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.

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washingtonpost.com: Greetings, everyone. The Gurus are here and ready to answer your questions about what's going on all over the town. So, without further ado, let the show begin.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus!

It might be a wee bit early for this question, but perhaps you already know the answer. My boyfriend is going to be stuck at the office all day on Thanksgiving, so I was hoping for some recommendations on restaurants that I could order a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for two (to-go!) so I could surprise him at the office. My cooking skills are severely limited, so the restaurant option is by far a better idea. Bonus points if the restaurant is metro-accessible and somewhere in NW!

Julia: I haven't really started looking into this year's Thanksgiving menus at local restaurants, so I'm afaid this list from last year's Food section is the best I can do (go to page 5). I'm sure not all of the same restaurants are participating, but it should be a good place to start!

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Washington: Hey, I am looking for a good ice breaker date on saturday afternoon, something that has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of time for conversation, so no movies. Possibly a meuseum, but with a little more entertainment. Live (free if possible) music would be great! Anything that is hassle free.

Stephanie: There are a couple of festivals this weekend that could be fun for a first date. First up is the Garden of Cosmos celebration, which is part of the the exhibit of super cool Indian art at the Sackler. You could also check out the Bethesda Row Arts Festival, which offers art, free music and food.

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Ballston Hair: Please tell me where I should get my hair cut in the Ballston area! I have long layers, getting ever longer, and I want it done like Heather Tesch, the Weather Channel morning babe. Please and thank you.

Janet: Hi, there, Ballston,
Not familiar with salons in that particular area. What about Salon Bleu in Tysons? Wherever you wind up going, though, you should take a picture of the hair style you want and show it to the stylist, who, if he or she is any good, will tell you whether it will work for your hair. FYI, I co-host a fashion chat every other Tuesday -- the next one is Oct. 28 -- where we concentrate on just this sort of question.

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Alexandria, Va.: I think the term "cougar" is hysterical. Is it appropriate to say I'm a single cougar? My question is, my friends are mostly coupled up, so where's friendly place for a single, slightly older female to have drinks and enjoy music? It seems some places start out with a nice mix of ages and then the young crowd rolls in. I'd prefer metro accessible, maybe Old Town, Clarendon, Ballston? Thanks!

Fritz: Don't cougars usually hunt solo in the wild? If you're looking to take down some game, I'd say you could start with Daniel O'Connell's or Murphy's in Old Town, or some mix of Clarendon Grill, Clarendon Ballroom, Whitlow's or maybe Iota in Arlington.

Cougars? Got any hunting tips?

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Jonesin' for a sundae: Gurus - Recently I have had a hankering for a sundae. Nothing fancy-shmancy like gelato or olive oil flavored ice cream, I am talking straight up ice cream or frozen custard sundae with lots of hot fudge, crushed nuts and roasted pecans. Mmmmm.

What is the best in D.C.?

Julia: I'm not much of a Sundae gal -- more of a 2 scoops in a cup -- but Max's Best gets my vote for fantastic ice cream . . . and a decent array of toppings. Don't quite recall if the fudge is hot, but I'm sure you could get a heckuva sundae there.

Chatters, any other votes for this non-seasonal request?

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Adams Morgan: Hi!! I have friends coming in for the weekend and like everyone, I'm looking for something to do with them Saturday afternoon. I would love to find an outdoor festival, a Octoberfest, drinking, family friendly - it doesn't matter. Somewhere in D.C. is ideal. Any suggestions???

Thanks!

Anne: For close-in fests this weekend, you could wander to the street party near Foggy Bottom Metro with music. Or, it's not too far to Bethesda's arts festival or Silver Sprung's festival (2-6 Saturday), where hayrides and a costume contest are promised.

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Arlington, Va. Aunt & Uncle: Our nieces (8 and 10 yrs old) are staying with us Friday night through Saturday afternoon, and we're looking for some DC events that will help us maintain our status as the cool aunt & uncle.

We were thinking Spy Museum, but would appreciate other events/restaurants that would be fun for them and for us (young professionals/late 20s).

Stephanie: The Spy Museum is always a good bet for kids. But since all kids (and George Costanza) want to be marine biologists, I'd also throw out the suggestions of Ocean Hall, the new exhibit at the Natural History Museum. That way you could also hit up the Insect Zoo, which was my favorite activity at that age. And just to throw a couple other suggestions out there, how about a ghost tour at the Building Museum or pumpkin picking and hayrides?

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House of Sweden: What exactly is it? would it be corny if I take some vistors from Sweden there? or else where can I take a chic Swedish this weekend for a fun evening?

Fritz: It's an event space attached to the Swedish Embassy that houses galleries, meeting rooms, a concert hall and a killer rooftop deck. I met people from Sweden, Norway and other Scandinavian countries there at their last After Dark event, so I don't think it's corny at all.

Other places for chic Swedes: I know some who dig lounges like Mate, Marvin and Eighteenth Street Lounge, so I'll start with those, or maybe go to the Black Cat Sunday to see Lykke Li, the awesome Swedish singer whose indie rock is on the sugary side. "I'm Good, I'm Gone is one of my favorite songs of the year.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus, I need help with a Halloween costume. Got any recommendations for a place to get sequin jackets? And yes, it is going to be a crazy costume.

Janet: Try Annie Creamcheese, which specializes in vintage clothing. They might have something very cool from a past decade.

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Friday at Iota: What do you know about Wovenhand playing tomorrow night at Iota? It's been nearly 10 years since I've been there. I remember it being rather small. I was thinking of having a bite to eat prior to the show. What time should I arrive?

thanks,

David: I'm pretty excited to see Wovenhand at Iota tomorrow night. You can click through there to read the little blurb I wrote, but I said it will be a great show for people suffering from Nick Cave Withdrawal. It won't be quite as intense, if only because there will only be three people on stage, but will cover a lot of the same dark territory, lyrically. Very rustic folk. I doubt it'll bring in a sell-out crowd, so there's probably no reason to get there too early. If you haven't been to Iota in 10 years then it will look different. I'm pretty sure Iota was still only half its current size a decade ago, can't remember exactly when they expanded. Wovenhand will probably go on around 10:30.

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Cougars?: If you're gonna go all-out cougar, go to the Red Lion and hit on the college boys. They LOVE it.

Fritz: According to the cougars or the college boys?

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Arlington, Va.: My boyfriend and I are heading off for a mini-getaway to Harpers Ferry this weekend. Aside from hiking (which we plan to do a lot of), is there anything else we should try not to miss?

Janet: As long as you're in the neighborhood, go to Shepherdstown for some cool shopping and places to eat.

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Renn Fest: Hi GOGs,

Just wanted to remind people that this is the last weekend for the MD Renaissance Festival, so if you been wanting to go, it's this weekend or next year. My daughter works there (in interests of full disclosure), and it's supposed to be a great fall weekend! Also, even though we plan on turkey legs for lunch, what restaurants are close t0 the faire? We travel along 301 back to southern Prince Georges county, and would like to stop for dinner on the way back home. We have seen several places along the way (Jaspers, Rips, and mall places in Bowie). Do you recommend one over the other? Thanks!

Fritz: Grace's Fortune in Bowie (just up 450) is a good one. The DuClaw Brewpub in Bowie is another great option.

Rips and Jaspers are like staples in those parts (says the guy from those parts). I'd take Rips for comfort food in a way-back setting.

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Farragut West: I just had a sundae to satisfy my craving the other day at Dickey's Frozen Custard on I Street between 17th and 18th. Custard and fudge and wet walnuts, oh my!

Julia: Who are all of you people with fall sundae cravings?

Anyway, another suggestion.

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Fairfax, Va.: Great and Mighty GOG's! You've never let me down before and I know you'll have an answer this time as well. Because you rock.

I've a desert-living friend visiting this weekend who has never seen leaves change. Ever. We only have Saturday afternoon to take a looksie and I've heard of rotten Skyline crowds. Thoughts on where to see some good leaf-age? Is it too early? We're in Fairfax. Perhaps Route 29 towards Charlottsville? I'm really kinda clueless and hope hope you can help!

Stephanie: I always thought it was "look-see" but I think I like "looksie" better. The views from Skyline are unparalleled, but you're absolutely right about the crowds. I've done the drive down to Charlottesville many a time, and that is a wonderful way to see some bright foliage, but you really don't need to go far to see some fall colors. You could head to Great Falls park or Billy Goat Trail to see some amazing views of the Potomac plus changing leaves (if you don't mind a little hiking). Rock Creek Park generally has some pretty colorful trees, as does Sugarloaf Mountain, which is a little more of a drive.

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Washington, D.C.: Howard University is having its homecoming this weekend. Is it common for non-Howard people to go to events? Any speculation on who is to perform at Yardfest?

Fritz: Certainly. If you hit up any of the parties at, say, the Park, Love, Zanzibar -- the big ones -- you're going to find a ton of people who have no connection to the university. They just want to enjoy D.C.'s biggest party weekend of the year. (Some of the 18-and-over events, like the stepshow afterparty at Fur, for example, will primarily be full of students.)

I mean, I try to go to a couple of Howard Homecoming events every year, though I'm rarely ever able to make Yardfest. (Speaking of which, I haven't heard too much hot gossip on this one, though names floated as being in town this weekend, besides Diddy, Eric Roberson, T-Pain and T.I., include AJ, Dipset, Jadakiss, Ryan Leslie and some others ... but Yardfest always throws surprises into the mix.

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Eye brow threading: Hey Gurus

This is the third week in a row I'm asking and I'm really not sure who in the area does this.

I need to have my eye brows done but I have to have it threaded NOT waxed due to some meds I'm on.

Who in the area does this? I prefer the alexandria area but at this point I'll go anywhere.

Janet: There is a salon called Threads that has locations on U Street, L Street and in Bethesda that, yes, specializes in threading brows. Tune into my fashion chat every other Tuesday (next one is Oct. 28) for more on beauty and fashion.

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Sundaes: It's not in D.C., so that might be a deal killer, but the Ice Cream Factory and Cafe in Brandywine (right off of Routes 5 & 301) is open year round and have several variations of sundaes. They use hand made custards, and have 2 dozen flavors (I think). They were featured this summer in the weekend section of the Post, too, but I couldn't find the link.

Julia: We can always find the link.

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In Shepherdstown: Most people will tell you to go to the Yellow Brick Bank for food in Shepherdstown, but we much prefer Stone Soup Bistro, which is just awesome. Sit at the bar and make friends with the bartender. He's also the owner and is wonderful to talk to.

Janet: Even better is the Press Club, on the same street!

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Washington, D.C.: For the chatter looking for a costume, Meeps had a lot of sequin-y and costume-y pieces when I went in a few days ago.

Janet: Thanks, good suggestion.

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Re: Sundaes: What about Giffords? And I believe that on Mondays all of their sundaes are half price, quite the treat in these lean economic times! If only there was a Friendly's nearby...

Julia: Gifford's is indeed an option.

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For the person looking for threading...: I used to go to Abla at the Aveda in Georgetown and get my threading. She's great - not sure if she has since left but worth a call.

Janet: For the chatter who wants her brows threaded, not waxed, here's another suggestion.

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Ice Cream in Fall?: Julia, the high today is supposed to be 85.

Julia: That may be true, but I just went outside for lunch and it is *not* 85. My legs are still cold.

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Arlington, Va.: Dear Gurus,

I know this question has been asked and answered a few different ways, but I'll give it a shot. We are renting a limo bus on a Friday night that will hold 25-30 people and the idea is to go to a few bars in different parts of town (Arlington, then Hst, Adams Morgan, wherever).

The question is, what bars do you suggest (that aren't Rumors or McFaddens) that can handle the influx of that many people at one time without being overwhelmed. We aren't looking for a private room, just the space/capacity. Thanks for the input.

Fritz: Very good question. Someplace large without too much drama at the door. H Street, I'd say Rock and Roll Hotel is the obvious, maybe Palace of Wonders, depending on the show. (Some, like Trixie Little and the Evil Hate Monkey, are always crowded anyway.) Arlington, it's pretty obviously the Ballroom. Adams Morgan could be Grand Central, Tom Tom, maybe the Reef. Not Saki, because though it has room, the door policies are crazy and they usually let people in in small bunches. Oh, and True Story, especially for free Pac-Man.

Around Dupont, I'd go for something like Big Hunt, maybe Front Page, Porter's if the upstairs is open. Steve's Bar Room might work, too, because the crowd ebbs and flows -- also, it's a pretty frequent stop for party buses like the Boomerang, so you know they're use to high volume.

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Humor me, please...: So, I know this isn't technically in your purview, but there is really no good online source for these things, and I'm totally stuck. Plus, I've seen you take salon questions before, so no fair playing favorites! Anyway, I'm new to the area and am looking for a lower-priced salon that does waxing -- ifyaknowwhatImean, lady Gurus. I've found a few places online, but their prices are astronomical. Do you or any of the chatters have any recommendations for me? I'm near Tenleytown, but anywhere between here and downtown is fine (preferably along the red line). I hate walking into these places cold!

Thanks!

Stephanie: What do you consider astronomical? Red Door is amazing, and the price is about $35. I've tried to go the bargain route with waxing, and I wouldn't recommend it. But maybe the chatters have some suggestions...

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Sundaes!: In an attempt to justify fall sundae cravings: I've never actually understood the appeal of eating a hot/cold gooey sticky mess in the summertime when it's already hot and sticky out. It melts! It attracts bees! But gooey, sticky, and creamy on a crisp fall day, what better way to get a jump start on the winter flab!

Julia: A fair point, actually. I happen to like something cool-gooey-sticky in the summertime, but I totally see where you're coming from.

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Outdoor Movies in Oakton, Va.: Hello, Gurus. I have the skinny on a family-friendly event happening at Oakton High School in Fairfax this Saturday. There is an outdoor movie night showing a double feature for only $2 admission per person! The first movie "Iron Man" will begin at 7:30 and the second film "I Am Legend" will begin just before 10. They will be shown on the soccer field, so people should bring their own blankets and chairs for seating. Also, Oakton HS is within walking distance of the Vienna Metro in case some folks don't wish to drive. >More info is available at www.fcps.edu/OaktonHS/

Anne: I had heard about this event, and my first thought was: can you bring a sleeping bag because won't it be cold to watch a movie outside in October? And then I started thinking about what kind of high school shenanigans that would lead to... But anyway, for the people who are still missing Screen on the Green, this plug's for you.

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Shirlington: Help! Tonight I'm meeting up with my friend for the first time since she had a baby. She's got cabin fever, and wants to go somewhere to lounge and maybe have a glass of wine. We narrowed options down to Shirlington, and now we need to pick a place. What is the "bar" scene at Carlyle like? I was thinking Busboys and Poets, but I've never been to that location. Is that a good choice? She wants to look at people our age and for a few hours pretend she isn't covered in spit-up 95% of the time. (Bungalows and Cap City are out because we want wine not beer.)

Also, she's looking for things to do while on maternity leave, and I'm at a loss for suggestions. Is there anything a new mom can do during the weekday that doesn't involve shopping?

Fritz: I might actually choose the bar at Extra Virgin, as they have live entertainment and a pretty decent by-the-glass list. Carlyle gets a little crowded with people waiting for tables. (I'll confess that I'm more familiar with their martinis than the wine list.)

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Aspen Hill, Md.: So my significant other and I are FINALLY moving inside the Beltway, near a metro to the Courthouse area of Arlington! We are excited, but still learning about the area. What is a good way to explore the area, the can't miss bars/restaurants etc we should check out first? What is the best sushi restaurant?

Julia: Um, Asahi. It's up there with some of my favorite sushi restaurants in the city. It's tiny -- and tucked away in this random pavilion near the movie theater -- but really pleasant inside. When I go in for lunch, one of the waitresses always gives me green tea while I wait, which is just so sweet. Above all that, the fish is really good and always arranged beautifully -- even in to-go cartons.

For other nearby restaurants, I'd spend my money at Piola for pizza, Ray's Hell-Burger for burgers and Boccato for ridiculously good gelato. Want something a little nicer? Head up to Clarendon's Tallula.

As far as bars are concerned, I'm a fan of Ragtime -- the low-key pubby place just down the street from our office. (And this is where Fritz starts mocking me for my obsession with Ragtime . . . )

David: As someone who lives in Courthouse and consists mostly on cheese pizza, I'm going to have to dissent with Julia on Piola. Maybe they have some good fancy pizzas, but I don't care about that. I like Z Pizza better, but make the five-minute drive to Italian Store if you want the best. Do your best to resist the $5 (well, now $6) pizza from Jerry's on Monday. It seems like a wise financial decision, especially in these times, but man, it's not.

Fritz: As far as bars, I think Gua-Rapo has great deals ($5 cocktails and appetizers) at happy hour, and it's where you go when you want upscale lounging. The Four Courts pours a fine pint of Guinness. Kitty O'Shea's is the go-to for sports viewing (for me) and Galaxy Hut feels like my living room after years and years of chilling out there. (I started going when the live music was all-ages.)

For food, I think Delhi Dhaba is really underrated, and they have a surprisingly great beer selection.

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Columbia Heights: Submitting a bit early because I'm sort of at a loss. I have a good friend from college coming into town on Saturday from Richmond and I'm trying to plan for the night. In college we were liquor drinking, dance on the bar types. Now...we can certainly still be roudy, but might be looking for more of a fun place with fun people, where we can sip drinks and actually hear each other talk (since we haven't seen each other in a while and need to catch up!)

Here's where I'm stumped. I'm a city-dwelling, liberal leaning political type that enjoys everything from a hole-in-the wall dive to K St club. She's a country-living, Nascar watching girl who is more likely to be found drinking Bud light than a good Chardonnay. Where do we go that will be full of fun people, but not so loud and crowded that we can't chat, with good beer and good music and a cool DC vibe? I know I'm asking a lot, but you all are the experts!

PS- we're late 20's government workers, so preferably not a $14-a-drink place

Fritz: Dag, I was going to say Tattoo until I got to your last line. Honestly, I'd stay close to home and hit the Red Derby, which is fun, not too loud, gets a decent crowd and she can always bring her iPod if she wants to drink a little. I think Bar Pilar would work, too, because it's a cool little spot that can be anything you want it to be -- and they have a photo booth in the back if you want to capture the moment.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you know what happened to Avenue (the nightclub)? I've been driving in the area recently and it looks like it's closed.

Fritz: It's currently "closed for renovations." I've heard some really good dirt but need to make a few phone calls before I publish the info.

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Sundae girl!: I love the ones at The Scoop on King Street in Old Town, which is also right across the street from Pop's Ice Cream, which also does them, but I like Scoops a bit better. Both are locally owned and operated, though, (and make their own ice cream) which is a good thing to support. They are in the last block of King before the river.

Julia: I was at the Scoop late on Saturday night, actually! Can't comment on the ice cream, though. Only had $2 in my wallet, couldn't afford the $3.50 small. Settled for a 60-cent bag of pretzels. It was a low point in the evening.

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Waxing: Violet at the Serenity Day Spa (a few blocks from the Tenleytown Metro) is the best I've ever had. It costs about $35 for a regular wax, but she goes above and beyond and it's well worth it.

Janet: Here's an endorsement for Violet at Serenity for a wax.

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Logan Circle: So after years of living in Dupont, I recently moved to the southeast side of Logan Circle. While walking around my new neighborhood I noticed a quaint looking place called Veranda on 11&P. I was intrigued and went looking for information on WaPo.com, but came up empty. Eventually I found a website for the restaurant. It looks like it has definite "neighborhood spot" potential and has some nice happy hour specials (Mon: $4 burgers, Tues: 1/2-price wine), but I was wondering if any of you have been. If so, how's the food/atmosphere?

Julia: I've seen that place, but I haven't been in, actually. Chatters?

You'll have to report back to us if you like it!

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Just East of Hollywood, DC: So what are the chances that Ms. Lohan actually shows up at Lotus Lounge in DC tonight with Samantha Ronson? At $250 a ticket for "CHANCE" of being close enough to catch a glimpse of your favorite Mean Girl sounds like a steep and clever ploy by the owners to try and get some Thursday night business.

Fritz: 1) Tickets are $40. $250's if you want a table.
2) It's for charity, so the money's going to the Children's Miracle Network, which is a pretty good cause.
3) You'll still get to see Samantha Ronson, who is (allegedly) a pretty good DJ. I haven't caught her live yet, but I've heard good things.
4) As for LiLo -- well, we know she's been in New York this week, so maybe she drives down. Maybe not. It's not really about her, though I'd love to get a photo of her with Teddy Roosevelt, who's going to be in the house. Let Teddy Win!

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Courthouse: Hey gurus, you left out Guajillo for Mexican and Brooklyn Bagels for weekend mornings.

David: Definitely Brooklyn Bagels for weekend mornings as long as you can deal with HUGE crowds and surly service. The bagels are worth it, but man, I always feel like I'm terribly inconveniencing them every time I get something there.

Stephanie: Am I the only one who thinks Brooklyn Bagel is totally overrated? My roommate and I have this debate every Saturday morning. I actually much prefer Chesapeake (though it's a little farther away).

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Going out = threading: Thanks for pointing out the fashion chat as an alternate forum for eyebrow-grooming discussions. I love that chat, and this one, too, but I've always been surprised to see so many dumb questions about eyebrow threading, waxing, hair cuts, etc in the GOING OUT chat. Okay, gentle rant over.

Janet: You're not alone in that gentle rant, and we're trying to move the beauty questions out of the GOG chat, but it's a process. We ask for your patience.

Julia: I hate to do this, since you know know, we're trying to get the beauty questions out of the chat and all, but I randomly have some hair news. I know there are some fellow Bang lovers out there...just wanted to mention that Jessica and my beloved Patrick have moved back to the U Street salon from Verizon Center. So if you're looking for them on the online reservation system that's where they went.

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For Columbia Heights: For the girl whose friend is coming into town (two govt employees), what about Wonderland?

David: That was my first thought. Julia goes there a lot and she's half city-dweller, half country-bumpkin.

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Washington, D.C.: Random question at the last minute: I've been invited to Ibiza this weekend (I've never been). Is it going to be packed like sardines and people spilling drinks all over my shoes? Should I suggest another place instead, like ESL (more my type)? Thanks for any advice!

Fritz: It's going to be SLAMMED, since it's Howard Homecoming weekend -- if you're going on Friday. Saturday, it's Glow, with the very cool DJ Eric Prydz, who's yet another Swede in town this week.

Ibiza is my favorite of the larger D.C. dance clubs -- good layout, fantastic sound, nice rooftop deck, multiple rooms (except for that front room, with its weird pit in the middle). I'd recommend it for a big club experience, but unless you're going for a Howard party, I'd skip it on Friday and go to ESL instead.

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Yardfest: Some other artists I heard appearing at Yardfest are Wale and Tabi Bonney. I'm from DC!

Fritz: I figured Wale was a given, since he's the hottest thing in D.C. right now. He was shooting a video with ECB last night at Mirrors.

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Courthouse suggestions: I used to live in courthouse and still make the trip back from Alexandria for Brooklyn Bagel Bakery. Both breakfast and lunch are fantastic. As for food activities for night definitely blue-cheese potato chips at Restaurant 3 and the best thing about the area...Sunday night bottles and burgers at Harry's taproom. I know it is technically clarendon but amazing burgers and dicounted wine are worth the extra couple blocks!!

Julia: I'm just so not into Restaurant 3. I love Whitlow's for the mania that is Sunday brunch, but Restaurant 3 doesn't do it for me -- particularly for the price.

Harry's Burgers, though -- I'll back you there. My husband and I had a really nice dinner there one night after buying our wedding invitations from The Papery. We spend like 2 hours negotiating with the stationery store about prices and card stock and whatever --- and then we felt like major hypocrites going across the street for $13 burgers.

And I like Brooklyn Bagel, for the record. We get free Brooklyn Bagel in the office on Mondays!

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re: bar pilar: the photo booth hasn't had chemicals for ages! It's so disappointing. I talked it up for a date, and then we got there and just had to drink their good beer selection instead!

Fritz: The owner -- a photographer, no less -- is around this week. I suggest you corner him (ask the bartenders to point him out) and demand the booth be restored to working order.

I'd hate to have to send people to Grand Central to get they pitchers took.

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Brooklyn Bagel: Thank god someone else finds them surly. I thought it was just me! After one particularly insulting visit where I was looking for an everything bagel at 10am and they'd run out and were not making any more I REFUSE to return.

Stephanie: Yes, at Brooklyn you get your bagel with a side of attitude. Of course, I JUST went there this morning, so I can't complain too much.

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Thanks to David: for last week's small venue rundown. I saw the Antiques at the Velvet Friday and it was solid, and as sometimes happens at IOTA, the band stuck around after the show. Although I guess they're from here, so where are they going to go?

David: I'm pretty sure the guys from the Antiques spend more time at the Velvet Lounge than wherever they live, so yeah. If you want some Velvet Lounge craziness, check out DMBQ on Tuesday. The Velvet's Web site is only slightly exaggerating when it says "possibly the best live band on the planet."

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Dupont: I just walked past a restaurant or bar or something called Current on Connecticut. What is it exactly?

Fritz: It's a lounge with really, really good sushi and weekend DJs. Expensive bottle service. I've really enjoyed it so far.

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Movin' on up, but not to the SE side!: Not a "going out" question but who better to ask about cool, resurging neighborhoods than the GoGs?! I've lived out here a year now and am looking to buy something in the District given the drop in prices. What neighborhoods do you recommend for soemthing in the $350K range? I've seen some cool flips but can't tell if Petworth has the same upside as Shaw, etc. You guys are the best and thanks for the entertaining blog!

Anne: I love Petworth (Moroni Bros., Domku especially, great pool in summer) but can you really buy there for $350? We need chatter Petworth to chime in. I know a couple people who have bought near H Street NE recently, if you are looking for a neighborhood that's changing.

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Rosslyn, VA: Have you heard anything about Founding Farmers on 20th & Penn? My friends and I have tickets to Jason Mraz at DAR on Monday night and were thinking of going there before the show instead of Old Ebbitt. Thanks!

Julia: Tom Sietsema has. He seemed to like the place all right in his First Bite column this week.

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Columbia, Md.: Hey, Gurus! This isn't a DC-related question, but I'm hoping the all-knowing Gurus can help me out anyway. I'm looking to get a gift certificate for a Philadelphia restaurant for some friends getting married at the end of the year. I'd like to spend $200 max, so can you please recommend a place where they can get a nice meal, plus maybe a few cocktails, for that price? Thank you!

Fritz: My absolute favorite non-BYOB in Philly in that price range is Gayle. Went there for a friend's birthday dinner and had a wonderful meal with cool, down-to-earth service (reminded me of the tasting room at Eve) and great cocktails. I think you could do it for $100 each.

Right down the block is Amada, which is kind of a cliche, but it's pretty good, too.

Or, honestly, I'd by them a really good bottle of wine and send it with them to Marigold Kitchen, which is a fantastic little space in University City with an inventive and ever-changing menu.

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Sequins and costumes: If you are looking for costume items (like sequins for a jacket) you should try the fabric store on K near Farragut North. It is called divine fabrics or something. They are having a huge moving same and their fabric is deeply discounted!!!

I got enough faux fur for my Sarah Palin costume for only $5!

Julia: They've been having that moving sale for something like 4 years at this point, but definitely a good place for bargains.

Now if only they had a smokin' hot Joan Holloway costume -- cause that's who I'm gonna be.

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Columbia Heights: I used to love Wonderland- and a year or two ago, would have been the top of my list- but Saturdays now seem to be a little overrun with uber drunk 21 year olds spilling drinks all over me(I get it- I used to be you too...I'm just, gulp, getting a little too old?)

Fritz: That's why I'm torn about the Dirty Bombs three-year anniversary party there tomorrow night. Love Meistro and Deep Sang, who can rock a party like very few tagteams in this city, but it'salwayssocrowded that it's hard to dance -- which is why I go there in the first place.

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Sundae: Comet Ping Pong has great sundaes...

Fritz: Great. Between the pizza, the ping pong and the live rock, I might just have to move in.

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Sundae Central, Va.: I love sundaes -- who cares what the season is? -- and would recommend Thomas Sweet in Georgetown, which boasts good topping and flavor variety. For an old fashioned sundae, you can't beat Silver Diner (in Virginia), and I'm also a fan of the the Dairy Godmother in Del Ray for a custard sundae.

Julia: Thomas Sweet's a goodie. I so used to have a crush on the guy behind the counter when I was in high school. Dairy Godmother's another one that made my list of best ice cream spots this summer. I'm sure there's a great sundae at the Silver Diner, but I'm sure we could as good or better at one of the local spots.

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Capitol Hill: GOGs--I love the chat. It's definitely turned me on to some very cool stuff that I wouldn't have done otherwise, including getting to hang out with Tommy Chong (long story). So, where would you recommend a bunch of 40-somethings go to dance (not clubs)and carry on w/o feeling like old farts? We'll be at the Improv first, so I was thinking Lucky Bar, but am not sure if we'd fit in, age-wise. Thanks for the help.

Fritz: Lucky Bar could work, since it gets such a range of folks on weekends. Same with Rumors or Sign of the Whale.

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Washington, D.C.: I have no idea where to ask this question. Do you have any Web sites or resources as to what to wear to a club? Stores to shop at? Thank you!!

Janet: Tune into the fashion chat every other Tuesday -- the next one will be Oct. 28.

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Washington D.C: Reupholstery: Hi GOGs - I am going to try you guys and peanut gallery since I missed the House chat earlier today. I have two great Herman Miller chairs that require reupholstery including cushion changed etc. Any recommendations. Thank you.

Julia: Funny you should ask. I just interviewed one of the owners of Lucketts Antiques about this process the other day for a story I'm writing about couches. (Surprisingly fascinating, let me tell you...)

Anyway, she didn't have any specific recommendations, but she did mention that it's best to try to find someone through word of mouth. I'd go to your favorite antique store and ask the owner. They definitely know someone.

Be forewarned though, this process isn't a cheap fix. It can be as expensive as new furniture. Good luck!

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Washington D.C.: A group of girls from work are going out on Saturday night and wondering about where some of the some hot spots are... Most of the girls are early to mid thirties, mix of singletons and attached. We are looking for a place that has a crowd with a similar age group. Good drinks and music a must, and perhaps some dancing too! Any suggestions in the Farragut West/Dupont Circle neighborhood?

Fritz: Well, let's see. I'd put Current and Eighteenth Street Lounge squarely in that group, certainly Fly (if you don't show up at midnight, when they're packed). Tattoo is a good, if crowded option. You can try the new Eyebar, which was rough around the edges last Friday night but still had good music, a 25-35 crowd and a bit of dancing. Maybe Shadow Room if you want more of a lounge experience.

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Washington D.C.: For the person looking for Philly restaurant recommendations for a gift. I'm a fan of most of the Steven Starr. You can buy a starr gift card and they can chose from 16 restaurants. Everything from upscale cuban (Alma de Cuba) to trency sushi (Morimoto) to the martini bar that started the empire (Continental). I've given lots of these and people have fun picking their own experiences.

Fritz: Another option. I like Gayle and Marigold better than any Steven Starr spots I've been to, though.

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Football!: Hello Great Gurus

I am looking for a place to watch Sunday's game. A lively but not obnoxious joint, somewhere in the city. Maybe with fans from both sides? Does it exist in DC? I have been to Thirsty Bernie which is great with all the diff games showing, but there is not much interaction amongst the watchers. Thanks!

Fritz: Champions and Rhino Bar in Georgetown, though they can't match Bernie's for the food.

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Thanks, Fritz!: Fritz, just wanted to thank you for the Philly recommendation. I'm laughing about the first place you named, because the bride's name is Gayle -- perfect! Really appreciate the help!

Fritz: She's going to LOVE it, then.

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Arlington, Va.: Where's the best place to take an adorable one-year-old to get her first Halloween pumpkin? (Sheesh, I feel old. I used to write you guys for advice about happy hour joints!)

Anne: You are so cute, Arlington. (We'll be here for you whenever you want happy hour advice again.) The best place is probably the one that is either relatively close or is far enough to get a great nap in, right? A family down the street from me makes Butler's an annual stop, and it hits all the kid bases: hayrides, farm animals, other rides. Try that or Leesburg Animal Park if your adorable one will also be enthralled by seeing tons of older kids go nuts. Phillips or Homestead Farm might be better bets if you need a quieter scene.

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Housing for $350K?: I just bought my condo for just over $300K in Van Ness. Not up and coming but with $350 you could find a lot of places. Depends on what you're looking for.

Stephanie: Another thought for the person looking for a new place.

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Washington, D.C.: No offense, but I don't think the people over at the fashion chat would know anything about what to wear at a club.

Fritz: I think it depends on the club, but Janet does know her Madness from her Alldaz. (I think she might confuse Hobo and Fubu occasionally, though.)

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Looking to Buy: GAH! Why does everyone classify SE as bad? Ummm, Eastern Market and Barracks Row are all SE. If you are going to buy you maybe need to get rid of the "no SE tude" since there ARE nice parts of SE. I'm a homeowner on H St and hate when people automatically characterize all of NE or SE as "bad parts of town." GAH!

Anne: I was confused about that SE comment myself.

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Philly Out-of-Town: Going to The Bayou Room in Old Town on Saturday night. What's the vibe there? What can I expect?

Julia: Funny you should ask. I was just there on Saturday night (after the disappointing ice cream experience).

I wasn't wild about the place. It's small and packed with people. Most of the guys there were craning their necks to get a view of the few television screens. There's a disco ball and weird colored lighting -- which, on Saturday, served almost like a spotlight on the loud Bon-Jovi-singing bachelorette party. There was a little bit of dancing, but mostly just pushing your way to the bar. My single friends seemed to be enjoying themselves, but it wasn't really fun for me until after 12:30, when it cleared out a little.

Fritz: That's why I like it. It's small, divey, crowded and, most importantly, NOT AN IRISH PUB.

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Arlington, Va.: I've never been to Twins Jazz in Shaw, but it sounds like a good combination of interesting food and live jazz. Do you recommend it? Would you maybe eat elsewhere in the neighborhood and then go there after? Also, is Twins a dress-up spot or are nice jeans OK?

Fritz: Nice jeans are fine. Good Ethiopian food, great acts as long as you don't find one who's too *smooth*.

There's better Ethiopian in the neighborhood, though. Etete and Madjet are where I'd start.

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Washington D.C.: I hope I am not too late!

My BF and I are ready to take a big jump and move in together. However, when I look for apartments on Craigslist or city paper it is always "available immediately" and when I called my landlord on Cap. Hill they said I have to give 60 days notice. So... obviously this is all annoying... Does anyone know of any Web sites where someone can apartment shops a few months before they want to move as opposed to moving at the end of this week? Thank you!!

Stephanie: Sometimes you can find things on CL that won't be ready for a couple of months, and if they're desperate you can always negotiate. I think you're best bet is to pick a neighborhood and spend a Saturday morning walking around and writing down phone numbers of buildings with "apartment available" signs. It may seem a little old-fashioned, but it's a good way to find a deal.

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fall colors for Fairfax: How about taking your desert friend to Mount Vernon? Fall color and history and grand old home all in one.

Stephanie: Great suggestion for the fall leaf-seeker.

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Anonymous: Hi -

My wife and I are planning to spend an overnight in D.C. this Saturday to have some fun without the kids. Problem is, now that we are suburbanites, we really haven't spent an evening out in D.C. (without kids) for quite a while (i.e., years). What would you suggest for fun/romance in the Dupont/Georgetown area? Any good suggestions for brunch the next morning?

Thanks!

Julia: Depends on who you ask. I LOVED Darlington House for dinner -- even on Restaurant Week. Tom Sietsema? Not so much. So that's an option -- as are Al Tiramisu, Obelisk (in this year's Dining Guide) and Bistro Lepic.

For brunch the next day, I'd look at Creme Cafe for fun, lively atmosphere or Blue Duck Tavern for something fancier. Perhaps the Tabard Inn, if it's not already booked up.

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Washington, D.C.: Available immediately - Really? Because if you're thinking of moving into an apartment building, I've found there is most likely going to be a wait, of 3 weeks approximately.

Stephanie: That's what I've found too, but it's Craigslist, so of course a mixed bag.

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