| Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003; 1 p.m. ET Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's Entertainment 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 Entertainment Guide. Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion. The transcript follows. Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. 
The Going Out Gurus: What a great looking crowd. Welcome! We're already to answer your q's and trade your a's so XYZPDQ. Fritz, Anne, Jen, Maura, Rhome, Joe and me (Kate) are on the job. Let's go ...
Fairfax, Va.: Do you think it is appropriate to take young teenagers (ages 13 and 15) to an Irish pub? I think my kids would love the music, but don't want to bring them to a venue which is too saloon-like. As I recall, Murphy's (in Old Town) is a tad too adult, but Ireland's Own (also Old Town) might be a better place. The Going Out Gurus: Wow, Fairfax. This ought to open a nice can of worms. I think if teenagers are with their parents to enjoy live music in a pub, then it should be fine. I'd say to try Pat Troy's (same owner as the now-closed Ireland's Own), Sine in Pentagon row, or maybe the session at Nanny O'Brien's on Monday nights. I've seen kids there before. I would advise you to call ahead, though, because not all bar managers are egalitarian as I am, even though there's nothing illegal about it. -- Fritz
Wash, DC: I have a bit of a "thing" for the protestor boys, but don't really want to join the melee this weekend. Can you suggest any bars where they're likely to hang out afterwards? The Going Out Gurus: Hi DC, this is Joe. I'm not sure "protestor boys" will be eager to meet someone who can't even commit to the protest. Why don't you tap into your bank account and get some bail money ready? Nothing more romantic than springing a future beau from the big house.
Arlington, Va.: Any suggestions for good wings? How about wing deals for happy hour? I am looking for the crispy, hot kind! The Going Out Gurus: Hi Arlington, this is Joe and the Park Bench in Cleveland Park has great wings. I also noticed that Lucky Bar has a happy hour wings deal (10 for $2.50 I think) but I didn't try them. Anyone else want to make a recommendation?
Washington D.C.: We're taking a girls trip to Snowshoe this weekend -- any spots we should hit while we're there? Is there a decent nightlife? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Washington. Eric Brace wrote a nice roundup of the Apres Ski action at various resorts, including Snowshoe. Here's the scoop. -- Fritz
Washington, DC: Have you heard anything about either of the Shakespeare-related performances going on (one is the collection of his villians, the other a Simpsonesque version of MacBeth)? Any other shows that are 'can't miss'? The Going Out Gurus: Yes, I (Jen) have heard about both, which are mentioned in my January theater round-up. The "Shakespeare's Villains: Masterclass in Evil" opens tomorrow at Studio, and it sounds like a lot of devilish fun. And I have heard wonderful things about "MacHomer," which comes to College Park at the end of the month. I am planning to see it, assuming I can still get a ticket. Also in the Shakespeare realm, Folger's "Twelfth Night" sounds like a fun production, complete with contemporary music and a dance-off (and who can resist a dance-off)? And "The Exonerated" also gets high marks, but is here for a short time, so you'll need to jump on tickets quickly. (Our own Kate Gibbs will tell you more about that drama later in this hour.)
College Park, Md.: Have any restaurants let out their Valentine's Day specials yet? Will the Post have a VD listing of events? The Going Out Gurus: Hi, College Park, Anne here. Until our Valentine's Day page launches (within the next few weeks), you can type "Valentine's" in our search box and come up with a bunch of events. You can also use our calendar to find events on Feb. 14. Alexa will soon share her ideas for where to dine out on Valentine's Day. Off the top of my head, I know that Ardeo in Cleveland Park usually has a special Valentine's menu, as do many other restaurants.
RE: Irish Pubs: We hang out at Kirkpatricks almost every Saturday night. Kids are always there at dinner time, although they vacate by 10 PM. Same with the Old Brogue, kids until 10 PM. I don't think that places mind as long as they aren't there when the real drinking begins. The Going Out Gurus: Cheers. Thanks.
Washington, D.C.: Planning on taking my boyfriend to Le Bar for his birthday -- any thoughts on what a drink will set us back there? Also, coming from casual Friday -- what should we be wearing so we don't get kicked out? The Going Out Gurus: A cocktail will set you back between 8-10 bucks a piece and two or more will set you off your feet. I do encourage you to order from the Frenchified house cocktail menu -- and eat an olive or a handful of nuts. I had a "Marquis de Rochambeau" (basically a dirty martini) and "he" was strong.
You don't have to worry about what to wear, Le Bar is off the Sofitel's lobby so they'll serve cabbages and kings -- as long as the cabbage isn't wearing short shorts. Be clean, say please and they'll take very good care of you two. A nice birthday choice -- try and snag the backgammon table. --Kate
Arlington: For the pub question and teenagers: ireland four courts in arlington, and ireland four provinces in falls church are more dinner oriented then drink oriented and also have the live music. i've seen kids from 2 on up there. The Going Out Gurus: Good call on the 4Ps in Falls Church. -- Fritz
McLean, Va.: Looking to take a friend out for her birthday. We were going to try Firefly. I wanted to know if there were any reviews or thoughts on the place? Any other suggestions for the fun evening? The Going Out Gurus: Hi McLean. I think Firefly will be a lovely treat. In my experience, a sweet setting and fab service. You can read a full review right here. Be sure to call for a reservation, if you haven't already. I think they're booking up with restaurant week. Nearby, you might head to Savino's, Citron or Topaz afterward. -- Maura
Arlington, Va.: After the success of "8 Mile," have you heard of any club nights where they're hosting old-school MC battles? The Going Out Gurus: Well, I wouldn't really call the 8 Mile battles "old-school" (no group routines in unison, no nameplate belt buckles or creased Lee's) since battling never stopped being a part of hip-hop, its appearance just evolved over time. Of course you didn't come here for a hip-hop history lesson, although I can't resist telling anyone that loved 8 Mile to go out and rent Wild Style. Anyway, DC was teeming with MC battles for a while when hip-hoppers still had a place on U Street. Now that we've been routed out of that area, battles are sporadic things that happen only as often as folks can find a venue, which isn't often. There is a battle circuit between the kids at Howard, American & UMCP, although they're usually only publicized on their respective campuses and at local record stores that cater to hip-hoppers (DJ Hut, Capitol City Records). Tru-School Wednesdays at Bin Tumani is gone too. I just saw an ad for a new Wednesday night battle series at Euphoria, 1905 9th St. Anybody else have info? I'm surprised that with Eminem's triumph on the silver screen this question is just now coming up. - Rhome
The Burbs: Heading Downtown on Friday night for the Caps game. Saw that MVP's and Star Saloon have pretty good Happy Hour specials -- are these close to Metro, and would you recommend them for two 30-year-old fellas enjoying a few beers before the big game? The Going Out Gurus: Burbs: I like MVP's. It's a nice, divey bar with good wings and happy hour specials. It's also within two blocks of the Metro. I also dig the happy hour at District Chophouse. (I know, broken record.) But in that area, you can't beat their $2.50 beers. -- Fritz
Re: Kids in Pubs: Seen tons of families at the Four Provinces in Falls Church and the Four Courts in Arlington in the evening...kids didn't seem to be an issue at either one. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks. That's nice to hear.
DC Young professionals - 25 and under crowd: Hey Gurus! Happy Thursday to you all. What's the scoop on the DC Society of Young Professionals? They are having an "alumni" kick off party tonight for the 21-25 year old crowd at Platinum this evening starting at 7. Any insight on whether this will have a good showing, what the crowd might be like and whether this might be worth 10 dollars for mingling and drink specials? The Going Out Gurus: I think DCYP events nearly always have a good showing. I can't see why Platinum would be any different. I think your crowd will be pretty standard stuff -- young, with high Hill content. For ten bucks, why not check out DCYP -- they're a pretty friendly crowd -- if you haven't already. -- Maura
Glover Park, Washington, D.C.: Do you know anything about anti-war demonstrations this weekend? I've heard murmurs of events but have seen no signs or anything. Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: This info on the weekend rallies should hook you up, Glover Park. -- Anne
Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus, A couple of friends and I are escaping the arctic cold of DC and heading down to New Orleans this weekend! We're all first timers, and were hoping for some suggestions on the best eateries and sights not to miss. Recommendations on where to hear great jazz would also be appreciated. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Lucky you DC. This is Joe and I would love to be going to New Orleans this weekend. (although I'm really going to enjoy going to Philadelphia to watch the Eagles beat Tampa Bay on Sunday instead). It's hard to go wrong in New Orleans. For music, make sure you get to Tipitina's and the Maple Leaf, though they might not have jazz. I think there's a place called Snug Harbor for jazz. Other cool places are Lafitte's Blacksmith bar way down on Bourbon St. (though, i don't know if that's still there) I'm sure other readers will have more New Orleans suggestions.
Mt Pleasant loves wings!: Big Hunt's wings are spicy and $.07 each on Tuesdays, but not that crunchy. Recessions makes 'em nice and crispy but they don't have a set schedule for specials. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the wingtips.
DC: Anybody know about this Cinemusic event at Visions? I heard it is every Thursday. What is the theme/event tonite. Where can I get the info? Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: Hey, DC. Cinemusic is indeed weekly. Tonight is the '80s Art Scene Party at Visions, and they're showing Basquiat, I Shot Andy Warhol and similar movies on TV screens in the lounge (and a jumbo screen on the wall) while DJs spin related music - I'm guessing it's arty New York pop. NEXT WEEK, however, the theme is "The Roots of Go-Go," and I won't miss that for the world. Rhome neither. (You can get a schedule on Visions' Web site, http://www.visionsdc.com) -- Fritz
Arlington, Va.: Greetings! More of a staying in than going out question, but does anyone out there know a good sangria recipe? I've gotten hooked on the sangria at Jaleo, and tried to make some of my own last weekend, but it turned out terribly! The Going Out Gurus: I'm going to take the safe route here since the last time I offered my own recipe I got dissed! Head over to epicurious.com. Or, just ask the places that serve the good stuff to divulge their recipes. I'm sure folks are going to chime in today too. I still stand by 15 Ria (sangria's out for the season though), Jaleo and Mixtec. - Rhome
re: Protestor Boys: Last time a huge gaggle of them ended up at Marx Cafe' in Mount Pleasant, for obvious reasons. I saw a guy in barefeet using the urinal -- a thing that is perhaps more scary than facing Chief Ramsey's baton-wielding thugs. The Going Out Gurus: We get your Marx Cafe reference, but I'm pretty sure you don't have to be a communist to be opposed to this war. - Joe
Bethesda, Md.: Can anyone please tell me whatever happened to the dollar theaters? Or at least the real cheap ones where it was $4 or $5 to see a flick? The Going Out Gurus: Dollar theaters may be a thing of the past, but there are still some cheapie cinemas out there. Sadly, there aren't many near us folks in Bethesda. (The closest, the Aspen Hill Cinemas, closed a few years ago. Frankly I still yearn for the days of Roth's Parkway 3. Montgomery County natives, you know what I'm talkin' 'bout.) If you're willing to venture out for cheap tickets, all three of the Crown Theatres in Annapolis offer $4 twilite shows. Fairfax's University Mall sells adults tickets for a mere $3. And the Laurel Cinema 6 charges $4 a ticket. -- Jen
Irish pub for teens: I love Ireland's 4 Provinces in Falls Church (Broad and Washington Streets) and there are always families in there listening to the music and chowing down on some extraordinarily good food. I believe they have live music 5 nights a week as well. Thanks for these discussions! You all rock! The Going Out Gurus: There you go. Slainte.
Portable in Dupont: Got a new laptop for Christmas and would like to take it out and about but I don't know anything about the coffehouse scene. Can anyone give a mini review of the places--Cosi, Starbucks, Tryst, Teaism, others?--in the city? I'm looking for comfortable and productive over trendy. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Tryst is your Adams Morgan indie option, gets very crowded often. I'd think that might be too noisy at peak hours for productivity. Teaism also is too crowded during mealtimes for a laptop user to take up a seat. If you don't mind smoky, try Soho in Dupont. Jolt-n-Bolt is lovely on warm sunny days, kind of plain but functional inside. Folks here also dig the Matisee cafe attached to the Olssons bookstore in Courthouse. Bookstore coffeehouses seem more made for lingering. -- Anne
Washington, D.C.: Gurus: What do you know about the Corcoran's 1869 Club? What is their typical member? (Will a 35-year-old single guy feel weird joining?) They have a happy hour at Savino's tonight -- how well attended are their off-site happy hours? The Going Out Gurus: No, WDC, you won't feel weird at all. The age span for the Corcoran's 1869 Society probably runs around 25-40. Their off-site events are very well attended, as people aren't really there for the art, you know. It's definitely a friendly crowd -- for networking or whatever else you are looking for. Should you choose to talk shop -- art that is -- why not preview the Corcoran Biennial and impress with your expertise. -- Maura
Washington, DC: Would you pretty please link me to the site where you can get same-day theatre tickets at a major discount? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Consider it done. Here's today's TICKETplace offerings, as posted on our theater page, and here's a direct link to TICKETplace's site.
Maryland: With only 3 years until the next winter olympics, it's time to get started if you hope to curl in Italy -- or even just authoritatively snark at the MSNBC olympic curling commentators. The Potomac Curling Club is holding an open house this weekend where you and your kids can try this great winter sport out. Wear comfortable warm clothes and sneakers. Check out www.curldc.org for more info. The Going Out Gurus: An amen to bonspiel-ing our way to the Alps!
Vienna, VA: New Orleans suggestions: 2 have to dos - Cafe du Monde for beignets and Pat O's for the hurricane. Otherwise, for bars - just walk up and down Bourbon Street - you're bound to find one that serves the kind of drinks you like. Just don't be freaked when they give you a to-go cup instead of trying to confiscate your drink! There is also the House of Blues and Harrah's casino for entertainment. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the ideas Vienna. Though I'd recommend not spending too much time on Bourbon Street. You've got to get away from that scene to see the real NO. And if you've never been there, you should at least get one po boy sandwich at Mother's. Even the locals swear by that place. - Joe
Ballston: Headed over to 15 ria for restaurant week tomorrow. We were thinking (2 pretty cosmopolitan 30-something women) of hitting Toka afterwards for a drink based on Eric Brace's review, but I drove by and it didn't look too happening from the outside (and I am kinda worried about the crowd runoff from Rumours - ick!) Have you been there? What's the scene and do you have any other suggestiions after 15 ria. Just hit Firefly followed by Topaz last week, so I'd like to try somewhere new (and yes - to the McLean... Firefly is great and Topaz is a good choice after). Thanks, guys! The Going Out Gurus: Well, don't worry about Rumors runoff, Ballston. I've never seen that in all the times I've been to Toka. That said, I've never really seen much of a crowd in all the times I've been there. Don't get me wrong -- it's an attractive space with cool Philippe Starck barstools and some great cocktails, but it never gets jumping the way it should. I'm not sure why. There's a good chance it'll be dead tomorrow after dinner.
After 15 ria, then, you might want to stay at the bar for drinks -- I'm in love with the Cherry Sidecar martini and the "Hard" Root Beer Float -- or head down the street to the Hotel Helix (it's a block-and-a-half up Rhode Island) or down to Topaz Bar. Both have good cocktails and should suit your vibe. -- Fritz
WDC: I love Aroma in Cleveland Park... Just wondering if Krisna (sp?)is such big flirt with all of the ladies (I am trying not to feel too flattered!). The Going Out Gurus: Krishna is both a gentleman and a sweetheart. He's not Leon Phelps.
DC but wanna be in NYC: The WP's Entertainment Guide is such an incredible resource for finding out about local goings-on and things to do - kudos to you! I'm going to NYC this weekend, and am looking for a similar online guide so I can hunt down some specific things in the Big Apple. The NYT and its related resources don't seem to have a whole lot to offer. Do you gurus know where I could find to find a NYC equivalent of the WP guide? The Going Out Gurus: You can do some searching at the Times online, but it is rather limited and you'll need to register. Otherwise, Time Out New York has features to read, but searching is limited without a subscription, I believe. Your best bet might be to head to your local bookseller and pick up a hard copy of Time Out. Once again, that WP Entertainment Guide is hard to beat. Have a great trip. -- Maura
Right here!: Gurus -- The Man has granted me a three-day weekend, and I would like to celebrate by going to a poetry slam Sunday night. Guide me! Have a great weekend! The Going Out Gurus: Easiest question of the day. Type "poetry" into the search engine, there's more! - Rhome
Kids in bars: Kids do not belong in bars any more than I (27) belong at one of their middle school assemblies. Both are just wrong. As for wings, I had them at the new Woodley Cafe on Conn. Ave - they were good but the "bar" sucks. The Going Out Gurus: Kids might not belong in, say, the Raven, but if they're there to see live music, I don't have a problem with it. I was going to the old 9:30 Club when I was in high school and loved it. Would you keep kids out of the Black Cat? -- Fritz
List of metro area special events: On Jan. 10, the Weekend section had a pull-out section listing many special events for 2003 in this area. Unfortunately, I forgot to keep it. Is it possible to post a link for it? Many thanks. The Going Out Gurus: The link is there, sitting inside the Weekend section part of the site, and that page is searchable for another week. So, if you're really keen on the list, hang onto this url. Also remember that we, the Entertainment Guide staff, have an ongoing calendar of events, and we keep adding up-to-date information on them as the year goes along. You can always search us for more details.
RE:productive coffeehouses: Two of my faves - Sparky's on 14th St, and Common Grounds near Clarendon (Arlington). Java Shack near courthouse is another good spot when it's warm enough to sit outside. The Going Out Gurus: Yes, the Java Shack was another I meant to mention. Tiny, though.
Dupont Circle, DC: Is the bar at Hotel Rouge closed? Every time I walk by it isn't open....what gives? The Going Out Gurus: Not that I'm aware, Dupont. Do you mean the door is locked? Try entering through the lobby. And they close early on weekdays - like midnight - for ABC reasons. -- Fritz
re: portable in dupont: I've always seen laptop users relaxing at the bar on the first floor of teaism, right where you come in... Think they even have plugs for you. 2nd floor does get crowded at mealtime. The Going Out Gurus: Cheers (and chai).
Somewhere, USA: Who's Leon Phelps? The Going Out Gurus: The Ladies' Man.
DC: Me and the girls hit up Gabriels last night in Dupont for a little Restaurant Week get together, and man oh man, it was AWFUL. We were there for 90 minutes and never got our entrees. We asked and asked, and then, finally, we just walked out. Is Gabriels normally like this?
Ugh. The Going Out Gurus: Wow, that's terrible. I hope you contact the manager promptly.
Arlington, VA: Re MacHomer: Show is sold out, for both nights (Jan. 27 & 28). I know because I tried to purchase tickets last week. You could try a "will call" line the night of, but the TicketMaster rep did not know if one would be there. (I told my husband that I tried to get tickets to a play, and you should have seen the look on his face when I told him it was for Shakespeare! But when I told him about the Simpsons twist, he was relieved, and had to choke back his "you don't know me at all!" remark.) The Going Out Gurus: Slow down there, kids. I just talked to someone at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center and she assures me there are indeed tickets left for "MacHomer." She also said that if tickets sell out, it's possible there will be a will call before the show in case there are cancellations, etc. But there's still space now, so hop to it, people. (The phone number for tickets is 301-405-ARTS.) -- Jen
Jaleo Sangria: This was posted on a Post Chat a while back, supposedly it's the real thing - Jaleo's White Sangria - 500 cl. (2/3 of a regular bottle) of 'CAVA'
sparkling wine from Spain, chilled
- 2 oz. Liquor 43
- 2 oz. Brandy
- 2 oz. White Grape Juice
- 400 cl. Ice
- 2-3 Fresh Strawberries
- 1/2 of a Fresh Peach
- 3-4 White Grapes
- 1 bunch of Fresh Mint Makes 1 Liter
- Cut the fruit into bite-size pieces (or smaller) - Pour the ice into a 1-liter pitcher (or larger) - Slowly pour the chilled 'CAVA' down
the inside of the pitcher and not directly over
the ice; we want to keep the bubbles from
fizzing away - Pour the Liquor 43, brandy and white grape
juice into the pitcher - Add the fruit and mint and you are ready
to go!
The Going Out Gurus: No, you're a peach! Thanks very much.
re: Cinemusic: They are also showing Wild Style tonite!!
I got an email about it earlier in the week from DJ Adrian. DJ Dredd is the guest DJ tonite as well. The Going Out Gurus: Can't beat that with a stickball bat. - Rhome
Springfield, VA: Hi GoGs, The recent death of Joe Strummer has given me the urge to go hear some old Clash tunes. Are there any places around that would make an over 40 punk geezer happy? The Going Out Gurus: Hey Springfield, this is Joe (Heim, not Strummer) and I feel your pain. It really is sad to know that he's gone. I don't know if I can fill your Clash fix, but why don't you go see Los Hermanos Rodriguez tomorrow night at 9 p.m. sharp at Chief Ike's in Adams Morgan. The band's name is sort of deceiving as there's nothing Latin about them. They just make great, blistering loud rock. Maybe not the Clash, but pretty damn good. And local too. And if that doesn't do the trick, walk down to Toledo Lounge on 18th St and take over the juke box. Plenty of Clash choices for you.
Washington, D.C.: Hi, Gurus! I've just moved to Washington and my friends are trying to get me to get out more. I'm a couple of blocks off of Dupont, and they want to take me to a bar called Fox and Hounds. Is it worth leaving my house for this? Are there alternatives nearby if I hate it? I really am looking for a bar with some good vibes and friendly bartenders. The Going Out Gurus: Heh. That's a great neighborhood bar with a fun mixed clientele and more "atmosphere" than you can shake a stick at. It's also one of the cheapest (and easiest) places to get drunk in the city. Their idea of a mixed drink: giving you a tall glass full of gin/vodka/rum/scotch and a mini bottle of soda, tonic, etc. Even better at happy hour.
There are alternatives around if you need them -- the Childe Harold and Kramerbooks spring to mind, as does JR's. -- Fritz
Washington, DC: Wings--Asylum has the best wings in the city. They have 25 cent wings for happy hour. The Going Out Gurus: Damn straight. And cheep beer. I don't think there's anything else you need. Oh yeah -- metal on the jukebox. That's why I love that place. -- Fritz
RE: cheap Movie: Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse is only 4 bucks and you can buy beer there! (My favorite movie place now) The Going Out Gurus: Nice get, cheapie.
New Orleans: You must hit Petunia's on St. Louis St., just off Bourbon, for these amazing crepes and what I swear must be the best cajun Bloody Mary in NO. The restaurant is an old house and chances are one of the owners will serve you himself. Sort of a hidden treasure. The Going Out Gurus: A big yes to NO.
U Street, Washington, D.C.: Hey GOGs, Do you have any suggestions on Salsa lessons? I would like to surprise my wife with a nice romantic place to have Salsa lessons. The Going Out Gurus: Hmmm. Romantic. Do you want a series of lessons or just a place that teaches the basics before the dance? I'd suggest Habana Village on the weekends. Far more romantic than Lucky Bar or Clarendon Grill on Mondays, even though I usually recommend those for beginners. Ooh La La might work for Saturdays, too. -- Fritz
Rockville, MD: Hey GOG's...I am the social planner for my group of friends, a job I love and try my best at, so, I come to you for some advice. My friends and I want to go out dancing, dressed up and fancy. We are thinking soft jazz, similar to 105.9 music. A live singer would be even better. A place with dinner would be best! THANK! We are looking for a place in DC, or NoVa...THANKS! The Going Out Gurus: On Friday night Ortanique celebrate it's first birthday. Make your reservations for dinner and dancing -- and dress up. Nikki Gonzales will sing and that's very cool, jazzy. Food is spicy (and pricy) but the whole effect is transportive. -- Kate
Silver Spring, Md.: Hi Gurus -- I really need your expertise. My very coolest and hippest friend will be in town for the weekend (from San Francisco, natch). She moved there from D.C. six years ago. What is new and cool in town that we can do -- both daytime and night. We love good food (all kinds), nice elegant lounges where we can chat, art museums (anything modern going on right now?), art house and foreign movies, etc. Any thoughts? I'm thinking along the lines of the Cafe Atlantico latin dim sum, Visions, -- but where else? Thanks for any help -- I love the chats! The Going Out Gurus: Silver Spring, you're off to a fine start already with dim sum at Cafe Atlantico and Visions. As for the more modern arts, definitely check out the last weekend of Arte Povera at the Hirshhorn or head over to Fusebox to see their latest. As for lounge-ing, Fritz suggests you check out Rouge, Bossa or Aroma. -- Maura
Falls Church, VA: Are Hope Katz Gibbs & Kate Gibbs the same person? The Going Out Gurus: I've wondered that myself ...
Arlington VA: Hi, I'm heading to Williamsburg on a business trip in a couple weeks and am wondering what I should do while I'm there? I'm not much interested in Colonial Williamsburg, and it's too cold for Busch Gardens, so what's a girl to do? Around here, I'm more of a Black Cat, margarita-drinking, used record/book store, thrift-shop kinda gal - anything like that down there? The Going Out Gurus: As much as I (Jen) love Williamsburg, even I admit that the place isn't hipster central. Still, there are some groovy places to go if you know what's up. Since I used to live there, I have a vague idea of what's up.
There is certainly no Black Cat in the 'Burg, but there is Paul's Deli, an unassuming place with inexpensive pitchers and excellent sandwiches (and also one of Jen Chaney's top five favorite places in life). Bands play there occasionally, too. The Green Leafe is also next door, and I'm fairly certain you can get a margarita there.
I also recommend the Williamsburg Theater on Duke of Gloucester Street, a wonderful old movie theater that shows some pretty cool movies at a reasonable price. And for shopping, I suggest you visit the Williamsburg Pottery, which is sort of an ongoing flea market. There are normal, cutesy housewares there, but also some kitschy stuff. If you walk through there without finding a velvet Elvis, you're just not looking hard enough. Record store-wise, there's the Band Box, which is pretty small but might be worth a look (and it's not too far down the street from Paul's). And if all else fails, take a walk around the William & Mary campus and ask some random college kids where they go. There are probably plenty of cool new places that weren't there when I was in school. Have fun.
re: Fox & Hounds: I haven't been there in ages. Does it still have that god-awful smell? My pick in that area is Larry's Lounge on 18th and, um, S? T? Cheap drinks, mellow clientele, and the bartenders couldn't be nicer. The Going Out Gurus: Aw, shucks, isn't Larry's a sweet place. I'm a fan of their staff, their record collection and their trivia machine. Did you know their now selling slices of cake? It's too cute. -- Kate
For New Orleans: Lucky you! Be sure to eat at Napoleon's close to the French Quarter for the best muffaletta in the city. The Going Out Gurus: Yeah, don't miss Napoleon's. Great place.
N.O. LA: I would also recommend Port of Call. It is a total dive, cheap and has the best burgers in town, usually with a side of live music. The Going Out Gurus: Well done on the burger tip, thanks.
Mt Pleasant loves New Orleans!: You MUST go to Tipitina's, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop (a very dark, fun and rowdy sing-a-long piano bar that's popular with locals who want to avoid the Bourbon St chaos); and for a fab food experience, go to Jacqueimo's in Uptown (rockin' alligator cheesecake!) and Angeli's on Decatur in the quarter (the best cheap bar sandwiches in the U.S.). The Going Out Gurus: Thanks Mt. Pleasant.
Washington, DC: Where can I go to hear some drum and bass? The Going Out Gurus: Hey Washington. D'n'B is getting more exposure in D.C., which is nice for old Metalheadz fans like myself who haven't really been keeping up with the scene. My top three would be Volume, a big Saturday night event at Up! nightclub, that had DJ Storm in last week; Playaz Ball, held Sundays at South Beach Cafe in Bethesda; and DJ Slant upstairs at Dragonfly every Thursday. Excellent places all. -- Fritz
To the NYC bound: My friend who lives in NYC uses Citysearch.com. You might also want to try DigitalCity.com. As a last resort you can get a Zagat's Nightlife from a bookstore up there. The Going Out Gurus: More suggestions.
Uptown, Washington, D.C.: Hi there GOGs, Love the chat. My parents are visiting Feb 1 and they're bringing my 10-year-old nephew. He's never been to D.C. and I'm so excited to show him around! Given that it's likely to be cold, what kinds of fun things would you suggest to do with the little bugger on a Saturday afternoon? Also, I could use suggestions on a restaurant for dinner Saturday night. Somewhere in Northwest that has good food and isn't too stuffy (he's lively but in a well behaved way). No Asian spots, please. Otherwise, we're flexible with respect to neighborhood and price. The Going Out Gurus: If it's his first time here, the Mall's a must. There's lots of space to run around, and an 8-year-old boy I know likes the buildings there mostly because he can walk on all the wide railings and try to jump from one to another. To fight the cold, get him some apple cider or hot chocolate, or stop into the Botanic Garden. The American History museum is having a special program to honor Martin Luther King Jr. on Saturday afternoon. The George Catlin and his Indian Gallery exhibit at the Renwick closes Sunday, so it might be extra crowded, but I think that's also a good bet for kids. Alexa recommends Cafe Deluxe as a good spot to eat with kids; the food's good, but I'd go early to avoid a wait and really excessive noise. -- Anne
Arlington, VA: What will the next movie at Uptown be? The Going Out Gurus: Didn't we get this question last week? I (Jen) still don't know, but when I do, so will you.
Washington: In reply to "Wanna be". I was in NYC last weekend and also tried to find activities and events on the Internet from some kind of NYC guide. Best thing is to search on google.com for the specific activity rather than trying to find a guide. Like "swing dancing New York". Found several sites and actually "danced on Broadway" at a great space below the Edison Hotel. The Going Out Gurus: And more.
Great Wings...: Buffalo Wing Factory in Sterling has excellent wings and 25 different flavors to choose from. The Going Out Gurus: Ah, the Factory!
Kids in bars (again): I too went to the Black Cat when I was a kid but I would consider that a music venue. An Irish pub, regardless of whether some guy is (poorly) covering Ring of Fire in the corner, is not a music venue. It's a bar. The Going Out Gurus: "... whether some guy is (poorly) covering Ring of Fire in the corner ..."
You need to go to a good Irish night. Try Nanny's on a Monday for a traditional Irish session, or Sundays (I think) at Sine. No Johnny Cash covers - just great Celtic music that you won't hear at the Black Cat.
RE: Salsa Lessons: Ugh - bars for salsa lessons. That is about the best way to learn it wrong. Sure, it is fine for one time maybe but find yourself an experienced teacher if you really want to learn. The Going Out Gurus: Sorry. I know what you mean, although I've had good luck with people like Leon (Habana Village), Jeri (Nick's and others) and Eileen (Zanzibar). They're all as good as the people you'd get in a studio (and they all do studio teaching as well). That said, the question was about "a romantic place" to go, and studios like Joy of Motion and the DC Dance Collective just don't get my heart racing, even though they have great instructors. -- Fritz
Hyattsville, Md.: Are you the same Rhome that spins at Rendezvous Lounge? And if so, what nights are you there? The Going Out Gurus: Hey Hyattsville, this is Joe and I'm answering on Rhome's behalf. Yup, he's the one and only Rhome, aka DJ Stylus and he spins at Rendezvous every Wednesday beginning around 8, but things pick up around 9. The scene is getting bigger every week and, best of all, it's free. Well, best of all, it's Rhome. Second best of all, it's free.
Dupont Circle: Turning 25 this Sunday but have had very little time to put into bday organizing - any ideas for a fun, low-maintenance birthday celebration for 4-8, for afternoon or evening? The Going Out Gurus: You could round up the gang to lounge at Visions, even stay later if you want to get a movie. A friend I know has a pleasingly low-maintenance b-day at Penang, with yummy food and music leading to a clubby vibe. Atomic Billiards, too, makes for a relaxed gathering. -- Anne
Dupont, DC: Hi gurus...
We're headed to Restaurant week at 1789 tonight, and just heard its extended one more week! I'd like to make reservations at another great place...any ideas? Also, Tom's chat from yesterday is MIA on the website...can you link that as another source of info? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: You heard right! We just got word that Restaurant Week has been extended for another week (through Sunday, Jan. 26). So call away! I'd try Pesce or The Prime Rib or Seasons: somewhere I have not travelled, gladly beyond any experience... -- Kate
Washington, D.C.: My sister and her friend are coming to town tonight -- they've been through D.C. initiation -- and I wondered if there was anything special going on, Thursdays in particular. The Going Out Gurus: Washington, you've got Third Thursday's among the 7th street galleries, with lots of drink and dining options nearby. The Corcoran extends its hours until 9pm every Thursday. If you're thinking happy hour, check out this list of Thursday specials. -- Maura
Falls Church, Va.: Re: Hope Katz -- If I knew that it was Kate I'd give those restaurant reviews a lot more creedence. The Going Out Gurus: Aw shucks, I'm KG, but I'd take HKG's word. Word.
Mo NO: Funkybutt is a must for music! Two floors: I went there a few years back; there was improv jazz downstairs and the Wild Magnolias upstairs.Rowdy, essential. The Going Out Gurus: Wow. "Rowdy, essential." It doesn't get stronger than that! We've had others write in suggesting Funkybutt. Chekc it.
Silver Spring, Md.: Do you all know of any movie theaters that have more of a "cinema grill" feel -- I miss the cinema grill in Bethesda, and my hubby won't go to regular theaters -- help! The Going Out Gurus: Well, there's the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse, for starters, and the Club Cinema at Mazza Gallerie, which has a full bar. Stay tuned for next week's Nightwatch column in the Jan. 24 Weekend section for another cool addition to the drinks-and-a-movie scene. -- Fritz
Virginia: Are museums closed for MLK day on Monday? The Going Out Gurus: Of the major museums, only the Phillips, which is always closed on Mondays. -- Maura
H to the I to the L to the L: So, tell me about trivia night at Politiki. The Going Out Gurus: Everything you need to know should be right here, H.I.L.L. You'll also find some sample questions here. It is, for the record, my favorite trivia night in the area. (And the one my friends and I have most often won.) -- Fritz
Washington, D.C.: Hey GOGs -- LOVE THE CHAT I'm supposed to go to Pasta Mia with a couple friends tonight. My friends swear by it but say it's pretty small and we have to get there at 6:30 on the dot to even get seated. What gives -- is it worth the effort? The Going Out Gurus: Not sure it's worth standing more than 15 minutes in any cold, but Pasta Mia has become an AM institution and if you feel you might be missing out, go for it. It's not friendly or anywhere near as good as darling Kuna, but it's good value. The salads are enormous (great value). Split the pasta. -- Kate
Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Re: NOLA -- as a New Orleans native, I can recommend Jacques-Imo's for dinner. Yum, wish I was there. It's on Oak Street in the Riverbend, but get there fairly early, as they don't take reservations and there's always a wait. For a non-Quarter bar, try the Columns on St. Charles. If it's nice out, you can sit on the porch and watch all the action on the Avenue. And don't forget, you can take your drinks to go if you don't finish them in the bar, as long as you get them in a plastic cup. The Going Out Gurus: More for NOLA.
In the Mix, Washington, D.C.: Gurus, come to my rescue! I'm looking for a club/bar/lounge to take a group of friends who are going to be in town for a birthday party. Good music, chill scene, hip vibe are musts. It's going to be a group of 10 or so early- to mid-20-somethings, and I need a place where my girls and I can do both, bob our heads and shake our booties to (preferably) hip-hop, soul, funk, etc. I was thinking Modern or Eighteenth Street Lounge. Any advice? Thanks! P.S. Fritz, any Steeler Super Bowl baby is a friend of mine. The Going Out Gurus: Those are both good bets but I've already marked my calendar for Stevie G and Adrian Loving at Tom-Tom this Sunday. They've just set up shop there for the past couple of weeks and Sunday is the Aquarian Birthday celebration. You'll get soul and disco classics, house, funk. It should be pretty fly. - Rhome
Arlington, Va.: Actually, I just wanted to add to your response to a question from a Fairfax, Va. resident about bringing children to an Irish pub. The Old Brogue in Great Falls right off Old Georgetown Pike has a music series in their back room on Sunday afternoons/evenings in Feb. and March where you can have dinner and listen to various Celtic musicians. I've seen many a wee one there enjoying themselves with the family. The Going Out Gurus: Another "teenagers down the pub" suggestion.
Washington, DC: Hi, I'm thinking about using Monday as "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," DC-style. Any suggestions for a good way to seize the day? The Going Out Gurus: "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," D.C. style. What an intriguing idea.
For starters, you should call your friend Cameron and insist that he pick you up in his father's fire-red Ferrari while blaring the tune "Oh Yeah" by Yello. (He'll probably say he's sick and sing, "When Cameron was in Egypt-land, let my Cameron go," but just ignore that.)
Like Ferris, Cam and Sloan, you could hit an art museum. How about the Whistler in Venice exhibit at the Freer? If money is no object, partake in a super-fancy lunch, maybe at Galileo or 1789? (If they won't seat you, tell 'em you're Abe Froman.) Wrap it all up with a vague allusion to Matthew Broderick by seeing "About Schmidt" (directed by Alexander Payne, who directed Mr. Bueller in "Election") at the Loews Georgetown theater. Does that sound like a good day? I say, ohhhhh yeah.
Bayou Boy in Washington, D.C.: In response to the question about NOLA: For lunch:
Uglesich
Central Grocery
Camellia Grill
Mothers For Dinner:
Jacques-Imo's
Commanders
Upperline Music:
Tipitina's
French Quarter Bar
Spotted Cat - great jazz Lounge/Bar:
Dragon's Den
El Matador
The Going Out Gurus: Bayou Boy knows NOLA.
Arlington, Va.: Re: MacHomer Thank god for the Chat! Just called the Clarice Smith Center direct, and got tickets for Tuesday the 28th. The rep said that all Ticketmaster tickets are sold out. He also said that balcony seats are the only ones remaining for Tuesday, and for Monday, the only two seats together are for the last row in the balcony. P.S. Tickets are $25 each. Thanks again! The Going Out Gurus: Yes, thank God for us, the wind beneath Rick Miller's wings. Glad you snagged seats.
Uptown: Thanks for the response on my 10 year old visitor. One thing: they're not here this weekend--they arrive on 2/1 so let me know if there are any cool friendly events coming up. Re: NYC, my hometown, one of my favorite things to do is walk the length of Bleecker Street starting at Sixth Ave heading west. You'll see some of the usual junk stores, but also fun stuff like the area's still-in-action Italian roots. There's a church at the corner of Carmine and Bleecker that is the last place in NYC that has mass in Italian weekly. From there, you will see shops dedicated to cheese (not so unusual), pork (more unusual) and more. Cornelia Street is the restaurant row of Greenwich Village. Po and Home rock. Palma sucks. Pearl is awesome if you like oysters (it's all they serve). Going further west, you'll pass tons of unique stores, as well as encroaching high-end chain-like places (e.g., Marc Jacobs). A great small club called Halo is just west of Seventh Ave South (Rhome would love it). Further west, you'll find Magnolia Bakery (a bit overrun from Sex in the City exposure but still putting out incredible sweets). If you keep going west, eventually you'll find yourself at a Hudson River bike/jogging path with great views on a clear day. Jen The Going Out Gurus: Too good not to share. I'm sorry the fortune telling chicken on Mott Street is gone, but these are great ideas.
The Going Out Gurus: Party's over. Thanks for coming. See you next Wednesday at noon for Got Plans with Kids, and next Thursday for more GPs.
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