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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, March 27, 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: Spring has finally sprung and the gurus are giddy for it. Seek out those cherry blossoms or -- for those of you who still care -- a little March Madness (go Butler!). This is Maura and I've been shingled out as your host today, but Alexa, Joe, Kate, Anne, Rhome and Jen are at the ready for your queries. Let's hear it.

Shopping question from Arlington, Va.: Hey, GOGs!
Hope someone can enlighten me as to when, if not already, the H & M plans to open its doors? Also, any news on the new Loehmann's in Friendship Heights? I'm a sucker for a good bargain.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Arlington,

Janet here Are you talking about the H&M in Georgetown? That's due to open April 23. The ones in Potomac Mills, Arundel Mills, Tysons and Dulles Town Center are open. As for Loehmann's in Friendship Heights, it's supposed to open the beginning of April. Happy bargain shopping.

Downtown: This city sucks for dating. Do any of you want to go out with an attractive, intellegent female in her 20's?

The Going Out Gurus: Yes.

Leesburg, VA: Any suggestions for a Monday night anniversary (4/7)? I was thinking of a stroll around the Tidal Basin and then a quiet dinner nearby - not too pricey?

The Going Out Gurus: There really is no dinner nearby, unless of course you take your fishing pole and the wherewithall for an illegal bonfire. Are you going on foot, or could you drive to Foggy Bottom or up Constitution to somewhere nice like Teaism? Chime back in, and let me know what your plans are. -- Alexa

Arlington, VA: Ok, so this is actually more of a staying in question. I'm moving from an apartment to a rental house, and would like to have a party to celebrate my new digs. I already plan to warn/invite my new neighbors (this will be a one-time blowout). I'd like to hire a band or dj to provide music, provided none of my neighbors has an objection. Do I also need a permit for this? Is there a way to ind out about local noise ordinances?

The Going Out Gurus: I've never heard of getting a permit for some low-level entertainment in a private residence although cops can come hem you up for noise violations so there must be some laws on the books. I would think that as long as your neighbors don't pitch a fit you're okay. You can always poke around here and call someone just to be sure. - Rhome

Columbia Heights, DC: Can you tell us where intellectuals in their late 20's and 30's hang out? We are two females who've been spending too much time amongst drooling sleazeballs and cooler-than-thou hipsters in Adams Morgan/Dupont and we want to meet some nice, smart men.

The Going Out Gurus: Hello smarty pants, this is Joe. Let's see, I don't have much experience with intellectuals, but you could probably lurk in front of the Brookings Institution or wander about the Library of Congress in search of big brained boys. But beware of self-identified intellectuals. Smart alecs are probably more fun.

Cafe Saint X: Is it just me or is there a major turf war going on at CSX between the sucks and the cools? Who will win?

The Going Out Gurus: Agreed. It's "U Side Story" (occassionally a suck falls for a cool ...) History teaches us the sucks will feel like they've won because true cools eventually move on and annoint The Next Hot Spot. -- Kate

Re: this city sucks for dating: In complete agreement with original comment..have any of you tried the 8 minute date or speed dating thing? It sounds hilarious, and less desperate than hitting match.com or the City Paper personals. (eek.) Thoughts?

The Going Out Gurus: I've tried the eight minute speed dating. It wasn't any planned event though. It was just how things worked out. Anyone else want to weigh in on speed dating?

Dupont, DC: Hey Gurus,

Love the chat, never miss it. Two questions: 1. Does RFD have TV's? Want to do a HH and watch the BB games? Are their drinks reasonable? 2. Could you give us a list of resturants with patios that are dog friendly?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Dupont, RFD has added projection tv's for the occasion, but as many beers as they have, they don't all come cheap. Apparently, Sam Adams is doing a promotion tonight, if that helps any. As for dog patios, isn't there a hotel in Old Town? The name escapes me. -- Maura

Arlington, Va.: With Worlds in town, I've been inspired to take up figure skating again. Where can I buy skates, besides the pro-shops in the rinks? I don't need to spend a zillion dollars on skates that would withstand Michelle Kwan's seasonal wear-and-tear, but on the other hand I'm not the easiest foot to fit, so knowledgeable staff and a variety of merchendice would be nice. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Arlington. There's no pro shop at the Mount Vernon ice rink, so there's a separate store called Skaters Paradise near it (1522 Belle View Blvd, 703-660-6525). But other than that, Tim at the Fairfax rink tells me pro shops is where you'll get your best guidance in sizing. Sports Authority swears to me that they sell skates year-round, and have a full selection, too -- of course, I can't say I've experienced the pinnacle of customer service there. Modell's was honest: they mostly sell in the winter, so they don't have many sizes left now. -- Anne

Southwest, DC: Love the chat. You all are wonderful. My Office just moved to Old Town Alexandria - any word on outdoor lunch spots to soak in this fabulous sun?

The Going Out Gurus: SWDC. Outdoors in Old Town? There aren't that many options, but here's what I know: There's a place that does decent pizza and pasta on the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory called Radio Italy, or some such. I think you can see the river from the patio. There's also the Chart House, that is Floridian and yacht clubby, expensive and slightly tired. But might do for a fish sandwich.
The Fish Market, also a snooze, has a couple of highly sought-after balcony tables that look out over King Street. A nice spot for a few beers. -- Alexa

Washington, DC: Maybe your poster is referring to the imaginary H&M that is being built down here in Metro Center at 11th and G. Any news on that-- it's supposed to be larger than the flagship NY store.

The Going Out Gurus: H&M is supposed to be opening a store in the old Woody's building, but they haven't specified the date anymore than sometime this year.

DHauser, MD: When can we expect a "Postcard from the Amish Country" by Fritz, detailing the best hotspots to churn butter and raise barns in central PA?

The Going Out Gurus: Poor Fritz, we haven't heard from him other than the picture he sent us of him sporting his new Amish style beard. He has really taken to the lifestyle apparently. We expect him back next week.

Re: H & M: I don't know about the other locations, but the H & M store in Tysons Corner is not open yet. Unfortunately...
I just called to verify that they hadn't opened yet (I keep checking). They said they will open sometime in May and the exact date will be posted on the shopTysons website when they know it.
Happy Shopping!

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for that important piece of info. We'll keep checking for updates, too.

Go-Go where?: My out-of-town friend and I want to stop in and catch some go-go tonight. He's never even heard the crazy beats, and I don't want to just take him to hear the bucket-drummer. Any suggestions for places in DC that are easily accessed by metro or walking (adams morgan, dupont, downtown...)? Also, this might sound stupid, but will the place look at us like we're nuts if we're white?

The Going Out Gurus: Well, if we're going to keep it real here, as white folks you definitely have a high possibility of drawing curious stares in a go-go spot. Given the history of racial polarization in this city, how could you not? If you're open-minded enough to want to check it out and prudent enough not to draw bad attention to yourselves by doing anything dumb (i.e. college bar frat-boy beer bong antics will not go over well at all, seems elementary but you never know who's reading this thing) you won't care and you'll be just fine. Now with that out of the way, go check out Sugar Bear and EU at Club U tonight. You'll be straight, cuz. - Rhome

Tyson's H&M doesn't open 'til April 4: according to their website, but Dulles and Potomac Mills are already open (and ransacked).

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for letting us know.

Where in the world...: Was Joe Millionaire last Saturday? Did he ever show up at Platinum? A group of us were there for a bachelorette party until about 12:30 but left b/c he still hadn't showed. We did have other places to hit, after all! But how disappointing- what a perfect bit of cheese to add to the bachelorette's night...

The Going Out Gurus: Ah yes, back to intellectual men: Your chance at Joe has come and gone.

Arlington, Va., Wilson Blvd.: Please post this, Gurus!

My boyfriend and I live on Wilson on the Rosslyn/Courthouse/Clarendon corridor, and we (as well as our neighbors) would really, really appreciate it if when you're out partying (whoever you are) you do not litter!

We're in our 20s and like to party, but we and our friends never feel the need to throw our garbage on lawns, sidewalks and streets. Could you please be a little more considerate and mature?

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Yeah! We're all grown folk here, stop being so trifling! - Rhome

Silver Spring, MD: A few friends and I are looking for a place to get together tomorrow night to watch the MD game, preferably in Silver Spring somewhere. Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: Silver Spring's a tough one. Only place I can think of is Renzo's. If you can hike over to Bethesda or Rockville, you might have more options, like Willie & Reed's or Uncle Jed's. -- Jen

Arlington, Va: any place to get a pedicure for under $25?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Arlington,

The best I can do is the Nail Spa on upper Connecticut near the Avalon. Their price is $25.

Falls Church, VA: Where in the DC Metro Area can I find a good breakfast place, I mean the kind of place where they serve good ol'pancakes and eggs? IHOP excluded!

The Going Out Gurus: I enjoyed a biiiiig American breakfast on Saturday at the new Bob and Edith's (4707 Columbia Pike). It's not three clicks up the road from the original location. It's bright blue and white, weirdly retro-futuristic, almost Flinstonian with exterior "ribs" -- you'll know it when you see it. I had French (not freedom) toast, scrambled eggs, well-done bacon and harshly but satisfying diner coffee for about $6-7 bucks. You can sit at the counter on a spinny stool. And of course, the same family of pies (cherry, apple, French apple, peach, key lime, blueberry, ad pie-nitum) that make the original Bob and Edith's, well, Bob and Edith's are on offer. The reason to try the new place: it's bigger so the wait is shorter. Anyone else make a recent discovery? -- Kate

Re Arlington house party: The reason I asked is because I'd like the band/dj to hook up in the back yard, so it'd be louder than a typical party. Does that make a difference?

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, but not too much. I think you just might want to step up your Neighborly Awareness Campaign to any residents around you that could be affected. Go around and schmooze, take a pound cake or something. - Rhome

Washington, DC: Has anyone been to the newly opened rooftop at Bricks in Cleveland Park? I wonder if they have TVs up there. I'm not a huge fan of the place but I live two blocks from there and it's tight to have a rooftop bar in walking distance.

PS-Is the adjective "tight" past its prime enough to be cool in a retro sense ala "fresh", "fly" and "slammin'"??

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, I'm no huge fan of Brick's myself, but the rooftop is open, complete with tellys. Sounds "tight" enough. -- Maura

Rockville, Md.: Other than the obvious Tidal Basin, where are some other places in the area to see the cherry blossoms? Preferably, without the mob-scene of the mall.

The Going Out Gurus: Very soon, Rockville, we'll give you a whole story on blossom-viewing tips. Near you, I'd recommend Brookside Gardens. They have about 20 trees, including weeping cherries, Sargent cherries, Yoshino cherries and purple-leaf plums, which look a lot like cherries. The Tidal Basin trees are expected to bloom three days earlier now, between April 5-12. But other trees around town have their own schedule: Maura reports that she saw blossoms at the National Gallery of Art sculpture garden, Kate and I witnessed the flowers near the Clarendon Market Common shopping center, and those wacky trees across from the National Zoo are always flowering prematurely. Readers, give us the report from your neighborhood. -- Anne

Speed Dating: Hi, my sister-in-law actually tried speed dating! She didn't meet anyone that made her swoon, but she got a lot of numbers and made a lot of friends. Friends who have friends who have friends... Well worth it; it's good to be worldly when you're single and looking.

The Going Out Gurus: More speed dating testifiers. Anyone else?

re: pooch patio: I work on the Hill and see people with their dogs at both Mr. Henry's and Bread & Choc. In Dupont, try Food Bar DC or Sweet Licks-- the latter is a cute ice cream shop that also has some doggie treats for sale.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, PP.

Mt Pleasant used to kick it wit the dogs...: BTW, match.com ain't so desperate.

Doggie happy hour. In the courtyard of the Old Town Holiday Inn Select. I think it's on Thursdays and possibly Tuesdays.

The Going Out Gurus: Ah, there's the answer. Good doggie.

Washington, DC: Hey all,
My friend and I are going to Nick and Stef's Steakhouse for dinner tomorrow night and wanted to find a bar in the area to grab a drink beforehand. Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: Both Poste and Zola are glam, and an easy walk from Nick & Stef's. -- Kate

Madness: Not that I have anything at all against watching Maryland prevail on Friday night. But I'd actually like to see more of Syracuse-Auburn (that tips at 9:40, Maryland at 9:57) than the few minutes we'll probably get from CBS in this area. Any idea where I can go to see the full game?

The Going Out Gurus: And we have nothing at all against you watching Syracuse. Based on Fritz's helpful round-up, ESPN Zone or Chammps might be good options since it sounds like they plan to show tons of games. Another suggestion: check with the D.C. chapter of Syracuse's or Auburn's alumni organizations. (I'm assuming, perhaps wrongly, that you're an alum of one of these schools.) It's possible that a viewing party at a local bar has already been organized. -- Jen

Re: City sucks for dating: That's why I love Arlington so much better than downtown. The people are a lot more laid back and not just looking for a drunken one night hookup. Dates actually consist of dinner and not just a shot of tequilla. Give the Wilson Blvd area a try.

The Going Out Gurus: That's what we like about this chat. No one generalizes.

Arlington, VA: Which clubs specialize in playing hip-hop and R&B music? I'm looking to avoid the 80s flashbacks and the pop ballads. Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Poke around among these Fruits of the Search Engine and holla back youngin. - Rhome

Waffle Shop: Kate,

Don't forget Waffle Shop, where you can get not only a delicious waffle and other breakfast fare but also fried chicken and even some Chinese standards like chow mein.

It's the best waffle house in DC.

The Going Out Gurus: Of course, we'll always have The Waffle Shop. Especially when we crave fresh waffles before sun up. Do you know they start pressing batter at 5:30 ayem every day of the week? -- Kate

Washington, DC: Singles in DC... stay tuned. A few friends and I have the same complaint... but we are doing something about it, and you are invited.

Next Thursday, April 3rd, we are hosting a "come one and come all" singles of all types mixer. We figure that the two-three degrees of seperation still lend to nice people. If anyone is interested, I will post the location on this chat next Thursday.

The Going Out Gurus: Ah, a little mystery. We can't wait to see what you have in store for us next week.

Reston, VA: What are activities that an 8 and 6 year old would like?

The Going Out Gurus: If you weren't flying high on the Mall last week, this weekend, I suggest the Kite Festival at Gunston Hall, or, if the weather isn't cooperating, Origami Festival at the National Building Museum. But that's just the tip of what we can provide you, Reston. Type "kids" into the blue seach box and you'll find a doozy of a list. Also, please tune in to our Got Plans With Kids discussion. It's just like this one, only it specializes in kids activities. We have it every other Wednesday at noon. -- Anne

Eating outside in Old Town: There is a Greek restaurant on King Street (forget the name) that has a back patio. Santa Fe East also has an outside patio. Haven't been to either in a while, but the food used to be good there. Stella's may also have some outside seating.

The Going Out Gurus: The word is out on what has become of Santa Fe. Last we looked, it appeared to be closed. But yes, that little patio was nice. The Greeks (Taverna Cretekou) do indeed have a nice walled garden. All they lack is good humor. Stella's does. You're right. Down near the King Street Metro. And then I'm remembering the sweet Cafe Marianna in North Old Town next to the coal pile. They have a very sunny patch of tables, and good food to boot. -- Alexa

Dupont: Okay. I'll bite. What the hell is H&M?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Dupont,

H&M is a trendy Swedish retailer that opened its first store in Manhattan in 2000, and is extremely popular because of its hip merchandise at down-to-earth prices. They're in the middle of opening several stores in this area.

Brick's: Au contraire! I enjoyed a pleasant afternoon at Brick's on Sunday! They had all the games on, the windows were open so we could enjoy the fresh air, and the food was excellent! I heartily endorse it!

The Going Out Gurus: Maybe the temps will help us warm up to Bricks. We'll give it a try.

Jonesing for Men at the Library of Congress: LOL! Don't forget to troll the Metro Center for businessy bigwigs. I agree; trust me, when you finally meet your "intellectual," you won't be able to get back to Adams Morgan fast enough!

The Going Out Gurus: More information for the smart-searcher.

Washington, DC: Would you have any suggestions for places in the DC area to take acting classes? I'm looking to do this for fun so I'm not necessarily interested in hard-core professional type classes...Thank you!

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) don't know if this is too hardcore, but Studio and Round House both offer classes. I don't think they're strictly for acting professionals at all. And Washington Improv Theater also provides classes as well. One of these options should fit your needs.

Uptown: I can't say enough about Indique in Cleveland Park. Last night was my third visit and each time, I've been, I have enjoyed it more. One key point: it's great for groups. We had eight for dinner last night and we were very comfortable in the pretty upstairs dining room. Just be sure to make a reservation because Indique is popular.

The Going Out Gurus: I'm right with you, Uptown, though I don't think I'd try to take more than 8 in the group. It will be interesting to see how they do in the summer.

Adams Morgan -- The Moni: Love the chat! You all rock! So, is there any word on what's replacing Washington Grill on the corner of 18th & Columbia? I see they've starting renovating? Also, any thoughts on L'Enfant at 18th and U? Is it going to rival Chez Antoine at all with the crepes? Also are there any plans do something with the old Republic Gardens space?

Thanks and have a great day!

The Going Out Gurus: Goodness me, Moni. I am eager to see what misfortunate business will replace Washington Grill, I swear I've seen at least four shops fail on that corner in the last eight years. There was a rumor that it could be Starbucks. Let me see what I can get out of the AMC. L'Enfant suggests Frenchie, but they've not so much as posted a menu, have they. Fritz might argue nothing will rival Chez Antoine -- unless they had a broader selection of boutique beers from Belgium. And finally, as far as I know there are no plans to reopen Republic Gardens. The way that corridor is expanding, I'm sure that block is worth a fortune. These are good questions. Honestly, I'll try and get some answers for you this week. -- Kate

Re: Arlington for Dating: "The people are a lot more laid back and not just looking for a drunken one night hookup."

Bwah-hahahahahahahaha

Has this poster ever -been- anywhere on (or near) Wilson? Clarendon Grill or Whitlow's perhaps? Yeah, they are all looking for lasting relationships at the Grill...

You'll find that everywhere. Just stop trying to find your soul mate when you're drunk and at a bar.

The Going Out Gurus: The reader makes a valid point.

Go-go where?: no, don't worry man. we're not the fratty types and won't be causing a scene or anything. This friend of mine is into seeing hip-hop shows in Chi-town, so I thought I'd show him some go-go to see what he thinks about the DC sound. but is there any good stuff Friday or Saturday nights? my friend isn't in until tomorrow. Thanks so much for the help!

The Going Out Gurus: You said tonight dude! I'm trying to look out for you. Truthfully, a lot of go-go spots might be a bit too rugged for non-natives but since old folk like myself who grew up on go-go still like to go out and get our groove on there are a lot more events for more mature crowds. If you're willing to venture out into PG County you might want to call the Legend and see what's up. Your best best is to go wherever Chuck is playing since he started this whole thing. He'd probably be the best person to see for someone new to go-go. - Rhome

Courthouse: Maura,

good job with the chat.

-- Alexa and Joe

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, guys, but I have no more salty oat cookies.

Bricks: Bricks is GROSS.

The Going Out Gurus: Another reaction.

Syracuse Alumni:: They'll be watching the game at the world-famous Park Bench Pub in Cleveland Park.

The Going Out Gurus: And moving on from Bricks...

Dupont: Your chat is so much quicker than some of the OTHER Post columnists' (who shall remain gracefully unnamed). Are you all GENIUSES or something?

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, we are geniuses. Intellectuals really. Plus there are eight of us and we've been drinking all day, so it quickens the pace a bit.

Arlington, VA: My boyfriend just offered to take us on a romantic dinner and theater date for Friday night. Do you have a suggestion for a venue or show that is likely to still have tickets?

The Going Out Gurus: Arlington: Take a look at our TICKETplace link. Scroll down and you'll see half-price tickets for a few Friday shows; check back tomorrow morning and there will be even more. Woolly Mammoth's "I Worry" (a one-woman show) might be a fun one.

Re: Finding mate at a bar: Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeyyy!! It IS possible to find your soulmate at a bar... I DID!!! Madhatters in midtown. In my opinion, just go out and have fun with your friends, don't worry about being on the prowl. That makes skeevy looking. I've met so many more people when I wasn't trying.

The Going Out Gurus: There's the answer. Don't try. Thanks for the story.

Friday night go-go: I have not been in awhile, but they used to have go-go at Ascot (near Farragut West)

The Going Out Gurus: I remember DJ Flexx was turning the party out there for awhile but I don't recall bands playing. Chatters? - Rhome

Dupont, DC: Love all the Doggie info. Thanks everyone! And keep it coming, I'd love to take my pooch out with me as much as possible. FYI... Lauriol Plaza, Toledo Lounge, Rocky's and Cafe Toulouse have all been pretty doggie friendly.

The Going Out Gurus: Good to know, Dupont.

Washington, DC disgruntled in Dupont: After having access to some amazing thrift stores when I lived in Ohio, I have yet to find anything comparable here in DC. Any suggestions? Particularly for Men? I am looking for some cool t shirts for the upcoming summer months. I tried Meeps on U street....the selection was decent to below average while the prices were a lot higher than I was used to paying for second hand clothing.

The Going Out Gurus: Have you browsed around Takoma Park? Also, you might want to check out our list of consignment shops:

The Going Out Gurus: SportsLeagues offers softball teams for spring and summer. Check the On the Move section in tomorrow's Weekend section -- in lists sports leagues looking for players. Other suggestions, readers? -- Anne

Video questions : I wanted to thank ya'll for the Irish movie suggestions of several weeks ago. I was particularly excited about reviewing "The Playboys" and "The Matchmaker." Sadly, or lame video store could not accomidate and I ended up with "Dancing at Lughnasa."

Yesh, what a chick flick. Can anyone recommend a more comprehensive video store, especially in the Falls CHurch area? Is there no where closer than Video Vault in Old Town?

thanks

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) don't know the Falls Church area all that well, so maybe others can help. But surely there must be a Hollywood Video nearby. I find that Hollywood sometimes carries obscure titles that I can't find at ye olde Blockbuster.

Another H&M Question: Is H&M both for men and women

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, it's for both men and women.

UGH! re DC dating...: I just don't get why people are so down on DC dating scene all the time. I don't feel it is any harder than any other city.

I think if people opened up their minds, and just looked at meeting new people and having a good time. Dating is easy....finding that -right- person however.....

The Going Out Gurus: Yeah, it's that "right person" part.

Alexandria, VA: Which is more upscale/dressy? And which do y'all like the most: Tenh Penh, The Circle Cafe (Did it take the place of West End Cafe?), Little Fountain Cafe, Red Sage, Al Tiramisu. Any other recommendations along those lines?

The Going Out Gurus: TenPenh.

Washington, D.C: Love the chats, first time for a question. I am turning the BIG 4-0 this year and would like to find a great place to celebrate. I would like to go to a great restaurant, great food service and atmosphere. Who cares about the cost, not on me. Thanks so much for making my Thursdays more bearable.

The Going Out Gurus: But how many celebrants, D.C.? If you are two then book at table at Palen (with cake by Ann Amernick) or (my favorite) Obelisk. If you are a party of four-six, let them treat you to Auberge Chez Francois or the Inn at Easton, in town, at 1789 -- all seriously good restaurants with, I hope, longevity to equal your own. Wouldn't it be fun to pick a place where you could also turn 80. If you're a table of 8-12, I recommend Perry's. I like the bar, the bright interior. The new menu is limited but gorgeous: cauliflower soup, frisee salad with smoked duck, rock fish, game hens, sushi, and lovely large desserts too. A party of 12 or more? Brunch at Cafe Atlantico or Bombay Club (this includes unlimited champers/mimosas, and it's where I like to celebrate my birthday). -- Kate

12th Floor Metro Center: Can one of you GOG's please call the Uptown Theater and find out when the heck they'll have a new movie? Hasn't everyone who's wanted to see "Lords of the Rings" seen it already?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) just made the call, as I've done so many times before, and gotten the same answer: "Two Towers" will be there for the foreseeable future. The nice lady who answers the phone doesn't have a clue when something new is coming.
But when it happens, we'll let you know.

Video: Potomac Video is good.... there's a couple close by Falls Chrurch. One on Rt 7 and Idyllwood.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks -- consider it passed on.

Theater Tix: Richard III (at the Shakespeare Theatre), Elizabeth the Queen (at the Folger), and The Play About the Baby (at Studio) are all in previews so tix (at a discount, no less) should be fairly easy to get. In fact, I think I saw all of these plays on TicketPlace today.

Acting Classes: Wooly Mammoth and The Actor's Center also offer classes.

The Going Out Gurus: And more good tips -- thanks!

Alexandria: What would you consider the most romantic restaurant in Old Town for a first date?

The Going Out Gurus: Some may disagree, but I think Le Refuge is all romance. It's a teeny, snug little place, candle lit. A refuge, if you like. Food could be better though. -- Alexa

Washington DC: Hey guys, I read recently in a book about the C&O Canal Boats. Where can I find info to schedule a romantic trip for my girlfriend and I.

Thanks,

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, you can take those canal boat rides in Georgetown or Great Falls, I believe. Have fun. -- Maura

Maryland Suburbs: I'm dancing on a small dance floor, with music by Sade and other soft jazz artists is playing. The club has soft lighting, preferrably with some candlelight. There's also a great menu and a quiet, adult atmosphere. What club in DC am I in? This isn't a test, I just need you to guide me to a place I hope exists for my friends and I to frequent on the nights we want to dress up! THANKS! Also, if this is just a dream, can you tell me the place that most closely resembles this type of place??

The Going Out Gurus: There are places with an atmosphere like this but they aren't quiet. Mango's has a fly decor but isn't dressy and doesn't consistently have dj's. The places where you would dress up are all either loud (dance clubs) or sedate (piano bars and jazz spots). Your best bet might be ESL early on a weekday night. You can do it early on a weekend night too just be prepared for it to get louder and more crowded and later into the night. You'll definitely want to look fly too (I'm assuming you and your crew are a group of ladies). Bossa on a Thursday night might do you well too. - Rhome

Just-the-other-side-of-the-Key-Bridge, VA: Looking for a movie review. Has anyone seen the animated shorts at Visions? Does anyone know how long it will be playing there?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) have heard the shorts are, for the most part, good fun. I'll be posting Visions' showtimes for the following week later today, but I believe they're still showing for the next week at least. The showtimes currently listed on Visions' Web site don't seem to be complete.

Big Group in Dupont: Dear Gurus,
Next Saturday, there is a large group of us that wish to pre-party (9pm-11:30ish) together before going out dancing. By large, I mean like 50+ people. I'm looking for a venue that we can descend upon which can accommodate such a crowd - somewhere like Buffalo Billards, but perhaps a little more trendy/upscale. We don't intend to eat, though, so we don't think we can rent a room somewhere. The group is in their mid 20's, 50/50 gay/straight, and open to all sorts of suggestions. Preferably somewhere in Dupont/Adams Morgan area. Can you assist?

The Going Out Gurus: For a big group, you'll need a big space, and one that's flexible if folks are trickling in between 9 and 11:30. Buffalo Billiards might be just fine, not the coolest perhaps but it's the biggest. Other nearby and equally cavernous places like The Reef really limit the number of people entering and it would be such a drag if half of your group were waiting outside. -- Kate

GO-GO and Cherry Blossoms: I went to a couple of the go-go spots like 5 years ago when I was in high school and my experience was one of EXTRA love for being the only whitey in the heezy. Maybe that's not the norm, I don't know.

As far as cherry blossoms, don't forget the Kenwood neighborhood off of River Road. Unlike the go-gos however, Kenwood is NOT someplace you want venture at night. The K-Wood trophy wife posse will mess you up TWO times boyeeee!!!

The Going Out Gurus: I think your handle should be the title of a promotional compilation album issued by the DC Chamber of Commerce. - Rhome

Pedis in Arlington: Not sure if I'm too late, but you can get a pedicure for $20 at Diana Nails in Shirlington ($28 for both mani and pedi -- a good deal!)

The Going Out Gurus: Never to late to suggest a $28 combo.

Breakfast, Arlington: Cowboy Cafe has the best French Toast ever (with a side of toast- what up with that?) and it is super cheap. (and serves all other basics)

The Going Out Gurus: Sadly, I'd butter both. -- Kate

Petworth: The Oscar shorts at Visions, both animated and live action, are great, with the exception of "Dog." I hated that one.

But you do have to put up with Vision's odd line/ticket booth policy. And their oddly configured lobby.

Still, I thought it was worth it for the shorts.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the chime in, loyal Petworth.

Breakfast in NoVa: I have done some pretty thorough research on this topic...I second the Waffle House suggestion but if you want to stay in Nova, I enjoy Cowboy Cafe and Linda's Cafe on Lee Highway and please...let's not forget about Whitey's breakfast (although rumor has it their homemade donut machine is on the fritz!)

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks. Just talked with Whitey's -- they are still closed for repairs but they're expecting an inspection this very afternoon and if all goes well they could be up and with doughnuts this weekend. But do call first. -- Kate

DC: Do you know how to go about joining a beach house in Dewey or Rehoboth this summer?

The Going Out Gurus: Here's the skinny on sign up parties.

Bethesda Dating Sucks: Dating here IS terrible. Georgetown Bethesda, wherever. Makes me long for my fraternity parties, a thought I'd never have when I graduated. Being 23 and single here is tough if you dont drive a Beemer or bling it up.

The Going Out Gurus: I've been staying out of this, trying to shake off the residue of this one from past chats but.... COME ON PEOPLE. This town has endless amounts of interesting things to do. You can go years entertaining yourself with what's available and never have to run into a lobbyist, trust fund baby or gold digger if you don't want to. Step outside of your little boxes, try new things, be open, be friendly and just live. Meeting interesting people is a nice side effect of this, not a goal. If you do things you enjoy you'll most likely enjoy the company of the people you find while you're doing them. A "duh" moment brought you to by Rhome.

Bend it like Beckham!: Is it playing anywhere besides Georgetown tomorrow? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: So far, only Georgetown. We'll see next week.

Washington, D.C.: Great chat today Gooorooos! Why did this one seem so much better than all your others?

The Going Out Gurus: On this note -- and believe me, we've had dozens like it today -- we're signing off. We can't promise we'll be this charming next week, but we'll try.

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