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.

Submit your questions and comments before or during today's discussion.

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washingtonpost.com: Hello, everyone. We're a smaller bunch of Gurus today -- David, Jen, Julia, Rhome, Janet and me, Fritz -- but we're ready to take your questions about going out and having a great time in the Washington area. So what're you all doing tonight? Anyone getting the last-minute tickets for the Beckham party at Lima? How have your Restaurant Week experiences been? You can read about mine here, then post your own stories on our blog. Anyway, it's time to get started.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi GOGs, I'm dying to find (cool) vintage/used clothing stores in the city that sell MEN's clothing! Any suggestions??

Janet: Try The Remix.

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Fairfax Va.: Hey! I'm finally celebrating my 21st birthday. I will be leaving the DC area a week after my birthday, So I'm trying to find a fun bar to celebrate. I'm looking in the Arlington/Clarendon area although not set on the area. I would like a chill bar with no dress code and fun atmosphere. Any ideas....I'm desperate!

Fritz: I'd point you towards Eleventh Street in Clarendon, which has a buzzy restaurant and lounge upstairs and a cool, surprisingly unmarked basement with DJs and its own bar. I've enjoyed it when I've been through, and it's much more chill than the crowded Clarendon Grill or the Ballroom.

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Washington, D.C.: Love your chat!

My boyfriend and I were hoping to enjoy the slightly (cooler) temps this weekend with a little picnic and some lazy reading. We usually like to head down bike trail next to the GW Parkway, but I thought a new location was in order. Any picnic area that you could recommend where we could sit by a river (or lake!) and it probably won't be too crowded? As much as we do love kids, we are looking for something more secluded and quiet. Thanks!

Jen: This isn't a terribly novel idea, but what about Great Falls? On the Maryland side, I know there are picnic tables and you can walk by the water as well. You're certainly not going to escape kids there, but if you go at a somewhat off time (like on the early side, which is a good idea anyway because of the heat) it's easier than you might think to find secluded areas to sit or stroll together. I am not sure that you can bring food to any section of the park, however, so you might want to double check that first.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi there Gurus! Love the chats!! I know that you get this question a lot (the archive search isn't working as I post this), but I am looking for a good, but not too expensive tailor in the northern Va. area. I have three bridesmaid dresses that I need tailored for upcoming weddings. I think that most of them are just going to need hemming, hence I don't want to pay a lot for that. Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated and welcomed!!

Janet: First of all, do you have a tailor that you regularly go to and trust? I guess you wouldn't be asking if you did, but if it's just a matter of hemming, you don't need a superman/woman. One I can suggest in your area is Millie's Tailors & Cleaners.

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Washington, D.C.: Any idea why "El Cantante" isn't playing on a single screen in D.C.? Yeah, I know its J Lo, but it's also salsa and given the Latino population in this town I figured it would be big. I tried to see it last weekend but had no idea where any of those 'burb theaters were located!

Jen: I can't say why it wasn't showing in the District, but "El Cantante" will show at Regal Gallery Place starting this weekend. So that should solve your problem.

Having said that, the 'burbs are not that far away or that hard to navigate. There's this snappy little invention called Mapquest that could give you directions, as can the maps in City Guide. Of course, I agree that it was strange that it wasn't playing in the city. I'm just saying, the only legit reason to fear "The 'Burbs" is if you're watching that crummy Tom Hanks movie of the same name.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi wise gurus, I'm new to Penn Quarter and I need a hairdresser, ideally within walking distance. I'm willing to shell out (well, ok, within limits -- can we please keep it to two digits?) if he or she is really good. Can anyone help me? (Caucasian woman, straight hair, just cut not color/perm/etc.)

Janet: My colleague Julia Beizer raves about Patrick at Bang.

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Charm City, USA: Malitz, my man. I've got a bone to pick with you, possibly J Freedom too. Your shared review of Virgin Fest dismissed Girl Talk as a "one trick phony." A snappy soubriquet but way off base (or if you want to be clever: way of bass?). His set was surely one of Sunday's highlights, or don't you eat dance parties for breakfast? I want to know how you failed to be charmed by his mash ups and his stage presence? I was disappointed that you chose funny over smart and dedicated three graphs to Velvet Revolver. What gives?

David: Ah, I guess you didn't read J. Freedom's chat a few days ago where it was mentioned how that was a typo, leading to a classic correction. I was sticking with the horse(y, horsey) theme and said "one-trick pony" -- here's the original blog post to prove it. Somehow it became "one-trick phony" in the paper, and I think you're being kind to call that a snappy sobriquet. So we fixed that, because that came off as just mean, which wasn't how it was suppoed to be. Anyway, I was mildly entertained by Girl Talk, but it gets kind of old fast. Like I said in that blog post, eventually it's just like, here's a song you recognize, hooray! Here's another song you recognize, hooray! And it's, like, totally paired up with a song that's nothing like it! I liked Dan Deacon's Dance Party better. (The two are sharing a bill at the Black Cat next month, by the way.) I'll give Gillis credit for getting Cex and a bunch of other people up on stage dancing and freaking out the sound crew, though. And his stage presence was fine, but when he ran away from the computer to get people hyped all it proved was that everything was pre-canned, y'know? And I'm sure most people would rather read about Velvet Revolver than Girl Talk, if only because they've, y'know, heard of Velvet Revolver.

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Rockville, Md.: Hello there, GOGs! I am dining at Zaytinya this evening and I am a tad clueless as to what the dress code is there? Smart casual (nice jeans and a great top) or a dress (not a gown, but like a wrap dress)? THANKS!

Jen: There is no specific dress code. Shorts and flip-flops would be a bad call, but either of the options you mention would fit in just fine. I say choose the one you like the most and, more importantly, that is the coolest. It's hot out there, people.

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Rhome: A quick dispatch on CASRAM and Adventures on a Wednesday night in D.C...

Big ups to Bahamadia for showing Rock and Roll Hotel what 20 years on the microphone sounds like. All these microwave rappers with one-year careers. How does a woman who keeps her clothes on and only releases a handful of records thrive in today's music business? With a KILLER live show. Bahamadia is hip-hop.

So after the gig we're at the Diner and Dave Chappelle rolls in AFTER this unfortunate young lady hurled all over this dude in an unsuccessful attempt to make it to the facilities before her gastric distress went too far. He's probably too nice a guy to have launched into an impromptu routine about it. He just chilled in a booth with a few folks and wasn't bothered by anyone.

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Panicky in D.C.: Hello Gurus! I need your help and I need it fast. I'm a bridesmaid in a wedding that is scheduled to take place in two weeks in Beverly Hills. The bride just mailed me my dress (which was ordered in Cali b/c they were custom made). To my horror, it's too big! While that's a nice problem to have generally, I'm now in desperate need of a good tailor in either D.C. or NoVa. Please HELP!

Janet: I had a vintage evening gown tailored at Parkway Custom Drycleaning in Chevy Chase several years ago. They did a great job, but management has changed, so no guarantee. I called and asked if they still tailored bridal gowns and they said yes.

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Overheated & Uncomfortable: It's too hot!!! Do you have any recommendations on water parks or other "cool down" activities in the area? Thanks!!!

Julia: My favorite of the bunch is Great Waves in Alexandria -- mostly because of its proximity to D.C. Water Mine in Reston isn't a bad option either. Really interested in water? Last summer the Weekend section wrote this big round-up of local splash spots.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, Love the chats and never miss them! I have an astronomy (yes!) question for you: Where can I and a small group of friends catch the Perseid meteor shower this Sunday night? Forecast says mild temps and clear skies, so I think it'll be a good one! Thanks.

Fritz: Good question. The University of Maryland's Astronomy Dept. usually hosts a sky-watching party, but not this year. Nothing in Rock Creek Park, either, or from the National Capital Astronomers. Usually the best thing to do is head up I-270 or I-95 until you're away from light pollution.

Anyone else have any specific suggestions?

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Weekend Plans?: Well, I don't have any plans, but I know what I won't be doing: going to H Street. I went last Saturday night and it was a real...dump hole.

I'm going to get my passport on Saturday, do a 30-minute workout, and then play PC games.

Rhome: The whole strip? Any spot in particular? You can't just throw that out there without expository details.

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Hungry for Sushi: Plain and Simple: What's the best sushi in town?

Fritz: Kotobuki in Palisades, though Sushi Taro also has its fans.

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Crystal City, Va.: The boyfriend and I have RW reservations at Rasika on Saturday night; any insight as to what it is like there during RW? We've never been there, so I'm hoping to not be disappointed!;!;

Fritz: I went for restaurant week last year, and the selection was pretty large -- many options, though not the entire menu, and we were pretty happy with portion sizes and the price. With the money you save on dinner, you can have an extra cocktail beforehand.

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Northern Virginian: I'm going to Busch Gardens this weekend partly to drive on the new roads down there my tax dollars paid for. Anyway, any good places to go after the park closes Saturday night??? Or do they roll up the sidewalks like Orlando used to?

Jen: This may come as a shock, but Colonial Williamsburg is not exactly renowned for its nightlife.

That said, there are the taverns on Duke of Gloucester St., good 'ol Paul's Deli and The Corner Pocket in what they're calling the "New Town" section of Williamsburg.

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Happy Hours in Arlington: Where can some girls in their mid to late 30's go for a professional, happenin' happy hour in Arlington. Prefer indoors since it is so hot out there.

Have done the Ballroom, Grill and Liberty Tavern. Need some new suggestion.

Thanks.

Fritz: I'd say Caribbean Breeze, where salsa lessons sometimes start just as happy hour's ending; Eleventh, which has great food specials to go along with the drinks; Eatbar for wine and beer; Gua-Rapo for the international vibe.

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Georgetown: Hey GoGs - Anyone heard anything about Degrees inside the Ritz Georgetown? I've heard it's a trendy lounge, but would love your opinion.

Fritz: I've been a few times and wrote the review that's on our site. It's a sleek looking spot with a well-heeled crowd, though I think the cocktails are pricey for what you get ($12-$14). I don't mind stopping in every now and then, because it's different than most other loud-and-crowded places in Georgetown.

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Dress Code Help: Okay, so my wife works her regular job with a bartender at Halo. She wants us to stop by to say hi for a couple drinks after I get off work around 5 or 5:30.

My concern is, I'm a hat, polo, shorts, sandals guy. Halo is all trendy. Will I be okay there in my "Cap Hill look" that early? Obviously if we went say, after 9pm I'd dress appropriately, but it is WAY TOO HOT for that these days.

Fritz: Wait, I'm confused. Does your "Cap Hill" look involve shorts, sandals and a ballcap? If so, I'd ditch them, though you do see guys in trendy flip-flops at Halo. That said, while Halo is one of the nicer looking bars in Dupont, and the crowd does make an effort, it's still an anything-goes kind of place.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I'm putting my Fall calendar together, and I need to find a comprehensive website with fairs, festivals and events for DC and Baltimore. I've been looking for a link to festivals on the City of Baltimore's for 20 mintutes - I need to get back to work now. HELP!

Thanks!

David: Well, here's the second half of Weekend's annual preview, the festival portion of it. And City Guide will have records for just about everything on there, as well. As for Baltimore ... baltimore.org would be your best bet to dig around in there, but that's what you've been doing, right? Here's the list of the Showcase of Nations ethnic Festivals up there. Many of them have already happened, though.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi gurus, this weekend is my last in D.C. with my boyfriend before I head back to college and I want to make it special. We were thinking of going out for a nice dinner then maybe dessert somewhere else. We're both on set budgets and are not sure we want to spend $30 each for meal with restaurant week. Can you suggest any classy/unique but affordable places for dinner or dessert in the NW DC or Arlington area? Thanks for your help!

Julia: I like Levante's (if the weather cools off and you can sit outside), Sushi Taro or perhaps Thaiphoon. If you like Italian, I think Luigi's is pretty underrated as a dinner spot. The service leaves something to be desired but the cute little red-and-white-checked tablecloths are kind of romantic once the office crowd clears out. The pasta is delicious.

The bar at Talulla's another good, low-lit, romantic option, but the expensive (and delicious) dinners at the restaurant next door might be too tempting for someone on a budget.

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NW DC: Hey GOGs,

As a typical Washingtonian multi-tasker, I'd like to get your suggestions for a cafe or bar where I can sit outside with my dog, and have an iced drink while doing email. In other words, I'm looking for a place with outdoor seating and free WiFi access outside.

Drink specials and good people-watching a plus!;

Thanks for any info.

Fritz: A few bars/restaurants that come to mind, since you asked about happy hour:
Hotel Helix, Zoo Bar, Finn Mac Cool's and Les Halles (no happy hour, but great people watching).

Anyone else know a place to bring your dog where can also get a cold beverage and free wi-fi?

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RE: Cap Hill look: Ah yes, sorry, I should have clarified. I don't work on the Hill, so the "Cap Hill" look is the, lounging around the Hill bars look in hat, shorts, sandals like every other resident, not the work on the Hill, shirt, tie, pants look like every staffer.

Um, yeah, I'm wearing shorts anyways. It's too hot.

Fritz: At times like this, my friend, guys just have to suck it up. Unfair, I know. That's why I'm thinking about linen for tonight's Beckham and Beyonce parties.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi Going Out Gurus!

I wanted to rent a cabin in Shenandoah National Park sometime in the fall to see those beautiful leaves... then I heard about the bumper-to-bumper traffic all the way there from DC once the leaves start changing. Any advice for enjoying the folliage either in Shenandoah or some similar nearby natural area minus the huge crowds?

Thank you!!

Julia: I wrote a whole story about this last year, so check out some other leaf-viewing options here. A trip to Gettysburg is my favorite of the ones listed.

I wouldn't cancel that Shenandoah trip just yet though. Renting a cabin is one of the best ways to do it. You can drive down, endure some traffic and then check out the beautiful scenery on foot and stress-free. It's the bumper-to-bumper traffic when you're driving along Skyline Drive that's really annoying. If you have a place to stay overnight, the trip will be much more fun.

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Tailoring a gown: I had my sample wedding gown tailored at Maria's Custom Tailoring for a reasonable price just this past April. Very nice. They seemed to specialize in this kind of thing. The place was full of gowns. Got the name as a tip from a nice saleswoman at the bridal boutique where I bought the dress. Saved me a good bit. Chevy Chase. 301-656-1811.

Janet: For people in need of bridal alterations, here's a place to consider.

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NW D.C.: There's a great outdoor seating area at Azi's Cafe on the corner of 9th and O St., NW. They have some good iced coffee drinks, too plus free wi-fi.

Fritz: Ah, you're right. The much-overlooked Azi's. Thanks.

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Chevy Chase, Md. Any good tailors in Bethesda, esp for hemming jeans, now that Pam and Polly are gone?

Janet: There's a place called London Tailor on Wisconsin, but I have no first-hand knowledge.

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Feels like the surface of the sun: Hey gogs,

What time does the headlining act usually go on at the Rock and Roll Hotel? I want to head out there on Friday to see Le Loup (1 of 4 bands playing) but was hoping to grab a drink or two at the Pug before hand. What time should I show up to be sure I see Le Loup in all their musical brilliance?

David: Well I should note that if you get the Hotel before 9 p.m. tomorrow you get in for free; it's $10 after 9. But Le Loup won't be going on until much, much later, obviously. Times vary depending on how many bands there are, what night of the week, plenty of other factors. When you get there you'll probably see a sign on the door stating that set times will be something like 9:30, 10:15, 11, 11:45. If they stick to that, I'd be shocked, shocked I tell you. I'd imagine Le Loup would go on around midnight, maybe even closer to 12:30. If the bands are sharing equipment it might help speed things along, but expect it to be a pretty late night.

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Rockville, Md.: Do you know if there are any sit down restaurants inside RFK?

Fritz: There's an overpriced Red, Hot and Blue. Your best bet -- and I say this as someone with tickets for both Nationals and United games -- is to eat elsewhere.

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RE: Williamsburg nightlife: For something to do after Busch Gardens, I would suggest dinner at the Fat Canary in Williamsburg. Great food and atmosphere, rivals anything I've had in DC. Unfortunately, there's really not much nightlife in W'burg, especially with no W&M students around because of summer. Oh, and reservations for Fat Canary are a must.

Jen: Thanks for mentioning this place. I haven't been back to the 'Burg since it opened, but I believe this is the restaurant in The Cheese Shop's former location. Sounds great, appreciate the tip.

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Charm City: Really appreciate it David, thanks.

And yes, we've heard of Velvet Revolver -- but don't they suck?

David: I think it may have had a lot to do with the fact that I had just been watching Interpol prior to checking out Velvet Revolver, but I thought VR was pretty good. It's just straight up rock-and-roll, but by that point in the weekend I was fine with just giving my brain a rest and watching Slash play some wicked solos.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Gurus, help!!!!

I've got a friend coming in from Atlanta this weekend looking for drinking and 30-something single men. We're doing Mate and U St. or Clarendon on Saturday night but she's also in town Sunday night. Do you have any suggestions for a fun social places on Sunday night?

Thanks!

'Sunday Groove' Girl

Fritz: I still love the Daylight parties at Bohemian Caverns on Sunday: Very friendly social atmosphere, old-school house, funk and disco that will pull you onto the dancefloor. They also have drink specials until 9 or 10.

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Penn Street hair salon: I recommend 180, at 180 13th street (13 and K). Jennifer, the owner, gives great cuts, but I'd trust the other stylists too.

Janet: Here's a recommendation for the person in search of a stylist in Penn Quarter.

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Washington, D.C.: If you worked at Metro Center and lived in Vienna where would you go to happy hour tonight?

Rhome: Got any preferences beyond discounted noshes and beverages? How about Cafe Asia or McCormick & Schmick's?

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Dog and free Wi-Fi: The Cosi North at Dupont has free wi-fi and I always see people hanging out with their dogs. Yes, I know it's a chain, but even in DC, not everyone goes to the uber-trendy places all the time (I hope).

Fritz: And for a local option, you can also try the large, attractive fenced patio at the Argonaut on H Street NE.

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I'm putting my Fall calendar together, and I need to find a comprehensive website with fairs, festivals and events for DC and Baltimore. I've been looking for a link to festivals on the City of Baltimore's for 20 mintutes : that is one SUPEr organized person!; I'm still not sure what I'm having for dinner tonight!; (too hot to cook)

David: May I suggest Bagel Bites?

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Arlington, Va.: The Blue Talon in Williamsburg adjacent to the historic area serves good, reasonably priced French-influenced food and a casual atmosphere. Tasty!;

Jen: Thanks. Got another 'Burg tip coming in one moment...

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Baltimore Bound: Hi Gurus - you guys (and gals) are the highlight of my Thursday. I'll be heading to Baltimore tonight and have tomorrow morning free for some sightseeing. What's not miss in under 3 hours? Thanks pals!;

Fritz: The American Visionary Art Museum is a favorite stop of mine -- some of the weirdest art you'll ever see. The Walters Art Gallery is more formal, but still interesting. I'm a huge fan of Edgar Allen Poe's grave, which is not far Lexington Market, so you can grab a crabcake sandwich. And if you want to get outside head for Fort McHenry.

Really, though, I just like wandering around Fells Point, Little Italy or Federal Hill, or browsing the antique stores and bookshops in Mount Vernon. I'd skip the touristy Inner Harbor, though the U.S.S. Constellation is really cool if you have an interest in history or the U.S. Navy.

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Alexandria, VA: Might I suggest Sno-to-Go for a post BG activity, albeit a short one. In this weather, what's better than a stuffed sno-cone. (Also, the Fat Canary adjoins the Cheese Shop in its Merchant's Square location.)

Jen: Not only might you suggest it, you just did. Thanks.

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Washington, DC: Hey y'all, I read over the Beach Guide and had a question. Any of the beaches in MD or VA allow for camping on (or very near) the actual beach? Hope y'all can help!

Julia: We know one that does in New Jersey, but I'm not sure about the other VA or MD beaches. Chatters?

You could also consider Assateague Island, but watch out for completely mammoth mosquitoes. I'm like Post-archive girl today, but the Travel section wrote about the Assateague experience last summer.

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Washington, DC: I stopped by Dr. Granville Moore's Brickyard the other day and enjoyed it. I was surprised, however, to hear that their kitchen is tiny. That leads me to ask: Do you know why there are so few decent restaurants on H ST NE? Is it just a matter of the market needing to develop or is there a structural reason? Do you know if more are scheduled to open? Thanks!;

Fritz: I'm really excited about Granville Moore's, and first impressions indicate that it's going to be THE go-to dining spot on H Street until Sticky Rice brings sushi to the neighborhood this fall. That's not a bad thing, but the place is really tiny, as the crushing opening weekend crowds demonstrated.

I know that Joe Englert thinks that more restaurants are the way forward for H Street, not more bars, so we'll see what happens. I hear he's sounded out some prominent Ethiopian places about opening a branch on the strip. We'll see what happens with that.

The thing about restaurants is that they're more expensive to run and have more overhead than bars.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Having just returned from a trip to indie music store central, i.e. Portland, OR, I am in dire need of some vinyl. Any good stores in the area?

David: Som, Crooked Beat, Orpheus, Joe's Record Paradise, Smash, Red Onion ... I think that's usually the list we throw out there. Each one of those places has its strengths and weaknesses. If you're down for a road trip, True Vine up in Baltimore is a good one.

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Shorts at Halo: I was at Halo on Friday night and there were definitely guys there in shorts and sandals, despite a sign about the "summer dress code" that was on the front door. I guess it's too hot to enforce any kind of dress code.

Fritz: Could be. But Gazuza's still known to crack down on guys wearing sandals and shorts, so be warned.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus,

Am about to move into a TINY apartment with a decorating budget to match. Does anyone know of good resources for things like fabric scraps or wallpaper samples? I'd like some color/pattern without spending a lot of money. Thanks!

Julia: Bruce Variety is your best local spot for cheap fabrics, but they're often really pattern-y, and that can really overwhelm a small space. The Ikea as-is room is always a good option for those on a budget.

I'd suggest popping by the high-end design stores on 14th Street -- Muleh and Vastu come to mind -- to see if they have any last-season cast-offs.

Janet: A possibility: Urban Outfitters has these wallpaper decals that you can stick on that can add some pzazz to your decor without your spending a lot of dollars. Also, try this site.

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RE: RE: Williamsburg nightlife: Just to clarify, The Cheese Shop is still there, but co-located with Fat Canary (same owners).

Jen: Yes, I didn't mean to suggest it was closed. Bread ends and house are still available for all.

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Logan Circle: I understand Aroma in Cleveland Park is going for an exemption from the smoking ban? Any idea on how long this could take?

Fritz: Aroma has asked for a smoking ban exemption. Nothing's guaranteed, because they're the first place to ask for one, and you could argue that other factors have lead to a decline in revenue, not just a lack of smokers. The Department of Health is being cagey, so we'll see what happens.

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Arlington, VA: My birthday is coming up in a few weeks. I think Tallula would be a great place to go for dinner - great food, great wine and a nice atmosphere - but I'm wondering if there's a fun after-dinner bar or club nearby. I don't want anything too rowdy - nice ambience, good drinks but a place where you can still talk with friends. Can you guys suggest anything like that in the neighborhood?

Thanks!; Leo Girl

Fritz: Liberty Tavern might be a good option -- not as rowdy as some of the Clarendon destinations, and good drinks, too. You don't say what night you're going, but I haven't found it to be as packed as, say, the Ballroom. You could also consider the Sandbar at Whitlow's on Wilson.

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NY, LA: Hi I'm in DC for the weekend to see my aunt. What is the hottest spot in dc? And please nothing like Love or Fur. Lounge will be fine, but something that is upscale and exclusive- I live in NY and travel to LA a lot (hint--something to wow me in DC)- Also, what's the newest restaurant?

Rhome: No Love or Fur? That leaves out Ibiza, which is giving me the impression that it's wannabe L.A. I need to give it another chance.

No such thing as one hottest spot, this area is too diverse for that. For your tastes I'd say Fly, Lotus, K Street Lounge and Lima. You might enjoy Zengo and Indebleu for dining.

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Baltimore MD: Going to dinner at 701 Restaurant on Saturday. Where is a hip place to get a drink beforehand? Thanks guys!;

Fritz: I'm in love with the cocktails down the street at Central Michel Richard, though Mo, the head bartender at 701, is no slouch when it comes to making drinks.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Friends in other cities are telling me I absolutely need to see the movie "Black Sheep." It's already played in places like Pittsburgh, but when's it coming to D.C.?

Jen: Good question. I have not heard anything about a release date for this one, but I'll keep my ears open.

By the way, I think I join everyone in feeling outraged that the title of David Spade's classic has been co-opted in this way.

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WDC: Fritz, how'd you get to be SO cute and beer knowledgable? I want a Wieckse Witte because it is so bloody hot. Where?

Fritz: I haven't had a Wieckse in a while -- not since Paris last year, I think. Right now, I'm in love with the Floris Witte, from the Delirium Tremens family, which is on tap at Beck and Saint-Ex.

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Downtown DC: Hey Gurus!

What is Up with the opening act for Beyonce?? (A woman/girl I have never heard of and what happened to R.Thicke?) Some friends & I have tickets to the concert just to have a little fun (we're in our early 30's) Should we get there on time to hear the opener, or get some drinks 'till we think B is on?

Thanks for any info!

David: Just got off the phone with folks at the Verizon Center and they said that Robin Thicke was still the opener, he's going on around 7:30. So I'm not sure if you have some super-secret info, bad info or what. Beyonce's scheduled to hit the stage around 8:45.

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H Street: Fritz, no offense, but please stop it with the H Street promotional answers. There's nothing hip about caged, abandoned stores and greasy food joints. Let's talk about it when the real clubs and the Atlas are opened.

Fritz: No, but there's plenty hip about a new Belgian beer bar with 50+ drafts and great mussels, the local band showcase tomorrow night at the Rock and Roll Hotel, or chilling on the new patio at the Argonaut with your dog, a cold rum drink and free wi-fi.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey GOGs,

My birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks and I wanted to plan a day at a beach or watering hole for me and 10 to 15 friends. We want a spot that swimmable, with good space for lounging. We definitely want to drink, so no liquor bans, but we're willing to bring our cocktails in plastic containers. I'm a little worried about having people drink in the hot sun all day, so a place with a little tree shade or umbrellas to rent if its the beach would be nice. We're willing to travel 1 to 2 hours. Can you recommend a spot? I've been here for a couple of years but have yet to explore the environs.

Fritz: I don't know of any swimming spots that'll let you drink legally, so I'll throw this one out to the crowd and compile the best answers for you.

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Party Extravaganza, D.C.: My 20 something birthday is just around the corner, a month or so to be exact, and I want to plan a fun party to ring this one in just right. I'm looking for a venue in D.C. that can hold 50 or so people, a private room/bar with an iPod hook up and a dance floor is all I care about. A little help for the birthday girl?

Fritz: Good friend of mine is throwing his going-away party at Bourbon and is doing something similar (not sure about the iPod). You might want to look at Science Club, Cafe Saint-Ex and Cosmo Lounge (upstairs from Chief Ike's), all of which could meet your needs to a T.

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Washington, D.C.: Anywhere other than Club Five to hear house music??? Thanks, always a great discussion!

Fritz: Five's the big, popular spot, but if you look around, you'll find house in Arlington at Gua-Rapo and Eleventh with Ray Kang or oo7, at Daylight (which I mentioned before), the Rebirth party at Mirrors (that's next weekend, with SAM BURNS) and Science Club, to name but a few spots. Selam is coming back, too, so that might be worth keeping an eye on.

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Ballston, VA: I'm treating my hard-working boyfriend to Restaurant Week dinner at Bobby Van's on Saturday. Is there anywhere nearby afterwards to get a drink, hear some music? I'm looking for a loungey kind of vibe and hopefully a place to sit

Fritz: There's not a lot right around there (yet) -- best chance for a lounge is Lotus, which is attractive and upscale, but can be expensive and seats might be hard to come by on a weekend, depending on the bottle service situation. Still worth checking out, though.

If you're thinking more old-school lounge -- red velvet seats, live piano -- then don't miss the Town and Country Lounge at the Mayflower hotel.

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washingtonpost.com: Okay, that's going to do it for us. See you here next week. Stay cool and stay dry.

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