| Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, March 13, 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. 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: We're the Notorious GOG and man! are we happy to see you all here for another magical Thursday. We've got St. Patrick's Day, cherry blossom and local concert and nightlife tips at the ready. Maura, Anne, Fritz, Alexa, Rhome, and Jen are ready to answer like "It's Academic" stars. I guess that makes me (Kate) Mac McGarry.
Washington, D.C.: GoGs -- My boyfriend's mom is coming to town and wants to see the Albert Einstein statue. I didn't even know there was one around. Can you help me locate it? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Yes, I can help, Washington. The Einstein statue sits in front of the National Academy of Sciences at 22nd and Constitution. A great spot. Nearby you have the Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans and Korean Memorials should you want to continue playing tour guide. Enjoy the visit. -- Maura
Ashburn, Va.: I'm going to miss you guys today so I have to post early. My husband and I have been looking for an ethnic restaurant where you sit on the floor to eat your food. Do you know what type of restaurant follows that custom and where in the area would be a good place to go? We don't mind going to the McLean or Arlington area... or even venturing into DC. Thanks so much! The Going Out Gurus: Hello Ashburn. There are a few low tables at Sushi Taro, I think. And what about old Marrakesh. You don't say what kind of food you like, or is it all about the floor!? -- Alexa
DC: Can you tell me what HOME club is like on Thursday nights? I know they play latin music in the basement. How is the crowd? does it get crowded? thank you and I love your advice! The Going Out Gurus: Hey, DC. It gets crowded, as it's run by the well-known promoter Masoud A, and he brings people out. It's an 18-and-over night, so there are a good number of college students mixed in with the folks who just come out to dance to house, salsa and interantional dance music. If you go to Masoud's Web site (www.earth2003.com) you can get a pass that will get you in early. -- Fritz
Washington, D.C.: Thanks to the Going Out Gurus for recommending the new Indique restaurant. We had so much of fun, we would recommend this place to anyone. It is not the usual run of the mill Indian restaurant. It is very stylish, got a nice drinks menu, lot of small plates and also has a nice wine list and lot of good wines by the glass. They even flambed a "gulab Jamun" for our birthday boy in the group. Cheers to Indique and wish them all the best. The Going Out Gurus: Galub, jamun.
Washington, D.C.: Hey guys, I'm looking for a good urban photo exhibit. Saw the one on industry at the Corcoran last weekend. If you can throw in a cheap place for dinner nearby, you'll get double the points. Any ideas? The Going Out Gurus: Washington, I want to help, but am confused. You saw the photo show on industry at the Corcoran? I think you might mean Margaret Bourke White at the Phillips. The Corcoran's photo show -- Joseph Mills -- centers on downtown Washington. Both are well worth seeing. But my favorite photography show in town right now has to be Auto Focus at the Sackler -- the late Raghubir Singh's photos of India all driven by the Ambassador car. Don't miss it. On the cheap, I'd catch dinner nearby and across the Mall at the Red Sage Border Cafe, Chef Geoff's or a few blocks down at Zaytinya. -- Maura
Alexandria, Va.: So I am thinking of going to that Shamrock Festival in Ballston but I want to know a little bit about the vibe there. Is it drunken debauchery or family time? Has anyone been? The Going Out Gurus: You'll find both, Alexandria, with families in the morning and more people out for the beer and bands later in the afternoon and evening. It's not a bad day out, but bring plenty of patience -- you may spend a lot of time waiting in lines for essentials like beer and toilets. -- Fritz
Georgetown, Washington, D.C.: I need a haircut but can't afford any of the super pricey salons my friends go to. Any reccomendations for affordable hair stylists in the Georgetown area? Or D.C. in general? The Going Out Gurus: I am absolutely, terminally in love with my hair cutter. His name is Demian and he cuts at Bang Salon, in the lobby of Results the Gym on 14th Street. It's $30. I've recommended him to friends and to mixed results. A few have worried that he's gone too short, but I think he's a terrific stylist and it's only hair. Any one else have a winner? -- Kate
Brazilian BBQ: Hi gurus: Can you recommend any Brazilian BBQ type restaurants in D.C.? I visited a great one in Salt Lake City and was hoping to be able to repeat the performance here -- maybe even this weekend as I have guests coming into town! Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: Green Field Churrascaria sounds like the place for you. -- Alexa
Washington, D.C.: I am looking for a not-too-pricey Russian or Eastern European restaurant. My boyfriend is Czech and I would like to take him out somewhere nice. also, any ideas on where the Eussian and Eastern European expats hang out? The Going Out Gurus: Eve just reviewed Maxim, near the White House and it sounds like a blast. I'd go there. -- Alexa
Sitting on the Floor: How about Ching Ching Cha on Wisconsin below M Street in Georgetown? Chinese tea and elegant, light food to go with. The Going Out Gurus: Yes indeedy.
Alexandria, Va.: Hi. Could you please post the link for the article that you did a while back on a selection of day spas? I can't seem to find it. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Alexandria. I think this is the link you're seeking.
Pedicure suggestions near Dupont?: Girls night -- well, day -- out, and we're looking to do lunch at Lauriol Plaza followed by a round of pedicures. Know of any good places to get our feet pampered, maybe with a lower calf massage too, reasonably priced, preferably near Dupont? I know you've answered the pedicure question lately, but I can't seem to find it -- help! The Going Out Gurus: How about Q-West nails on 18th? Kate gives them a finely manicured thumbs up. Pedicures are $25, I believe. Call them at 202-332-3001 and see if they can take your whole party. -- Maura
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Hello GOG's! I'm looking forward to seeing the cherry blossoms blossom this year. I read in one of the Post articles that there are some nice out-of-the-way spots to take in the beautiful trees. I searched and searched but could not find a map of where the out-of-the-way cherry blossoms are located. Does one exist? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: You're right, Dupont, that the Tidal Basin is the best known spot for blossoms, so it's also the most crowded. Alternative destinations include the U.S. National Arboretum and Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna -- each have a couple hundred cherry trees. Also, in the Kenwood neighborhood in Bethesda between Little Falls Parkway and River Road, there's 1,200 white-blossomed Yoshino cherry trees along the streets. -- Anne
22201: Dearest GOG's....
Do you have a suggestion for a sports bar in Baltimore City that takes reservations for a party of 12?
As always - Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Try Max's on Broadway (410-675-MAXS), which has loads of good beer, food and 15 satellites. (It's not really a sports bar, but ...) You might also try the Downtown Sports Exchange (410-659-5844), a fun, three-story bar and restaurant on Pratt Street near Camden Yards. -- Fritz
Wesley Heights, Washington, D.C.: OK gang, I'm looking for an Iota-like joint around Dupont Circle or U Street or Adams-Morgan (But first and second preference is Dupont area.) We want to stay in the heart of the city. Have people coming into town for Saturday night and want to go and listen to some live music in a venue similar to Iota in decor, demographics etc (no punks etc. a place with good music for those of us in our late 30s, rock, jazz or blues, etc.) without breaking the bank or we'd go to Blues Alley. Thanks for any help. The Going Out Gurus: I'm using my Guru powers of deduction to divine that you're basically looking for "grown folk" spots to hear music. No rowdiness, beer spilling, college kids, etc. There's always the usual suspects for jazz: Cafe Nema, Utopia and HR57 around U Street, Columbia Station, Felix and Toulouse in Adams Morgan. I can't recall specific bands for Saturday night but for future reference you'll want to check Nikki Gonzalez at Aroma on Thursdays and Michael Harris at Felix on Fridays. Anyone have any suggestions for the Dupont area? - Rhome
Lake Ridge, Va.: I've heard Panic is making a comeback at the new Saint-Ex Cafe. Is this true? If so, when is the first night? The Going Out Gurus: Yes, Lake Ridge, Panic is making a comeback in the small downstairs lounge (Gate 54) at Saint-Ex this Friday night. It's going to start around 10, it's free (for the moment) and also 21 and over. I saw DJ Pogo at Cafe Saint-Ex's "soft opening" party last week, and he says they're going to try and make it all ages, like at Metro Cafe, but the bar still says you have to be 21.
Now, the dance floor might be a little more packed than Metro's, but Pogo and James will be spinning the same '80s-Britpop-New Wave mix that was so popular the last time around. -- Fritz
Frank in Washington, D.C.: You guys are the biggest losers. The Going Out Gurus: We agree!
Frankly Frank, your opinion is refreshing. We'd like to reward your clear-eyed honesty with a complete set of the Guru's lookalike dolls (Maura's eyes open AND close). Come back next week and we'll throw in the Franklin Mints' Fritz Hahn Beer Drink' Steins Collector's Edition. Send me an email with your name and address: kate.gibbs@washingtonpost.com.
Washington, D.C.: I used to go to the Andre Chreky Salon ($60), and a friend recommended me to a great, young stylist: Chris at the Bubbles in Pentagon City Mall. He has turned out to be great! Around $30. The Going Out Gurus: Cheers, DC.
Washington, D.C.: Hello! My destitute friends and I are going to a performance at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (545 Sevent St. SE -- student rush tickets, of course) and were hoping to have a meal beforehand. We thought you might have a suggestion for a very inexpensive, but good restaurant in the neighborhood (545 7th St. SE). Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: You could get away with not spending much at both the Austin Grill and Teaism. -- Alexa
Alexandria, Va.: You guys are the best! Anyway, my girlfriends and I went to RFD before the Bon Jovi concert on Sunday and were seriously disapointed. It was early (5:30) and the place was half full -- and we STILL had to wait 20 min for a table that was empty the entire time we were at the bar. When we ordered our food, our waitres told us the kitchen was slammed (there weren't that many full tables in there) and it took over an hour to get our entrees that came out one at a time -- every 10-15 minutes! I was done with my dinner by the time the last entree came out (we got it for free). When we left, there were maybe a dozen tables left and the entrie back and front were empty and yet there was still a sign on the door that said "2.5 hour wait!" Give me a break! If they know there is something going on at MCI, beef up your staff! Just my $.02. The Going Out Gurus: You've hit upon my biggest complaint about R.F.D. -- one they've still not sorted out despite being open for two months now. They can look at a schedule and see when there's an event at MCI. Why not just put on extra staff for the night? I don't understand. I took my dad there for his birthday earlier this month, and I specifically checked to make sure there wasn't anything going on.
Also, the kitchen's "slammed" state seems to be the culprit for all the delays. I know they're trying to increase the capacity over there, but come on. -- Fritz
Beef on a Stick: The churrascaria-seeker might also want to try Malibu Grill in Bailey's Crossroads -- not as extensive a selection as Greenfields, but also a little cheaper, and IMHO better quality meats. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Beef.
Arlington, Va.: Hi GOGs, Some friends and I are heading up to Baltimore this Sunday for the St. Paddy's festivities. Does anyone know of any cheap public transportation that runs between D.C. and the Baltimore inner harbour on Sundays? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: The best option I (Jen) can think of is to take the MARC train from New Carrollton to Baltimore. You'll have to Metro to New Carrollton, so your trip will take a while, but it's the most feasible mode of transport unless you drive. If other folks have ideas, please chime in.
Washington, D.C.: Love your chat. I have friends coming into town this weekend who are interested in seeing an art exhibit on the mall. I am looking for something contemporary and different but not too over the top that could peak the interest of a group of six with differing tastes. Any suggestions? The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Washington. The afore-mentioned Auto Focus show is sure to please. And Gerhard Richter -- the contemporary German painter -- at the Hirshhorn is one of the biggest -- and best -- shows in town these days. If your friends didn't see it in New York or Chicago, that might be the one to catch. -- Maura
Washington, D.C.: I've been looking for "chill" places to have a drink and hear some hip-hop (preferably DJs), but always find myself at a fairly jiggy club. Do any of you know of any "tweener" spots in the area that don't require a dress code, a cover and an attitude? The Going Out Gurus: The Home Schooling crew (used to hold down Nyala back in the day) are kickstarting a new Tuesday night party at U-Turn. Every Thursday you can take your pick of the FunkDC crew at Bossa, Diamond District DJ's at Chief Ike's or the Organized Theory crew at U-Turn. Grand Groove at Five is always a good option. It may seem jiggy but they don't trip about dress code and the music is good, usually a balanced mix of the mainstream and non-commercial. FunkDC is also at Visions on Saturdays. And of course there's always yours truly at Rendezvous on Wednesdays. Wow, I just realized that all of a sudden a ton of options have cropped up where on these very same pages we've moaned and wailed about the non-existence of anti-jiggy hip-hop oriented spots. Y'all go out and support though before everything disappears and we have to start complaining again. - Rhome
Cleveland Park, Washington, D.C.: Any thoughts on Bohemian Caverns? Seems like it has moved downscale in menu and quality of jazz -- I thought it had a chance to compete with Blues Alley. Mismanagement or just a tough economy? The Going Out Gurus: Folks just weren't coming through when they were charging the major bucks for top-flight acts. The Caverns has had to scale down their aspirations to deal with a tough business climate. You can't count the continued degradation of U Street out of this equation either. - Rhome
Soon to be downtown: Congratulations to me, I just got a new job downtown, right near 15th and M. My current job is nearly in the 'burbs, so I'm looking for recommendations of happy hour/afterwork places in walking distance of 15th and M, any suggestions? The Going Out Gurus: Congrats, 15th-and-M-to-be. Your new choices include the sports-and-happy-hour Lucky Bar (on Connecticut at 18th and M), beer-and-a-burger (or grilled cheese) Stoney's (13th and L) and cocktails at Topaz (17th and N) to start. I'm also a huge fan of the happy hour meny at McCormick and Schmick's (16th and K). Oh, and we can't forget the greasy fare and cheap beer at the Post Pub (15th and L). Now, who else wants to recommend something? -- Fritz
Capitol Hill Arts Workshop dinner spot: Are you on crack? Neither Teaism nor Austin Grill are anywhere near the Hill. The Going Out Gurus: Oh. Yes, I see. South East. That's what happens when you're on crack. How about Montmartre? Banana Cafe, Chipotle in Old Town. -- Alexa
Adam Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Hey there. My grandma, mom, and cousin are hittin' up the Holocaust Museum late next week. Any idea of where I can meet up with them for a stress free lunch near the museum? The Going Out Gurus: Interesting turn of phrase, AM, but I'm here to help regardless. After my most recent visit to the very same museum I trekked over to meet Alexa at Zaytinya. Well worth the walk -- in the rain. But assuming you want something closer by, try Red Sage, Butterfield 9, Ocenaire, Chef Geoff's, Old Ebbitt. -- Maura
Dreamin' in Silver Spring, Md.: First, I'm new to the area and would like to thank you guys for great tips. Keep up the great work. I've heard that 2 Skinnee J's are playing at Dream on Sunday night. I haven't been to Dream (not really my scene) and I didn't think they ever had bands. Also, this seem like a very odd place for the J's to play given their usual "college crowd" following. Any info on this show? Any tips on Dream in general? I've read some horrible reviews. Parking? Closest metro? Also, if there are any 2 Skinnee J fans in the audience today, anyone know if they are breaking up? (This is being billed as a "Last Chance" tour.) Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Actually, the Js are not playing Dream (Valet parking. No Metro.) this weekend, Dreamer. The show's been moved, but there's no new date set yet. I saw the Js play Dream before, and I agree with you - J Guevara was probably more stumped than the audience about why he was there. Too elegant a setting than what he's used to, he said. The Js need room to roam on the stage, and that freakin' elegant column in the middle of the stage was annoying everyone. Is it the end? Well, they have dates lined up into April, but, frankly, what I've always loved about the Js is their bounding energy ... and like their fans, they're getting older and they don't jump as high anymore. My question to you: what's up with Steve's hair? He used to be the cute one. -- Anne
Washington, DC: Any opinion on Chief Ike's Mambo Room in Adams Morgan? A friend told me they're starting to have stand-up comedy open mics and wants to go. The Going Out Gurus: I'm still a fan of Chief Ike's. I haven't heard about comedy shows there, but I'm not surprised. They're booking more bands these days.
I know there's going to be a belly-busting comedy show (in a "Mr. Show"-ish belly busting way) at the Velvet Lounge on March 21. In the interests of full disclosure I know one of the dudes who're coming down from New York. His name is Eugene Mirman and if you'd like to check out his wave length go to www.eugenemirman.com. I'm a fool for his "American Pie." -- Kate
Washington, D.C.: What are the chances you can move that "Party Every Day" column up to Wednesdays? I actually start thinking about the next weekend on Monday afternoon, but I think Wednesdays would work well. The Going Out Gurus: Simple, Washington: Promoters are some hot bammas. We thought about moving it up in the week, but the club game is fraught with difficulty; there were always last-minute announcements and cancellations, so we figured that the best way to bring you an error-free and up-to-date list was to have it run on Thursday. Wednesday is possibility in the future.
If you want to make your feelings known, by the way, or have an event to add, send it to nightlife@washingtonpost.com. Thanks. -- Fritz and Rhome
Oakton, Va.: I am new to the area and have heard rumors about a restaurant in the Tysons Corner area that turns into a nice 30-something dance feast on weekends. Can someone help me find a nice place to take my woman out to for R&B tunes and good dancing on the weekend in Tyson's Corner? The Going Out Gurus: Are you thinking of e-Citi?
McLean, Va.: There is tons of info about what to do for Bachelorette parties in the area, but I need help with a BACHELOR party! My plan is to do a day activity, dinner, then a bar hop. Groom is 28, and is not interested in adult entertainment. Any ideas for a good daytime activity (such as paintball, shooting range, etc.), real good steak dinner (in D.C. or Arlington) and then some good bars that aren't overly crowded, but still have a good scene. Thinking one bar each in Georgetown, then midtown, then Adams Morgan. Any ideas from you or the peanut gallery?! THANKS! The Going Out Gurus: Sounds like you have an ambitious agenda, so I (Jen) will try to take it step by step.
As far as daytime activities, paintball is a popular one. You might also consider taking in an Orioles game (assuming the bachelor party takes place after the season starts), tubing or hitting an amusement park. For that steak dinner, you might try District Chophouse or Nick & Stef's, which will put you close to midtown. Bar-wise, consider Mie N Yu or the Harbour Club in Georgetown, and The Reef in Adams Morgan. Can't promise they won't have crowds, though. Hope this helps.
MARC Trains: Hey GOGs, Just a note that MARC doesn't run on weekends, but Amtrak does -- at a steeper price, about $20 from New Carrollton, if I recall, instead of a $5 MARC train ride. Still cheap compared to cabs and such. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the reminder. Hope this helps the Baltimore commuter.
Washington, D.C.: GOGs -- I am in search of party tips. Any fail-safe suggestions I should heed in throwing my own fiesta? The Going Out Gurus: As our Home section representatives are not available to take this one and hold court upon doilies, wine glass charms and pan ethnic snack foods, I'll be as general as your question is. Mix equal parts tasty beverages, fun people and good music. Input from the class? - Rhome
Cheap to Baltimore: How about the B30 bus? It leaves from the Greenbelt Metro, and goes to BWI. From there, you can take the light rail into town. Cost to the airport: whatever it costs to take you on Metro and $1.15 on the bus. Easy and runs about every hour. Also, from what I understand about MARC on the weekends it that the service is curtailed and shuts down early. The Going Out Gurus: Ah, the bus. Thanks for the tip.
Alexandria, Va.: Gurus, Are we going to get to see "Bend it like Beckham" in this area? The Going Out Gurus: Yes, Alexandria. It's slated to open on March 28. Release dates sometimes change, but that's how it's looking right now. -- Jen
Washington, D.C.: Is RFD more like a bar that serves decent food or a restaraunt that has a decent bar? I'm going out with old college friends Saturday and want to find a place that has decent food but whose atmosphere won't dampen our entusiasm for drinking. Any thoughts or other suggestions? The Going Out Gurus: Either or, depending on the time and day. On Saturday, if you're going primarily for drinks, you might be okay. The food is decent there -- don't get me wrong -- but it's St. Patrick's Day weekend and I'm staying out of a lot of bars to avoid the amateurs who flock out for Irish beers, etc. The Reef might also fit your needs (although they have a smaller menu). -- Fritz
Capitol Hill Arts Workshop: Check out Las Placitas (517 8th St., SE). It's a block away from CHAW and it's cheap and delicious! The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the tip.
Petworth, Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus! So, question? I know next week is St Patrick's Day, also know as "Amateur night." How bad will the bars, especially the Irish bars, be this weekend? Should I be making other plans, or do you think that the Paddy's day crowds won't come out on Friday? The Going Out Gurus: No, no , no Pet. New Year's Eve is amateur night. St. Patrick's Day is (this is of course purely my opinion) a fabrication from the find minds at Guinness International. Irish bars will be bad this weekend. You have a world of choice. -- Kate
Washington, D.C.: My boyfriend's parents are coming into town this weekend and I want to show them around the city. I was thinking about taking them to the Kite Festival since the weather is supposed to be so beautiful. I was wondering if it is mainly an indoor exhibit at Air and Space or if the real sights are out on the Mall with people flying kites everywhere? Thanks for your help! The Going Out Gurus: Two separate things, DC. This Saturday, 10-3 is Kite Day, an indoor event at the Air and Space Museum. You'll need free, timed entry tickets for it (pick up at the desk on the Independence Avenue side). You'll be able to see an exhibit of historic kites, and learn how kites fly and decorate your own kite. People will fly kites, briefly, indoors. *Next* Saturday is the high-flying, outdoor Smithsonian Kite Festival. The competition on the Mall runs from 10-noon, where dozens of prizes are given out to incredible creations. -- Anne
Georgetown, Washington, D.C.: Hi gurus, I'm looking for a new venue to catch live shows. I'm tired of the Black Cat and the 9:30 club. What other bars/clubs have good live acts in D.C.? Anything specific to Georgetown? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Do you mean national acts? If not, you have roughly a billion (give or take a few hundred) options. I can't enumerate them without more details about you're looking for though. Indie rock? Folk? Alt-Country? In Georgetown I know a lot of local bands play at the Grog & Tankard (suggestion delivered free of any value judgement). - Rhome
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Can anyone tell me about this McFaddens place at 2401 Pennsylvania Ave.? At least for now, they seem to have great drink specials but not sure how long it's gonna last. And what type of place is this gonna be? A big college hangout or something more like the other Irish pubs in the area? The Going Out Gurus: It's a national chain of faux-Irish pubs with locations in New York, Baltimore, Philly, etc. I called, and those open-bar, $1 beer specials are for this weekend only. The one in Philly is more like Fado than Nanny O'Brien's, with DJs, quiz night, etc. I'd expect a good number of 21-and-over college students, given the Foggy Bottom location. -- Fritz
Washington, D.C.: Parents in town this weekend! I need recommendations on: - whether Ching Ching Cha is any good
- a nice, not too loud lunch in Georgetown
- which of the hotel teas is classiest
- D.C. Coast vs. TenPenh
- anything else fun, especially during the day Sunday, Metro accessible Thanks! They've been around the city a little but not lately, and we've got spa appointments, tix to The Allergist's Wife, and a date with Krupin's. The Going Out Gurus: All right, Washington. Here goes:
-- yes, check out Ching Ching Cha.
-- easy lunch in Georgetown, try Pizzeria Paradiso, Cafe Divan, Sea Catch
-- best tea in my book is the Four Seasons
-- let's say Ten Penh
-- and for Sunday, try the Zoo, museums at Dupont -- Phillips and Textile -- and check out our calendar for more ideas. -- Maura
For the Bachelor Party: I recommend renting a monkey. I did that for my friend's bachelor party and it was a blast. It was in Chicago, so I don't know of any places around here that rent monkeys but we found it with a simple Google search. The Going Out Gurus: I was going to answer this with a witty response but I realized that wouldn't do it justice. Allow the implications to fester in your minds and your imaginations to run wild! - Rhome
Re: Southeast: Chipotle in Old Town? You crack me up. The Going Out Gurus: And you me.
Bethesda, Md.: Hi Gurus -- I have two underage friends coming into town Monday and would love to celebrate St. Paddy's Day with them! But what to do when you're not 21? Any suggestions would be much appreciated! The Going Out Gurus: Not much, Bethesda -- this isn't really an under-21 holiday. Many of the places that are ostensibly Irish restaurants, like Ireland's Four Provinces and Biddy Mulligan's, are going to be carding at the door. You might try places that aren't in D.C., like Mrs. O'Leary's in Gaithersburg, or Pat Troy's Restaurant and Pub in Old Town. Just call first. -- Fritz
Washington, D.C.: For the party-thrower -- that's right, have enough drinks (don't have to be too fancy, just enough of them), something to eat, no strong overhead lighting, music not too loud, not too soft, be flexible and don't worry about stuff -- if you have fun, all the guests will. The Going Out Gurus: Gotta have likka (sic) in the punchbowl though. Don't forget that. Likka - in - the - punchbowl. With kool-aid. - Rhome
Spot the geek: Forget this going out stuff--who's the It's Academic alum? The Going Out Gurus: You don't want to guess?
To weekend with parents: I must disagree with the Gurus! D.C. Coast is MUCH better than Ten Penh. We just ate at Coast last week and it was absolutely wonderful. No complaints. On the other hand, we found Ten Penh to be just OK. The Going Out Gurus: Disagreement is allowed, but no exclamation points please. -- Maura
Re: RFD: I work near RFD and I was excited to see a new restaurant in the neighborhood that didn't have wait staff in bright orange booty shorts. However, I too have complaints about the place. I wanted so badly to like it! I've given it THREE chances even, but every time the food has been so-so at best. I mean, who ever heard of an "apple and brie salad" with one dinky slice of apple and one small wedge of brie? So, I guess my advice to MCI goers is pass on RFD. The Going Out Gurus: More opinions.
Dining Out for Life -- tonight: Hi, Just wanted to let people know about this great fundraiser for Food & Friends, a local non profit that prepares and delivers meals for people with AIDS and other life threatening illnesses like breast cancer. It is an amazing event and all you have to do is eat and drink at one of the participating restaurants. See www.foodandfriends.org for the list! The Going Out Gurus: Yes. Eat well for a good cause.
Washington, D.C.: What restaurants can you recommend in Olney, Md.? We'll be there for dinner on Saturday. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: A few that immediately come to mind: The Olney Ale House, Blue Ox Cafe, or Ricciuti's. Hope one of these works. -- Jen
Geek: Is definitely Rhome. The Going Out Gurus: Survey says?!? *ENNGGHH!!* No It's Academic for me, but I did compete in the Latin Bowl. - Rhome
Dupont, Washington, D.C.: Bossa -- what's it like on Thursday? It seemed like you were saying it has hip-hop tonight. Would you recommend it for two girls that just want to sit and have a drink and talk? Or is the music a bit louder? Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: Bossa is chill most nights of the week. It's never really too loud, especially in the upstairs lounge. It's a mix of non-jiggy hip-hop, downtempo house and chilled music tonight, so I think you won't go wrong. -- Fritz
Arlington, Va.: With the weather becoming increasingly more beautiful these past couple of weekends, I have been inspired to jog outside. I am fairly new to the area and am not aware of the best outdoor jogging routes. I know that people run around "The Mall." But any paths you know of in Arlington? Thanks Gurus! The Going Out Gurus: Welcome, Arlington. There are a couple trails that run through Arlington. The Mount Vernon Trail runs between the Potomac and the GW Parkway, all the way from Key Bridge to Mount Vernon. Just south of National Airport, Four Mile Run Trail heads west and joins the Washington and Old Dominion Trail.
Skinee J break-up?!?: I also saw 2 Skinee J's at Dream - you're right the venue didn't fit them too well. Meh. I caught their latest show at the 9:30 club, but there were a good number of college kids there too....hopefully the band's fan base will continue to expand. They better not split up! The Going Out Gurus: I'm saying there were definitely people over college age watching the Dream show. And shouldn't the Js be allowed to rest?
It's Ac: Jen? The Going Out Gurus: I appreciate the vote of confidence, but it wasn't me, either. I was smart enough to be in the National Honor Society in high school, but I was also pom captain. And no matter how smart you might be, pom captains are never allowed on "It's Academic," unless they're cheering for the smarties.
RE: Places to see the Cherry Blossoms: It's not up CLOSE but...the Mt. Vernon Trail is also an awesome place to see the Cherry Blossoms. If you bike, or even just walk, along it you can get a lot of great views of the blossoms in the Tidal Basin across the river.
There are a lot of different ways to get to the Mt. Vernon Trail but you can find more information about it on www.waba.org (the Washington Area Bicylists association). The Going Out Gurus: This is a good hint for our runner friend, too. -- Anne
Washington, D.C.: I've been wondering about the beer tasting at the Brick, now that they appear to be spending all of their time and attention on RFD. I gave up waiting the other day, and called, and was told that there would be no Scottish beer tasting this year. That's my favorite, and I'm sorry to miss it. Do you think that once RFD is on its feet, they'll get back to business at the Brick? The Going Out Gurus: Well, I know they're doing the annual tasting with Michael Jackson (the beer hunter, not the pop star) at R.F.D. this year, but Dave Alexander (the owner) says that they'll still be doing tastings, etc. at the Brick, as they've built up a loyal and well-educated fanbase there.
I would hope that things will eventually balance out between the two bars -- after service improves at R.F.D., of course. -- Fritz
Bethesda, Md.: Hi, hope I make it in. How is the Blue Room lounge on 18th Street in Adams Morgan? I'd like to go with about 15 friends to celebrate my birthday. Is it snobby, overpriced or extremely crowded? The Going Out Gurus: Well, I think it can be all three, but not usually. I've had a birthday celebration at Blue Room in the past that was quite delightful. When are you planning your get together? That could make a difference. -- Maura
Arlington, Va.: Howdy folks -- I just moved here about two months ago from Florida to pursue "life after college" and am thus far, enjoying myself immensely. I was a college athlete, and am dying to get back into the sports scene again. Any thoughts on where to get some good volleyball games going? I prefer night leagues or pick-up games, indoor or outdoor (especially since it's getting warmer!), and would like to play with some others that have some experience. Thanks so much for your help -- and by the way, I love your chat -- it has definately helped me get accustomed to my new home! The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Arlington. Near the Lincoln Memorial, along Rock Creek Parkway, there's a bunch of volleyball nets, always filled with players in the warm weather. Why not stop in and say hello? Also, you could call DC volleyball to learn about their adult leagues -- 202/857-0700. -- Anne
Washington, D.C.: Hello. How about a recommendation for a bar for someone who thinks the so-called "chill, non-pretentious" places (Chi Cha, Pharmacy Bar, Tryst) are too stiff? I like Dan's Cafe and Atomic Billiards, Nanny's, etc., but I hate all those $7 drinks ambiance places where everybody looks the same. Can you help? The Going Out Gurus: Okay, if you think Pharmacy is stiff and pretentious, well, I'm curious why, as I disagree. Anyway, I like Nanny's and Atomic, too. Have you been to Bedrock? Zack's? The Post Pub? The Lil' Pub? Joseph's? Lucky Bar? That's just a few for starters. -- Fritz
Geek again: Wasn't it Kate who was on Double Dare? The Going Out Gurus: Physical challenge!!!
No such luck but I was in the National Repertory Company of the Philippines rock solid 1979 production of "Annie." Fritz is the bag o'brains who was on his school quiz team way back when.
Please join us next week (and that means you, Frank) for another action-packed hour.
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