Got Plans?

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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washingtonpost.com: Most of the time, we write about parties, but last night, the tables were turned -- it was our very first time being the ones throwing the party -- and we loved doing it. Extra bartenders were called in, the special punch was all consumed early on, Rhome set the tone, and clothing layers were peeled off. And we gave away an iPod shuffle and tickets to Thievery Corporation. If you were there, what did you think? We're doing it again on Feb. 12 -- any ideas about where we should have it? What you'd like to see happen there? Do tell. We're all here, just like last night.

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E Street NW: Going to a movie at the E Street cinema tonight and wondered where would be a good place to grab dinner and a drink before hand.

Happy hour specials are always appreciated, as are some vegetarian options.

Also, not really in the mood for Ella's or Matchbox, or any of the divey Chinese places on H.

Thanks!

Julia: You've got a wealth of pre-theater menus in the area. Jaleo's pre-theater menu is $25, but you could also get away with slipping a couple small plates for less than that. At the bar, sangria, rail drinks, wine and draft beers are $3.50. Asia Nine is superclose. It's well priced (most entrees under $15) and has lots of veggie options.

If you're in the mood for something divey, I've got nothing but love for Harry's -- FWIW, I'm the only guru who feels this way. Since burgers are the specialty, you're probably better off at the other two.

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Arlington, Va.: This doesn't necessarily have to do with "going out" but my fiance and I are thinking of places to have engagement pictures taken. What part of the city, or surrounding areas, would you recommend that have a ton of atmosphere and good views?

Stephanie: Congrats! Believe or not, I wrote a blog post on just this topic.

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H St NE: Gurus! Long time lurker, first time writer. I'm having a girls night on Saturday with two friends. We are purposely trying a new (to us) neighborhood: U St. We really want to go dancing. Anywhere in addition to Cafe St. Ex three twirties can shake what they got?

Fritz: Marvin, when it's not super-crowded, is a lot of fun, with soul, funk and hip-hop depending on the DJ for that night. There's always the long-running Mousetrap Britpop night at the Black Cat. Touch, at the Republic, is a cool night with $1 drinks from 10 to 11, a floor packed with people dancing to reggae and hip-hop (new and old-school) and free admission for women until midnight. And finally, I like Feedback, Stereo Faith's monthly at DC9, with free admission and vodka cocktails before 10. This month, he's got prime guests, including DJ Sega, from Diplo's Mad Decent label in Philly, and local disco king Chris Burns, who'll probably be more on the house tip.

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Anywhere but DC on the 19th and 20th!: Challenge question! Hey Gurus, my boyfriend and I want to get out of town during Inauguration weekend to avoid the mess of getting around. We want to make it a wine tasting weekend, somewhere more than an hour away because we've already been to the close-by vineyards. Problem is we just adopted a dog, and would love to bring him along for the mini-vacation.

Anywhere you'd recommend we go / stay? Charlottesville would be perfect, but I don't see many pet friendly B&B's or nice-ish hotels. Thank you!

Stephanie: Charlottesville would be the perfect respite from the craziness of D.C., and I believe the Omni in downtown C-ville is pet-friendly. You might also try giving the Clifton Inn a try.

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LNS - what is the deal?: Seriously? Would these kids grow up already?

Fritz: If you don't like it, stop reading. Seriously.

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Washington, D.C.: Looking for a good place for Irish Coffees in the district. Any suggestions???

Fritz: My favs for the original Red-Bull-and-Vodka-style energy drink: Fado (seriously, but not when it's packed), Nanny O'Brien's, Tabard Inn. I bet the Pug could do a great one, given all the Irish whiskey they have there, but I can't remember if they serve coffee outside of brunch.

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Native Nashvillian: I've been in DC 4 years and haven't hearrd of such a thing, but figured I'd throw it out there: What's the closest thing I can get to a Titans bar for the NFL playoff this Saturday? Maybe a UT Vols bar (or a bar that despises Baltimore, since we play the Ravens)? Thanks.

Fritz: Can't say I've ever heard of a Titans bar in D.C. Bailey's in Crystal City is the Vols' viewing location, so that could be an option, or you could try a general sports bar like the Grand Slam Sports Bar in the Grand Hyatt downtown or Buffalo Billiards, which always draws fans of random teams on weekends.

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Engagement pictures: When my friends got married they got their engagement pics taken down by the monuments and memorials. The cherry blossums were out and they looked really good. Not sure if the poster can wait that long but otherwise, what about on the mall?

Stephanie: The cherry blossoms would be the perfect backdrop, but you might have to photoshop a few tourists out of your pics!

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Glover Park, DC: Glover Park has gotten boring! Do you have any good suggestions for a cheap drink at a place that is NOT crowded full of Republican 20-somethings? We're willing to drive (as long as you send us somewhere with ample parking), and already know our away around Cleveland Park.

Fritz: Head the other way up Wisconsin -- I really like the Enology, the wine bar at the corner of Macomb. Modern decor, cool atmosphere and an all-American wine list. It's hard to beat the deals, too: $1 off all drinks all night on Monday, half-price bottles on all Tuesday and half-price cocktails from 7 to close on Wednesday.

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Capitol Hill: Looking for a place to have my 30th birthday party (or second anniversary of my 29th as I like to call it). I know you have mentioned bars where you can rent a room and you can plug in an ipod to play your own music. Can you remind which bars do this? Preference to Georgetown or Dupont. Thanks!

Fritz: I did this at my holiday party last month, which was at Bourbon in Adams Morgan. My co-host Alexandra and I just played our own holiday music all night.

Other bars where you can do it: Red Derby, the first floor of the Reef ...

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, Happy New Year! I am seeing West Side Story on Friday night. Any suggestions for a nice place nearby for drinks before the show and dinner afterwards? We don't want to go to Old Ebbitt and want something that won't break the bank. I already looked at the menu for Cafe du Parc and that is out of my price range. Thanks.

Julia: TenPenh might be a good bet for you. Chef Geoff's could be good too, but some of the entrees get up into Cafe du Parc range and I think CduP has better food. Yesterday, Tom Sietsema recommended Bluepoint to someone in your situation, but I've never been there, so I can't really comment. I think the prices are close to CduP range as well.

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Farragut North: Hey Gurus!

I was sorry to miss your first happy hour last night, but hopefully I'll be able to make the next one!

A friend of mine is in town (first time in DC) and a group of 8 of us want to show her some fun bars in the Farragut North/DuPont area tomorrow night starting around 7 p.m. Am I crazy to think that it's going to be possible to find a comfortable space for 8 people on Friday night? We're looking for something between dives and the Eighteenth Street Lounge. I was thinking Bedrock Billiards, which is pretty giant, so I imagine we would be able to find a place. Any ideas where I might be able to find space, and/or bars that we should definitely show our friend?

Thanks a million, as always!

Fritz: 7 isn't too bad... you might be able to all get together at Science Club or Darlington House at that time. ESL is a great option for early gatherings, though, since they don't get crowded until after 10.

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Dupont: Hi Guys -- I have to host an informal work meeting this weekend for three of us, and a coffee shop would be perfect. The problem is that it has to be in suburban Virginia -- between Arlington and Tysons (McLean is ok too). I only know Murky Coffee in Arlington, and that is too close to DC. Any other suggestions besides Starbucks?

Stephanie: Well there is that huge Starbucks on Old Dominion in McLean, but if you're anti-Starbies, there is always Greenberry's. There's one in McLean and one in Arlington (though even closer to DC than Murky). I'm also partial to the super low-key Java Shack in Arlington.

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Arlington, Va.: Any update on Birch and Barley & Churchkey opening?

Fritz: I spoke to beer director Greg Engert earlier this week, and he told me -- brace yourselves -- that the opening has been pushed back again, because of construction and the fact that they're putting 20 draft lines on the rooftop deck. "We wanted to wait for better weather," he said. Pencil in the first week of March for the grand opening. That's a promise from the boss.

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Washington, D.C.: Can you recommend a good karaoke bar in the Dupont/Georgetown/Adams Morgan area?

Fritz: If one existed, I would. Ever since karaoke left the Reef, the neighborhood is bereft. (Apologies to all the drunken college kids who want to sing Journey and Kelly Clarkson over and over at Peyote on the weekends.)

I'd suggest Sticky Rice on Tuesdays -- it's a haul to H St., but worth it -- or Kostume Karaoke at Solly's on U St. every other Wednesday.

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Waldorf, MD: Sorry, slow kid in class here. What was the post about LNS referring to? Fritz was purty lathered up, so I must have missed something. Many thanks and Happy New Year

Fritz: Nah, not lathered up. Just tired of people on this chat complaining about another site. If you don't like it, don't read it.

(The "seriously" was a reference to a thread on LNS yesterday, though.)

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Richmond, Va.: For the new dog owners that want to visit wineries during the inauguration madness . . . check out dogfriendly.com (it lists the wineries that allow dogs in the vineyard in Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, etc.) and check out bringfido.com (it lists hotels, motels, b&bs, etc. that allow dogs). These both have listings for all states so you'll have to scroll through to find the state you would like to visit. Have a nice mini-vacation! P.S. Charlottesville isn't very dog friendly. I recently took my dog to visit the UVA grounds and was promptly asked to leave.

Stephanie: Some more suggestions for dog-friendly resources. I'm pretty surprised you were asked to leave the grounds because of your dog (though I do approve of your use of "grounds"); I used to see dogs there all the time!

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Not to be a pedantic jerk but....: a 30th birthday would be the FIRST anniversary of the 29th...

Fritz: You are correct.

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Cleveland Park: Are there going to be any free concerts on the mall for inauguration? In 1996, there was tons of stuff happening on the Mall and I saw an awesome Better Than Ezra concert for free. I'm hoping for something similar this time.

David: You're hoping for something similar to Better Than Ezra? For real? Maybe we can get a Toad the Wet Sprocket, Dishwalla, Everclear triple-bill or something.

Yikes, music snob escaped for a second there! There's going to be a giant concert in front of the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday 1/18. It's still up in the air who will be there but the names that keep popping up are -- Springsteen, Beyonce, Stevie Wonder. Nothing confirmed yet, but you can count on it being massive.

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Silver Spring: Hi 'rus! Happy New Year to all of you! I have a question for you, and for the readers: can you recommend an independent jeweler worth his/her salt? My mom has a great relationship with a local jeweler (Kingsmill Jewelers in Williamsburg, Va. -- highly recommend) and I would like to do the same here. So far, those I've come across have been flaky, a little shady, or overpriced, and I definitely avoid jewelry chains (Kay's, etc). I'm looking for someone who is skilled enough to make jewelry -- my mom's jeweler has, for instance, made me pearl earrings for my wedding, and created a white gold ring based on a cheap silver one I loved. And although I love Tiny Jewel Box-like places, I'm not made of money. Anyone out there with a good recommendation? Have car, will travel, for the right jeweler. Thank you all!

Julia: Happy New Year to you! Head over to the Torpedo Factory and just walk around the second floor. I've never had anything custom done by any of the jewelers there, but when I went scouting for this story, I found a lot of friendly artisans. Some of them gave off the flaky vibe, for sure, but others didn't. Worth a shot anyway!

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Washington, DC: Is there any listserve, website, something that collects events happening at embassies around the city? I'd love to get alerts saying the French embassy is having a public event on wednesday night, the Thai embassy is having a cooking class thursday night, etc. I do subscribe to the DC international club, but I don't think it's comprehensive because I've heard of events that aren't listed on its calendar.

Rhome: Anyone ever seen this around town? Apparently it's a building concierge thing. An email newsletter or RSS feed would be a huge score.

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Arlington, Va.: GoGs! Love the chats.

For my fiance's birthday, I'm taking him out to dinner and then to a Wizards game. However, I want this to be no ordinary dinner. My fiance LOVES wine and especially meals with wine pairings, so that's what I want to do. I was thinking Proof, because they have the tasting menu with optional wine pairings. What do you think? Any other suggestions? Money isn't really an issue...I guess my only criteria is we'll be wearing casual clothing so where we go would need to be okay with that.

Bonus points if you can lead me to a place for drinks/dessert after. Thanks!

Julia: Go to Proof. Seriously. It's so good and really sounds perfect for what you're looking for. I wouldn't show up with a jersey on, but I think casual clothing is okay.

Co Co. Sala is a good bet for drinks and dessert.

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Logan Circle, DC: Why don't so-called sports bars fork over a few extra bucks and hook up their gleaming flat screen TVs with HD cables?

Almost every bar -- from up-scale to divey -- stretches standard definition TV over 50 inches of widescreen. All they have to do is add a cheapo HDMI cable and -- voila -- they have an enormously better picture for sports fans.

I've noticed this everywhere from so-called sports bars in DC (ventnor sports cafe, among many others) to top-end Vegas poker rooms. Any ideas?

Rhome: Have you mentioned it to management?

My experience - especially as a DJ who often encounters TERRIBLE DJ booths in this town - is that there's often no A/V experience on staff. Someone comes in, sets up the gear and it's neglected after that.

I'd speak up next time. Maybe if you volunteer to hook it up you might be able to negotiate a nice bar tab.

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D.C.: Help, Gurus!

Got invited to a Scavenger Hunt at the National Gallery of Art this weekend, put on by Watson Adventures. I said I'd go, more because of who'll be there than the event. Any ideas of what I've gotten myself into?

Thanks.

Stephanie: You know, I've never gone on one of these scavenger hunts, but I assume if you go with fun people it could be pretty entertaining. Any chatters care to weigh in?

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Herndon, Va.: I'm thinking about heading up to NYC for inaugural weekend as an escape. I believe you did a comparison of the DC-NYC bus options. Can you provide the link?

Fritz: It was actually in the section formerly known as the Sunday Source. Read it here.

FWIW, I've most frequently used a service that wasn't included in for some reason -- DC2NY, which is $46 round trip and was the first company to offer Wi-Fi. Free water, free Wi-Fi, no reasons to complain. I did take Bolt last time, though, and man, those leather seats are comfortable.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, any ideas about what to do with little ones (4 and 1) visiting for the inauguration? I'm not sure how crowded the typical attractions will be. And any sense of whether going to watch the ceremony from the Mall (say, the Lincoln Memorial) would be nuts? Thanks!

Anne: I'd say go for it on Mall attractions the weekend before -- Stephanie has some great ideas in her January museums post. If you want to get away from the typical zoo/Natural History crowds, how about a visit to Glen Echo? The mall will be crowded, but nothing like how it will be on Jan. 20. Just to be clear, you're not thinking of bringing kids to the actual inauguration, right?

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Washington, D.C.: Which bar/lounge/club consistently has the hottest women?

Fritz: A cool little spot known as "Casa Fritz."

(Julia put me up to this.)

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To the poster wanting to get away for inaugural weekend: This would be the perfect time to remind posters that there is a travel discussion Mon's at 2pm. That question and other get-away questions are perfect there. Not that the guru's don't offer great advice, but I'd check out past travel discussions b/c that's been a hot topic lately.

Fritz: Good advice. I did just see, btw, the DC2NY has seats available from DC to NY that weekend, but a lot of other buses the other way are sold out.

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Alexandria,Va.: Because of a medical condition I have never been able to learn to ride a bike..now that the condition is controlled and my fear is almost gone I would like to finally learn to ride a bike this spring, But I cant seem to find anyone/place that offers such classes. Do you know of any?

Stephanie: I'd start by contacting the Washington Area Bicyclist Association. They are a great resource, and I know they teach some classes (though more defensive city-biking, I think). If they don't teach something for first-timers, I'm sure they could steer you in the right direction.

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Arlington, Va.: Hitting the big 4-0 this weekend. Having dinner with girlfriends then I'd like to go dancing. Did a lot of it in my twenties and early 30's but don't know where to go nowadays. Also don't want to be the oldest person there... Any suggestions?

Fritz: Happy birthday! The response really depends on what kind of music you like. I'd say the reliable answer is the Out of Town Blues Band at New Vegas Lounge -- classic covers of Motown and soul with a little bit of disco thrown in. Can be a lot of fun.

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Washington, D.C.: Since I wasn't able to attend last night, I think you should have the next happy hour at Bourbon again :)

Fritz: Given the general awesomeness of the drinks, I would concur, but we're lining up something bigger (literally) and better for February. Watch this space.

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Washington, D.C.: This could go to you or Carolyn Hax, but it's about drinking so I'm sending it this way. I'm curious to know your thoughts on drinking and when you or someone is drinking too much. I work in the music industry and spend most of my time in bars and clubs and think that I may have lost sense of how real people operate. If you're on a first or second date, do you think it's a bad sign if you have two drinks and your date -- a bartender -- has four shots and a glass of wine? And he/she (keeping this gender-neutral) has been drinking beforehand? What do you guys consider the norm when you're out with friends? And what about on a date?

Rhome: Yeah, uh... I think EPMD might have issued the definitive word about your date.

I hope (s)he slows down. Fritz doesn't even go that hard.

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Arlington, Va.: Where should a Ravens fan go to watch the game on Saturday with fellow Baltimore fans?

Fritz: Baltimore. Federal Hill, in particular.

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Washington, D.C.: Not totally on topic, but Locanda serves an amazing wine called Lacrima Cristi. Anyplace I can get it locally? I'm dying to get some for a dinner party.

Julia: Just spoke with Andrew Smith at Locanda. He tells me that his importer Bacchus Imports has been out of the stuff for a month. He said that he just heard from them and they *might* be delivering some to the restaurant tomorrow.

All of which doesn't help your dinner party . . . but it could help steer you in the right direction. You could contact Bacchus to see if they could help you.

A quick search on winesearcher.com looks turns up a result for the Wine Specialist. You might call that shop as well to see if they have what you're looking for, 800-832-0704. The producer of Locanda's Lacrima Cristi is De Angelis.

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Arlington: For the person looking for something in between ESL and dive bars in the Farragut N. and Dupont area. I naddition to Science Club, I'd recommend Panache (though it can be hit or miss).

Fritz: I like Panache. I do. But the hours are screwy. I tried to stop by one Thursday right before Christmas and the doors were locked up tight. I hope the new sister restaurant out in Tyson isn't taking the focus off the D.C. location.

But the bar is good.

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Palena: This place is on my list and I'm willing to splurge, but do you think I could get the same experience at the cafe as opposed to the dining room?

Julia: I've always had lovely meals at the cafe . . . but then, I've only eaten at the Cafe. I am broke. Anyone care to weigh in?

Jen: In the dining room, the eating experience is probably better (and more expensive), simply because there are multiple courses and a broader menu from which to choose.

But I like the vibe in the cafe more. The upshot being: These are two slightly different experiences, both of them very nice in their own ways.

P.S. On a related Palena note, I tried to go the Saturday after Christmas and it was closed! Serious bummer.

Fritz: I think the value is higher in the cafe, especially since you can order off the full menu.

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Jeweler: This might be a good place for the person looking for a jeweler....

http://www.shah-shah.com/

They make jewelery - my aunt has used them and really like working with the group.

Julia: Cool, thanks.

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Barracks Row: So... did the guru's already comment on Fin Mac Cool's? I actually liked the place, is it gone??

Fritz: We mentioned a while back (around the time Matchbox opened on the Row) that Finn's has new owners and is currently closed for "renovations." It's going to reopen in the spring.

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Woodley Park: Dear David- What time will that big concert at the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday the 18th start? Is it an afternoon or a morning thing?

David: Like I said before, details are still being worked out, so I can't tell you. Seems like it'd be an afternoon thing, maybe even early evening? Maybe not. It looks like it will be broadcast on HBO, though, at least 90 minutes of it. And even if you don't have HBO, you'll be able to watch it. How nice of them.

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Arlington, Va: Hey guys, hoping you can help. I need to find a place for my friend's 30th birthday. All she's been asking for is a place that offers live music -- preferably on the jazzy/bluesy side of life -- where you can bring your own wine for a small corking fee. Any ideas? We'll have 6 to 10 people, prob'ly. Thanks!

Fritz: HR-57, one of the best jazz clubs around, has just such a policy about BYO bottles.

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You forgot Collective Soul Asylum!: haha, David - nice Generic Triple Rock Bill suggestion. I used to work in radio in the late 90s and had to play that stuff up, down and center.

Of course, Goo Goo Dolls were really Kings of that Court.

David: I have to admit, I loved me some Soul Asylum when I was 13. Anybody else remember that Spin Doctors/Soul Asylum/Screaming Trees show at Merriweather back in 1993?

How did the Goo Goo Dolls go from a blatant Replacements ripoff band to the blandest thing around? Gotta make that money, I guess.

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Timonium, Md. : I am planning to go to a matinee at the Kennedy Center to see the Alvin Ailey Performance on a Saturday; do I still need to dress up as if I were attending an evening performance? Also, can you name some good affordable spots in the area to grab lunch or an early dinner afterwards? I'll be going with my boyfriend and possibly another couple all in our mid twenties if that makes a difference. Thanks for your help.

Stephanie: You can wear pretty much whatever you want (well, within reason) to a matinee. You wouldn't feel out of place if you dressed up a little, but you'd also be fine in (nice-ish) jeans. As for food, that's a tough one because there aren't a ton of great places in the area, and the ones that are good are on the pricier side. You could walk down to the waterfront and check out Sequoia or cab/drive/walk up to Dupont and grab some food at Hank's. Or head to either the Pizzeria Paradiso in Dupont or the one in Georgetown.

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Arlington, Va.: Are there any good piano bars in DC? I'd love to go somewhere where I can sit, drink, and sing my heart out to older tunes with friends.

Fritz: In D.C., the standard bearer is Mr. Smith's in Georgetown, which I enjoy as much as I can enjoy piano bars. The new upstart is Bobby McKey's, a dueling piano bar at National Harbor, which you can read my take on in tomorrow's Weekend section of the paper -- or, if you subscribe to the Going Out Guide e-mail, you can read this afternoon.

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Scavenger: I did the Watson Zoo scavenger and it was pretty lame. Highly disappointed.

Stephanie: There's one opinion of the scavenger hunt.

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Washington, D.C.: I know you get questions like this all the time, but I am trying to figure out what to plan for my boyfriend's 25th birthday. I'm not new to D.C. but I am new to the Columbia Heights area. I am wondering what bars there do you think would be best for going out? I'm excited about the possibility of not having to go far from home. Thanks!

Julia: Wonderland Ballroom's always a good bet. It can get really annoying when crowded, but fun if your crew wants to dance. Red Derby's also near . . . more neighborhood-y, more laid back.

Just across the street, Tonic's a good option if you want to watch games or camp out in the back. The Raven for an awesome jukebox . . . and Fritz and my favorite bathroom graffiti in all of D.C. (Yes, we've actually talked about this. Multiple times.)

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Chevy Chase, Md.: Gurus: I am thinking of taking any acting classes-- not that I expect to be discovered-- but want to do something different. What do you recommend for beginners? (Bonus would be a class that is popular with attractive women). Thanks

Anne: Other actors in the crowd should chime in on this one ... the first thing I thought of was this week's free improv classes with Washington Improv Theater. You could start this week.

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Petworth: Man, I am so sorry I missed the guru happy hour. It sure would have been cool. Next time is when?

Oh, and if the Karaoke folks wanna come further uptown, Kera's doing Karoke one night a month at Domku. It's usually the first Saturday of the month, but this month they pushed it back because of the holidays, so it's this Saturday.

Fritz: Happy hours will be the second Thursday of the month, so next one is Feb. 12. Maybe it'll have a Lincoln theme, like everything else in Washington this year.

Thanks for the karaoke info.

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Watson Adventures: I did a Watson Adventures scavenger hunt at a museum in NYC. If you're in the spirit of it, it's definitely fun. You are basically directed to different parts of the museum, given clues, and have to name the correct museum piece. It's as competitive and fast-paced as you want it to be. It's pretty pricey, but I'd do it again.

Stephanie: ....and another opinion.

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Arlington, Va.: With Inaguration week approaching and all of the parties and soirees in close sight, where should a Republican hang out that week?

Fritz: Gin and Tonic, Smith Point -- or some of the old Capitol Hill standbys like Tortilla Coast, Lounge 201 or Bullfeathers.

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New restaurant in Clarendon?: I was driving through Clarendon checking out the sticks-out-like-a-sore-thumb CVS and noticed a new restaurant is about to open. Eventline? Something line? I found a reference to it on a blog and they said it was going to be a wine bar with a roof deck - any word on the place and if it is actually going to be a wine bar or more like Liberty Tavern? I like the place but a wine bar it ain't and people keep referring to it as such...

Thanks!

Julia: Eventide! Just walked through the place on Monday, actually. It looks very cool . . . even though it's definitely not done yet. They're going for a baroque look -- the chandeliers are really incredible -- with some exposed terracotta walls. As for if it's going to be a wine bar . . . Well, yeah, that's what they're going for. Dave Pressley, one of the owners, told me that he and his partners wanted to build a place where they would want to hang out: nice menu, not too expensive, wine list with lots of options under $40, cocktail-focused bar. They're taking steps to make that happen -- making the dining room on another floor from the bar, the rooftop will have tables, etc. -- but, you know, you can't really control ambiance. It'll be interesting to see how it shakes out. I'm told it'll open not too long after the inauguration.

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Gaithersburg: My husband and I are venturing out of our suburban cocoon and going to an early dinner in Feb at The Palm with another couple. We are looking for somewhere to go after, could be drinks, dessert, or just somewhere fun. We are all in our late 40s, so not really looking for club catering to the younger crowd. Any ideas?

Fritz: For great after-dinner drinks around the Palm, I'd head for the Town and Country Lounge at the Mayflower. Fantastic cocktails, served up by local legend Sam Lek, and late 40s is right in the bar's demographic. Another option could be the Gibson, my new favorite speakeasy-style cocktail lounge at 14th and U. Upscale atmosphere, very refined, wonderful service and bartenders.

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What do you guys consider the norm when you're out with friends?: If my date showed up and had already been drinking, I think I'd pass on a second date.

Fritz: Aw, give me another chance...

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Springfield, VA: When did the dinner and a movie/theatre combination start? The last thing that I want to do is go sit in a crowded theater after just finishing a big meal. It would make more sense if things were reversed.

Jen: I hear you. Well, you know, nothing is stopping you from bucking the trend. You can always go to a movie first, then get dinner afterward. I've done it myself so I can promise you: the system works!

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Republicans in Lounge 201?: Based on the election parties they hosted, the Lounge and their clientele seemed pretty gung-ho about Obama.

Fritz: It's generally pretty mixed politically, but less over-the-top Democratic than, say, Hawk and Dove. I watched the Biden-Palin debate there, and there were Republicans there making themselves heard.

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Anybody else remember that Spin Doctors/Soul Asylum/Screaming Trees show at Merriweather back in 1993?: Dude! I was totally there! Junior in high school. Awesome....

David: And isn't it bizarre how 15 years later it's Screaming Trees (well, Mark Lanegan, at least) that is by far the most relevant of the three?

Didn't Soul Asylum play at Clinton's first inauguration?

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Guru Happy Hour: I am sad I missed happy hour - but trekking to Adams Morgan, a decent walk from the metro, in the rain, sounded no fun.

So my vote is for a more metro-accessible happy hour next month!

Fritz: I'd like to make a public service announcement about the 98 bus, which runs from Woodley Park station to U Street station, right down 18th street, every 10 minutes or so. (emphasis on the "or so" on weekends.)

Only costs 25 cents, folks.

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Bethesda: Is there a website or other source keeping a running list of bars and restaurants that have registered to open for 24 hours during the inauguration weekend? I just found out that I got tickets for the swearing in (yay!) and my husband and I would like to come into the city really early and get breakfast before queueing up.

Julia: Depends on how early . . . At this point (and according to the dozens of managers I've talked to this week, all this is subject to change), most places are opening between 7 and 8 a.m. Peregrine Espresso, Good Stuff, Art and Soul, Waffle Shop, Penn Quarter Sports Tavern all come to mind.

Pete's Diner & Carryout is opening at 5 a.m.

Fritz: Restaurants and bars that want to stay open late had to APPLY by yesterday. The final list hasn't been published yet, since ANCs still have to look at it.

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Engagement Pictures: We got our engagement pictures taken at the monuments. After about our 5th shot on the Jefferson Memorial, Park police came and asked to see our photographer's permit. It turns out that he did not have one. We were asked to leave. We ended up moving locations and ducking from Park Police, but I would recommend that you ask your photographer to get a permit.

Stephanie: And a word of caution about memorial photos.

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Logan Circle: Hi Gurus! I just want to make sure I have the correct information about Inauguration Day. I read somewhere that DC will be opening the whole mall and broadcast the event on large screens. Is this correct?

Rhome: Yup, pretty much. There will be large screens and open areas, minus the secured parts. You might want to bookmark http://voices.washingtonpost.com/inauguration-central/.

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RE:Silver Spring: I like Nupin Jewelers in Fairfax. Thor (yes that's his real name) is the original owners son. He did a great job on my custom engagement ring and wrap. I had my grandmother's cocktail ring that he extracted the diamonds from to make both of ring. He was really easy to work with, very reasonable and fast. Good luck!

Julia: Very cool -- especially his name.

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DC Re: Jewelers: To the person looking for a reputable jeweler, I highly, HIGHLY recommend Quest Jewelers in VA. They are a family run business located right across the street from the Multiplex on Lee Hwy in Merrifield. My husband and I got our wedding bands custom made there and they were wonderful, fairly priced and provide a lifetime warranty. Super friendly people.

Julia: And another.

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Silver Spring - D.C. Local Jeweler: I'm in Charlottesville but definitely try I. Gorman on 20th/L (?) - I used to work at 20th/K and still shop for anniversary/birthdays there!

Julia: One of our guru friends got her wedding ring there. Lovely. Very mod . . . so keep that in mind, original jewelry seeker.

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Arlington, Va.: A friend and I recently went to a newish restaurant in Clarendon and now I can't remember the name of it! It's near the Ballroom and the new CVS, closer to the metro. It's small but lounge-y looking inside.

My point was to recommend the burger there, named after the restaurant. And the mac and cheese. And it was inexpensive.

(The manager on duty was kind of a jerk, though.)

Julia: Spider Kelly's? We had similar mixed reactions a few months ago . . . but I just had a great night there a few weeks ago. (Yeah, office holiday parties!)

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Lacrima Christi : Best Cellars should have it. Or at least they did a year ago.

Julia: Thanks for the tip!

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Gaithersburg, MD: Hey gurus! Help! I'm in a rut - I live in the Gaithersburg/Rockville area and I've gotten into a going-out and restaurant rut. I tend to go to the same places over and over and I need to branch out. The main thing is, I've had an illness over the last 5 months that has kept me from doing much of anything, so now that I'm feeling better, I need some good suggestions for this area. (I love Clydes, Cava, and Red Rock Canyon - but I'm willing to expand) Thanks!

Fritz: I wrote a cover story for Weekend last year about nightlife between Rockville and Frederick. In Gaithersburg, I really like the brewpub Growler's and the Dogfish Head Ale House.

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Virginia/Texas: If you were going to be away from DC for two months, what would be one place that you would have to eat at before you left?

Fritz: Ethiopian, either Etete or Madjet.

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Dupont Circle, D.C.: hey gurus! went to the happy hour last night and it was great! But you were right, it was a bit too crowded. (Julia, I was the one at the bar in the beginning talking to you about Rock Band and my love for D. Malitz's writing.)

If you're looking for another bar/area for your next GOG happy hour, might I suggest McGinty's in Silver Spring? I used to work there and the upstairs bar is used frequently for large gatherings. There's also good space for DJ Stylus and and huge bar area.

Not a sermon, just a thought...

Julia: Nice call, girl! I went to a wedding reception there once. For real.

Anyway, yeah, not to pile on to the happy hour love fest but I had so much fun last night meeting so many of you! Nice to put names and faces with so many anonymous chatters:) We'll have pictures up here later today.

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Washington, D.C.: Dear Gurus,

My friend's birthday is coming up on the 22nd. I wanted to take her out for a nice dinner but then be able to go to a nice bar/lounge location. She is in her early 30's so I'm looking for something with a little less of a college feel. We recently went to Proof which was nice but not exciting enough we thought.

I would gladly take any suggestions.

Fritz: How about Metropolitain, the lounge in the basement of Napoleon? It's a champagne bar with DJs, and lots of fun Thurs-Sat. Fly might also be a good option, although you can sit down there unless you book a table.

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Inauguration for Festive Wimps: So my husband wants to go to the Mall. I'm a wimp and am afraid that I don't have the right constitution for the whole stnading and walking multiple hours in the rain with no bathroom thing. (I'm only 32 but I am a wimp.) He wants to get into the spirit of the thing since we missed dancing in the streets on Nov 4th. I'd be game for partying on U street. I figure it's closer to home (with bathrooms) and will still be full of the spirit. Where would you go on U street to watch the inauguration and party all night long?

Fritz: Busboys and Poets for inauguration-watching, and then to one of the many, many parties that are taking place on and around U Street. (One option: I had a lot of fun at the Brightest Young Things party at Bohemian Caverns on election night, and they're back there for an inauguration party.)

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washingtonpost.com: Gotta go now! Thanks for joining us today and last night.

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