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: Happy Thursday, everyone. Well, not if you have to spend too much time outside, because it's pretty [darn] cold. Let's try to think about happier things, shall we? Like Valentine's Day. Or cocktails. Or cassoulet. Or all the Black History Month and Abe Lincoln-related events happening this month. For the next hour, you can ask the us about any of these topics, or anything that's on your mind. I'm Fritz, and with me as always are Anne, David, Jen, Julia, Rhome and Stephanie. Here we go...

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Arlington, Va.: Hello, gurus. I've never been to Breadsoda, but am thinking about suggesting it as a casual, fun, inexpensive, option for my small office's lunch outing. What is the vibe like on weekday afternoons? Also, do you have other suggestions? I'm trying to think of someplace where we can actually DO something after we eat (e.g., billiards, darts, etc) before we head back to the office. Thanks!

Fritz: I went to Breadsoda on a weekday afternoon right when it opened, but haven't skipped work to hang out, have some beers and play Wii since. (Man, that sounds like a good idea, doesn't it?)

The lunch menu is all deli sandwiches and such, so I'd say it's perfect for an office outing. Anybody played hooky at Breadsoda lately and want to provide an anonymous first-hand report?

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Wanna see USA vs El Tri in DC: Hey Gurus, I need a fun, but intense (in a good way) place in DC to watch USA vs El Tri this coming Wednesday. I am thinking, hoping, a mixed crowd of footies and curious non-footies, metro accessible, and no where near a Radio Shack.

Fritz: I'd go for Lucky Bar, where you'll have sports fans mixing with the happy hour crowd. No Radio Shack in sight, though there's a Graffiti Audio down the block.

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Arlington, Va.: I've heard very good things about the Little Dog Laughed at Signature Theatre. But I have a question, and I honestly don't mean to offend anyone, but would a heterosexual male feel comfortable seeing it? I've heard something about nudity in it. I love the theater, and I'm a pro gay rights kind of person, but I'm not sure if I want to go to something with a ton of male nudity in it. Thanks.

Stephanie: The Little Dog Laughed has brief nudity in it, but it isn't two hours of full frontal or anything, so I'm guessing you'll be fine.

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Washington, D.C. after hours clubs?: Gurus,

Are there any after-hours clubs to go dancing in DC anymore? After Red and Five closed, those of us that like to boogie after last call have been lost.

I have heard there are some places out Georgia Avenue but what about downtown/dupont/etc.

Fritz: When I asked nightlife insiders/DJs/club owners/bloggers/etc ,a href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/22/AR2009012201070.html'>what D.C. needs most in the Weekend Section a few weeks ago, a number of people mentioned late-night spots. With the exception of Town, the monthly throwdowns at the Trinidad and Tobago Association (OMG TIMMY REGISFORD THIS WEEKEND), Gallery and the odd quasi-underground events, there isn't much were you can dance until 5/6 a.m. I really hope this changes soon.

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Washington, D.C: Do you have any Valentine's Day ideas for people on a budget (like students with no money)?

Julia: Sure I do. On Friday night, you could head out to Vienna for the Art of Romance, an event at the Ayr Hill gallery. Peruse a bunch of painting and pastels and sample champagne and chocolates between 4 and 8 p.m.

If Vienna is a far trek for a D.C.-based student, consider the following plan of attack.

* Get your date a crafty gift at the Crafts and Kisses fair this Sunday.
* But a box of chocolates from any of these fine establishments.
* Have dinner at someplace cheap, but kind of cute. The low lights of Cafe Asia, the "Lady and the Tramp"-esque tablecloths and at Luigi's.
* Go see some free art! (Maybe this show....) Or just tool around the monuments at night.

Our girl Ellen McCarthy has a few suggestions for those of you who want to get in the spirit (cheaply) and maybe find a date this weekend.

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Washington, D.C.: Any ideas if Tom Jones is touring with an opening act. I'm going to see him at the 930 club later this month and it says door open at 7, but it doesn't have any opener listed...

David: No word, but I'm going to guess that he's not. This will probably be one of those deals where the doors open at 7 and he goes on at 8:30 or so and that's it. The 9:30 club stop is the second night of the tour so there won't be too much advance notice.

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Washington, D.C.: I've been holding off on the Newseum because if I'm going to spend $20 on a museum in this town, I want to devote a whole day to it and not have to push my way through crowds of people.

Any reports on how the crowds there have been lately? Is it still pretty busy on the weekends?

Stephanie: Well I can't make any guarantees about the crowds, but the last time I went to the Newseum was a Saturday and I had no trouble getting close to the exhibits (without using my elbows, even). And I know it's sometimes hard to justify shelling out cash for a museum in a town with so many free ones, but I really do think the Newseum is worth it (although I might be slightly biased, given my line of work).

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Arlington, Va.: Hi Gurus,

So, we're doing Karaoke this weekend and we want it to be special. Thoughts on Clare N Don's v. Rock-it Grill v. Flying Fish? Since we don't go all that often, we want to go to the best, preferably off the metro or a bus line. Also, any recs for a Japanese-style karaoke joint?

In short, best Karaoke in Arlington or Alexandria, on a Sat night.

Thanks!

Fritz: Haven't been to Clare N Don's. Rock-It Grill is an old-school karaoke joint: cigarette haze, pitchers of beer, tipsy patrons singing Journey and Madonna while others shoot pool. Not like the rest of Old Town, for sure. Flying Fish is a little more upscale and yuppie -- always expecting a bachelorette party or Girls Night Crowd to show up there. Still, it can be fun.

Best Japanese-style joint I've seen is Cafe Japone in Dupont, which is not in Arlington.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Any word on how that new play, "The Heavens are Hung in Black" at Ford's Theatre is? I'm interested in checking out the renovated theater, though I have to say I haven't had much luck in seeing good plays there in the past.

Stephanie: I'm planning on hitting up the new Lincoln-focused show but haven't had a chance yet. I especially want to check out the renovations at Ford's Theatre (despite some leg room complaints from chatters last week). Anyone out there care to chime in on whether this is worth seeing?

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A question about Darlington House: Dear Fritz,

This is a bar question not a food-related question. Could you please help clarify something for me. I haven't been to Darlington House and I think you've recommended this place in the past weeks. I'm trying to decide if it would be a good place to catch up with a friend--looking for cozy, warm, good drink list. What is it about this place that makes it special, so much so that you suggest it to readers. The other question, when you refer to the bar to grab drinks, are you talking about Darlington House or the basement level with a different name.

Thanks

Fritz: I don't generally recommend Darlington House, I don't think. It's fine for groups, but I've had such indifferent service at the bar that it outweighs the decent food and (slightly overpriced) beers. For something around Dupont with a good drink list and an atmosphere conducive to catching up, I'd steer you towards the bars at Urbana or Firefly instead, maybe the upstairs at Russia House (near a fireplace) or, for something pubbier, even a booth at Timberlake's.

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King Cakes in D.C.: As always, thanks for the chats! Where can I get a "King Cake" for Fat Tuesday in D.C. or close in the 'burbs? I really have a taste for one this year and a trip to NOLA is not in the cards.

Julia: Our co-worker Amy is from Louisiana, she ordered us one from this place last year. It was really good, so since you have a few weeks, maybe it's worth ordering.

Call Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe. According to their Web site, they've got the goods. Not really metro-accesible, but not too far from D.C.

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Arlington, Va.: Any news on when Eventide is opening? :)

Julia: Yep. Just spoke with GM Dave Pressley. They've got to clear some final inspections, so they're hoping for next Tuesday. It may end up being the following Tuesday, though.

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Arlington: I've been craving a well-made mojito. Where can I go to get them? Anywhere I can get on the metro back to Ballston is good for me, prefer in DC so I don't come home smelling like smoke though. Thanks!

Fritz: In Ballston, I've never been let down by the mojitos at Caribbean Breeze. Just wanted to throw that out there. A friend's recent visit to D.C. had me back at Cafe Citron, where I still think the mojitos can be great when the bartenders aren't slammed at happy hour. My choices, though, would have to be Cafe Atlantico and Ceiba. (The Hemmingway Mojito at Ceiba, which uses extra-old rum and a splash of sparkling wine in addition to fresh guarapo, may be my favorite in the city.)

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Oscar Buzz: I was just looking through NG's website and saw that they are showing all of the Oscar nominated foreign films for 2009, which I'm really excited about. Then I remembered that last year maybe someone was showing all the short animated films or something? Any other place to catch the non-mainstream nominees?

Jen: Indeed that is true. Starting tomorrow, Landmark E Street is showing the animated and live action shorts that are nominated this year. Those screenings are one-week only, so you only have seven days to see them.

Unless, of course, you opt to wait and catch the free screenings at the National Archives. The Archives will screen the shorts as well as documentary features and documentary short subjects beginning on Feb. 18. We will have information on the site soon about those screenings. But yes, there are definitely multiple ways to see some of these, which is great new for film lovers.

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What happened?: All of the questions just disappeared.

David: I think this is a question to ask Jen at 3pm.

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Washington, D.C. : Any word on nightlife-type events going on on Valentine's day (next Sat), for either the singles or the partying couples? Valentines night can be such a fun night to go out! Im just wondering if any promoters or individual places have anything special happening. Thanks!

Fritz: For a story I'm working on, I've talked to promoters at a number of places, from Fly to Shadow Room to kstreet, and they're all pretty much saying it'll be business as usual. There's the Persian Princess Party at Ultrabar, but I'm still waiting to hear about a couple other events.

One major casualty this year: The Voodoo Valentine's Day party, one of my favorites from recent years, won't be returning in 2009. (This was a party for singles where you got a voodoo doll and pins as you walked in the door.) Also, no Shred Your Ex party -- again, shredding pictures of you and your former "love" -- as far as I'm aware.

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Northern Virginia: My boyfriend and I want to take a road trip over the long President's Day weekend but we're having a hard time deciding where to head. Seems Charlottesville, Richmond, VA Beach/Norfolk are within a reasonable driving distance but we not sold so I wanted to find out your thoughts. Is there anything to keep two 20-somethings occupied for 2 or 3 days (we took Tuesday off too!) in any of these locations? We enjoy some history, cool architecture, photography, good food but don't want to break the bank. Thanks in advance!

Stephanie: Well I'm a pretty reliable proponent of C-Ville. I do like Richmond and Virginia Beach, but I think, given your interests, Charlottesville would be a good place to go. If architecture and history are your thing, head to the Lawn a UVa. (for the "architectural textbook"), get a tour of the Rotunda and check out Monticello. There are a bunch of great restaurants in the area that won't break the bank; try L'etoile and Continental Divide for dinner and Take it Away for lunch. Plus there are wineries, art museums, live music and hiking in the vicinity.

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Black History Month: Hello dears ~ could you provide a link to a full listing of all the black history month events that are going on during Feb? I tried to search the GOG calendar by black, black history, and special events and wasn't really getting much. Bonus points for anything going on the 16th as I will be off all day!!! Thank you all knowing ones.

Anne: Hey, thanks for your good searching. We are kinda behind in that department, I admit, but we're working to catch up. If you're free tonight, you should go to the Henry Louis Gates Jr. talk at the Archives, and this weekend, I like Harmony Hall's gospel festival. I'd take your Feb. 16 day to see some exhibits, like the Scurlock Studio -- and check out the gallery Stephanie made, too.

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Downtown D.C.: Headed to Acadiana for an early V-Day dinner (5:15--that's what I get for procrastinating...) then to Avenue Q at the Warner. Any ideas for a good spot to grab a drink in between?

Julia: Yeah, I know, right?! I was super depressed when I was researching this story. Lots of places booked up fast!

Anyway, Co Co. Sala pretty much knocks romance out of the park, so it seems like a natural spot for a drink in between the two locations. Of course, it's likely to be slammed for the holiday, so I might try an infused cocktail at the bar at Poste, a glass of wine at the also-likely-to-be-slammed Proof or drinks and apps at PS 7s, now that Ms. Gina is at the helm there.

You could also go for a glass of wine at Cure Bar and Bistro. It's in a hotel, so it lacks some ambiance, but the wine list is pretty good.

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Silver Spring, Md.: Hey GOGs! Is there somewhere in the district that I can take my mom out to on a Friday night that will have a live piano or some soft jazz with some great cocktails? Everywhere I look turns into a dancing night club on Friday nights.

Fritz: The piano/bass/sax trio at 701 is usually a good bet, especially with cocktails from Mo's Bar. I'm also a sucker for the jazz at Cafe Nema and U-Topia, though I don't think the martinis are anything to shout from the rooftops. More about music and a nice glass of wine.

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Karaoke : People still do karaoke? I guess there is hope for ANY business idea.

Fritz: Karaoke is still extremely popular, as evidenced by my recent trips to Solly's, Banana Cafe and Sticky Rice, among others. (I wish it would return to Galaxy Hut.)

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Friday Night Lights: About two weeks ago I was invited to an "invite-only" party at FLY Lounge. I had a great time and went back again last week. This Friday I was invited to a "private party" at Shadowroom. My question is what is the difference? Is Shadowroom just copying FLY?

Fritz: I believe the two clubs share some promoters.

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Washington, D.C.: My 5-year old nephew is coming to visit this weekend. Do you think he would enjoy the White House pets show at the Kennedy Center? The age range for the show starts at 7 years old. But he's very sharp and loves animals!

Anne: I haven't been, so I can't say. Did you check out the review? Imagination Stage also has show that got a strong review, involves animals and is actually tailored for his age range. Plus, there's a little glassed-in room in the theater where kids needing a break can still watch even if they can't sit still. I bet he'd also relish a trip to Natural History's Mammal Hall.

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Arlington, Va.: So I majorly blew it...I was going to attempt to get Modest Mouse tickets for my SO, but of course, I forgot and I got busy at work, and I blew my chance as I see the show is already sold out. And due to the "busy at work" part of my life, I am woefully ignorant of if there are any good shows out there that have the same MM vibe that I could buy tix to instead? Do you have any good suggestions of other shows? or a way I could get an MM ticket?

David: Yeah, those Modest Mouse tickets (9:30 club, March 13) disappeared instantly. There are still tickets available for their March 12 show at Rams Head Live in Baltimore, but that involves going to Baltimore, so, y'know. The night after the MM show in D.C., Morrissey is playing at Warner Theatre. Not quite the same vibe as Modest Mouse, but it IS Morrissey. Hey, and maybe Johnny Marr will stop by and jam! (No, he won't. Modest Mouse is playing in Philly that night and I'm not even sure Marr is touring with MM this time.) There's a Death Cab for Cutie show at Constitution Hall on April 8, that could work. A lot lower profile is Black Lips at Black Cat on March 5, no guarantees of enjoyment there, though.

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Norfolk, Va.: Hi, We are coming to D.C. the weekend of Feb 21 and 22. We are always at a loss for what to do for a good lunch. Could you make suggestions for: perhaps a late Saturday lunch, Sunday brunch, and Monday lunch? Also, where does one get a late-night nosh on Sunday night?

Julia: Where are you going to be in the city? Since it looks like you submitted early, I'll just post a few suggestions in the hopes that helps!

Creme's brunch is some of the best in the city. The food's good, but the scene is better -- people from all over town. It's available both Saturday and Sunday. Nearby Marvin is another option. Old Ebbitt Grill is more traditional -- very clubby and old-school D.C.

On Monday, don't sleep on Teatro Goldoni! Just had lunch at the bar there with a friend. $13.95 for a delicious meal (including a glass of wine).

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Washington, D.C.: Where's the best place to go out in U Street? I've heard about Red Lounge- but not sure what kind of vibe it has. Local 16? Cork?

Rhome: Difficult to answer such a broad query there without more details or flooding you with options. Red Lounge varies by night. Roddy Rod & 2-Tone Jones just started a hip-hop night there on Tuesdays. The next Fatback rare soul party will be there on March 20. Cork's not on U Street but Vinoteca is, a decent sip & converse spot. You've got tons of music options from jazz (Bohemian Caverns, Cafe Nema, U-Topia), to soul & blues (JoJo's) to rock (Velvet Lounge) to big concert events (9:30 Club). Local 16 gets pretty jam packed with 20 and 30-somethings on the make.

Fritz: I agree that there's no one answer, because you can find just about anything you want. Dancing? Dahlak (Moneytown, tomorrow) or Red Lounge on Thursday or Friday. Cocktails? The Gibson, hands down, or Bar Pilar on Tuesdays. Conversations over drinks? Vinoteca for wine, Saloon for beer. Singles scene? Local 16, for sure, or Chi Cha. Interesting DJs? Marvin (mostly Sun-Thu) or Saint-Ex. Neighborhood vibe? Cafe Nema with Jazz, Solly's for something closer to a dive.

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DC/ NOVA: I think this topic has been addressed in the chats before, but I have searched all over the WaPo website in vain. I want to give my s.o. a gift certificate for a sports massage for V-day, but I am concerned about him finding the spa experience too girly. Where is a good place to get a man a massage? D.C., NOVA, or maybe Bethesda preferable. Thanks!

Julia: I mean, the Grooming Lounge is the obvious choice for its overwhelming manly vibe. My husband really enjoyed a trip there. Nusta Spa and Serenity Day Spa are relatively neutral, gender-wise.

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U street...: Can I just say that I can't believe that there is now valet parking at Ben's Chili Bowl. I rolled by last night and was amazed to see valets, spotlights and people everywhere. I assume it's all for the new Ben's Next Door, but it looked like some fancy club opening! My cabbie and I shared a laugh.

The times, they are a-changin'...

Julia: How 'bout the sports car that was right outside last night?! What was that about?

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Dupont Circle: I'm going out to drinks tonight with a friend at the bar at Hay-Adams. Any recommendations for a place to eat after? And should I make reservations?

Fritz: We're all in agreement that you should try Bombay Club first -- great Indian food, recently renovated, affordable price point. Olives and Oval Room are also good bets.

(After a couple large, strong martinis at Off the Record, though, my tastes usually lean towards filling plates of curry. Just sayin'.)

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tom jones: I'm kind of surprised by the lack of enthusiasm about the Tom Jones concert. Is he just too old and unhip these days to drum up much in the way of crowds? I thought there'd be a rush on tickets. Now I wonder if I'll have him to myself.

David: It's a bit surprising, especially given all of the sellouts up and down the 9:30 club's current listings. But I think it might say something about the fanbase. Animal Collective and Modest Mouse fans will be online right away to get tickets. And their 401Ks haven't been destroyed. Not necessarily the case with Tom Jones fans. He usually plays the Birchmere, and I think a lot of people would rather see him there at 9:30. Being able to sit down and not go into the city and everything. Maybe all my theories are wrong, though.

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Dupont Circle: Hi Gurus! I'm venturing out into the cold this weekend to visit the Pompeii exhibit at the National Gallery. I'm usually housebound on Sundays, so anything along the mall that I should check out while I'm out-and-about? Other exhibits, places to eat (brunch or dinner)? Thanks! The chats are great!

Stephanie: Good choice! The Pompeii exhibit is fantastic, and since you're going there anyway, you should also check out the photos Robert Frank took of Americans during the 1950s and the strangely realistic (if you're standing at the right vantage point) Dutch paintings on display. The Scurlock show at American History sounds promising, and since you're in the neighborhood, also check out the Orchids at Natural History.

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Radio Shack: No Radio Shacks near Lucky Bar? Are you forgetting the one on Connecticut & M? Tsk, tsk.

Fritz: Argh. You know, I'd honestly thought that one had closed. (Sorry -- bar guru, not personal/consumer electronics guru. That's budding iPod DJ Rob Pegoraro.)

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For the Northern Virginia Romantic Roadtripper: If you both like history...consider colonial Williamsburg!

Stephanie: Good point!

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Springfield, Va.: Greetings gang! I have five friends coming to D.C. for a weekend later this spring...we are all 30 something mothers in need of a break from our norm! I would like to find a hotel either downtown or in Georgetown that is convenient to dining/shopping/ entertainment. Any thoughts on hotels and/or neighborhoods we might want to consider? Thanks!

Anne: That sounds like a bang-up time. For ease of planning, I'd go for something more central -- Hotel Monaco, for example, puts you right in the middle of all the Penn Quarter happenings. If you want to stay in Georgetown just to be close to the shopping, just be ready to shell out really big bucks. Have fun with your gang!

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Alexandria, Va.: I am 8 months pregnant and I am looking to go somewhere nice with my husband for Valentine's Day. I have a beautiful dress that I would like to wear but I can't find a reasonably priced restaurant that I wouldn't be over dressed in. Most restaurants that are more expensive have many items I can't eat. Can you recommend a good place? Thanks

Julia: How about Tallula (which, yes, I know I recommend all the time). It's cozy enough that I don't think anyone would mind the stunning dress.

I also wouldn't be shy about wearing the dress to any place that isn't a sports bar on V-day. That's part of the fun -- everyone gets a little dressy for the holiday.

Unless we're talking about a strapless, floor-legnth evening gown . . . in which case, you're on your own.

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Speaking of Karaoke: Does Millie and Al's still do karaoke - and what night? (It was Thursdays in the past I think.) Is it a fun vibe?

Fritz: Still Thursdays. It's a good excuse to go do shots on a school night, get up and sing some '80s. Crowd is early 20s, but loud and excited to be singing.

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Plant City, FL: "I've never been to Breadsoda, but am thinking about suggesting it as a casual, fun, inexpensive"

Plant, plant, plant...

Fritz: You may be right, "Florida." You may be right.

But I'll still recommend the place, because they have a great reuben and good beer. Also, taco and ping pong Tuesdays, which rules. (Discount taco specials and they turn one of the pool tables into ping pong. No beer pong allowed.)

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Washington, D.C.: Can you help me out with a good place or two to go out for dancing/drinks in the Foggy Bottom area? Mostly mid- to late-20s, guys and girls. Preferably, the place would be pretty low-key.

Fritz: The only place I know with dancing on the regular in Foggy Bottom is McFadden's, which is FAR from low key. (Rookery, the members-only bar down the street, sometimes lets the public in for live music and dancing on weekends, but it depends.) As far as bars, I like the pubby atmosphere of the 51st State -- all exposed brick and Guinness posters -- and the all-night happy hours at Froggy Bottom. Marshall's can be hit or miss, but I've had a good, low-key time there in the past, just sipping a Bass and talking to friends.

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NoVa: Mid-winter blahs w/the kids. . . any ideas for what to do with 10-year-olds that is either free or low cost? We've seen the movies, done the water slides, bowling, etc.

Anne: Have you read this? What about heading to a nature center or for a short hike? This time of year, you should also keep your eyes peeled for some maple sugaring festivals/community step shows or even high school performances... many of those can be easy on the wallet.

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Arlington, Va.: Taking my wondering fiance to Avenue Q on the 13th and want to grab an early dinner before the show. I know this might be more of a Tom question but I didn't make his chat yesterday. Any recommendations? Nice but preferably not insanely expensive.

Y'all rock.

Julia: Cafe du Parc is both "nice" and nearby. Entrees in the high $20s. Chef Geoff's is slightly cheaper, not as good. Ocenaire could be another option.

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Re: Eight months pregnant in Alexandria: "Most restaurants that are more expensive have many items I can't eat."

I'm a vegetarian and manage to eat at pretty much all of the expensive restaurants in the area. I can't imagine the restrictions on a pregnant woman (which are fewer than those a vegetarian has) will prohibit her from eating at any top restaurant. I also imagine the restaurants will be more apt to work with her requirements than they would be to work with a vegetarian's. That's been my experience, at least.

Julia: An interesting point of view. Thanks.

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Happy Hour: When and where is the next guru happy hour?

Fritz: Maybe this is a plant from our marketing department!

Following on the success of our January debut, the next Going Out Guru Happy Hour will be next Thursday, Feb. 12, at Solly's on U Street. We'll have a special edition of Kostume Karaoke (wear your own costume or dress up in one of the ones provided) and a bunch of drink specials. Should be a blast, especially once Julia and Stephanie dig deep into their book of duets. "Islands in the Stream," anyone?

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Thomas Circle: Any great Valentines ideas for the singles in the crowd who just want to get out?

Fritz: Here's the thing, TC: It's a Saturday night. No need to sit home and mope. Treat it like any other Saturday, with the plethora of bar/club/music options in this city, and get out and enjoy yourself.

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D.C./NOVA: I did remember the Grooming Lounge from earlier chats. Checked out the Web site, and it doesn't appear to offer body massages. Did I miss something?

Julia: Yeah, it's kind of buried. Scroll down this page and you'll see a section with deep tissue and a "super stoner" massage.

I should clarify. My husband didn't have a massage there -- just a pre-wedding haircut -- but he liked the vibe. Thought about going back for future haircuts, actually, but then remembered that it's like crazy expensive.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi! My roommate and I always go out around the U Street area on the weekend. We love Local 16, Saint Ex, and Marvin. This weekend we were hoping to explore somewhere new, maybe Arlington or Clarendon. Any suggestions for bars there that we might like, based on our preferences in the U Street area? Thanks!

Fritz: Honestly ... there's Gua-Rapo in Court House, and Galaxy Hut, but Clarendon is a lot more Sports Bars and Irish Pubs and Cover Bands than the places you mentioned on U Street. Don't get me wrong -- I think it's fun to try new places, and I'll happily steer you to Ri-Ra, Eleventh Street Lounge or Clarendon Grill so you can see what nightlife is like on Wilson Boulevard, but the number and diversity of lounges in Arlington is lacking.

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Alexandria, Va.: My husband and I want to go out for our last dinner before I have our first baby next week. We want to grab dinner on Saturday night with another couple in either Old Town or Clarendon at a REALLY nice place. We've already been to Restaurant Eve and Vermilion. Any other suggestions?

Julia: You seem to have hit the *really* nice places in those areas. I'd add 2941, if you're willing to travel. Sette Bello is a nice spot in Clarendon, but I don't know that I'd call it "really nice." Tallula, mentioned above, is another option -- and similar in vibe to Vermilion. Congrats on your little one!

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Washington, DC: Dear Fritz - how can I contact you guys to invite you to a show??? Thanks!

Fritz: nightlife [at] washingtonpost [dot] come

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Dinner in D.C.: Dear Gurus:

Please help me make a dinner that I'm planning special by telling me what y'all think of Proof, the place not the play or anything else.

Thanks

Julia: I'm pretty much obsessed with the place. The food there is some of my favorite in town.

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Washington, D.C.: We're getting married next month on the waterfront in Old Town Alexandria and looking for a bar to suggest for an informal after-party. Any ideas?

Fritz: Depends how many people you're having, honestly. My first thought would be the bar at the Majestic on King Street, but that can get crowded if you're bringing a large crew. I'd try them, though, and Vermillion and Union Street Pub. With a larger crowd, maybe Bookbinder's.

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Arlington, Va: Not sure if you all created the list or not but here's my gripe. I noticed in the 'Best Beer Bar' recommendations on the GOG site, Lost Dog Cafe in Arlington got no love. What's the deal, its been around longer than most those on the list and has offered a beer selection in the 100's for about 15+ years.

Fritz: They were considered. One, the fact that it's mostly bottles, not draft, worked against them, and two, the whole "three beer max" rule isn't popular with some people.

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I'm blue.: I have no plans this weekend and my friends have all ditched me for greener...um...plans. Any suggestions for something a girl on her own can do this weekend to pass the time? I'm thinking more daytime pursuits, since I'm not big on hitting bars alone on weekend nights! Lol. Thanks!

Stephanie: Nothing cheers me up like chocolate and cupcakes. After that, catch the cool poster exhibition (while you still can!) at the Portrait Gallery, and if you're into theater, head to Play in a Day, where local theater companies write and perform plays in 24 hours, or the offbeat Hell Meets Henry Halfway. Hope this helps turn your mood around!

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Washington, D.C.: I want to plan a vineyard trip for as soon as the weather warms up. No one wants to be the designated driver - any suggestions on sober, affordable transportation options?

Stephanie: Last time I went vineyard-hopping, I went the party bus route. If you get enough people together, it's a pretty economical option.

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Washington, DC: Any idea where to find a paczki for fat tuesday? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paczki

I've looked for years and have never found them sold anywhere...

Fritz: In the "weird things that we randomly know" category, I'd check with the Krakus Deli in Baltimore, where I got to get Polish meats and such after picking up pierogi in Fells Point. They would be able to tell you where to go, if they don't have them there.

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Arlington, Va.: Any thoughts for Valentine's Day in Western Fairfax that is nice but not too expensive?

Julia: City or County?

If you're talking county . . . Is Bazin's on Church in Vienna West enough for you? That could work. Mediterranee isn't West at all, more like central, but it's one of the cutest places to dine in Fairfax.

I'd also offer up PassionFish and Vinifera, two relatively new places to eat in Reston.

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Bethesda, Md.: Desperately need your help!!! My husband and I are celebrating our 6th anniversary by getting a hotel room downtown and partying the night away. We are unsure about what area of the city to target though. We're thinking about either the Helix Hotel and then having dinner and going out in the U street area or staying at one of the hotels in Georgetown. We're in our mid-30s and I know Georgetown attracts a young crowd, but as long as the bars are fun we're cool with whatever crowd is around.

We just can't decide which would be better??? Any advice/suggestions...please?

Fritz: I'd say Helix. Dinner at Cork, jazz at HR-57, barhopping on U Street.

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Palisades: Help! I've been stuck alone in Kansas for 2 weeks and I need something to look forward to. I'm flying in Friday evening and I'm dying to do something fun. Is there anything going on this weekend that can't be missed? A good show, a fun crowd, anything. No offense to anyone from Kansas but it's brown and blah out here.

I'll owe you all if you can suggest something to get me out of this funk. Thanks!

Rhome: Moneytown. Disco City. Shelter. Play In A Day.

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Arlington, Va.: What do guys REALLY wanna do on Valentines day (besides the obvious, hehe :) - Sorry had to say it) ? Dinner? Stay in?

Rhome: We want to cuddle and talk about your feelings.

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Washington, D.C.: Do you all have any more info on the restaurant and bar planned for the Dakota Cowgirl space on 14th? I thought it was first planned for fall '08, then I heard January '09, walking by the place, it does not seem like any progress is being made?

Thanks!!!

Fritz: March. Plug: I had updates on the status of Branch and Barley and ChurchKey, Buddha Bar and a number of other bars set to open in 2009 in this blog post last week.

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I know I'm probably too late...: To I'm blue - tell her to come out with me and my friends!! No gal should be without winggirls on Vday! How do I reach her?

Fritz: Hey "I'm Blue" -- where are you going on VDay?

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Re Guys on Valentines Day: Guys really want there to be no Valentine's Day

Fritz: Every day should be Valentine's Day. Or something.

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Philly Transplant: Gurus, I'd like to get back to playing organized pick-up sports now that I'm settled in D.C. In Philadelphia, I participated in a few social sports clubs that offered, for example, soccer and basketball. Can you suggest any similar programs here? I'm familiar with the kickball leagues, but I'd really like to stick with basketball if possible. I appreciate it!

Rhome: DCJCC has great rec leagues. Also try Sports Leagues and the Rockville Sportsplex.

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No iTunes Here: With the cd exchange in Tenleytown now closed, where are there other spots in town to get come used CDs?

Fritz: I like Crooked Beat in Adams Morgan. Som is mostly vinyl, but they have some used CDs, too. And if you can make the short drive/Metro ride, I usually find something at CD Cellar in Clarendon.

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washingtonpost.com: Okay, we have to run -- have to send the Going Out Guide e-mail and get back to planning next Thursday's happy hour, among other things. Join us next Thursday for our last-minute pre-Valentine's Day chat. See you then.

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