Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's Going Out 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 Going Out Guide or read transcripts of past Got Plans? discussions.

The transcript follows:

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Dupont Circle: I'm 27 and love food--love reading Tom, love Alton Brown, love Top Chef, love anything I can get my hands on about food and the restaurant world. I just got a nice election bonus and I want to splurge and go some place here in D.C. that will overload my brain with deliciousness.

Here's the rub...I want to take my boyfriend as well--but he's a vegetarian and I love meat. I've seen that may restaurants will provide tasting menus that satisfy us both but I want to check with the experts before I make reservations. Is there any place that can satisfy my hankering for amazing food (classical cuisine of any form or new fangled molecular gastronomy) that is both meat and veggie friendly? Thanks!

Julia: Cityzen has a six-course veggie-tasting menu for $90, $20 less than the menu for meat eaters.

Congrats on the bonus!

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Chevy Chase, D.C.: Getting married next week (with lots of Guru help throughout the whole experience). Looking for chill, semi-upscale lounge to toast bachelor-dom away with my best man the night before the rehearsal. Already did the barhopping, near-arrest bachelor party, so looking for something about a 1 on the rowdy scale. Thoughts? Thanks for all your help!

Fritz: The Gibson. Warm, cozy, very upscale, and thanks to the no-standing policy, it's a calm place to spend the night. Also, the cocktails are to-die-for good -- best Mai Tai around, period.

Just make sure you make a reservation or go on an off night. I got there with a group of four on Saturday night, and it took around 50 for our number to come up.

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washingtonpost.com: Ready for another exciting discussion? Oh, I know we are. And we have a special prize to offer today: Two sets of passes to the ZooLights exhibit at the National Zoo. There is, however, a little work involved. So here's the deal: During the course of the discussion, please come up with the title for a holiday movie that no one would ever want to see. Here's an example: "Quentin Tarantino Presents: The Year Santa Claus Went to a Grindhouse Theater." Actually, that's a bad example. I might actually watch that. But you get the idea. The two people who come up with the most clever title (please, refrain from obscenities) wins passes for the whole family (or a group of friends) for the night of Dec. 20. Good luck. And let's start "Got Plans-ing."

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Arlington, Va. - Repeal Day Party?: On Nov. 20 your chat alerted my friend and me to the Repeal Day Party happening tomorrow night. It sounded like a wonderful, fun idea for a great cause (we are big fans of cocktails; though who isn't?) so I purchased tickets from the DCCBG website.

Now it's the day before and I have gotten nothing; no tickets, no email, no phone call giving out the speakeasy password that must be given to an intimidating doorman. I have a receipt for the tickets and my card's been charged. Is this normal? I've never been to a similar sponsored event like this, so I'm at a loss. Can we just walk in once we give our names?

I emailed a query yesterday to the Events and Info address on the DCCBG website, no response yet. Hoping maybe the gurus can soothe my anxiety?

Fritz: It's at the City Tavern Club, and I've never gotten tickets to any event I've been to there -- just sign in at a table at the door. I'd bring the receipt along, though.

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Van Ness: Thinking of going to Corcoran's Power Hour to see the Avedon exhibit. Two glasse of wine and admission for $25 - think it's worth it?

Stephanie: I really do think Power Hours is worth the price, especially since the $25 covers the cost of admission ($14). It's a nice change of scenery for a Thursday night happy hour, plus you get to take in the amazing Avedon show.

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Logan Circle: Hey Fritz, you didn't happen to be at the bar at The Gibson the evening of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving? There was a guy chatting with the bartender who, if it wasn't you, sure looked like he should be, according to my mental image of you (I'm not a stalker, really).

Anyway, how much do you love that place? Any bar that is completely willing to toss egg whites into their drinks so I can get a proper Whiskey/Pisco Sour is alright by me.

Fritz: Nope. Haven't been on a Wednesday, though I should.

I am crushing so hard on the Gibson's cocktails that it's not even funny. I've worked through about a third of the list at this point.

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Evergreen, D.C.: Hi Gurus,

Where would you look in the District this weekend for Christmas Trees? I'm ready to start decorating!!!

Stephanie: When I lived in Dupont, I used to get my Christmas trees at the nearby farmers market and the quality always turned out to be most excellent.

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Cooking classes?: Hi Gurus, You have been so helpful in the past that I thought I'd throw another question your way. I'd like to give my boyfriend a cooking class of some sort as a gift for the holidays but I'm a little overwhelmed from all the web search results I've found. Any suggestions on where to go? Do you know of any sushi making classes? Thanks!

Julia: It's true -- there are quite a few on the market. Here's the Food section's recent list of class offerings -- it's broken down by category, so hopefully that will help you.

I haven't taken a class there, but I've been really interested by the offerings at CulinAerie. The new school on the block has been attracting some top-notch teachers. Also, a former colleague of ours took a sushi class at Uni - A Sushi Place in Dupont. At $65 per person, it seemed like a pretty good deal.

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Arlington, Va.: Hey GOGs!!!

Definitely hoping that you will come through for me like y'all have done in the past! I'm submitting early because I have a meeting during the normal chat time.

Basically myself and 3 of my girlfriends are all going out for a holiday dinner/drinks night on the 16th. We are all mid to late 20's and we have one vegetarian recently gone vegan amongst us and one girl that is allergic to a lot of things (seafood, soy, and nuts to start) but usually eats meat and potatoes and the other two aren't particular at all - is there ANY PLACE out there that would have a food option for all 4 of us? Something somewhat trendy, but not too loud so we can chat and chill and have a few drinks and not get dirty looks from other patrons if we have one too many...???

HELP!!!!!

Fritz: The vibe upstairs at Vegetate is totally conducive to your needs, from organic wines down to a chef who can take allergies into account. Good tunes, nice art, good food.

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Downtown: I am going to Rock n Roll hotel for the first time Friday night. Do you know if there is a cover? I'm going to see Hayes Carll- really excited!!

David: Um, yes, there's a cover. In fact, I would advise buying tickets in advance, which you can do over at the Rock and Roll Hotel Web site. Tickets are $12 if you buy in advance and $14 at the door. Although they are really $14.70 in advance after those service charges. Still, this show could very well sell out, so you might want to stay on the safe side. Should be an excellent show, I bet he ends up at the Birchmere sooner rather than later.

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Washington, D.C.: Meeting up with some friends around New York Avenue this evening. Any good happy hours around there?

Fritz: Which stretch of this long, long road are you meeting up on?

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Glover Park: Gurus! Other than Aroma in Cleveland Park, is there anywhere else in DC that is exempted from the smoking ban and will allow my fiance (and me, a little bit) to enjoy a good cigar? If not DC, do you have recommendations for a loungey cigar bar or two in Virginia? Thanks!

Fritz: Ozio is the classy option. Shelly's is more tavern-like.

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Washington, D.C.: Who has the best beer list in your opinion?

Fritz: Rustico, Birreria Paradiso and Brasserie Beck. I was just at R.F.D. the other night and had some fantastic bottles from their "limited" menu, but they suffer from being near Verizon Center and have too many American Macrobrews on tap. You'd never see Miller Lite or Yuengling on draft at Birreria or Rustico, which is why they edge it for me.

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Arlington, VA: Four Christmases. Zing.

Jen: Dang. I actually didn't think it was that bad. Helps when you go in with rock bottom expectations.

How about "A Christmas Story 2: Ralphie's Electric Boogaloo"? Come on, people, fire up that creativity.

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Alexandria, VA: "Paris Hilton and Friends Save Christmas"

Jen: Now that's what I'm talking about. Nice.

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Washington, D.C.: Dearest GOGs,

I read that Oprah is filming her show in the Kennedy Center all throughout Inauguration Week. How can I get tickets? There is nothing so far on her website. Thanks!

David: Don't know about tickets for Oprah, but we did just get word that The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, will be playing a FREE show at the Kennedy Center on Martin Luther King Day (Jan. 19), the day before Inauguration Day. Wow!! Tickets will be given out, one per person, starting at 4 p.m. the day of the concert, but you better believe the line will start forming well before then.

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Arlington: "SVJ: Santa vs. Jesus" (actually, that might get a pretty good draw...)

Stephanie: All I can say is: Wow.

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Under a Rock, Ashburn: Help me GoGs!

I would love to have just one Xmas season bring me a reason to put on fancy holiday clothes and see some elegance in DC.

Where might I find info about holiday embassy events? I used to live closer to town and was on some embassy email/mailing lists (public - nothing insider) and I know there are so many holiday things going on in this town and I'm just not clued in anymore.

Other than embassy events, anything else you might suggest? Some of us have ADD so a long holiday play might not work. Mingling and egg nog (or wine) would do the trick.

Many thanks!

Fritz: Two fancy events on my radar (and should be on yours, too): The Holiday Party in Paris at La Maison Francaise on Friday night (info) with an open bar, French food, live music, etc., and the House of Sweden's black-tie Santa Lucia party next weekend (info) with a Lucia procession, open bar, rooftop lounge, etc.

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Missing coat from nice downtown DC restaurant: Hi GOGs,

I'm reading your chat after-the-fact because I missed it on Thursday. I read the entry where one of your readers's coat went missing--one that they hand made. I'm just writing in to say how sad I was when I read that. I hope that the chatter got the best resolution (the coat back!) because not only is it right but it's been downright cold. Please pass along my well-wishes. While it could have been an honest mistake, if it wasn't--then that is really really bad and it gives me pause about the level of humanity we have here in this city of ours.

Stephanie: Does the girl who lost her handmade coat have any updates for us? We were all really bummed out by that story too...

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Early in D.C.: Hey gurus,

I have an unsexy question for you today. I know that the Adams Morgan strip is hardly a dining destination but I'm wondering about a place that I've spotted but haven't heard any word. I think it's called Pi and is pretty much a pizza joint. Anyone know anything about it--is it good or keep away!? the cutesy name gives me pause but should I be leery?

Thanks

Julia: Fritz and I stopped in for a drink the other day, but sadly we didn't stay to eat so I don't think I can get to the heart of your question.

We both had a weird feeling about the place, to be honest. The decor is kind of industrial-mod, with metal grates on the ceiling and white Ikea-esque furniture. It's not bad, just feels kind of out of place in a pizza spot. But with only three seats at the bar, it's not really a wine bar either. We did have a great bartender, though -- full of info about the Italian wines.

The pizza smelled good, so for all I know, it could be fantastic. Care to chime in?

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Dr. Granville Moores: I bet Fritz knows the answer to this question... A while back, Granville's was supposed to have trial brunch to see how things went, and the menu sounded fab. Any word on if they plan to make this a permanent feature??

Fritz: They're not currently offering brunch, which is a damn shame. I mean, if the Pug can do it, with their delicious mystery scrapple, you'd think Granville's could, too.

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Movie title: A Christmas Wish: Four More Years of Bush

Jen: So sort of a reverse version of "W." with a yuletide twist. That's a bold choice.

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SVJ: ...is how the South Park guys got their career.

Jen: Yes, I was thinking the exact same thing. Apparently Trey Parker and Matt Stone are writing into the chat.

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Farragut West, D.C.: "Christmas Carnage: Snakes on a Sled"

Jen: You know, that could become a whole series.

"Snakes on a Sled."

"Snakes in a Stocking."

"Snakes in My Egg Nogg."

So many possibilities.

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Rockville, Md.: Hey Gurus and chatters probably not a "going out" question but anyways, I want to take a photography course, I'm an amateur in this subject but I've been taking this very seriously for the past two years. What are my options in the DC metro area for a relatively short course 1-3 months?? (Metro accessible) I already checked the USDA Grad School, Wash School of photography, and Ritz camera. Any recommendations?

Julia: I'd add the Smithsonian Resident Associates Program and the classes at Glen Echo to your already-wonderful list.

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December Birthday: HELP!! I'm turning 25 on Dec 19th- the Friday before Christmas. I was thinking about getting a table a club, in kinda a birthday/holiday party. Do you think Tattoo would be a good place to host such an event? Half my friends veer toward the DC9/R&R crowd, and the other half are more Park/Avenue (is that still around). I thought Tattoo would be a happy medium. Do you know what their policy is, regarding tables? Will my friends still have to pay a cover charge?

Fritz: I think you're on to something. Tattoo rocks hard enough to keep the DC9 friends happy, especially if they like old metal, but it's still upscale enough for the Park crowd. Minimums for tables/bottle service start at $300, but that gets all your friends in the door.

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movie suggestion: A Very George Bush Christmas Musical Spectacular.

Anne: Nah, too easy. That one is actually happening tonight. With Jon Secada, Phil Vassar and a poor 4-year-old from America's Got Talent as part of the musical act, too.

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L'enfant Plaza: A Christmas Explosion: Starring Plaxico Burress

Fritz: I'd pay to watch "One Shot at Christmas," starring Plaxico and a bunch of orphans.

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HELP!: I'm going to a lecture at the National Geographic building this evening -- 16th and M, according to the web site. I was just on your going out guide looking for restuarants in the area. Apparently I don't know how to use it because all I could come up with was 6 or 8 near Dupont Circle. Isn't there anything closer? Thanks!

Stephanie: Does this help? After you click on the profile for the National Geographic Society, click on "restaurants" under "map what's nearby." Personally, I'm a fan of Spezie.

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Columbia, MD: Dude, they already made "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians". What could be worse than that?

I saw it as a child and thought it was great. Viewing it now, I laugh hysterically at the bad acting, and the low budget costumes, makeup and sets.

Jen: So what you're saying is that it's the gift that keeps on giving.

At least it still provides some amusement value. I wish I could say the same for "Surviving Christmas," starring Ben Affleck and James Gandolfini. Not. Good.

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Foggy Bottom: Movie idea: Santa Drinks Because You Cry

Jen: That was the alternate title for "Bad Santa," wasn't it?

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Arlington, Va.: My husband is being deployed to Iraq and I want to throw a going away party for him. What would be the best restaurant or bar for a party of 15 to 20 people? Thank you!

Julia: Hey -- we'd love to help! Send us more info:

What are you guys into? Going to D.C.? Staying in Arlington? Private Room? Do you want activities like darts -- or is just a regular bar okay? How much are you looking to spend? Or do you just want your friends to meet you at a bar and pay for their own drinks or split the bill at a restaurant?

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Arlington, VA: "The Devil Wears Tacky Christmas Sweaters"

Jen: That might be true. But that devil -- at least the one that went down to Georgia -- can play a mean fiddle.

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National Christmas Tree Lighting Tonight: Do you all have an idea of what the gridlock will be and what time it (the gridlock not the lighting/ceremony) will start? I work near the White House. On Tuesday when they lit the Capitol Tree, we were gridlocked all the way across town. I can't find any street closings, but I know it will be a mess.

Anne: The event starts at 5, so yep, the gridlock should coincide perfectly with the early part of rush hour.

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Antietam Illuminary... what time would you suggest heading out there...: since it begins AT 4 p.m.? And you stay in your car, right, driving around?

Tx!

Fritz: According to the Park Service, it starts at 6. It's a beautiful event -- the battlefield is lit by 23,000 candles, representing the 23,000 soldiers who died there in 1862. You drive through the park, and stay in your car the whole time -- no stopping or parking allowed.

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DC: It's a Wonderful Life 2: Sarah Palin Wins the Presidency

Jen: OK, what's with all the pro-Republican responses to this? Can you people drop the politics for even a millisecond?

Sheesh.

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xmas movie: A Christmas Carol as told by Gilbert Arenas on his blog

Jen: I would sooo read that.

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Columbia Heights, D.C.: "Real Housewives of the North Pole"

Might be better for TV, though...

Jen: OK, that's just plain good.

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Arlington, VA: The Blond Charity Mafia Saves Christmas in DC.

Jen: Don't they always?

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Bad movie: It's a Wonderful Life: The Musical, starring John Tesh as George, Kathy Lee Gifford as Mary and featuring Andy Williams as Clarence!

Jen: And Rip Taylor as that always forgetful Uncle Billy!

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Movie Suggestion: A Christmas Story 2: How I Would Have Done it With a Red Ryder BB Gun by O.J. Simpson

Jen: That's in bad taste. But also clever.

This is a fierce competition.

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Washington, D.C.: Are any other celebrations of Repeal Day scheduled for tomorrow besides the DC Craft Bartender's Guild event? Surely some other happy hours or parties dedicated to the milestone?

Fritz: Indebleu will have some special cocktails for the night -- I like the sound of cask Jack Daniels and cherries -- as will PX. R.F.D. has Iron City for $2.50 all night, which is really the price it should be EVERY night. As in, you should pay me $2.50 to drink it.

Probably my favorite event, though is free Dewers at Metropolitain from 10 until it runs out, with DJ Meistro at the controls. I'm hoping it'll be running more smoothly than the bar's Beaujolais Nouveau party, which was a little chaotic because, for some reason, they only had ONE BARTENDER for a capacity crowd. It's like, you're giving away free wine. You don't expect the place to be packed? Go figure...

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Brunch @ Granvilles: The earlier post was correct- there was/is a brunch at GM.

Fritz: Right. But it's not happening on a regular basis.

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Arlington, VA: Possible title: "A Borat Christmas: Cultural Learnings of the North Pole" I would just hope there aren't banana hammocks in this one... brrr..

Jen: Or naked wrestling matches. Although nothing says happy holidays quite like one of those...

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Washington, D.C.: Trying to take a girl on a date, my plan is take her to dinner and afterwards ice skating. I just moved to the area and the only outdoor rink, I know of is the one in Pentagon Row. Is this the only one in the area? Suggest where to go by the ice skating rink.

Julia: Take her to the National Gallery's ice-skating rink. It's in the gallery's outdoor sculpture garden and open until 11 p.m. on the weekends.

These restaurants are nearby. Of these, I'd pick Oyamel or Matchbox. Co Co. Sala if you'd prefer to treat the lady to dessert instead of dinner. Proof if it's a special occasion. Very affordable Asia Nine if it's a first date. (Note to husband: I kind of want to go on this date. Make it happen.)

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2 bad taste titles: "No, YOU Open It!! Christmas With the Unibomber"

Michael Jackson Dreaming of a White Christmas

Jen: Those are most definitely in bad taste. Consider them submitted!

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Waldorf, MD: "Christmas at Bernie's - Santa Smells!"

Jen: It was really only a matter of time before someone made a "Weekend at Bernie's" joke.

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New York Avenue Happy Hour: Sorry, I suppose it is quite lengthy. I meant the stretch between Mt. Vernon and North Capital. Bonus if they have good wings.

Fritz: I'm partial to Ceiba, which has great happy hour cocktails, or Capital City Brewing Company.

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Gaithersburg, MD: The Fast and the Furious 4: North Pole Drift

Jen: I like this because it actually sounds plausible.

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movie idea: The Grinch with Gilbert Godfrey as the narrator and new songs by Yoko Ono

Jen: Wow. This might have just become the front-runner, although it could be disqualified because it technically isn't in title form...

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Metropolitain: Fritz,

I probably spelled it wrong but is Metropolitain your go-to place for when it's in the wee hours of the morning and you're pretty loaded and want some pretty things to look at, that is if you're still standing?

Fritz: I'm always still standing.

I like Metropolitain late. Not as LOUD as Josephine, not as crushed as Tattoo, and I'm always happy to end the night with champagne cocktails.

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Arlington, Va.: Do you have any suggestions of things to do solo around town in the next week or so for a girl who just had to break off a long term relationship? Cultural events or places without a lot of couples would be a plus! Thanks!

Stephanie: Bummer Arlington. On the plus side, at least it's not spring when everyone on the street appears to be coupled off and holding hands! You could head to Phillips After 5 to take in some great art and maybe meet a new friend, see an award-winning movie at the Freer or get a glimpse of some of the Mid City Artists's studios. On a random side note, I really like going to concerts by myself (you don't feel weird being alone if it's dark and jam-packed!), so that could be a good pick-me-up if any upcoming shows pique your interest.

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Washington, D.C.: hello-

For Saturday night, I'm looking for a good venue to have a get together of 5-8 people w/out a steep cover that isn't so loud you can easily have a discussion. HR 57, twins and bohemian caverns all have covers ranging from $15-20. Any ideas on places w/ less of a cover?

Thanks! Eliza

Rhome: Science Club, Lounge 201, Bourbon, Busboys & Poets, W. Domku...

Any more details to narrow down what can stretch into a much longer list?

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Christmas Story 2: It was called "It runs in the Family" and starred, you guessed it: Charles Grodin!

Jen: Well, it sort of was a sequel, in that it was based on the Parker family and Jean Shepherd's writings. So that's a good call.

But it doesn't count really because it wasn't Christmasy. Oh, and no one saw it.

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CBD: All this talk about burger and cupcake wars made me long for my study abroad (Germany) favorite go to: Doner Kebab. Is the closest thing here Schwarma? Are there any best bets for cheap but good (other than that one in Adams Morgan)? Thanks for letting me reminisce back on my college days!

Julia: Yeah, I was totally going to say that-place-in-Adams-Morgan. Cafe Divan sells Doner Kebabs -- as does Hamburg Doner at Mighty Midget Kitchen, but the Leesburg locale is kind of far from the CBD.

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Washington, D.C.: Do know of any liquor stores in the area that offer keg delivery?

Fritz: I use Cleveland Park Liquors for all my delivery needs. Never ordered a keg, but I bet they'd do it if you asked. (Say hi to Santos for me.)

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L'enfant Plaza: Kristmas with the Kardashians...eww.

Jen: Extra points for excessive use of the letter K.

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Cleveland Park, DC: No need to be just Christmas...

Eliot Sptizer in Eight Crazy Nights II.

Jen: Fair enough. We can totally go Hanukkah, too.

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Craving some cotton candy, DC: Hey Gurus - do you know of any carnivals that take place around DC? Would love to hit up a ferris wheel, through some baseballs at stacked milk cans, and eat a funnel cake. Thanks!

David: Hi there, have you checked the calendar? It's December. Check back in, say, eight months and we will have more county fairs and carnivals than you can shake a stick of cotton candy at. But right now? Not so much.

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The beautiful people: Hi Gurus:

Can you settle a debate? Which do you like better: someone who has to get all dolled up to go out and makes the most of what they have or someone who is considered stunning or beautiful but downplays the assets?

Thanks.

Fritz: All things being equal, obviously the latter, though you have to give the former credit.

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Pi and Pizza: I've been there a few times, and it was very tasty. Not an extensive menu, but the pizza and aps were great. Good, small selection of beers and wine, too.

I agree that the decor is a little off, but if there were checkered table clothes, we'd probably be calling it kitchy. So they can't win.

But very tasty...

Julia: Yeah, it seemed cheap, too, which is always a plus. Thanks for the input.

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Alexandria, Va.: Dear Gurus: When in New York City during the holidays, many of the museums have special displays, such as decorated trees, just for the season. (One example being a Christmas tree decorated with all origami, one year.) I have searched online to see if there are any such indoor displays here in D.C., to no avail. The only one that I have found so far is the Norwegian tree at Union Station. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!

Anne:
There are great ones here too. I love the Botanic Garden's train set-up, because it's not your typical Christmas style. There are trains running way above your head through a tropical green garden, it feels like, and there are a handful of themes throughout. It's over on the left side of the building when you go in -- don't miss that part. I also love the National Gallery's West Building display, if you want something to surround you in Christmas wreaths and poinsettias and lights.

Stephanie: You could also check out the smorgasbord of nativity scenes at the National Cathedral or get in the holiday spirit with the open house at DAR.

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Adams Morgan, DC: Hey,

I went to Pi about a week after they opened, and I thought they were great. The pizza was very tasty (probably on par with Sette) and the wines were fantastic. Only weird think was an amuse bouche brought to the table that seemed to be day old bread sticks cut up with some sort of diced tomato spread. That was less than impressive, but the rest was great. I would recommend them.

Julia: I find it a little suspicious that this chat seems to be the only place on the Internet where Pi has been recommended -- Yelp reviews were way harsh last time I checked -- but hey, I'll post this too.

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Washington, D.C.: Washington has lots of great places for wine tasting, but I'm at a loss for places that have beer tasting. Any tips?

Fritz: Be on the lookout for beer dinners at the Brickskeller, Birreria Paradiso, Magnolia's at the Mill, Tuskie's, Rustico and occasionally the Reef. (Birreria is hosting one on Monday with the brewer from the lovely Three Floyds brewery.) I've learned a lot from hearing brewers talk about their beers.

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Re: Pi: I've been. The food was fine, but the service was terrible. We were the only ones seated (2 Thursdays ago) and the waiter ignored us most of the time. He more than twice asked my boyfriend if he wanted another beer (even though his was half-full) yet didn't ask our friend if she wanted another (when hers was empty). Having to flag down a waiter in that shoebox seems ridiculous.

Julia: A ha -- a dissenter in our midst! Thanks for the input. It is REALLY tiny. I mean, that's one of the things that makes the design so weird. If this were some huge airy space, the mod design wouldn't feel so over powering.

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Foggy Bottom:: Movie Title: Miracle on Wall Street

Jen: We sure need one, don't we?

By the way, for the record, some of you people are really sick. Like, sick in a way that I can't even publish your titles on a family Web site.

I mean ... dang.

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Photo Class: I took a photography class offered at the Corcoran earlier this year and it was wonderful.

Stephanie: Another great option for the photo class seeker.

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25th and M, D.C.: Do any of the gurus have thoughts on which of the local large drive-through Christmas lights displays is the best? Gaithersburg, Columbia, Manassas? Others?

Fritz: The Miracle on 34th Street in Baltimore. Nothing says "holidays" like weirdly festive decorations in Hampden, Hon.

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Silver Spring: Hey Gurus!

I need your help! I'm torn between Chi Cha, local 16, and Park. Celebrating a joint Bday party with about 10-12 people Saturday night and was looking to get to our venue for dinner and eventually stay for late night booty shakin'. Will we be able to skip the crazy cover and line at Park if we all get there for dinner first, or will they make us leave after dinner and re-enter? I'm also open to other ideas of dinner/party combos.

Gracias guru dudes!

Rhome: Despite the fact that we're in recession, most folks still haven't learned the survival tactic of early arrival at the club to avoid the cover AND being stuck in line in the cold. You won't have to leave and re-enter after dinner. You can eat and dance at Lima also, if you don't mind the pageantry. Marvin as well as Tabaq come to mind, but the size of your party might be a problem, call ahead first.

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Washington, DC: Tyler Perry presents Madea Saves Kwanzaa

Jen: It's entirely possible Perry is working on this. That man is prolific.

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doner kebap: There's a new Döner place next to Georgetown cupcake. Levante's also sells doner in sandwich and plate form. Including the always wonderful iskender kebab.

Julia: Oh right! I knew I had seen a new kebab place somewhere. The one I was thinking of was on Potomac next to Georgetown Cupcake. (After Cupcake Wars, I thought I'd be sick of the diminutive desserts...not true, apparently).

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Mass Ave: Hi GoGs. I want to take my nieces (ages 5 and 8) to tea. Can you recommend a good place in Northwest or MoCo? I want them to be able to get dressed up and have the tea "experience" but would prefer a place that's not too quiet and that will have other kids around. Thanks.

Anne: This time of year, the teas for kids are heavy on the "Nutcracker." Here are two for starters -- and if you're feeling like a big splurge, there's the brunch at the Willard.

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Birthday Boy: Hi Gurus! Its a friend of mine's 27th birthday this weekend and we are trying to determine the location to celebrate. Some thoughts are Georgetown, Dupont, Chinatown, and Adam's Morgan. Its going to be a decent sized group and friends are coming in from out of town so we want to be able to chat with them to catch up, not worry about lines and huge crowds, but still show them the DC nightlife. Any ideas?

Fritz: First idea -- when you say "decent sized" group, you need to plan ahead. You can't just show up at some bars with, say, 20 people. You need to strategize ahead of time. (I can just imagine what would happen if you tried to walk into, say, the Saloon with that many people.)

I'd love to hear from readers who've done the barhopping-with-a-crowd birthday party.

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Ballston, Va.: An LNS Christmas Special: There's an economic downturn?! No way!

Fritz: An LNS Christmas Special: Holiday Sweaters, Warm Drinks and Skiing in Glover Park.

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D.C. in Cali: Hey Gurus! Hope this makes it in! I'm returning to town this weekend to meet a friend Sunday morning. She has a lunch appt so I'm looking for somewhere to get a lite nibble (i.e. not brunch) that's off Metro red line? Thanks.

Julia: Sounds like you need a coffee shop...one that won't be busy, given her time commitments. Open City, Afterwords Cafe or Tryst come to mind, but beware that you could have to wait for a seat. Soho could be nice...and most likely won't be as busy as the others.

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Reston, Va.: There's a ferris wheel out by the drive-through lights display on 66 towards Manassas.

David: Well there ya go, ferris wheel searcher.

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Washington , D.C.: Hi Gurus, I live with 2 Filipino women who are huge boxing fans and want to see the big fight on Saturday. Where can I watch the Manny Pacquiao vs. Oscar De La Hoya fight? I've been scouring the papers and internet looking for someplace to see it to no avail..please help! Anyplace with Metro access is the best but not a deal breaker.

Fritz: How about pairing the fight with Ne-Yo at Lux? (More info on that on the blog in Nightlife Agenda.)

I haven't figured out where I'm watching yet -- seriously, I love boxing -- but know Summers and the Park at 14th are showing it.

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Movie Titles: "Gilbert Godfried Reads 'A Christmas Carol'"

Rhome: Should be an audio book.

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Goldvein, VA: Sorry Fritz real men end of the evening with untaxed fine VA corn liquor in a mason jar not champagne cocktail.

Now if you get lucky opening a bottle or three of Pol Roger Winston Churchill with lady is acceptable but not champagne cocktails. Real Men can pronounce the name of their favorite vintage champagne and don't order Cristal!

Fritz: As most of my colleagues can tell you, I spent several hours last night sipping straight bourbon. (Willet 15, two ice cubes, and Bulleit, if you're interested.)

And if you haven't had a French 75 (Beefeater, dry champagne, lemon, bitters), then I feel sorry for you.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus!

Are there any bars in the Dupont/Foggy Bottom area with a fireplace? I want to cozy up with a nice drink on a cold day!

Julia: The Tabard Inn comes to mind.

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Falls Church: I've heard of smaller bars and lounges that let patrons jack in their iPods and play DJ...can you point me to any of these places in the DC area? Thanks!

Fritz: The Reef does this every Wednesday in the downstairs bar. Five song limit. Red Derby will let you take over anytime if you ask nicely (and your music doesn't stink). And there's an iPod night on the second Wednesday of the month at Saint-Ex.

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Bar-hopping with a group: I'm hoping my friend will submit since she organized the event but a bunch of us went out in Georgetown for another friends bday. I think a few people had whistles to announce when we were leaving (or maybe to make sure we didn't leave anyone) and we never really stayed at one place too long. We got a drink or two and then hit the next place. No one seemed to notice a huge influx of people since they were in full swing. Hopefully she'll respond with more details....

BTW, I am laughing hysterically at the movie titles. Keep them coming!

Fritz: Here's some very good advice. Like the whistles idea, though probably wouldn't enjoy it if you unexpectedly blew it standing next to me.

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Alexandria, VA: Hi Gurus! I'm looking to come up with a new regular cocktail. I'm tired of the same old boring gin and tonic but am not very into darker liquors. Is there a bar that you could recommend I go to where the bartender would be helpful and patient in helping me figure this out? Thanks!

Fritz: Since you're in Alexandria, I'd go to PX on a weeknight, post up at the bar, and chat with Clinton or whomever is behind the stick. They're all pretty talented.

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Arlington, Va.: Submitting early as I will be in a meeting during the chat. What is the best place to get martinis in Dupont Circle? I want to get my wife a gift certificate as a stocking stuffer so that she can go out with her friends after work on me. Also, is $50 enough to get a round or two, not counting tip? Thanks for the help.

Fritz: Urbana, at the Hotel Palomar, gets my vote. Russia House, too, if she likes vodka martinis.

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Washington, DC: Julia, are you a Yelper? You might be giving out recommendations based on my reviews... ;)

Julia: I'm not a yelper, I'm a guru. I get to do my Internet reviews here:)

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washingtonpost.com: Thanks, as always, for your questions and the many, many holiday movie titles you suggested. We've selected our two winners and they are: "Tyler Perry Presents Madea Saves Kwanzaa." (Rhome agreed that this was a particularly genius -- and totally plausible -- suggestion.) And despite it not being a title, I have to give the edge to the proposed version of the Grinch, featuring Gilbert Gottfried as the narrator and new music by Yoko Ono. That just took this thing to another level. The two people who came up with those should send an e-mail to events@washingtonpost.com, with "I Won the ZooLights Contest" in the subject line. We'll give you info about how to claim your passes from there. (And yes, we're operating on an honor system. We trust that none of you will pretend to be a winner. Right? Right??) Thanks for playing and see you all here next week.

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Butcher Holler, Tenn.: Hopefully not too late for a question to David... Loretta Lynn, this Saturday, 9:30 Club, tix $55. Worth it? She is 74...

David: If you want to be able to say "I saw Loretta Lynn!" then yes. If not ... debatable. Not every show is guaranteed to be a winner, but you will be in the presence of greatness and will get at least a few classic moments. It's hard for me to tell anyone to pay $55 for a concert ticket, just based on principle.

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washingtonpost.com: Update! The Tyler Perry answer had to be DQed for being someone we know. So we're picking an additional winner: Arlington, of "The Blond Charity Mafia Saves Christmas in D.C." -- e-mail us to get your tickets.

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Capitol Hill to the Birthday Boy: Hey Fritz! Two years back, my friend and I organized a birthday pub crawl in Georgetown with at least 20 people, if not more (joining on the way). We started pretty early (around 7 or 8) and went to all the divey staples and the bars didn't seem to mind. Some of the bars we went to were: The Tombs, The Guards, Third Edition, rooftop at Old Glory and Mr. Smith's. It was supposed to be similar to a 21st birthday pub crawl only our birthday boy was a bit older. One person acted as the pub tour leader, with a clipboard and whistle. Guest on the crawl had personalized cups and glow necklaces. It was pretty fun leading twenty plus people across M Street on a summer Saturday night!

Fritz: I know it's late, but wanted to add this story...

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