Got Plans?

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's City Guide experts share their best bets for local flavor, great dates and family fun. Got plans? Great. Need plans? Just ask. We have the skinny on the bars and clubs, concerts, kitchens, theaters and special events that keep life interesting. We're going out gurus, and we're at your service.

Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours.

Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the City Guide or read transcripts of past Got Plans? discussions.

The transcript follows:

washingtonpost.com: Hey y'all. It's Thursday. It's warm outside. Fringe Festival is wrapping up, there are all kinds of concerts this weekend, cinephiles can catch classic surf movies and the films of Michelangelo Antonioni ... oh, and Restaurant Week is about to return. What're you up to? Rhome and Jen are on vacation, but Anne, David, Fritz, Julia and Stephanie are here to help with all your going out questions. Shall we begin?

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Washington, D.C.: Anyone been to any Fringe shows? I'm going to a couple this weekend but I wonder if any of you have any reviews to share.

Stephanie: I've been to a bunch of the fringe shows including "If You See Something Say Something," which I saw last night and absolutely loved. Also, here's a blog post about Fringe shows over the next few days that sound promising.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm turning 30 next month, so of course, I want to have a celebration. I'm not looking into anything big (maybe 30-40 people) nor in the club scene. Actually, I'm thinking of something like Rocket Bar where you can play games, drink, and just have fun (without the thumping of techno). And I'm also looking on the relatively inexpensive side too. Are there any other places that you would recommend in D.C. that have that atmosphere? Also open to Virginia, but I don't know anything about VA. Thanks.

Fritz: Similar to Rocket is its sister bar Continental in Rosslyn, which has a funkier decor as well as the expected pool tables, darts, shuffleboard tables and board games. You can reserve private or semi-private areas if you hit certain minimum food/booze sales. I'd consider Breadsoda, too, for pool/darts/Wii/shuffleboard, but that place gets slammed on the weekends already -- if that's when you're thinking of having the party.

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Washington, D.C.: Since you guys seem to be so good at tracking down various foodstuffs, I was wondering if you know where I can find coconut-flavored yogurt in D.C. It very well might be the item I miss most from my time in Belgium -- not counting the frites, of course.

Julia: Like fro-yo or the stuff you eat for breakfast? Mr. Yogato's got a pina-colada flavor that could fit the frozen-yogurt bill, but I have no idea about the other stuff. Chatters?

Come to think of it, why doesn't our country expand the breakfast yogurt flavor market? I was pretty much addicted to passionfruit yogurt when I studied in Australia.

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Rockville, Md.: Hi Gurus, Hair/salon question. Any suggestions for a place in Bethesda or Rockville that is relatively inexpensive (just can't spend $75 on a cut!) and might have someone who specializes in dealing with curly hair? I know you've had great suggestions in the past, but I'm looking to not break the bank. Help! Thanks!

Janet: PRatPartners has a salon in Tenleytown (is that close enough?), and I just checked prices on haircuts. Depending on which stylist you use, you can get a cut for around $60. A colleague just went to Progressions in Rockville and got a great new do, but prices depend on the person you go to. Rookies cost less.

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Esha: Hey! I am planning a small(ish) toast tomorrow for my b-day and planned on grabbing a glass or two of champagne with friends. Told everyone to meet at Metropolitain at 6ish. Called and the restaurant said it doesn't open until 8pm, and said we could still have drinks upstairs. Question, is Bonapartes still a good place to have drinks and then move downstairs later? Or should I email roughly 10 folks and tell them another spot? If the later, do you all have any suggestions for a place for a good toast?

Fritz: Bonaparte's okay at dinner, but doesn't have the upscale Euro vibe that you're looking for a Metropolitain. (You can, however, get the champagne upstairs.)

Actually, if the weather's good, I'd tell you to call back and explain it's your birthday and you'd like a seat on the patio. Since it faces onto Mintwood, not Columbia Road, it's tame enough that you can chat with your friends.

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Towson, Md.: French Caribbean band Kassav is performing at the 9:30 club tonight. My parents (late 40's) Are interested in going. What is generally the dress code for 9:30 club? My parents like to dress up and I'm worried they will be overdressed for the venue...please help!

David: You might want to tell them to keep it casual. There's no dress code at 9:30 outside of "be dressed." This is not the time to break out the formal wear. It's a rock-and-roll club, y'know? That doesn't mean they have to find some ripped jeans and a leather jacket, but there's no need to go above and beyond.

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Washington, D.C.: Okay, I know the new EPL season doesn't start until mid August, but I'm wondering what bar is best to watch the weekend Sat/Sun. morning games. I live in Silver Spring, so I'd prefer to stay on the red line, but if there are good crowds at bars off the other lines I'll check them out too. I just prefer to stay in DC or MD... if it matters I'm a Liverpool fan who recently moved here from NYC (where the supporters club hung out at the 11th street bar in Manhattan for games), but if there isn't a bar where many Liverpool supporters congregate, that's cool, I'll take anyplace with a decent crowd for games. Thanks!

Fritz: I've seen plenty of Scousers all over D.C. -- Fado, Kitty O'Shea's, Lucky Bar, Summers, etc. I'd rather watch games at Kitty O'Shea's, since it's the smaller (and less crowded) of that group. Also, I know at least a few of the Irish barstaff at the Irish Channel are Pool supporters, so that's another Red Line-friendly option.

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Chinese language: Has anyone in the chat neighborhood taken any basic Chinese language classes in DC or northern VA? My husband and I are looking to do this together, and I was hoping for recommendations beyond the USDA or Berlitz routes.

Stephanie: This is so random, I can't help but throw it out there. I took Japanese classes through the Japanese embassy, and it's possible the Chinese embassy has something similar. I've also heard good things about USDA classes. Chatters, any other ideas?

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Washington, D.C.: Do you think Restaurant Week is really worth it now that it is $35 a person? I used to enjoy the chance to check out new restaurants on a deal, but I am not sure it is worth the hassle/ crowds/ limited menu at that price. Possibly an extravagant restaurant might be worth the hassle, but nothing really grabbed my attention on the list.

Julia: I totally agree with you.

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Washington, D.C., 20001: Afternoon - I know that the new(ish) Liaison Hotel had an open event for the 4th, but is the rooftop bar normally open for non-guests? Looking for a place to enjoy the nice weather. Thanks

Fritz: It is not. (I wish it was -- went to a pre-4th party up there and it's a great setting.

If you're looking to go out tonight, I'd suggest the rooftop happy hour at the Embassy Row Hilton that we wrote about in the Nightlife Agenda, or maybe one of the poolside parties at the Omni Shoreham or the Washington Plaza. (Tonight's a special edition of the latter with Latin music.)

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Cleveland Park: Random but you know all soooo... I'm moving to Cleveland Park and don't know the area well. Particularly I'm hoping there's a lovely coffee shop or breakfast place that I can spend my Sundays in reading the Washington Post (a shout out so hopefully you'll post!)... am I in luck??

Anne:
Ah, I'm envious. Cleveland Park is a gem, even if it is pretty Starbucks-saturated. Local chain Firehook is the place you'll want to be. Stay at the counter over the street during the dog days, but when it cools off a bit, definitely take in the sun in its garden patio out back.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey gurus- question. My favorite beer of the moment is Shock Top. I had it at a beer festival in Virginia a few months ago, and the only place in the district I've seen it is at Green Turtle (not even RFD had it!). Any suggestions on where I might find it. If liquor stores sold it, it would not be a biggie, but I can't find it anywhere!

Thanks!

Fritz: Seriously? Shock Top? Budweiser's attempt to glom onto Coors' Blue Moon market? I had it at RFD a few weeks ago, when I was browsing the beer list and asked the bartender to "pick me something new." I found it to be a soapy, faintly spicy attempt at the style; I'd much rather have an Allagash or Ommegang Witte if I'm going for an American beer of that style. (Both/Either of which you can find around town at any number of places, including 51st State, the Reef and Eleventh Street.)

Honestly, I think I saw it in the beer case at Whole Foods.

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30th Birthday Suggestion: My coworker hosted a birthday party for about the same size group with pool, darts, and shuffleboard in the upstairs room at Finn MacCool's. I think they waived all or part of the rental when the group hit a minimum in food and drinks.

Fritz: D'oh! Very, very good suggestion. Every time I go to Finn Mac Cool's, I make a mental note to recommend the upstairs.

Very good idea. Thanks.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm 26 and moving to NYC and want to have a goodbye happy hour will all of my friends in D.C. I'm thinking next Thursday night, and I'd like a place that is: cheap, summer-y, accessible and has food. It might be too hot to be outside, but I'd like a place with lots of windows. I normally hang out on 14th street, but would prefer someplace more centrally located with metro.

Any ideas? Thank you!

Julia: Lots of windows is tough. Perhaps the Front Page for its massive happy hour night?

If you decide it's okay to be outside, the back patio at the Big Hunt comes to mind. The rooftop at Cleveland Park Bar and Grill isn't bad either -- depending on where your friends live.

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Arlington: Hey GoGs! It's my birthday (and my boyfriend's birthday) on Saturday, and I am trying to come up with some good ideas to please some local friends and some out of town guests.

I waited around until yesterday to try to make a dinner reservation somewhere for 10 people, and ended up being able to be squeezed in at Anthony Bourdain's Les Halles. Has anyone been there? Is it worth going to, or should I take my chances elsewhere?

Ideally, I would like to not have to make everyone taxi all across the city and would love to go out for drinks around the restaurant afterwards. Doesn't seem like I have many options though. Is there anything worthwhile nearby?

My last idea was to check out Honor By August at Iota. A friend knows one of the guys and has almost sold me. What do you think, Gurus? You helped me out last year planning a birthday party and it was great!!!

Thanks!!

Julia: First things first, our Les Halles isn't exactly Anthony Bourdain's. He worked at a NYC Les Halles back in the day, and now, I'm pretty sure he focuses most of his efforts on his TV projects.

But anyway, I like the spot for a big group -- kind of a friendly bistro vibe -- but the service can be hit or miss. If you do choose to go there, you can make the not-TOO-bad trek up to Rocket Bar for some post-dinner festivities.

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Movies: Is there a movie theater in the area that shows IMAX - like the Dark Knight, not the nature/space ones?

Stephanie: In addition to the typical nature films, the Udvar-Hazy Center shows non-science movies, including The Dark Knight.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Are there any metro-accessible bars that will let you play cards? We were playing drinking games at a Georgetown bar this past weekend, and the bartender told us to stop, claiming the police would issue the bar a ticket if an officer saw what we were doing. One of my buddies, who was there that night, is a DC cop, and he said there was no rule against it. What gives?

Fritz: I've heard this before and asked the Alcohol Board about it. If I remember correctly, playing cards isn't illegal in D.C. bars, but gambling is, and the bar could get in trouble for allowing gambling to take place. (Note: charity tournaments and just-for-fun Texas Hold 'Em nights are exempt, as no money is changing hands between players.) If the bartender thought you were gambling, or suspects that a visiting police or ABRA enforcement officer would suspect you were gambling, than he's within his rights to ask you to stop.

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Washington, D.C.: Where can I get the Italian Vogue issue I keep hearing about with all black models? Would love to give it to my niece.

Janet: Try one of the Borders stores.

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Arlington: If 30 - 40 people isn't big, then what is? Or is this person just letting us know how popular they are?

Fritz: 30-40 people at a birthday party isn't "big," really -- most bars think "big" is 100 and up, when you need to take over a large portion of the space.

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Washington, D.C.: Yogurt's not just for breakfast. I've been able to find non-traditional yogurt flavors (banana, caramel, coconut, lime) from the store brand selection at Giant as well as other grocery stores that carry a large selection of Hispanic foods. Also, try Whole Foods for some exotic flavors.

Julia: Caramel, I've seen at Giant, but coconut?! That is awesome news. Here you go, Belgium gal.

No offense intended with the breakfast remark. Just trying to come up with a way to describe it besides "goopy stuff that comes in a container," which was my other choice. Good thing I write for a living; I'm oh-so-articulate.

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Ommegang: MMMM... Love Ommegang, but the Witte is not my fav. Do you know which bars carry the Henepin and/or Abbey Ale? My parents live about 20 miles from Cooperstown and I and so glad I can finally get Ommegang around here. If you happen to end up in the Cooperstown area, I highly recommend a visit to the brewery.

Fritz: I've had Hennepin on draft recently at 51st State, Rocket Bar and ... somewhere in Clarendon, I thought. Readers?

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I'd kill a dragon for you: if you could tell me if a trivia phoenix has risen from the flame that was Quizzo's departure from Pour House?

Fritz: No. And I'm still waiting.

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Alexandria, Va.: I;ve seen Shock Top at a number of places in Northern Va.

Fritz: Yeah, it's not as if an Anheuser-Busch beer is going to be that hard to find. Still, if that was a plant, well, I don't care, because I got to (hopefully) warn people off of a pretty cruddy beer.

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Beltsville, Md.: I want to throw my friend a bridal shower. I was thinking of doing a wine and cheese party, and hiring a wine consultant to go through a tasting with us. Do you know where I could find a wine consultant? I know Virginia has people who will do free wine tastings, but they don't offer that in Maryland due to dumb wine transport laws (I don't mind paying or someone). Thanks!

Julia: The Curious Grape in Shirlington should be good for some advice. They can't provide MD tastings, but they should be able to help.

You might also check out Kelly Magyarics Wine Consulting. Because I am lazy, I will just paste what I wrote about her last year for the bachelorette party story:

Bachelorettes in all three jurisdictions can take advantage of tastings organized by Kelly Magyarics Wine Consulting. Magyarics offers one-, one-and-a-half- and two-hour tasting sessions that start at $225 to $295 per hour and can accommodate 15 to 18 people. Bachelorettes often opt for a celebratory tastings featuring champagnes and sparkling wines, she says, but she also offers a more sentimental option. For a "Dream Destinations" package, Magyarics selects wines from regions the bride and groom have visited or want to visit some day. Call 703-203-WINE or visit trywine.net.

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Washington, D.C.: Ok, not a going-out question, but a semantics question. Why do you always add periods after D and C in DC? Aren't we a state-equivalent, like MD or VA (no periods necessary!). I know this confirms that I am a huge, grammar-obsessed nerd, but it really bothers me! Why?

Fritz: Washington Post style is Md., Va. and D.C., since D.C. is an abbreviation for two separate words, like N.Y., N.J. or R.I.

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Washington, D.C.: I'm trying to remember the name of a new swanky, elite bar that opened this year in DC. I think it starts with an L and it's a woman's name. Can you help me?

Fritz: Um, Josephine?

(Not Josephine's. There is no woman named Josephine who is involved with the place, owns it or possesses it.)

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Trapped at my Desk, D.C.: Hey Gurus, I need something to do this weekend in or around Alexandria that won't be crammed with tourists. I'm tired of just sitting around or going to the movies. I wouldn't mind something outside, if its not going to be 100 degrees, but just something low key and fun to do for a few hours. We like history and adventures, could do a fair, or something like that too. Would like to go to museums, but not until after tourist season.....Thanks!

Anne: There's the African fest in Alexandria this weekend, and there are plenty more fairs and festivals going on. To avoid the tourists, how about blackberry picking? Balloon rides and wine tasting to celebrate a Jamestown-related anniversary?

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Alexandria, Va.: Why wouldn't you be able to play cards at a bar? I've met friends for cards at Buffalo Billiards, Temperence Hall, Brickskeller, Hard Times Cafe, Continental, etc. etc. I mean really, just pick a place and go - just don't be obnoxious and make a scene about it.

Fritz: Word. Just don't gamble on your spades games, okay? We don't want any of those places getting shut down.

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D.C.: Hello Gurus, I'm looking for two things. First, a straight up dive bar. Second, is there any place around here that plays country music or has country/blues bands playing? Thanks.

Fritz: Dive: Lil' Pub. Or Tune Inn, which I will steadfastly love despite the fact that it gets some H&D overspill.

Country: JV's is the place to go.

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Rockville, Md.: Suggestions on places to get gelato? Since it's summer time and all.

David: I stopped by Boccato Gelatos last night, the new place on Wilson Blvd. (across from Whole Foods) and it was very good. They don't really have a sign and everything's pretty lo-fi as of now (bring cash) but that adds to the charm. They have some funky flavors and you can even suggest new ones on a sheet of paper hanging on the wall. The owner looks at it and then narrows down the choices and people can vote.

Julia: I'm a major fan of Dolcezza. You can also find their gelato at Pete's A-Pizza and ACKC Alexandria (maybe the Logan Circle one too -- haven't been by in a while).

I'll also second David on Boccato. So good.

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Shock Top: I think its on tap at Austin Grill. For that matter, you can find it at your local Giant grocery store with the other mass produced beers.

Fritz: There you go.

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Kensington, Md.: My brand new bride and I are looking for a fun festival for Saturday. We've been married two months, written thank you notes, and now are ready to go out and do something fun. When I was growing up in the Midwest, we had a different festival almost every weekend, with food, games, exhibits, beauty queens, etc., all celebrating whatever the local town grew, from strawberries to sauerkraut. Do you know of anything around here that might that bill?

Stephanie: I feel your pain. I just moved back to D.C. from the Bay Area, where there's a different neighborhood festival every weekend. But never fear, you do have some options this weekend, although they might be slightly different than the ones from your days in the Midwest. You can find the International Great Grapes Wine, Arts and Food Festival at the Anne Arundel Fairgrounds, demolition derbies at the Fredericksburg Fair and the African Heritage and Cultural Festival in Alexandria.

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Come to think of it, why doesn't our country expand the breakfast yogurt flavor market? : I agree! I love Safeway date/walnut yogurt, but can't get it in Richmond. I don't like any too fruity/sweet, so right now, coffee is the only flavor I can stand. Mostly I get plain and add a little something.

Julia: Yeah, I gave up on yogurt after I totally burned out on the flavors. How much cherry-vanilla can one woman take?

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Playing Cards: I've seen lots of people playing cards at Solly's in U street. Plus, that bar is just plain awesome.

Fritz: Yep. It is. Anyone go to Kostume Karaoke last night?

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Looking for EPL: Fritz, please stop endorsing Summers as an option for watching football. They overcharge and do not care about their loyal clientele, which is why most people I know have stopped going there and watch their games at home, in their pajamas, on Setanta. Also, the Silver Springer should stop by McGinty's to watch games, although (s)he should call ahead to make sure they are open.

Fritz: I can't get Setanta at home. And I mostly go to Summers for weekday games, especially when they show games on tape delay, which a number of other bars don't... and I don't think McGinty's was open early on Saturdays last year, but I'll check when I do the usual where-to-watch guide.

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Dupont Circle: What is the best place in D.C. for getting your eyebrows threaded?

Janet: Okyo in Georgetown gets mostly good marks for this service.

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places to get gelato?: Call me crazy, but the gelato at Mama Lucia's restaurant chain in Silver Spring is pretty amazing.

David: You're not crazy at all. It is pretty amazing. My dad became obsessed with it and talked to the guy who makes it and apparently it's very authentic, however gelato can be authentic. Or maybe he was just lying to my dad. Join the club, right?! Anyway, point is -- Mamma Lucia gelato in Silver Spring is delicious.

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Washington, D.C.: Good afternoon, Gurus and readers! I'm looking for a place to host what I guess we'll call a "medium" happy hour (60-70 people) in Georgetown. Semi-private or private space is a must. I rarely venture into Georgetown, so I'm at a bit of a loss.

Oh - and I'm not this popular. It's for an organization I belong to.

Fritz: I'll throw out Garrett's, Mie N Yu, Sequoia, 51st State (okay, it's across the bridge) -- all should have space, and that's a wide range of price levels.

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Chinese Class: You should look into the Arlington County Adult Education class---I'm not sure if they have chinese, but the catalog is online. I recently took beginner Italian. The course ran for 12 weeks and was very affordable. It was held in Clarendon near the Metro. Here is the web site.

Stephanie: Brilliant! I've taken a class there (the name of which I will never tell; it was THAT nerdy), and it was very good. Best of all, from the looks of the course catalog, they offer Chinese language classes.

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Washington, D.C.: Do any of you know of a nail salon in the District that does cheap manicures and pedicures? Like NYC prices for $15 for both?

Janet: I doubt that even in NYC, the land of affordable mani-pedis that you can find both for $15. Just keep in mind that if it is too cheap to believe, you may be putting yourself at risk for infection. Just a word to the wise.

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Please help...: Place to eat in Middleburg area Saturday night - not too "old" - going after wine tasting at Chrysalis. Will drive.

Fritz: Hmm. I don't know the area too well, especially non-fancy Inn/Hunter's Head-style dining destinations. What about heading north to Purcellville for Magnolia's at the Mill? Very interested restaurant/bar in an restored turn-of-the-century mill building. Crowd's been a mix of ages whenever I've been there.

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Ommegang: You can get Ommegang Three Philosopher's on tap at Ella's Pizza (DC) or by the bottle at the Quarry House Tavern in Silver Spring. (it is my husband's favorite) You can buy it at McGruder's in Chevy Chase DC.

Fritz: Apparently a number of our readers are fans of Ommegang. If you haven't tried it, they -- and I -- suggest you give Cooperstown's own Belgian beers a shot.

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FYI on Continental in Rosslyn: Be forewarned: the music- good rock and classics- is LOUD. Hard to hear others talk.

Fritz: Yes, it can be, but I don't think that's true for the whole space, or I've never noticed it while playing pool.

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Pennsylvania: I'll be in D.C. in mid-August (yes, I know, we're insane) and my husband and I would like to eat out in Old Town Alexandria. We're thinking mid-range price-wise; most cuisines are fine except for Cajun and Indian. Alcohol is not a requirement; my husband doesn't drink much and I'm pregnant. I'd love to sit out on the sidewalk and pretend to be part of the hip, urban crowd. Any recommendations? Thanks!

Julia: I guess all of my Old Town favorites are mostly indoor spots. For outdoor dining, I suppose I'd suggest one of the few outdoor tables at Hank's. As you mention, it will be hot in August, so should you choose to eat indoors, let me also suggest Vermillion.

The hip, urban crowd may be lacking in Old Town in August. It's a pretty tourist heavy spot.

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Yogurt burnout, D.C.: Then you must start buying plain Greek yogurt (Fage, Oikios, Trader Joe's, etc), which is less sour than regular plain yogurt. A blank canvass! Blueberries, chopped peaches, a drizzle of honey, some chopped walnuts, low-fat granola, wheat germ. The sky's the limit!

Julia: I had Greek yogurt on my honeymoon and I totally agree; it is to die for. I'm told the Dupont Farmers Market has it too!

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Wine Tasting: Total Wine does wine tastings in your home. And, brava, poster for an interesting sophiticated alternative to the typical games and jokes bridal shower!

Julia: But will they turn the ribbons into a bouquet? (One of the many awkward moments of my bridal shower....)

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Arlington, Va.: Any inside scoop on Sunday's Rock the Bells? I've never been to Merriweather - advice on parking, what time to arrive, how much food and drink might cost? Thanks!

David: Parking in the mall parking lot across the street is usually advised. Not sure if it will be any different since this is a day time show. Food and drink will be regular ballpark prices -- more expensive than you'd like, but you don't really have a choice. There aren't official set times yet, but there will be good music all day since the lineup is stacked. The big names -- Tribe, Nas, Mos Def -- will almost certainly be at the end of the day, but the Cool Kids, Wale, Immortal Technique and others will probably be on earlier. Try to see as much as you can would be my advice.

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McGinty's: Probably submitting this too late...I'm not the original poster but I live in Silver Spring and I had no idea they showed EPL games, I usually go all the way to Finn McCool's. Do you know if McGinty's gets a good crowed for games or not?

Fritz: Again, I don't think they were open early for games last year. They are on Setanta's master list of pubs that show soccer -- but so are Izora and the Rock, both of which closed YEARS ago.

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Petworth: I guess this is how you can tell that I am getting older - Rocket is loud, as is Continental.

Fritz: I think Rocket is loud when there's a game at the Phone Booth, but on an average night, I don't have any trouble hearing my Skee Ball partners.

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Language classes: Few people know this, but there's a small grad school program at NIH that's open to anyone. It's called FAES, and they offer several languages including Chinese. Classes are on NIH's main campus in Bethesda, so that may not help someone looking for a D.C. or Northern Virginia location, but just throwing it out there. (And on a different note - USDA classes pretty much rock, so I don't know what bone she has to pick with them.)

Stephanie: Another option for the person in search of Chinese language classes.

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So-So Sala?: Hi Gurus, Thinking of having a b-day get-together with about 10 people. I've heard mixed things about Co Co Sala. Is it worth it for a fun celebration evening? Do you need reservations?

Julia: Haven't been since Day 1, but friends tell me it's got a louder loungey vibe than it did on my first visit. I think it's fun and worth a trip. Strikes me as a better spot for a group of girlfriends than a mixed group.

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Rockville, Md.: for the Penna folks looking for hip/outdoor in Old Town Alex....if they're willing to go a little further, Evening Star in Del Ray will fill the bill sans tourists. It's a wine-heavy spot but no one will make them feel bad for not drinking.

Julia: I love Evening Star Cafe. It's just so pleasant. In my opinion, the Del Ray neighborhood might give those chatters more of the urban feel they were looking for. Even though the neighborhood is decidedly suburban, there's a lot of good foot traffic along Mount Vernon.

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Arlington, Va.: Hello GOGs!

I'd like to take my friend out for a formal afternoon ta to celebrate her birthday. Any suggestions on the best places for tea in the District? I'd like to keep it to about $40 or less per person. Thanks!!

Stephanie: I've been to both the Mandarin Oriental and the Ritz (at Tysons, although I believe the D.C. location does it as well) for tea and both were excellent. I think the prices hovered somewhere in the $30-$40 range, although that was a few years ago.

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Arlington: Hi again, I already asked a question about some ideas for a joint birthday celebration this weekend. My birthday AND my boyfriend's. We have tenatively decided to go out with his friends on Friday and my friends on Saturday. He doesn't like to plan anything, so it will be my job to make sure the boys have fun. I have never been to Bourbon but think it may fit the bill... my boyfriend loves his Scotch. Any other ideas for some 'guy's guy's? Sports bars, sports events?

Thanks Again, GOGs. You are lifesavers!

Fritz: Bourbon has a stronger selection of American whiskeys than Scottish, though they're still better-than-average, and there are frequent promotions. I stumbled into a Macallan tasting there last month and got to sample tastes of three different styles, then a free coupon for a full glass of my favorite. Plus the place has a great vibe, especially when you can wander upstairs, and it's easy enough to bar hop in Adams Morgan when you're done.

"Guy's guy" kind of places, eh? Let's see: I'm thinking dark wood, drinks, maybe a little pool? I'll throw out Breadsoda, Lounge 201, Atomic Billiards, Bar Louie -- I'm guessing at least one of those would do the trick.

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Washington, D.C.: In an attempt to break out of our comfort zone my girlfriend and I have been throwing back some liquid courage and taking the lead by approaching guys versus waiting for them to approach us when we're out on the town.... we've found one hot spot but are looking for a few more (bars, not clubs). GOGs, can you help us find where the guys are at??? Oh, and we aren't all that down with Adams Morgan or Georgetown. I'd be interested to hear if Bethesda or Capitol Hill has any cool weekend bars... Thanks!

Fritz: Capitol Hill, to me, has always been tragically slow on Saturdays if you're not an intern, but you might venture down to Cantina Marina and talk to some of the guys at that waterfront spot. In Bethesda, try Tommy Joe's, Ri-Ra or maybe Rock Bottom. While I like the Harp and Fiddle, that's always seemed more like a couples spot to me.

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Ballston Dude: If its too loud at Continental, just put the appetizers in your ears.

The spinache artichoke dip is so bad on the palete, it might just work as an earplug

Fritz: Zing!

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O Street: A girlfriend is coming back to D.C. from NYC for the weekend and we want to go to dinner in Penn Quarter. Do you have any suggestions on a moderately priced restaurant? And ideas for dancing and fun afterwards with preferably mid to late-20s crowd?

Julia: Moderately priced isn't easy in Penn Quarter anymore. Matchbox, Jaleo and Oyamel come to mind. Nearby, you can dance at Avenue or Ultrabar, but I'd head up to ESL or Citron for a less clubby vibe.

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Silver Spring, Md.: I hope I can get this in before the chat ends. The person looking for the Black model issue of Italian Vogue will have to order it. A couple of friends tried to find it and all the stores said it had sold out, since they only carry a few copies. I don't have the info, but I am sure you can just Google to find out how to order it.

Janet: So, for the chatter looking for that particular Italian Vogue, here's the word from a Silver Spring chatter.

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Dupont Circle: Seriously, GOGs, I need help, and you've ignored me every week. I've asked about the pool options in the Dupont area to no avail. I checked out Fritz's pool suggestions, but those are just happy hours. I'm searching for a resort-style or hotel pool to hang out at during the day, will pay if necessary. Don't want oodles of kids and/or really hot people, since I'm feeling out of shape. Just want a place where I can sun and dip in succession, with some Lillet or other summer drink thrown in.

Fritz: The Hiltons -- Woodley Park and Hinckley -- offer day passes. But they have a LOT of kids. Maybe if you call in sick?

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Threading: Dupont Threading is the best! Cheaper and MUCH more precise than Threadz (ugh, I hate Threadz). Also, Nusta Spa downtown, love them.

Janet: For the chatter looking for the best place around town for eyebrow threading, here's one chatter's opinion.

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Arlington, Va.: I am looking for a great steak and red wine for a "man-date" for lack of a better term. We went to Morton's in Georgetown a couple of months ago. While I love Morton's, looking for something different, preferably in D.C. Have any suggestions?

Julia: Sietsema would probably say Charlie Palmer. I'd say District ChopHouse (but I'd sub the wine for a beer).

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PETWORTH: Howdy Gurus. Just wondering if you know of any movie theaters in the area that have special showings for moms (or dads) and babies. I'd love to catch a movie but don't want to be the lady with the annoying kid in the theater. Thanks!

Anne: Petworth, is this you? How is it we've been chatting all this time and we didn't even know you had a kid? Please accept our belated congratulations. As for movies, you'll want to do the Movie Moms club at the Majestic in Silver Spring on Wednesdays. The schedule used to be online, but in the switch from Consolidated Theaters to Regal, it's gone missing. But you can find out what's playing by calling the theater: 301-565-8884. (They should know by Fridays what the next Wednesday movies will be.)

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Arlington, Va.: Re: Boccato

They're awesome and finally an ice cream place I can walk to! Last time I was there he said they should be opening the coffee bar sometime this week? That also looks worth a try because it has individual Melita drippers for making coffee.

Julia: Sounds delish.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you have any thoughts on why clubs Fur and Ibiza don't attract that many girls? I've been there recently and was surprised to find a very skewed ratio, apart from several large groups of girls. Is it the fact that the area is somewhat sketchy? Also, when these clubs first opened, they tended to have a pretty international, diverse crowd, which is not the case now. Just wondering if you've observed the same thing.

Fritz: My observation is that except for large groups of women, i.e. birthday parties and girls' nights out, the large clubs never get high numbers of women. (Love is the rare exception, as are some specific nights like Buzz.) My experience in talking to women for stories is that they prefer to go to more intimate places rather than the big-box spaces like Fur or Ibiza, and yeah, I think the sketchiness of the neighborhood might have something to do with it.

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Approaching Guys: The poster says they already found one hot spot, as a fellow female singleton I'd love to know where said hotspot is b/c I haven't found it yet. Thanks!

Fritz: If you can't go out and find at least ONE bar with attractive guys in it, then you're really, really not trying hard enough. Sorry.

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Guys on the Hill: For the girl looking for male hangouts... my guy friends always head for H Street bars. Hill feel without all the interns.

Fritz: I'm going to go ahead and say you should try the Argonaut, the Pug, Granville Moore's (upstairs) and the Rock and Roll Hotel, in that order.

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Arlington, Va.: Fritz,

A quick one before you go. What's your record for most consecutive days w/ at LEAST one beer?

Fritz: I decline to answer on advice of my liver.

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Afternoon Tea : The British Pantry is a little hike, but well worth it for an authentic afternoon tea. And they're less expensive than the hotels. Make a reservation, though - they only have a few tables.

Stephanie: If the name is any indication, British Pantry sounds like it could be an authentic afternoon tea experience.

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Anonymous: Hi gurus,

Where's a great place that takes reservations for a group of 10-15 to go out Saturday night for dinner/drinks -- a bon voyage party, if you will, for someone moving abroad who wants to have a festive last night in D.C.?

Julia: This Saturday? If the previous poster's plight is true, seems like it would be tough to get reservations at this stage in the game. Even so, I always like the loud boisterous vibe at Bistro du Coin. Chef Geoff's another spot that can usually handle a big group. Merkado Kitchen hasn't wowed me much in recent years, but since they're doing 75-percent-off wine right now, that might be another good choice. [Update: After the chat, we heard from a reliable Guru friend that the 75 percent off wine deal (detailed in this Dish column) won't be happening until later in August. Merkado tells us that special won't take place until Aug. 17-24.]

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Pennsylvania, again: The Evening Star Cafe sounds like just the thing. Thanks so much; will report back.

Julia: Great, please do! Enjoy D.C.!

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RE Guys on the Hill: Rock and Roll last? That's our all time fav

Fritz: It's kinda hard to go up to guys when they're watching a band -- oh, wait. Just noticed that the very awesome Reform School Girls are hosting a dance night this weekend. They're gonna be playing a good mix of music, as always, so bump that to the top of the list for this Saturday.

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L'Enfant, D.C.: For the person goign up to Merriweather, take 95 to either 32 or 175 and park at the Mall near the Sears. The pavilion is on the other side of the big green glass buildings and they have cops controlling the traffic there. Not sure if it matters, but it's a Pepsi joint and the venue staff is really nice. They always give good pours on the drinks. Plenty of shade too, so you don't have to worry about roasting.

Also, for the "man date" person, Capitol Grille is pretty good from what I've heard. Fleming's, same folks who own Outback, also broil a good steak but they're not in city proper.

Julia: Lots of advice from L'Enfant! If the mandater was willing to hit the close-in burbs, I might also suggest Ray's the Steaks. Great steaks, and the low-key vibe is perfect for a mandate. Not being able to make a reservation might be a problem.

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Arlington, Va.: Hi Gurus: I'm so looking forward to getting out Friday night. I was wondering if you new of a cool band playing somewhere low key and friendly, kind of tired of stuffy unfriendly places. I'm thinking it'll be three or four 30- and 40-something girls. We like rock, '80s, etc. and it wouldn't hurt if there was room to dance. We're easy to please in the way of drinks. Oh yea, Metro-accessible would be great, too. Thanks so much.

Fritz: Don't know what you're thinking in terms of stuffy and unfriendly, but in Arlington, Full Effect -- one of the more popular cover bands on the Dewey/East Coast circuit -- is playing this Friday.

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Washington. D.C.: Any thoughts on the northwest neighborhood Bloomingdale? Other than Big Bear Cafe, any news on up and coming social spots?

Anne: Bloomingdale is so on a roll, isn't it? What gorgeous houses and then there's Timor, the sweet organic produce place that brings in fresh milk and yogurt from PA. But here's my question to you -- what's the difference between Bloomingdale and Ledroit Park, and where are the boundaries? And which of them can claim Windows Cafe?

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Random Question: As a loyal reader - just wondering - how many people read this blog on a weekly basis?

David: A better question would be: How many people aren't reading this on a weekly basis?

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washingtonpost.com: Okay, that's it for us this week, but we do have some big news: We've put our City Guide restaurant and bar listings on this rad new iPhone app, which can even tell you which pubs/sushi places/steakhouses are closest to you. The kicker: it's FREE. Go check here for more information.

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