The Going Out Gurus
of the washingtonpost.com City Guide
Thursday, September 18, 2008
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: Hello, everyone. Another lovely day, another not-to-warm weekend coming up. How are you planning to spend it? And what do you wish D.C. had that you can't find? Ask us, and we may be able to help. (That's why they call us Going Out Gurus.) We have most of the crew on hand: Anne, David, Fritz, Janet, Julia, Stephanie and Rhome. Let's get right to your questions.
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Foggy Bottom: Not a going out question, but does anyone a recommendation for an inexpensive mover in the District? I am moving from Northwest to Northeast and I'm looking for movers to transport my large furniture - nothing fragile. I'm looking for the best deal around as long as they are reliable. Thanks
Stephanie: Even though I've lived ten different places in the last ten years, I've only tried one company--Gulliver's Movers ("swift and gentle giants"), and I thought they were great. Any other suggestions from the chatters?
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Quantico, Va.: Just a heads up for our men and women in uniform: Hawk and Dove (Penn Ave, SE) does not permit military personnel. Several active duty Marines and civilian coworkers (including myself) were denied access to the bar after a Marine showed his military ID as proof of age (his driver's license expired while he was in Iraq). They told us that military personnel were not permitted into the bar. We received no further explanation. I just wanted to let people know so that they wouldn't waste their time or money on this establishment.
Fritz: This is true, though when I've written about it, I was been told the policy -- which dates back to the early '90s -- only applies to groups of Marines. The explanation the bar gives is that they've had problems with groups of Marines coming in and getting involved in fights and drunken incidents. If the Marines are in uniform or with a date, there's no problem, since (according to the bar) they behave better in those circumstances.
I don't think this is the only bar in D.C. with a no-Marines policy, and it certainly works both ways, with the Corps banning Marines from entering some local bars and clubs, most notably Nation.
Anyway, yes, it seems discriminatory, and if you don't agree with it, take your money elsewhere, but more importantly, LET THE BAR KNOW that you're taking your business somewhere else. That's the only way to try to effect change.
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Silver Spring, Md.: Hey guys... is the Hook and Ladder restaurant and bar slated to go into the old fire house in downtown Silver Spring EVER going to happen? They have pushed this back countless times, and the last I heard was that it was supposed to open this summer. That definitely did not happen, and while I may be wrong, there is no sign of construction going on outside or inside the building to convert it to a bar/restuarant. Any news?
Fritz: Let's hold out hope for next spring, which is the latest info I have.
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Alexandria, Va.: Not a going out question, but thought you might be able to help... I wrote a short 4 line poem for my wife's 30th b-day that's actually not bad. I was thinking of getting it engraved on something, but after hours of internet searching I'm finding the vast majority of stuff you can get engraved is either cheesy, low quality, or wedding favor type items, or corporate type awards. The best I've come up with so far is a music box from the Music Box Attic website, or a glass picture frame. Any other ideas of something classy and good quality that I could get engraved with a short poem?
Stephanie: I actually have another possibility to throw into the mix, thanks to a gift my sister and brother-in-law received for their wedding. My brother-in-law wrote a haiku for the wedding invitations and his mother had the poem printed in large calligraphy, which she then framed. You could always look into commissioning a local artist/calligrapher to do something similar.
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Alexandria, Va.: We used Skyline Movers in Alexandria back in the spring on recommendation of a friend. Wally and his crew did a great job for a reasonable price.
Stephanie: Another moving suggestion.
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Downtown, D.C.: Okay, stupid question: What's the deal with PX? Is that the place above Eamonn's, or is that something else? Is it really a "secret club," as I recently heard two Alexandrians ("San Diego-ans... San Diegites... San Diagans") describe it? Or does it just require dressing nicely and/or making a reservation? Thanks for your help!
Fritz: PX is the no-sign speakeasy-style cocktail bar above Eamonn's. It's not a "secret" in that anyone can make a reservation, but it's not marked so the bar-hopping masses don't see it and just stumble in. Some of the most inventive cocktails you'll find anywhere in the D.C. area. You do have to dress up -- I've gotten away with a blazer and skinny jeans -- and it's completely worth it.
Now Hummingbird to Mars -- that's a "secret club."
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Washington, D.C.: I'm getting married downtown next March and looking for a place to host brunch the next day - Our wedding hotel is too pricey - looking for something near Metro Center that can accommodate about 50 people.
Thanks!
Julia: The Gallery Place Clyde's could be too expensive, but might work. Maybe Matchbox? They started serving brunch not too long ago.
Chatters, please pardon a minor interruption: I promised super-producer Ms. Tammy Haddad that I'd post her amazing video featuring our own David Malitz -- and the Jonas Brothers. Isn't he dreamy? (David, not Nick or Kevin or whoever...)
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Arlington: Where can we Eagles fans go to watch games? South Arlington or Alexandria location would be best. Thanks!
Fritz: There are usually Eagles fans at the Bailey's in Crystal City or the Crystal City Sports Pub, though Rhino Bar in Georgetown is still top of the list for Philly fans.
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Annandale, Va.: I have been a faithful reader for a long time and haven't needed your help until now. My boyfriend's birthday is Saturday and I would like to take him out to dinner and then to hear/see a band. He LOVES the blues. Any suggestions? I would really like to make it a memorable bday since it is a biggie!
Thanks, you guys (and gals) ROCK!!
Rhome: There's always Madam's Organ or JoJo if you don't mind coming into the city. Bangkok Blues is closer to your neck of the woods.
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Virginia Beach, Va.: Were any Marines or civilians in the group female? Why doesn't the Hawk and Dove post a sign?
Fritz: Two good questions. I'm trying to find my notes from when I wrote about this (years ago) and I'm pretty sure it's not blanket, but at the discretion of the bouncer. (Which might be why this group didn't get flagged until one of them used a Marine ID.)
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Downtown, D.C.: I'm looking for a piano bar and was wondering if such a thing exisisted in the tri-state area. To be more specific, I'm looking for something less Town & Country (Mayflower) and more redneck dueling pianos. Can you help? Anyone?
Fritz: Well, Maryland's in the tri-state area, and they have Howl at the Moon, which is a pretty over-the-top dueling (dualing?) piano bar with cheap drinks and a crowd that stops playing corn hole and flip cup long enough to shout along.
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re Watching Eagles games: they can also get on I-95 and head on back to Philadelphia, so that's an option
Julia: That was my take on that particular question . . . being a Skins fan and all. Who's gonna be in Landover with me this weekend?
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Arlington, Va.: Any update on Churchkey/Birch & Barley? I'm eager to try it out.
Fritz: When I talked to Beer Guy Greg Engert right after Labor Day, he told me the two-level beer bar (500 bottles, 50 drafts) wouldn't be open until November at the earliest, thanks to construction delays. Upside: The former Dakota Cowgirl space in Logan Circle is getting a rooftop deck.
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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, Several non-related questions. I have visited Aveda Institute in Chinatown a few times now for hair cuts. Since the price is so low, I'm just curious how others determine an appropriate tip. Any word on the movie Elegy and Burn After Reading? I have heard some negative reviews of Burn. Which would be worth seeing more this weekend? Any suggestions for good Italian food that doesn't break the bank? Is the Italian Store worth checking out?
Thanks for taking my questions.
Julia: Wow. You weren't kidding; these really are unrelated.
Cheap Italian -- you should totally check out the Italian Store, but I think it's best for takeout food like subs and pizza. (For years now, post.com management has been using free pizza from the Italian Store to lure us into tasks we're not psyched about. It works.)
If you're interested in a place with more of a sit-down atmosphere, look elsewhere. My favorite cheap Italian place, San Marco, recently closed, but Pasta Mia and Olazzo are reliable substitutes.
Didn't see Burn After Reading, but I totally don't want to believe the negative reviews! Either way, Elegy might be a safer bet.
Here's Janet . . . .
Janet: I think you should determine your tip on the quality of the service. If it's first-rate, go for 20 percent. It is after all, a great deal to begin with. I'm not sure how it works; can you get the same person more than once?
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Washington, D.C.: If you wanted to plan a great DC-area day this fall for your significant other, what would it be? He's outdoorsy though not at an intense level (think casual bike rides, sailing, etc) and likes beer. I'm not in favor of touristy stuff and am okay with driving a bit out of town. Thoughts?
Stephanie: I might head to Leesburg where there are some great bike trails. You could bike around and then head into the historic part of Leesburg, which is totally charming, for lunch. If you don't want to drive that far, you could do something similar by starting at Roosevelt Island and riding into Alexandria.
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Washington, D.C.: I'm planning to go to dinner at Co Co. Sala this weekend - any fun ideas of where to go afterwards for cocktails?
Julia: The cocktails at Co Co. are pretty good, so I might stick around there. Otherwise, the courtyard at Poste is always reliable, as is the oft-crowded bar at Rasika.
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Great Scott movers: They moved me and a few of my friends and were great.
Stephanie: And another option for movers.
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Burke, Va.: Way back in the day, I was a bartender at the old 21st Amendment on Pennsylvania Avenue . . . we always dreaded Marine payday, because the following sequence of events would happen: (a) young Marines come into bar; (b) they drink heavily; (c) they get shot down by GWU sorority girls; (d) they get cranky, and start fights. It got tired after the first fifty times. After a while, I believe the owner contacted some Marine officials, and the Marines just stopped coming in. I suspect the Hawk's just fine, as noted, with small groups and Marines with dates -- but young drunk Marines in larger groups? Worse than frat boys, and that's saying something.
Fritz: Here's a take from the other side of the bar.
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Fall Festivals? : With the cooling temperatures I am getting ready to attend some fall festivals! Are there any good ones happening this weekend in the northern Virginia area? Thanks!
Anne: Festival + This Weekend + Virginia, here you go! For the harvest-feel fall festivals, you may have to go further out. There are just tons this time of year, so if you were to go road-tripping through Virginia, you could stop at lots of places: the Bluemont Fair, the Cider Festival at Great Country Farms, or festivals in Haymarket, Hume and Manassas.
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H Street Festival?: Has anyone actually been to the H Street Festival? Is it like Adams Morgan Day from last weekend, or something totally different? It's this Saturday and the website is not helpful. Thanks gurus!
Rhome: It's similar but the scale is smaller. The vendor presence is not as dense. They had one big stage at the east end that was about the size of the Columbia stage and one stage in the middle that was pretty small. H Street is coming up fast though so I wouldn't be surprised if the festival has grown.
Fritz: Far fewer Chinese food vendors, except for the ones in the takeout places with bulletproof glass. Much smaller scale and more of a community feel. I'm looking forward to getting "brunch" at the Pug and checking out an afternoon set by local hip-hop should-be-stars trio the Package.
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Ballston, Va.: Hi Gurus,
Looking to catch some live music tomorrow, what's playing around Arlington-Alexandria? Open to all types, really. Thanks!
David: Well Nelson -- yes, Nelson -- is playing at Jaxx. (Seriously, watch that video if you're in need of some afternoon laughs.) And handful of local bands -- Everyone But Pete, Niki Barr, Rome In a Day -- at Iota. Some bar band rock at JV's. Not the most exciting night, honestly.
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Salsa Dancing: I know this has been answered before, but I can't find it anywhere. Where would you recommend for salsa dancing?
Fritz: Depends on your level of expertise.
For good dancers, the Salsa Room (formerly Cecilia's), Habana Village.
Medium: Costa Verde, Wednesday at Zanzibar on the Waterfront, Caribbean Breeze on Fridays
Absolute Beginners: Clarendon Grill or Lucky Bar on Mondays.
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Capitol Hill: Curious about the Paella Festival being held at the restaurant near Farragut West called Taberna del Alabardero. Not many details on their Web site...do you Gurus have any insight? Is it worth the $28 to check out? Do you get to try all kinds of paella or just pick one? Thanks!
Julia: You pick one. If you really like paella, I think it's worth it. The menu is pretty cool (and I think that's on their site). If you're not a massive paella fan, I'd probably skip it. The paella dishes serve two, so you'd pretty much have to spend $56 and that's just for one main course.
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U Street: Gurus: you've given me great advice in the past and now I really need a hand. I recently went on a great first date to a Nats game/Cantina Marina and now it's my turn to plan something for next week. I'm a bit of a movie buff so my date had hinted at dinner/movie, but after he thought outside of the proverbial dating box I'd like to do the same. Any ideas for something fun/cheap/unusual/very DC to do mid-week? The only real guidance I can give is that we're young, love going out, and need something Metro accessible. Whatever is a girl to do? Thanks!
Stephanie: Well if you're interested in a movie, but not a typical one, you could always check out the Latin American Film Festival at AFI. Or check out one of the hilarious plays that's currently in town, featuring Princess Leia, Sandra Bernhard or the Washington Improv Theater.
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Downtown: Quick question: Going out tonight with a friend in the McPherson/Farragut area. Usually I end up at Bottomline and eat tater tots but I'd love to go somewhere a little more interesting with non-bar food. I'm thinking somewhere besides Cafe Asia or Wasabi. Thank you! You're the best.
Julia: Restaurant K was perfect for this, but sadly, it's now closed. I guess I'd say Heritage India in Dupont or McCormick and Schmick's for their good happy hour deals. If it's more of a dinner date, I adore Kaz Sushi Bistro.
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Re Aveda Institute: On an $18 haircut, I give at least $5 (which is about 28 percent). I've given as much as $10. I think they do a good job, and considering the person I used to go to at the Aveda salon in Bethesda was $80....
Janet: Here's a comment from a chatter who went to the Aveda Institute.
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Poem guy: Try looking at the Red Envelope Web site. Someone recently gave us a gorgeous frame with our wedding info on it.
Janet: Good suggestion for the guy who wants something classy for an engraving.
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Columbia Heights: Hi -- I live in Columbia Heights and was thrilled when Commonwealth opened up to have a new bar in the area. Every time I've tried to eat there, the place has been packed and the wait times close to an hour. This weekend a friend told me he finally got in, but the bar there wasn't conducive to hanging out with friends and talking. Were my expectations too high for this place? Does it suck?
Julia: Hi, I don't think your expectations were too high, but I would give CommonWealth some time to cool down before writing it off completely. There was a lot of pre-opening buzz about the place and I think that's lead to it being a) really busy and b) not exactly a neighborhood place (when I've been in, it still seems like a lot of people haven traveled to get there). Once the newness factor wears off, I'd like to believe it'll be more like some of the other neighborhood bars in the area -- Red Derby, Tonic, etc. I mean, I for one want to be able to pop in for a game of backgammon.
Fritz: The problem with CommonWealth -- okay, my problem with CommonWealth -- is that it's all gastro, no pub. It doesn't feel like a pub at all. Okay, so you have your tables for backgammon and checkers. But it feels kind of cold, and the bar area seems more like a waiting room for the restaurant than a PUB.
You can do both -- I've read some people's comments about how "oh, well, Gastropubs aren't like pubs, they're supposed to be more modern." I'd invite anyone who thinks that to join me in London at the Gun, the Endurance, the Queen's Head and Artichoke, the Anglesea Arms, St. John's, the Junction Tavern, the Black Lion, etc. -- all cozy, wonderful neighborhood places, some hundreds of years old, that manage to serve great food in comfortable environments.
That's where I think CW falls down -- well, that and serving their cask ale WAY too cold. A friend suggested ordering two pints at once and letting one warm up to the right temp while drinking the other. (Also, serving bottled beer at a 250 percent markup over liquor store prices seems odd.)
Anyway, I've been to CommonWealth, I loved the food, I'll be back. I'm just not thinking of it as a bar.
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Movers: I've used a small company called Mighty Men Moving 3 times now, and my friend has used them about the same number of times -- they're a lot less expensive than the bigger companies, and they're AWESOME! In fact, I'm going to need to call him soon. God, I hate moving.
Stephanie: Another mover suggestion. And I hate it too, but when you have movers, it's so much easier!
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Burn After Reading: Don't go in thinking it's better than Big Lebowski and you'll be fine. It's worth it just to see Brad Pitt act like a goofball. Clooney is great in it as well. Good, not great, movie. Funny but not hilarious etc etc....
Julia: Thanks for this. Yeah, I feel like it has potential. So good to see Brad Pitt way out of hot-guy character. Vicky Hallett, if you're reading, please chime in -- you saw the movie, right?
And wouldn't it be great if there was a movie better than the Big Lebowski?
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This Cannot be Right: First time trying to read live, but I have to continually refresh. Do I need to change my browser settings?
David: Nope, keep hitting refresh. Every time you hit refresh, we all earn $0.00001. Maybe soon I'll be able to buy those animal crackers I've been eyeing in the vending machine!
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Cleveland Park, D.C.: So I just got a job in Silver Spring. I was wondering if you could recommend places to get a beer after work. Are there any happy hour spots here?
Fritz: Get acquainted with the Quarry House Tavern, a 70-something neighborhood bar with a long beer list, loyal regulars and an outstanding jukebox. Austin Grill generally has great beer specials, plus there's free chips and salsa. I like McGinty's, too, for a pint and darts.
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Fall Weekend Idea: For the poster seeking a fabulous fall weekend idea... A couple years ago my boyfriend and I "fell" into a fabulous fall day. Not a cloud in the sky, we started at an orchard and went apple picking somewhere out near Leesburg. Then we saw signs for wineries and popped in on one, complete with a small lake and benches for sitting. We then ended the day with a meal and betting on horse races at Charles Town. It was one of our favorite days, even for my beer-drinking boyfriend!
Stephanie: That sounds like an awesome day; another option for a fall weekend date.
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Washington, D.C.: Maybe this is a stupid questin but the Hawk n Dove controversy piqued my interest. Where do Marines and other military guys hang out. You've told us where to find cougars so this question shouldn't be too out there.
Fritz: Barracks Row, Adams Morgan -- Adams Mill, Grand Central and the Reef - run by a couple of ex-military guys -- get their share.
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Washington, DC: My mom is visiting me from out of town and wants to go to a cultural event as part of a project for school. Any clue of a good one going on Saturday afternoon?
Rhome: So many outdoor festivals going on this weekend. For your purposes I'd recommend the Greek festival.
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Washington, D.C.: I just cleared out my closets and have quite a bit of stuff to unload. Most of it is top brands, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, etc -- but a few years old. Given the substantial financial investment, I'd like to see if I can sell the to a consignment store. Do you know of any candidates? I know there's one in Arlington but I heard they only take this/last season's clothes.
Thank you!
Janet: How about trying Secondi in Dupont Circle. Call 202-667-1122 to make an appointment.
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Dupont Circle: Hi, I'm trying to plan a birthday dinner for a group of girls this Saturday. We want to stay near dupont circle. I thought Current might be fun for dinner. Any thoughts or suggestions. It doesnt seem they have a website to view their menu.
Fritz: Depends how big your group is. Current has a 10-seat sushi bar, and some dinner tables downstairs -- maybe up to a group of 15? -- and from what I've tried, the food is very good. It's one of the chefs from Dragonfly and a former sous chef from Komi. The miso soup was tops, and the rolls were pretty inventive. As a bonus, you could always arrange to take the party upstairs once the music started playing.
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Washington, D.C.: Dear Gurus,
I have a question that has a small, but very significant connection to going out- alcohol. I need to send a thank-you gift to an American living in Switzerland, and I think that a bottle of something nice is appropriate. What would you recommend? Ideally, it's something American-y, not all that popular in Switzerland, and between $40 and $80. Also, if you have any suggestion for alternative presents, I'd love to hear them.
Thank you so much!!!
Fritz: When I've traveled around Europe, the one thing people seem to like (but not get that much of) is Kentucky bourbon, especially if it's something small-batch that falls outside of the Booker's/Baker's/Maker's Mark/Four Roses that are distributed in the more popular bars.
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Virginia: Dear GOGs:
You've saved my bacon -- and made me look like a hero -- more times than I can count, and I'm really hoping that you can help me now. We're hoping to have a smallish group -- maybe 12 friends -- for a wine tasting. We live in a crowded apartment and had been hoping to have it at a friend's house. Unfortunately, those particular friends are no longer able to attend, and we're stuck without a location. I had thought about having it in a suite at the Morrison House or at the Sofitel (or the Mandarin Oriental -- though, seriously, $$$$$$$$), but I'm not liking what I see online. I'm looking for something, frankly, house-like. I want comfy seating, a fireplace if possible (the event will be in either November or January), and space for 12 people to relax and sip wine, plus space for the wine itself. I also need it to be local (Virginia or D.C.) for the folks who will have babysitters. Less than $300 would be nice, as we hadn't originally expected to spend anything. I'm NOT looking for anything ugly, cold, corporate, plastic, generic, etc. I know it's a lot to ask, but that's why I'm having no luck on my own...help!
Julia: We were kicking around a bunch of places so I'll just throw them out there: Upstairs at the Glover Park Bourbon, Tabard Inn (not even close to private) and Sonoma on Capitol Hill. We're getting a few suspicious Sonoma questions today -- but I'm sure Jared and Eli wouldn't pepper us with plants.
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Peanut Gallery: I love the posters definition of a "top brand"
--Most of it is top brands, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, etc--
Fritz: I bite my tongue, you bite yours.
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Fashion Washington: Nice work with FW magazine -- I saw it online. Is D.C. coming around or what? Is it free in print form? Where do I pick one up?
Julia: Many thanks and kudos to our girl, Jennifer Barger, who totally rocked editing this issue. It's available free at any of these locations.
And Ms. Barger assures me this wasn't a plant, either!
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Glover Park, D.C.: Howdy Gurus! I'm submitting way early because I know I'll be in a meeting on Thursday and this is important to me.
My ex and I are rekindling a flame. Our 'would-be' anniversary is this Sunday and he JUST told me he would like to take me to dinner. In keeping with a new direction, somewhere new to us would be nice.
He says it's up to me, around $150-200 with drinks (and we both enjoy drinks). Have car/will travel if necessary. We've thought Zatinya or Beck's. We're both adventurous eaters.
Please help with any suggestions!
Stephanie: I'd vote for Zaytinya (one of my favorite restaurants) over Brasserie Beck. A couple other options would be Cafe Atlantico for excellent mojitos and Rasika for Indian food.
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Right under the wire...: But as Fritz mentioned going out in London--I'm moving there, and wondering whether my driver's license will suffice to get into pubs?
Fritz: I was never, ever carded when I lived in London, since the drinking age is 18. Even when I went there in high school, never got carded. Most pubs only have bouncers on the door to make sure you're not drunk when you're coming in.
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Sova for wine tasting: It's like a big living room, very home-y.
Julia: Oh, right, of course! I love the upstairs at Sova. Exactly like a living room. I think this is actually the wine-tasting person's best bet! (Probably the most affordable as well.)
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DC: Are there any good dance clubs in the city any more? We tried Andalu last week and it consisted of sweat, gangsters, and lousy southern ringtone rap.
Rhome: Oh man... Please don't mention the painful downfall of Andalu. That used to be one of my favorite rooms in town. Great sound system, cozy vibe, sexy decor, friendly bartenders and great DJs spinning soulful music, along with occasional live performances. It's so wack now. Talk about falling off.
A good dance club is relative as everyone has different musical tastes but some elements can be measured objectively. When it comes to a sound system and use of space, Ultrabar is tops. If you're tastes aren't mainstream, ESL maintains a high standard of unique music. Geisha has been bringing in some interesting DJs. You just need to confirm what's happening before you go. When some folks think of dance clubs, they think big, loud and intense. That's Ibiza, just watch for the velvet rope stress.
What exactly are you looking for?
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Burke, Va.: You are correct on bourbon as a fine gift for your Euro homies. When we visited (distant) relatives in Scotland two years ago, I brought our host a bottle of Elijah Craig 18-year-old bourbon. His eyes lit up, and he carried the bottle off like it was a newborn baby. Coals to Newcastle, you'd think, but they can't GET a lot of bourbon in Europe.
Fritz: It's really difficult to get a lot of bourbons in D.C., let alone Switzerland. Good call on the Elijah Craig, though.
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Biting Tongues: You're quickly going from gurus to snarks/snobs...you're down on flip flops, youre pro clubs with dress codes, and now you're making and allowing snipes at people's fashions???
Quit alienating your audience.
Fritz: I think I'm pro-lounges/clubs without dress codes than lounges/clubs with dress codes, though I don't mind dressing up when going to places that require it, a la PX or Current, the only two places I've mentioned today with dress codes.
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Alexandria, Va.: We're starting to plan for our company holiday party. Any recommendations of a place in Old Town or the District with enough room for 50 people and good food?
Julia: The rehearsal dinner article I wrote last week might be a good place to get started. What are you going for here? A sit-down dinner or a cocktail affair? If that post doesn't help get you started, write back next week with a few more specifics and I'll see what I can do to help you out!
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Friendship Heights: Hail to thee, all knowing Gurus...I hope you can help me get out of my coffee shop rut. I like to spend some time on the weekends at a coffee place, having a coffee and either reading or doing some work and using their (hopefully free) wi-fi. I go to St. Elmo's in Del Ray most of the time, but also occasionally hit Buzz. (I don't like Misha's in Alexandria -- it's always dirty in there and I'm not a fan of Murky Coffee either.) I was hoping you might be able to suggest another place in Arlington/Alexandria or maybe Georgetown/Foggy Bottom?
Stephanie: I'm a huge Greenberry's fan, especially since there's one so close to our office. I also love Java Shack, which is on the quirkier side.
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Virginia: Thanks so much for answering my question about the wine tasting! One problem is that we'll be providing the wine, and I'm pretty sure that the folks at Sonoma, etc., might not be too excited about that. Any place that isn't a restaurant? More like a home? Thanks, and sorry to be so picky! (I hate it when I get an idea in my head and start planning only to have something fundamental -like location] change...arg.)
Julia: Call Sova. Seriously, they could probably work something out for you! Thank you, helpful chatter!
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Vienna, Va.: Hi Gurus, My 65-year old Mom, my 7-year old daughter and I are looking for something fun and downtown on Sunday. Mom has been here hundreds of times, so I need something fresh. Daughter has short attention span for museums.
Anne: The zoo has a festival, and my other idea, admittedly not downtown, is the event for kids at Brookside Gardens. Plenty of room to run around, there's a nature center, and I bet Mom will be impressed with the (free) gardens. Or you could explore the Georgetown Flea Market, now back in its namesake neighborhood.
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Washington, D.C.: Hey Gogs!!! I remember in a previous chat you mentioned an iPhone app that showed things to do in D.C. nightlife. Can you tell me again? I can't find it in the archives.
Anne: Well, sure. Go to the App Store, and you can search for City Guide (we're the D.C. City Guide as two words) or look in the Travel category. Our iPhone app has all our bars and restaurants with reviews. You can use the live map to see the ones closest to wherever you are at the moment or browse. But very very very soon we're going to have an updated version, so keep an eye out for that. Blackberryites, don't feel left out. You can use this.
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Annapolis, Md.: Any good ideas on where to eat before the Alanis Morisette concert next week? Something nearby and reasonable?
Julia: Tonic?
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Snobbery, D.C: It's perfectly valid to question the effectiveness of consigning clothes that aren't designer threads. That's not snobbery, it's common sense. I have "gently used" Gap jeans that I doubt any consignment shop would be interested in. Doesn't make someone a snob for pointing that out.
Now, go flip-flop your Ann Taylor-wearing butt back to work.
Fritz: Yeah, thanks for saying that more elegantly than I.
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washingtonpost.com: Thanks for joining us for another edition of Got Plans. We'll see you back here next week.
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