| Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, March 20, 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. 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: Welcome to the edition of Got Plans where we take refuge from the crazy world. Here are a few things to poke around in before we get started: Oscars Special Report, Oscar parties and Everything Jen Thinks You Should Know About March Madness. There's always this old thing too. That should knock half the queue out right there. I'm Rhome and today's chorus line consists of Maura, Joe, Alexa and Kate.
Summers and the NHL playoffs: Stopped by last thursday out of curiosity and watched some english futbol. Someone next to me had ordered the chicken finger platter. they looked good. does fritz have any comment on their chicken fingers or other foods there? I plan on watching the hockey playoffs there that arent on ESPN. cheers The Going Out Gurus: There's no Fritz today so I'm going to use you as an experiment, you'll just have to report the outcome back to the class. If you're watching futbol, you should definitely strike up neighborly conversations with other patrons. Then when one of them orders chicken fingers, you can ask them if they're tasty, or better yet, filch one off their plate (with their blessing of course). Then if you like them, you can order your own plate and offer them a finger in return. My wisdom is nice like King Solomon. - Rhome
Fairfax, Va.: Going to the National Theater on Friday night with a guest from New York. Where is a really good steak house not too far from the theater? The Going Out Gurus: Near the National, there's Bobby Van's, Angelo & Maxie's and a little further and better is Nick & Stef's. Am I forgetting any? -- Alexa
Poor in Adams Morgan: Hey guys,
I hear that the food at Cashion's is really great. Sadly, as a struggling non-profit worker, I am on a tight budget. Is it possible to sit at the bar, order drinks, and perhaps an appetizer? Or would this be frowned upon? The Going Out Gurus: No, I think it would be fine to do that. -- Alexa
Van Ness, WDC: Hi -- a co-worker just mentioned a new bar called Saint X near Logan Circle... what's the scoop? I thought she may have been thinking of The Saint on 14th St. but she said this place is new. Thanks Gurus! The Going Out Gurus: Did you check out the review yet?
Washington, D.C.: This is a question about the Bop & Bowl this weekend at Falls Church Bowl. Do you know if there's an age limitation, because beer is served at the snack bar there? I was thinking of taking my six-year-old with me since we love duckpins and would enjoy the music, we'd be there from 8-10. Also, if we got there at 7:45, any chance we'd get a lane? We don't care if we have to share it with 1-2 others. The Going Out Gurus: Hello DC, this is Joe and I've only been out to bop and bowl once, but I'm pretty sure you could bring your six year old. I'd call the lanes ahead of time just to make sure. And if you get there early you'll get a lane, but you may have to share and they may kick you off in half hour intervals.
Washington, DC: I'm so bummed! A Purim party for this weekend was cancled due to the war (Purim is a Jewish Holiday that's a cross between Halloween, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day and Christmas), so a large group of my friends and I are without plans. We'd like to do something unusual, cultural and -fun-. We were thinking something -like- Marakesh, but not necessarily that. Maybe something in Frederick? Baltimore? Arlington? Help us GoGs, you're our only hope! The Going Out Gurus: I've got it! What about a field trip to the magical American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore? The permanent collection is a parthanon of treasures by untrained artists. The current special exhibition is "High on Life: Transcending Addiction." Granted, this installation's a bit sobering but there's enough whimsehouses a snazzy cafe that offers a beautiful view of the Inner Harbor. Entrees are a bit pricy but the tapas are a good deal and easy to share. Save your dough for the shop, it's my all-time favorite museum store. -- Kate
Gaithersburg, Md.: Love the chat! What are some good spots in Montgomery County to check out March Madness games? Sometimes, I just don't feel like trecking downtown or to Cornerstone Grill. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: As Rhome mentioned, check out our March Madness package, which contains this round-up of NCAA bars. But specifically in MoCo, you might check out Willie & Reed's, Chatter's or Glory Days in Germantown. -- Jen
The Going Out Gurus: The hamster's a bit tuckered out today, things are loading slowly. Please bear with us. And I left Jen out of the introduction! Gurus without Jen are like the cornflake without the milk!
Rockville, Md.: GOGs Im taking this girl on a first date in the Bethesda area. I wanted a place with cool atmosphere, good food, and not too quiet. A friend of mine strongly recommended an Italian place called Olazzo. Supposedly it has a great martini list also. Have you heard of it? The Going Out Gurus: No, it sounds far too cool for us. Can anyone else help? -- Alexa
Washington, DC: Hey, where's Fritz today? We miss him. The Going Out Gurus: We miss him too. Fritz is enjoying a fabulous four-day weekend in Amish country with his girlfriend and his parents. He's probably on to his third shoo-fly pie by now.
Brunch Spot: Just wanted to say that I had brunch at Saint-Ex, and it's my new favorite place, now that Franklin's is closed. The Going Out Gurus: An early adopter speaks.
SW DC: Hi Gurus, Love the chats and am thankful for all the free advice you hand out. I am organizing a night out this Sat. for 8 guys in their early to mid 30s. Are there any good bars we could hit in the Foggy Bottom or Georgetown area where we wouldn't look like we came in trying to find our children? We are OK with spending a little money, but would prefer to avoid long lines and anti-social doormen. Thanks for any suggestions you may have The Going Out Gurus: Hi SW. Options are limited in Foggy Bottom, but in Georgetown you might try Nathans or the Daily Grill, even Modern. The crowd at Mie N You doesn't skew too young, but the doorman definitely skews antisocial. -- Maura
Arlington, Va.: Sure hope you can help a girl find some yummy restaurants who serve authentic thick Spanish chocolate and/or churros. Your guidance is greatly appreciated! The Going Out Gurus: The place for you is Churreria Madrid. -- Alexa
Chevy Chase, Md: Hey GOGs. I'm a NY transplant with frineds coming in this weekend and no idea where to take them. One is insisting on Eastern Market at some point on Saturday, but what else can we do? A play would be fun, as would dancing in the evening, but I'd rather stay away from the super-crowded club scene. Any suggestions? The Going Out Gurus: It's going to be lovely this weekend. Eastern Market would be a good choice, especially for New Yorkers who'll appreciate the deals. Have crab cakes at Market Lunch. There are no blossoms on the trees around the Tidal Basin yet, but the Festival will kick off as planned on Saturday. Maura and I had a tour of the Willard Hotel's cherry-inspired offerings this morning. Their sake sampler ($10 for three "boutique" sakes) in the Round Robin Bar would be where I might take my guests for a late night tipple after, say dinner at Ten Penh or dancing at Home. It's got a sincerely clubby atmosphere and it'll be less crowded than say VIP. -- Kate
Alexandria, Va.: I am planning a night out for my friend's 30th birthday in May. I know restaurants pretty well but need some help with after dinner entertainment. It will be a group of 10-15 people, men and women, ages 26-31. We're thinking going out dancing. The guest of honor loves to dance but isnt really into the "club scene" and definitely does not like trance/typical club music. She prefers Top 40/70s/hip-hop music. I imagine Polly Esthers probably plays that type of music but I think that place is probably too young a crowd or too cheesy/tacky. Anywhere that plays that kind of music but has a little better atmosphere/ more hip? We'd prefer DC but would consider Northern Virginia. The Going Out Gurus: You made this a tough one by trying to divorce the b-day girl's music preferences from any environment with possible cheesiness or "clubbyness". Plus I'm assuming you're trying to avoid a younger type scene too, even more difficult. You might hike it out to E-Citi although I've heard that's turned into a meat market as of late. Dream might also be an option but if you could adjust the music demands a bit Ortanique might be the best fit. Another important factor is whether you're trying to be casual or a little more spiffy. - Rhome
Dupont, Washington, DC: Hi GOGs, LOVE your chat, and I'm just curious...do you all ever go out together? What's your favorite agenda? Thanks for the fun work respite...much appreciated. The Going Out Gurus: Hi Dupont, this is Joe. Are you crazy? We we can barely stand working with each other. Our favorite agenda is to flee from one another as soon as the five o'clock whistle blows. Or maybe the rest of them hang out and just never tell me. Hmm, I never thought about that.
Getting Older: So I am in charge of putting together a birthday event for a group of friends (six of us total). We want to do something cool like a show, play, music event, etc. that we can take our friend to for his birthday. Any brilliant ideas of upcoming stuff in the next two-three weeks? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Can you hold out a little longer? Because then you could all see "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" downtown. I (Jen) saw the same production last year, and it was fantastic, especially if you're a fan of glam rock or unconventional musical theater. You could also catch "Tick...Tick...Boom" at the Warner, which might be appropriate since it's about a guy turning 30. And if neither of those appeal, well, there's always Skid Row at Jaxx.
Re: Bop & Bowl: I've made the trek out to Falls Church for Bob & Bowl a few times now... and I know I have seen young kids there (they even have a mini-arcade). We also never seemed to have a problem getting a lane or two. Have fun! The Going Out Gurus: No PBR for the young'uns though.
DC casual: I'm looking for a great bar that's casual and comfortable. Nothing fancy, trendy, or overly tidy. Preferably in Dupont or Adams Morgan - any ideas? The Going Out Gurus: DC, can you give me a little more here? For a start maybe Big Hunt, Cafe Citron, Toledo Lounge, the Reef, Chi Cha, Bedrock Billiards. Click on one of those and see if we're getting anywhere. -- Maura
Alexandria, Va.: I'm having brunch with some old co-workers on Sunday. I'm not usually capable of getting up early enough for Suday morning brunch because of all the Gurus' going out ideas, and have no clue where to start. There are three of us, one in Alexandria, one in Falls Church, and one in Fair Lakes, so traveling into the city might not work. Something nice, but not too expensive or fancy would be appropriate. We are all pretty adventerous eaters, too. Any ideas? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: What about somewhere at Shirlington, say the Carlyle Grand? Or the Evening Star in Del Ray. They do a nice brunch. Both are very popular, mind you. -- Alexa
DC Road Scholar: Because of my fear of flying, s/o and I are deciding to take a road trip with the main destination being New Orleans. We are stopping in Chattanooga, Tennessee for a day or so as well. What is in Chattanooga of interest. Also, does a road trip with s/o make the relationship or break the relationship? The Going Out Gurus: No takers on the Chattanooga query on this end, perhaps the chatters can chime in.
For the latter question, it can go either way. There's only one way to find out. - Rhome
Sho Fly PIe: Okay that was a huge joke about Fritz, RIGHT? The Going Out Gurus: Nope.
Silver Spring, Md.: We are having our wedding in Alexandria, and looking to find fun after rehearsal dinner and after wedding venues for those who want to party into the later hours. I have heard good things about Murphy's Bar (after rehearsal dinner) and Cafe Salsa (after wedding). Any thoughts on those places or other suggestions? Rehearsal dinner will be at Stella's; wedding is south of Old Town at Collingwood. The Going Out Gurus: Murphy's is fun, but can get a little crowded. But I think it would work as a post-dinner hang-out spot. There's also the trusty Fish Market. I also hear good things about Majestic Lounge, which is a short drive (but not quite walkable) from Old Towne.
Alexandria, Va.: For a weekend away, Ashby Inn or Inn at Easton? The Going Out Gurus: Ashby Inn.
Downtown Sports Fan: Hey guys,
You missed The Exchange on your NCAA Roundup. I've been catching some games there and it's been a great atmosphere. Especially that bartender of the month. Anyway, I plan on catching the games there -- not too crowded and not a bad seat in the house. I'll probably catch NHL there too when that comes around. The Going Out Gurus: Consider The Exchange noted. Fritz must have overlooked it, what with his newly discovered Amishness and all. -- Jen
Don't know Washington, D.C. area very well: Have alumni event at hotel on North Capitol Street NW on Saturday night. Any suggestions for dinner nearby or dancing afterwards? The Going Out Gurus: That would put you in short cabbing, if not walking distance of the new Lounge 201, the Dubliner, and the Red River Grill where Saturday's boast $2.50 Coronas all night. Yup. All night. I haven't eaten at any of these but I hear Lounge 201 makes a decent pizza-thing. As for dancing, I can't think of anywhere that's wildly convenient but you're in the direction of Platinum. The club is turning three on Saturday and the muscle known as "Joe Millionnaire" will be on hand to help celebrate (or further embarass himself depending on how you see it.)-- Kate
Adams Morgan: Dangnabbit Gurus! I was hoping St-Ex would keep enough of a low-profile for me to work it in as a top-rate hangout... but now your plug, not to mention the crowds that were already there last weekend, pretty much ruins that. But I still feel like you owe me one -- how about you give us one of your "unknown" favorites so us masses can come in and enjoy the fun? The Going Out Gurus: Now that's just a tad selfish AM, don't you know we're all family here? We don't have any unknowns, as soon as we know something so do you. It's our job! - Rhome
Cashions!: Most definitely go sit at the bar and have a great app and drink, it's a great space. The bartender's will hook you up with good food and drink. Just ask 'em what's good that night. Probably best to go early and/or not on a weekend. The Going Out Gurus: Indeed. Thanks for weighing in.
For Washington, D.C. Road Scholar: In Chattanooga, there is an exquisite steak place called the Chop House. Can't remember exactly where it is, but we found it in our AAA guide book and were incredibly impressed with the food, service and atmosphere. Also, if you're a history buff, there's Lookout Mountain which has some neat Civil War stuff. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks. Still with us, Road Scholar?
Arlington, Va.: I have two offbeat requests: one, where can I take a playwriting workshop this summer and two, what birdwatching groups are around? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Arlington. I (Jen) think you can take playwriting workshops at The Writer's Center in Bethesda. They just posted their spring schedule, so the summer one won't be posted for a bit. As for birdwatching, the first thing that comes to mind is the Audubon Society. Have you tried contacting them for suggestions or a schedule of events?
Washington, D.C.: Hello Gurus,
They canceled the D.C. Marathon, do you think they'll cancel the Kite Festival, too? The Going Out Gurus: The Kite Festival is still on, Washington, and it looks like the weather will cooperate. Enjoy. -- Maura
Washington, D.C.: I heard there is a great Brazilian restaurant near the MCI Center. Can anyone tell me the name? The Going Out Gurus: Alexa and I both stumped on this one. Do you mean the long gone Coco Loco that is now R.F.D.? - Rhome
Falls Church, Va.: My Beloved Gurus I was thinking you might also consider Whitlow's for brunch, theirs is a large selection approach, but the make-your-own Bloody Mary bar is a winner. Please circulate a question of my own. Several of us were in the study of a recently found artifact; a tiki mug from The Aloha Hut, apparently in Washngton, D.C. Do you or any of the clicksters know when or where the Aloha Hut was? The Going Out Gurus: Whitlow's brunch has always been lovely for me after a morning soccer game.
The Aloha Hut question is one Fritz could do in his sleep. For now we'll just toss it out to you all. - Rhome
Need to impress mom!: My mom will be visiting next month from Georgia, and I want to show her the best DC dining has to offer (not to mention treat myself to a meal my measly salary couldn't afford!) -- where should I make reservations? I was thinking maybe Citronelle, but the atmosphere and service should be worth the price. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Well, they probably will be. Otherwise, give Obelisk a ring, Zaytinya, TenPenh, Cafe Atlantico. They're all great. -- Alexa
Re: D.C. Road Scholar: Make or break the relationship? Depends on if you are allowed to pass gas in her prescence. I know you don't want to hold it in for six hours at a time so you better let it out. If she ain't cool with it, leave her in Tennessee and get a new honey in New Orleans. The Going Out Gurus: You all are really keeping it real.
Woodley Park: I was thinking about heading out to see UNDERDOG at Velvet Lounge tomorrow night. The website has 3 or 4 things listed as going on there, including the comedy show. Do you have any more details about what time to go to catch the funny? The Going Out Gurus: I'm going. The doors open at 8 and the multi-media showcase (stand-up comedoir, video, music) runs from 9-11. I think there's also a band hosting a CD release party. Is the place big enough? Not sure, but I do know that the weirdos behind Underdog are prime-time funny: Eugene Mirman , Leo Allen (writes for SNL), Demetri Martin (Time Out NY's best comic of 2002). And it's not expensive: $10-ish. I know there's something almost pornographic about paying people to make you laugh but you get over it. -- Kate
Fairfax, Va.: Hello Gurus! Can't live without ya! Question: Me and two of my friends are looking for a quiet, low key and inexpensive place so we can talk, drink some wine (or beer) and just hang out without male intrusions... we were looking for someplace between Fairfax and Chantilly-Centreville area... any ideas? The Going Out Gurus: We've got our list of Fairfax bars, but maybe some readers have suggestions.
Brazilian or Burmese?: There's not a Brazilian restaurant near the MCI Center -- but there's a great Burmese one. The Going Out Gurus: Burma?
The Going Out Gurus: Don't know if any of you have tickets to see Dave Alvin's concert at the Rams Head tomorrow night, but I've just learned that the date has been changed. It will now happen on July 10.
Fairfax, VA: Where to relax, lounge maybe, in northern virginia anytime throughout the weekend? I'm single and wouldn't mind checking out some nice looking guys too. I'm not overly trendy, not a barfly, more like a quiet, sporty, coffee lover at 28, who enjoys other 28+. Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: Fairfax, Common Grounds might be up your alley. Give it a shot and let us know. -- Maura
Fairfax, Va.: I would strongly suggest removing that ridiculous photo of you guys from TWP's Web site. You all look like something Fat Bastard ate and -expletive- out. The Going Out Gurus: Lovely, Fairfax. Thanks for the comment. We'd probably agree with you except that there is no photo of us on the Post's web site. Or anywhere else for that matter. But thanks for the comment anyway.
Woodbridge, Va.: How can we tell if the head chef is in the kitchen, or whether an assistant is doing the cooking? The Going Out Gurus: Walk back there?
Rockville, Md.: HELP! I've been given the assignment of entertaining my mother's friends Sunday April 6th. They're from Germany and have semi-decent English skills, but are definitely more into the "classics" and not our pop culture. They are already going to do the museum-thing on Sat w/other friends. Anything special or any ideas on what to do? Either Baltimore or D.C. areas would be fine. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: I'd go with the classics: the Mall, the cherry blossoms (the trees might actually be in bloom) in Kenwood, smacking a crab or two while playing Keno at the Bethesda Crab House. There's Ernst Ludwig Kirchner at the National Gallery of Art and Gerhard Richter at the Hirshhorn but that might be like taking coals to Newcastle. You've got lots of time to plan a day and clearly are a very thoughtful host. I'd take a look at Maura's museum section on Friday, April 4th and pick three options that sound good. You're guests will let you know what they prefer. -- Kate
Washington, D.C.: I heard that Oscar D'Leon (famous salsa singer) is playing VIP Club tomorrow night. Do you know any info? Will the show be included in the cover? I read an e-mail promo and it seemed that he would be performing in the VIP room -- is this true? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: I don't know for sure, but I bet Jeri knows. Or you can just call the club. - Rhome
Washington, D.C.: Where is the R.F.D. located? Would be taking clients and want an upscale dining experience. Does R.F.D. qualify? The Going Out Gurus: Washington, R.F.D is at 7th and H and I'm afraid it won't qualify as upscale dining. If you want to impress clients, nearby you'll find the Caucus Room, Zola, 701, Nick and Stef's, Zaytinya. -- Maura
More on Chatanooga: Definitely go to Look Out Mountain! The view alone is worth it, even if you have no interest in the Civil War (just don't say that too loudly!). Also, there is the Tennessee Aquarium -- the world's largest fresh-water aquarium. The Going Out Gurus: Well, there we go.
Washington, D.C.: My younger cousin and some of his friends are here for Spring Break. One of them is 21 and the others are 19 years old. Any suggestions on some places to take them on a Thursday or Friday night aside from Platinum? The Going Out Gurus: Dream or Insomnia.
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: HELLO! Innocent human beings are losing their lives on the other side of the world! Should we be engaging in typical petty American indulgences at this time? The Going Out Gurus: Interesting question, Dupont. We're all sobered by current conditions, without a doubt. And I'll cop that my mind is mostly elsewhere today. If some people want to get some ideas on how to spend meaningful time with their family, friends this weekend, I'm happy to share what I know. -- Kate
Arlington, VA: Know of any bars that show Six Feet Under? The Going Out Gurus: Not sure. Let's throw this out to the world: Anyone know where to watch "SFU?"
DC Marathon- spread the word: Gurus- please spread the word that the DC Marathon was cancelled in light of the current heightened security risks. Runners are being notified by phone and e-mail, but some cheerleaders may not know their services are now not needed! Thanks-Marathoner's Sister The Going Out Gurus: Happy to, DCM.
Blue Potato: where is a good place for poetry nights/SLAMS in D.C. or general metro area -- preferrably close to a metro station? Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: Take your pick.
Assist?: Gurus, I'm looking for a bar/lounge in D.C. (and Metro acccessible) that isn't too upscale, but the decor, vibe and music scream of all things cool. Someplace that isn't Aroma or Chi-Cha, but someplace where I can still wear jeans and order a Bud Light if I want. Any thoughts? Does such a place exist? Thanks gang! The Going Out Gurus: Assist we will. I think you'll still do just fine at the Reef, Toledo, Big Hunt and Bedrock along with Adams Mill and Stetsons. Hope that helps. -- Maura
Dupont, Washington, D.C.: What is up with rude Rouge? Last Thursday night, early, around 5:30, my boyfriend and my mom and I tried to go there for a drink. It was empty. We had take down the velvet rope to find out if we could come in. We sat down and no one came over to us, despite three people at the bar. We sat for 20 minutes. We got up and walked to Helix, where the service was wonderful. Oh, and the minute we got up to leave, someone came and moved around our menus. Has anyone had this kind of problem with Rouge? The Going Out Gurus: Dupont, haven't had trouble with Rouge, but would second the service at Helix. Top notch. Readers? -- Maura
Formerly of Knoxville: Hi - Just wanted to share that Chattanooga is fun! The Aquarium downtown is fabulous. You can park your car in midtown and take a free electric bus down to the central entertainment district. There's a cute ballpark downtown too that might be worth checking out during baseball season. A stroll on the pedestrian bridge over the Tennessee River at night is very cool. The Bluff View arts neighborhood has a couple of restaurants where you can dine al fresco with a great view, and of course visit galleries if that's your thing. Lookout Mtn./Rock City seem to me like something you might do with kids, but not so exciting. If you're driving down 75, the Lost Sea in Sweetwater is kind of cool if you like the idea of a big underground lake. And of course the mountains are lovely - should be a blast! The Going Out Gurus: A native speaks.
The Going Out Gurus: Time to put a fork in this installment, it's done. We'll see you all next week. Everybody go play nice until then.
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