is kind of a weird one. My boyfriend and I are interested in going hang gliding this fall to see the colors from up high. Neither of us have ever been, and we're not really interested in learning how to hang glide as a hobby -- just looking for a one-off. I would say that driving distance is of limited importance -- anywhere between New York and South Carolina would be acceptable. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Anne: Neat idea. If you go in the fall, I bet nearly anywhere will have great colors unfolding beneath you. And I think most places will have you take an introductory class, or you'd do a tandem flight with an expert. High Peak Hang Gliding has mountain launches in Virginia. To sail over the Eastern Shore, check out Highland Aerosports in Maryland. A local hang gliding association has more info to help you get started.
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The Fabled "List": Fritz,
I appreciate the Happy Hour List being called "Fabled". I am fairly certain that this is the first thing I have ever produced which has been called fabled. In the winter of 2001, I created this list while working for the Navy in SE DC. I sent this to my wife at a lobbyist firm, and it made its way around the hill and so on. Hence, I take it a little personally when you discredit the effort which was put into creating the list. However, I will agree with you that it is a shame that another "fresh-out-of-college" happy hour newbie hasn't picked up the torch and updated the list. It has been five years since I did my research for the happy hour list, so of course most of the specials are outdated. I challenge someone to take this list and continue the search for the best happy hour deals, so that we can keep our underpaid hill staffers and interns well fed and happily buzzed!
Sincerely, Penn Quarter, DC
Fritz: Hi Penn Quarter. Thanks for joining us. I'm not discrediting the list at all -- I realize what hard work went into its creation. I'm just chiding the people who keep using the list and passing it around as "THE happy hour resource" when, as you noted, so many of the happy hour specials are outdated.
Again, we maintain a searchable (and growing) list of happy hours on washingtonpost.com.
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Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: You're all wonderful. I have more of an etiquette question than a going out question. Is it appropriate to give a cab driver specific directions to get you to your destination? I don't often feel like they're "taking me for a ride" but I do often feel like I know better than they the most efficient routes to get where I want to go. There's no need to pass through Dupont Circle on your way to the Georgetown movie theater from Adams Morgan. I almost missed Mark Wahlberg!
Julia: Oooooh, good question. Two weeks ago I had a cab driver do the same thing! I didn't end up asking him why he didn't take Rock Creek -- or at least avoided the Circle -- but it did seem pretty strange to me. Had I been late to see sexy Mark Wahlberg , I'd have been so bummed!
I don't think it's inappropriate to give the driver directions. You are paying for the ride, after all. The worst the driver could do is argue with you and then, well, you don't have to take his cab. (Trips to G-town, aside, I've had pretty good luck with cab drivers in this city. One of them taught me the invaluable trick of taking 15th Street up from downtown at rush hour instead of 16th. A lifesaver.)
Chatters, anyone disagree? (You know you do...)
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Washington, D.C.: Okay, let me first say that I love this Discussion Group. However, I do have a gripe and it seems that my fellow GoGs devotees share the same view. I usually submit a question every week, as does my roommate, none of which ever get picked to answer, which is cool. I realize that you have tons of questions and one day I'm sure I'll get my turn -- that's not my gripe. So, here it is: I'm tired of you answering the same ol' type of questions. Examples: "I have friends coming to visit and I want to give them the true Washington experience, where should we eat dinner that is moderately priced and has the Washington feel?"; "Can you recommend a bar where I can meet interesting 20, 30, 40-somethings?"; "Where can I get such-and-such a beer?". Your answer to these questions always point to the same ol' places, too -- Cafe Citron, Wonderland, Zaytinya, Jaleo, blah, blah, blah. How about picking more diverse questions and then giving us something we -don't- know? There are so many little gems in the city that never get a shout-out.
Erin: Sure thing, Washington. Send those through and we'll do our best.
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Washington, D.C.:
Random but urgent question for the purveyors of Washington knowledge: I just bought an absurdly expensive pair of gorgeous leather shoes. The right shoe fits perfectly; the left could do with some stretching. Need a recommendation for a GOOD cobbler who can stretch the leather without bollixing up my new shoes. Can you help?
Janet: Try Sky Valet on 1800 Wisconsin Ave. in Gtown.
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Rockville, Md.:
Hi Gurus, I am in search of a place that can re-dye shoes (they were used in a wedding.) I just want them dyed black, and they are a very pale green color now. Any ideas of where I can get this done? Thanks!
Janet: I know that Try Fortuna Shoe Repair in Bethesda does that. They have some stipulations about what they'll dye and what they won't so be sure to call and ask before you take your shoes there.
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Lingering dinner: I'm meeting up with a friend on Friday who is getting back from a summer abroad. Can you recommend a place for dinner where we can spend some time talking and not feel rushed to leave? The Foggy Bottom/Dupont area is best. Thanks.
Erin: How about Circle Bistro or Dish ? I've lingered at Heritage India before, but you might be better off asking your friend what (s)he craved while away. You can then work from there.
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Washington, D.C.: What will Jon Stewart be doing at Merriweather? Stand-up? What will that be like in an amphitheater?
David: He'll be performing with his band, Jon Stewart and the Menshes. Ed Helms on bass, Rob Corddry on drums, Samantha Bee on keys. Nah, he'll be doing standup as far as we know. It's not part of a big tour, it's one of only two performances I see on his schedule right now, so it should be pretty fun. The amphitheater thing shouldn't be a big deal; if it's funny indoors I'm sure it'll be funny outdoors.
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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus,
I need help. I have reservations at Palladio, the restaurant at Barboursville Vineyard, and can find no one who has been there before. Also, as part of the day trip, we are going on a tour of the vineyard/winery and visiting the tasting room. Have any of you ever done this? Anyone? Thanks and I love your chats.
Erin: I've never eaten at Palladio, but I have heard good things. It's a heartier menu of Tuscan-style meats, so if you enjoy that, you'll be golden. I keep my eye on the restaurant's occasional wine dinners and they seem ambitious and adventurous. I guess the benefit is that, unless you're the designated driver, you can always mask any bad dishes with copious amounts of readily available wine. Anybody out there have input?
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Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus,
My Birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks and I wanted to do a group dinner - there will probably be around 10 of us. I was hoping for something with great cocktails, a fun atmosphere and preferably Indian, middle eastern or Asian food. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Erin: I'm a huge fan of Rasika and Zaytinya in the Chinatown area. Both feel celebratory and will liquor you up with tasty concoctions.
Up in Chevy Chase, the cocktails and setting at
are swanky enough for a party. You could also try the new location of
near Dupont. Other places that come to mind are Georgetown's Cilantro and possibly
in Adams Morgan.
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Rockville, Md.:
Hi Gurus! I am leaving for vacation this weekend, but I desperately need a pedicure and my only window to get one is Friday evening. Can you recommend a place that does a good job for a reasonable price (re: cheap!)? Looking forward to wiggling my pretty toes in the sand!
Janet: Bang is open 'til 9. Their price is $35 -- don't know if that makes your budget.
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Washington, D.C.: Hi GOG's
I am a huge Damien Marley fan, and love some Ben Harper as well which is why I am extremely excited they are coming to the area this Sunday. However, my main source of transportation is my chevroLEGS.... so I am wondering if there is any way to get to Merriweather Post Pavillion besides a car.
Thanks!!
David: Local magazine On Tap sometimes runs bus trips for shows at Merriweather, and they are doing one for the Ben Harper/Damien Marley show. Here's the page with details. Only thing is that it's an all-inclusive package, meaning ticket included. So if you already bought your ticket, that might be an issue.
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Tailor of Suits:
Try Fashion Dream on 1720 Wilson Blvd in Arlington, 703-243-8877. They make suits and are great tailors all around.
Janet: Thanks. Are you listening, chatter who wanted a place that can sew up a dress or suit?
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Capitol Hill, D.C.: To the person looking for a place for lunch after the Zoo, Dino is great but I don't think it's open until dinner. (Been bummed out myself to arrive at their closes doors). Anyone been to the Open City Diner in Woodley Park?
Erin: If it's the weekend, Dino will be open. The restaurant serves brunch both days.
As for Open City, I went on the first night and was immediately underwhelmed. I've been back lots of times since then and my impression stands: It's a great place to stop for a coffee or a post-midnight treat, but I find the crowds and lackluster food to be a bit more hassle than the place is worth.
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McLean, Va.: Hi GOGs! I don't really know if this is a question you all could answer, but I thought I'd throw it out there. Do you guys know of a good personal trainer in the area? I want to lose a little bit of weight and need the kick in the pants only a perfect stranger could give me! Thanks!
Julia: We do. A friend of ours is fond of the Fitness Corps boot camp. That company also provides personal training.
If you already belong to a gym near your house, I'd suggest checking in with the trainers there. Often, you can get a few sample sessions.
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Alexandria, Va.:
Shoe guy: if you're in NoVa and need a good shoe fix, I would also recommend Old Town Shoe and Luggage Repair. They do great work. 726 King Street 703-299-0655
Janet: Thanks for the suggestion, Alexandria.
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Washington, D.C.: It's CBC Weekend Gurus! Where are the best parties to hit up Thursday thru Saturday?
Fritz: Do you want the official parties or the ones that will be leeching people from those "official" soirees?
If I had to pick:
Tonight
Gallery in Silver Spring has a free party with happy hour drink specials, live jazz and late-night dancing. (Also, that patio is calling with this nice weather.) Runner-up: Sean Paul at Love.
Friday
Avenue. Get there between 9:30 and 11 for the open bar, stay for the Caribbean buffet and DJs Quicksilva and Super Slice. (If you're lucky, you already got your passes for the invite-only Common show at Love, because the club is closed to the public.)
Saturday
H2O owner Abdul Khanu is celebrating his birthday with a party hosted by Doug E Fresh, and I bet a lot of people will roll over there. For something more intimate, the new Republic Gardens Saturdays have been getting a lot of buzz. (I haven't been back, because I'm worried about getting my hopes up. Again.)
Sunday
My instinct is to say kstreet Lounge, but the "Wire" premiere party at Blue Gin should be more fun.
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Cube World, USA: Fritz,
Any update on The Pug?
Fritz: They're ALWAYS a couple weeks away, aren't they? I heard end of this month, but I'm not holding my breath.
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Falls Church, Va.: GOGs,
Thanks for recommending Argia's in Falls Church to my husband last week! We went on Friday night (despite the rain) and had a great time. The food was wonderful and the service was attentive enough but not rushed at all. It's been a while since we tried a new restaurant that we liked, but we'll definitely be returning to Argia's. Are there any other gems in Falls Church that you can recommend?
Erin: I'm so glad that it was a good experience. Thanks for writing back: You should post a reader review . The burgers at casual Elevation Burger are fantastic (and the closest I've found to the West Coast's In-N-Out), I'm hearing fantastic things about Bamian for Afghan food and tap into the many local Asian restaurants like Mark's Duck House and Myanmar.
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Arlington, Va.:
I just got engaged! Yay! I was wondering if you had some non-traditional places for me to check out wedding gowns for cheap(er). I'm not into Craig's list or ebay because I'd like to see it in person, but I refuse to spend thousands on a dress I'll never wear again. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Janet: Possibility: Gossypia in Alexandria. When are you getting married? Could you possibly wait until next August (the beginning) when Filene's Basement has this huge bridal sale?
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Arlington, Va.: I have 2 friends visiting from out of town tonight was thinking of taking them to Eleventh Street in Clarendon. How are the food and drinks there?
Fritz: Food is okay, not great. (Read Walter Nichols' review on our site.) I like the intimate, attractive little lounge for happy hour and the early evening. It gets pretty slammed later on and tables are hard to come by.
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Alexandria, Va.: Hey GOGS - Love the chat! Is there any place in Arlington or Alexandria that offers woodworking classes or workshops? Looking for something different to give my boyfriend for his birthday. Thanks!!!
Julia: The Arlington Department of Park and Recreation has classes. You can browse them online here .
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Downtown, Washington, D.C.: OK, seriously, where are all the over-30 people in this city? Not everyone is married. Don't people like to go out and go dancing, just have a bit of F-U-N? So tired of going out and everyone looking like Doogie Howser. There is a group of six sassy lasses in our 30s looking to have a bit o' fun. Where do we go? We're not looking for dates or husbands, simply to shake our groove things and have a few cocktails without feeling like we are on a college campus. Advice, please! - Over 30 & Fab
Anne: Hello, Fabulous! That excellent mission shouldn't be so hard. One place I'd have you look every week you're ready to go dancing is in Nightlife Agenda , a rundown of special events and great places to dance. I bet you'll always find at least one thing you have to go to. Aside from the one-offs, for starters, Love , Gallery and ESL attract those over 30 as well as twentysomethings, I've found.
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Bethesda, Md.: My roommates and I are recent college grads and just moved to Bethesda. We have been venturing to DC on most nights, because every time we try out our local Bethesda spots local it ends up being a bust, mostly weird crowds and not very busy. We are hitting up the regular places Tommy Joe's, Union Jack's, Rock Bottom etc. Is there an alternative nearby that we are missing? Please say yes, so we don't break the bank on travel and drinks in DC 3 nights a week.
Fritz: Sadly, I don't think the Bethesda bar scene is really that happening. Have you been over to Silver Spring for late-night dancing at Gallery, live music at McGinty's, pool at Galaxy?
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Clarendon, Va.: Hi Gurus,
Anyone got the skinny on where Hokie fans hang out to watch the games? Anyplace in/around Arlington?
Thanks!
Erin: For sure. The hokies gather at Bailey's in Ballston.
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U Street, Washington, D.C.: Good Thursday to y'all! I just wanted to thank you for the heads up on the Grits and Gravy party at Bar Nun a few weeks ago. Now I wanna share something with YOU! While I was there I overheard some people talking about going to Bohemian Caverns on Sunday afternoons. I went last week and had a BLAST! The djays played old school...house...there was a really good crowd...what more could you ask for on a holiday weekend?!?!
Fritz: You talking about Daylight? I love that party. In fact, I love it so much I wrote about it in the Weekend Section a few weeks ago. Read my review here .
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To Rockville:
There is a nail salon Catherine Nails in Bethesda where the pedicure is only $20.
Janet: Not bad. Thanks for the info.
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Going Deaf in D.C.: I was at a bar recently with a group and there was a speaker near us and part way through the evening, the volume was suddenly turned up and it was so loud we could barely talk. This happens a lot at bars as the evening goes on - they turn the music up really loud at some point, I guess to "get the party started" or something. I could understand if it was a club or there was dancing and I enjoy having music playing but when are at a regular bar and you have to yell to the people next to you, it just seems silly.
Occasionally, I'll ask the DJ or the manager to turn down the music a bit and have gotten responses ranging from "no problem" and they turn it down on the speaker nearby to someone being very offended that I would even ask. Any thoughts on this or tips? Just wondering...
Fritz: I've noticed this too.
If a bar's too loud, I usually move or, if that doesn't work, leave. (If you leave, make sure you tell your bartender or a manager WHY you're leaving.)
Makes me appreciate the Saloon's "no TVs, no loud music" policy even more.
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Washington, D.C.: My boyfriend and I (both 23) want to celebrate our 4 year anniversary (coming up in October, but I'm starting to plan now). What restaurants in DC are romantic but not super expensive (like we want to spend around $100 for both of us) in the DC area? He doesn't like Indian, but we're okay with mostly everything else. We can do Red Line easily, are less familiar with Virginia, and he lives in Baltimore (so if you know a REALLY great place in Baltimore, we could go there, but prefer DC). Since he lives in Baltimore, it would have to be a Friday or Saturday night. Thanks so much!
Erin: Lavandou in Cleveland Park should get you in under budget. I'm a fan of Ceiba , near Metro Center. Finally, PS7 is slated to open soon in Chinatown. It will be new and happening and (hopefully) somewhat affordable.
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Washington, D.C.:
For cheap(er) dresses, go to I Do I Do in Rockville. They have gowns on consignment, many of which were never even worn. They're all priced at half the original price.
Janet: Here's the review of I Do, I Do .
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Pedicure:
Thirty-five dollars for a pedicure? Good lord, woman. Get yourself to 7th and D NW. The place is downstairs between 7th and 8th on D. They charge $20, they're open Friday night, and they do a great job. Ask for Cindy. There, now you know all my secrets.
Janet: Thanks for sharing.
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Potomac, Md.: Is it true the parking situation at Nissan Pavilion has improved? I would truly love to hear many of their concerts but tales of having to arrive 6 hours early to avoid bumper to bumper traffic and get a parking space, and sleeping overnight in your car after a performance, have made me leery of attending. I'm 62 years old and, as you can see, live some distance away. Thanks!
David: If you're going on a weekend, the traffic shouldn't be as bad getting there. Getting out will still be a bit of a process. You won't have to sleep in your car, but you might not get home in time for Conan, either.
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Clothes from patterns:
If you can make it out of DC, there's a great tailor/seamstress in McLean. Her name is Lan and her store is Lan's Tailors (or something like it). She has made clothes for me and my family many times.
Janet: For the woman who went to G Street and found out she can't sew!
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Gurus in Philly?: Oh Gurus... I am sad to report that my best friends and boyfriend have relocated to the city of brotherly love, and thus, I will be spending many nights there. Are there any guru-type chats for the Philly Inquirer or something similar for another paper? If not, can you guys switch locations?
Fritz: There aren't, but I'll say that a recent weekend getaway reminded me that I'm still a huge fan of Northern Liberties: Fantastic beers (Standard Tap, 700 Club), great brunch (the funky little N 3rd) ...
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Fairfax, Va.: Speaking of vineyards, are there are any vineyards in Virginia that won't scoff at a 24-year-old inexperienced wine drinker at tastings? I don't want to be discriminated against because I'm young and blond (but cute!). Thanks
Julia: I was nervous about the same thing on my first trip! After spending one too many weekends with some wine-snob friends from Cali, I was afraid the vineyard owners would be really snobby if I didn't know how to swirl my glass correctly. It hasn't been like that at all. The people I've met from various vineyards are very friendly -- remember, they want you to buy their wine. They often point out certain foods the wine should go with and what "notes of cherry and oak" or whatever, you should be picking out. It's quite informative, actually.
The
might be a good opportunity for you to get aquainted with all that's out there. There will be shuttle busses (probably in the $10 range) leaving from the Vienna Metro.
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Upper Marlboro, Md.: WIRE PREMIERE PARTY!!!!
Details Man!! Details!!!
Fritz: Upper Marlboro, I have a hard time raggin' on a fellow P.G. homeboy, but we've given you the details in several places already. We featured the "Wire" premiere -- with DJ Dirty Hands, no less -- in our Nightlife Agenda column, in our blog and even on the washingtonpost.com homepage.
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Washington, D.C., formerly Iowa: Geez, "Iowa, home of the bland." Classy. I've eaten plenty of meals in Iowa, including sushi, Indian, and Middle Eastern food in Iowa City, and they were all non-blandly awesome.
I would suggest Agraria but it's not metro-accessible and certainly more than $11-20 per person. Kinkead's is well over that $$ limit... I wouldn't be surprised if Poste and Zola are too. Old Ebbitt might be more what you're looking for, it's very "DC," although personally I don't think their food is that great.
Hm, the more I think about it, the more I think $20 a person is far too low. You can't even eat at Corduroy for that, and they'd be my #1 recommendation for a first-meeting meal involving a grandma.
Erin: Thanks for your thoughts. I agree that it's tough to find suitable places for a low price, but I do think that savvy ordering can keep budget-conscious diners on track. With such huge portions, why not just order two appetizers? I usually find more appealing dishes in the apps section as it is.
Anyway, Corduroy is a bit subdued for the D.C. feeling that she was seeking. While the food is scrumptious, it wins no points for atmosphere. I'm very curious to hear your thoughts on Agraria. I, for one, was quite unimpressed.
As for Post and Zola, both offer pre-theater deals and both can be enjoyed affordably.
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Palladio, Va.: I had a very enjoyable meal at Palladio, which has a sense of style which makes you feel like you're really "going out" in a nice, vineyard setting. It's a nice experience, a little shi-shi.
Sadly, the worst part of the meal was the wine, which wasn't up to the standard of the meal, in my opinion. That being said, if you're going for the experience, and you probably already have some wine in you by dinner, it's still fun.
Reminder: don't forget the designated driver, especially on dark, windy country roads that are unfamiliar.
Erin: For all Palladio-bound diners. Fantastic, thanks.
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Washington, D.C.: Any suggestions for a wine bar, where two gals with little wine knowledge can sample by the glass? A casual social scene would be nice too.
Fritz: I recently wrote a blog post about places to taste wine for free. Vidalia's weekly tasting fills all your requirements, including the social scene.
For something less structured, the lounge in the back of Tallula is a good place to start. Firefly, too. And while I really enjoy Sonoma, I've found that, outside of late night, the bartenders are too busy to spend much time talking about the grapes. Shame, that. Oh, Grapeseed in Bethesda, too.
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Woodley Park, D.C.: Amen to the underwelmed Open City comment. The staff is nice, but service is slow. It's a good thing Murphy's is right next door. I'd take a Guinness to replace my coffee any day!
Erin: I'm going to go ahead and speak for Fritz, but I'd say that makes 3 of us.
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Re: Cab Driver Directions: I tend to indicate what I know is an efficient way to go as I indicate the destination. E.g. when catching a cab at the airport I say "I'm just off the Zoo exit of Rock Creek Park" and that lets them know to take the parkway.
Julia: Miss Manners would be proud of this delicate solution.
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Re: cheap pedicures:
Word to the pedi-wise: so, the Foxy Nail in Old Town is um, $20, but they don't clean their utensils (is that what you call them?) after each person nor do they bleach out the foot tubs. Ever since then I've been sketched out by cheap pedicures. I'll gladly pay a little more to not get sepsis and croak. It's amazing how many people write in to Janet for Cheap-o pedicures.
Janet: Cheap can be expensive if you wind up with some horrible foot fungus. So, make sure wherever you go that they're licensed and that the premises and the tools being used by the employees are clean.
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Washington, D.C.: Any place aside from cafe japone with karaoke on Saturday nights?
Fritz: Peyote Cafe, the Meeting Place and (I think) Recessions. I'll hold my nose and vote for Peyote.
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Crystal City!: Best happy hour place on Fridays in Crystal City? Is there such a place?
Fritz: I tend to stay away from the big spots like Bailey's. Don't mind Mackey's for a pint and darts. Oyamel is lively, and has drink specials from 4 to 7. (They rotate, so remember to ask.) I've also enjoyed drinks on the patio at Freddie's Beach Bar, and they have a frozen margarita machine.
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Re: Cheap Pedicure:
This is a little out of the way for Rockville, but I know the pedicure question has come up before and I wanted to make a recommendation. Pro Nails has recently (in the last month-ish) opened on Columbia Rd in Adam's Morgan and they still have 20 percent off all services for the grand-opening celebration (i.e. I got a manicure and pedicure for $30 on Tuesday)! And for brand-snobs like me they have OPI nail polish.
Janet: Pro Nails sounds like a good deal. But OPI nail polish fan, be aware that your fave brand has a nasty chemical in it that makes its use banned in Europe and considered a toxin in California, according to a story in today's -- dare I say it -- New York Times.
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Wedding Dress:
Bobbies Bridal in Fairfax, VA is a great shop for wedding dresses. It's small and much more reasonably priced than the big, well-known boutiques in the area.
Janet: Another option for dresses for the bride-to-be.
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Happy Hour: Where are you guys liking happy hour lately? Someplace with a drink special please.
Erin: This is a good one for cooler weather, but Vidalia has attracted me with the happy hour specials. M-F they have wine and cocktail specials with free hors d'oeuvres. It's a swankier destination, but I love the wine list and the bar area is fairly accommodating.
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Downtown Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus! When is Modern opening back up? Heard anything?
Fritz: Latest I heard was two weeks, but I'll bet they're open by the end of the month. Losing valuable revenue from the college crowd(s).
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Washington, D.C.: More of a Tom question, but I thought I would throw this out to y'all. Where is the best place for chocolate mousse in the city? A friend has been dying for it.
Erin: Tell your "friend" that Ray's the Steaks makes addictive chocolate mousse. I'm not typically a fan, but the silkiness (in milk or dark) is pretty sensational. That said, I almost never have room to even finish my steak, let alone dive into dessert. Woe is (not) me.
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World Music Festival, D.C.: Did anyone make it out to the World Music Festival in Rosslyn last Saturday? I really wanted to go, but because of weather concerns, the group decided to do something else. Then, the weather cleared right up. I hope it was great - I think we need more world music festivals like this one, and I'd like to support them!
David: I wasn't able to make it, but I agree that it was a welcome addition and I hope it becomes an annual event. It was also nice that it wasn't Kennedy Center-affiliated; nothing against the KC, just good to get other groups involved. Mark Jenkins reviewed Oliver Mtukudzi's performance at the festival in Monday's paper, in case you're interested.
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Anniversary Couple: Check out Helen's Garden in Baltimore. It is a cute row house turned into a restaurant. Very intimate rooms and the food was excellent! Definitely worth the drive in my opinion.
Erin: If the young, budget-conscious lovers decide to hit Baltimore, this does sound promising.
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Re: Karaoke: Doesn't Roxanne/spaghetti garden/drunken monkey have karaoke? Oh wait, or is that Peyote? Why does that place have 20 names?
Fritz: Because it used to be three/four separate restaurants that have slowly merged into one big karaoke-and-alcohol-fueled blob that haunts 18th Street?
I hear it eats souls.
Oh, wait. That's Dan's Cafe.
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RE: Taxis: I was wondering what the appropriate tipping rate is here in DC. A few times my drivers have seemed overly grateful for what I consider a pretty normal tip. Usually I give around 15% or 20%...
Fritz: I usually round up -- if the fare is $10.30 I pay $12; $8 if it's a one-zone $6.50 ride, etc.
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Unprepared New Dad, D.C.: My wife just gave birth to twin baby girls, but they arrived a few weeks early, catching us both unprepared. In particular I am unprepared in the gift for the wife department. Any cool suggestions, other than the expensive jewelry option (not exactly in the budget at this juncture)? Also any neat non-chain baby clothes or furniture stores around here? Thanks GoGs and chatters for any help.
Julia: You are adorable.
Congratulations on your girls! One of my favorite gifts for a new mom is like a nice bubble bath or lotion, scented candles, new nail polish -- something that she can pamper herself with, because, obviously, she'll be very busy and tired while taking care of the little ones.
and
have been mentioned as good shops for baby clothes. (I must admit that I'm also fond of the little girls' stuff at H&M. I got my niece a rad denim skirt there a while back.)
Chatters, got any suggestions for the amazing husband?
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Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus! One of my best friends from childhood just moved to D.C. We have plans to hang out all day Saturday and was wondering if you had any ideas as to what we should do? I'd love to stay in the city and use the Metro. Thanks!
Anne: A chatter after my own heart. You are so in luck because this weekend is the mother of all festival weekends , plus the forecast looks smashing. I like to start newbies at Eastern Market because it's easy to feed there and there's so much to see. You could walk toward the Mall and swing by the grand sights on the way. The Black Family Reunion will be going on on the Mall, and you could also zip into the Hirshhorn for a look at Jim Lambie 's installation, or pick any other museum on the Mall that suits your fancy. While the Rosslyn Jazz Festival isn't in D.C., it's so close I think it counts. Metro there to catch the free music before 7.
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Washington, D.C.: I would love an idea for a great date this Friday night. It's early in the relationship, but not a first date. Something outside could be wonderful.
Erin: Is it stating the obvious to point out that NGA's Friday night Jazz in the Garden series ends next week? It's free, fun, conducive to wandering and your time's running out. Afterward, you could wander up for mojitos at Cafe Atlantico or nibbles at Teaism.
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Happy Hour That Isn't Lame: I recently went to Soussi on 18th street for happy hour and was impressed. A bit cooler on the patio, half priced drinks (all drinks!) from 5:30-7:30, really good food. (Get the mussels) Plus it's a bit further from some of the other traps in Adams Morgan. Service can be slow though...so you may want to sit inside and chat with the bartender.
Fritz: I love the patio at Soussi, but absent waitresses have me just about giving up on it. I'd be happier if there were more places that had "Service Au Bar" signs like Galaxy Hut's.
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Coyote Sad??: Am I the only person that is sad that Coyote Ugly is closing? I didn't go there a lot, but on the occasions that I did, I always had a lot of fun with my girlfriends. And yes, I danced on the bar and I am not a dancing type person. I think that was the good thing about the bar, it drew people like me out of our shells.
Fritz: If only there were more people like you... (That said, I can sympathize with the people who miss Polly Esther's/Lulu's/Coyote Ugly, because those places filled a niche.)
Have you been to McFadden's? I've seen dancing on the bar there, even if it's not as encouraged as it was at the Ugly...
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Favorite Drinks: I remember a recent chat where the gurus listed their favorite drinks. Just got back from Bermuda and have fallen in love with Dark and Stormys -- which someone shared. Ahhh...ginger beer and rum with feet in warm sand next to a sparkling blue ocean. I have to get me some around here to keep the memories fresh.
Fritz: My favorite island drinks! (And, not surprisingly, I wrote a column about them for the Post)
Top three would be the version at the Islander with fresh ginger beer, the version at Palette with ginger-infused rum, and Ceiba's more traditional take.
I know there's one I've had recently that I'm forgetting. I'll trawl through my notes and see if I can find it.
Erin: I'm just going to jump right in and mention that I had a delicious one recently at Hank's Oyster Bar (thank heavens for that liquor license).
Other than that, I'm very much behind Fritz's endorsement of Ceiba.
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Washington, D.C. : You wouldn't happen to know where to get a good French 75, would you? Preferably in the U Street or Dupont area. Thank you!
Fritz: Agraria does a beautiful version, but you may want to try Urbana.
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Capitol Hill, Washington D.C.: Hi gurus -- any tips on Adam Morgan's Day this Sunday: what to expect, what time to get there, parking, etc? I've never been but it sounds like fun -- thanks!
Julia: Hey Capitol Hill! Adams Morgan Day is a lot of fun. I wouldn't worry too much about planning. Whenever you show up between 11:45 and 6, there will be music playing on one of two stages at the top and bottom of the strip. Basically, it's just a browsing affair. You walk up and down 18th Street, check out the vendors, eat some good food, stroll by the artist tents on Belmont Street -- it's pretty laid-back as far as festivals go. I like to go in the early afternoon -- like 1 or 2 p.m. If you get there too early they may still be setting up and if you get there too late they may be shutting down.
I always walk, so I can't really speak about parking. I would say it's probably no worse than a weekend night -- probably a little easier, in fact. If you'd rather drive than Metro, you're likely to find something. Enjoy!
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For the new dad: How about a month's (or two or three) maid service - specifically to include laundry?
Julia: Brilliant!
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Twins' Dad: He should get his wife a mother's helper a day or two a week. Someone to clean, cook, or watch the babies so she can do something for herself.
Julia: Another idea.
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Dupont Circle Happy Hour FRIDAY: My new roommate scored a great new job but hasn't been properly feted. I would love to get some of her friends together after work tomorrow in the Dupont area for some outdoor drinks. There's a sundress she wants to wear before the seasons change completely, so I think it should also be considered a public service. Any thoughts? Could be Adams Morgan, U Street, Downtown. . .
Fritz: The patios at Helix, Gazuza and Local 16 would all be good places to celebrate. If she's making more money, hit the roofdeck at the Beacon Hotel's Beacon Bar and Grill.
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Football Fan, D.C.: The Longhorn fan could go to My Brother's Place near the Capitol to watch the game. I would imagine there will be several others there (considering it is decked out in all things Texas). Now about us Buckeyes that would be miserable in a place like that... where do we go?
Fritz: The "official" Ohio State bar is Willie and Reed's in Bethesda, with tables reserved for alumni, $2 beer specials, etc.
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French what?: What's a French 75?
Fritz: A stunning vintage cocktail with gin, lemon juice, champagne ... Wonderful for summer when made right.
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NW Washington, D.C.: I noticed several comments about going to the bar for service because it is faster. My question is when is this acceptable and when is it not? A few weeks ago, I was at a Dupont Circle bar and service was slow. I went to the bar to get my group drinks and came back to our table to find out that the waitress had reprimanded my companions!
Fritz: You should always ask. Usually in bars it's fine. Lounges and restaurants may have servers who depend on your tips for their wages, and you don't want to cut them out.
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washingtonpost.com: Unfortunately, that's all we have time for today. Thanks for joining us and please, for the greater good, try not to hit Ashton Kutcher tonight with your car. See you next week.
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