| Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, May 1, 2003; 1 p.m. ET Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's Entertainment Guide experts share their best bets for local flavor, great dates and family fun. Got plans? Great. Need plans? Just ask. We have the skinny on the bars and clubs, concerts, kitchens, theaters and special events that keep life interesting. We're going out gurus, and we're at your service. Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours. Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the Entertainment Guide. Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion. The discussion ended at 2:15. 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: Gold Cup, the Kentucky Derby, Cinco de Mayo, the opening of Code DC -- this is shaping up to be quite a week, so we know you've got going out questions. Kate, Anne, Maura, Alexa, Jen, Joe and I (Fritz) are here to help. Sadly, Rhome's not back yet, but you can always stare longingly at Tomorrow's Weekend section. Oh, Kate would like me to remind you that we launched our second annual best of the city contest on Monday -- cleverly called Best Bets 2003 -- and we need your nominations. Thanks.
Washington, D.C.: Guys,
This summer I am going to be a newly single intern in DC. Where can a guy feeling a bit down after a tough relationship go to meet college-age girls in DC. I have no dance skills to speak of and would rather a social bar atmosphere to a club. Danke. The Going Out Gurus: If you're looking to meet fellow interns like yourself, happy hour is your best bet. The income-less crowd heads to Rock Bottom (Ballston) on Wednesdays for cheap beer, Front Page for free tacos and buckets of Coronas on Thursday nights, and XIIXIII on Fridays for the all-you-can drink $15 happy hour. There you'll find plenty of college students looking to unwind after a hard day at the office. -- The Intern, Ali
Washington, D.C. biz dude: Hi there, This is kind of an unusual question but I can't find the answer and was hoping you all could hook me up. Where does a guy go for locally tailored, high-quality, suits? I'm not talking about some bling-bling P. Diddy, cruisin' South Beach suits -- just nice, fashionable suits. I'm very tall, and since I'm not into halving my bank account for custom made haute couture stuff, I was thinking perhaps if I looked into local designers I'd save some money AND represent D.C. Any ideas? The Going Out Gurus: Hi, there,
You could try Highcliffe Clothiers at 1120 20th St. NW.
Bethesda, Md.: Is there any place to get good fish tacos in the area? I'm not talking about the breaded and fried tacos you can get at Baja Fresh, but charbroiled fish! Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: There is a little place called the Burro, tucked in a corner of the GW campus (behind Kinkead's on Pennsylvania Ave.) that has the best fish tacos I know. Limey and unspeakably delicious. Anyone else with info? -- Alexa
Manassas, Va.: Can you recommend any places that do body piercing? I am looking for somewhere clean and that has been certified by some piercing association (an article in The Post a while back talked about it)or somewhere where one of you has been and trusts for a belly button piercing. The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Manassas,
My suggestion is Fatty's in Dupont Circle.
Arlington, Va.: Hi, Gurus! What's up with Lounge 201? Worth a trip? The review mentioned a dress code; what is it exactly? Thanks!
The Going Out Gurus: Well, Arlington, Lounge 201 is a nice cocktail lounge with great martinis and flatbread pizzas. That's a rarity on the Hill. If you like lounge culture, it's worth a visit, but I have a feeling that for now, it's going to be populated with hipper-than-an-intern Hill folks.
The dress code is no shorts, no t-shirts, no flip-flops -- there's no written policy; it's more of a "we know it when we see it" dress code. Let us know if you enjoyed it. -- Fritz
Jelp me please: How much does it cost for 2 people to have dinner/drinks at Jaleo? There are many meanings of the words 'reasonably priced,' and I want to know before I go. Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Depending on how much you drink and eat, I'd say anywhere between $40 and $60. Sound ok? -- Alexa
Washington, D.C.: Can we have a vote for our favorite guru? I'm voting for Maura because she always seems to have the best information. The Going Out Gurus: Awww, this made Fritz cry.
Fritz !!!: Your reputation for a vast knowledge of beers and the venues that serve them leaves me to believe that you are a man who has to some extent dipped into the veil of years. I mention it 'cause last Sunday the guy ahead of us, the baby faced child ahead of us at the Last Train Home concert claimed to be you. (yellow soccer jersey, #10) No way; no chance this guy has the kind of mileage on him to know as much as you seem to. He claimed that Eric put him on the guest list (But apparently Eric hadn't). Are you aware of this scam? The concert was great, even if we only listened on the restaurant side. All bands should have a horn section, even country bands; - in lieu of a horn section, a harmonica may be substituted. (Our side had seats, better lighting and the price couldn't be beat; but next time we'll get there early for the full experience) PS - if that was you, our apologies, and we entirely understand the "no photos of the guru's" policy. The Going Out Gurus: That was, in fact, me in the vintage Pele jersey. Eric put me on the wrong guest list (Friday instead of Sunday afternoon). Ah, well. I enjoyed the show, but seeing all the kids dancing around Iota was a little unsettling.
P.S. You callin' me ugly?
Arlington, Va.: I'm a dirty-jean wearin', PBR-drinkin' fool most of the time...unfortunately this summer I've a few slightly formal events and need to pick up a summer, daytime suit. Do y'all know of a good place to get an appropriate suit that won't make me look, well, like a suit? (Already made the thrift shop rounds!) The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Arlington,
You don't have to look like a suit just because you're wearing one. Pick a colorful tie and forget the white shirt.
I'd choose Nordstrom if I were going to buy a good suit that could last me for a while.
Gold Cup Fashion Emergency: Here's the question that no one wants to ask but everyone wants answered... if it is chilly and rainy on Saturday, what's appropriate to wear to Gold Cup for women? I had my sundress and hat picked out... but the forecast is making jeans and rain boots seem more appropriate. I don't want pneumonia, but I sure don't want to be unfashionable... Help! The Going Out Gurus: GCFE, don't worry, you'll be fine. You may want to avoid the jeans, dependent on where you'll be. Some areas may not allow them. Bring a sweater and if it's rainy, watch the sandals. That mud is your biggest worry. Have fun. -- Maura
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Thanks for the awesome chats! My sisters and I want to get my mom a massage and pedicure for mother's day and we were hoping for some suggestions. We're all students so we don't have lots of money to spend (even though she is the best mom in the world). Do you know of any places around the DC, Northern-Virginia area? The Going Out Gurus: Pamper your mom. Try Serenity Day Spa. They've got all sorts of package deals.
Gambrills, Md.: Not to sound like a complete nerd, but when the first "X-Men" movie came out a couple years ago, it was shown at 12:01 a.m. the day it opened. Do you know of any movie theaters showing "X2: X-Men United" tonight after midnight? The Going Out Gurus: Indeed there are midnight showings of "X2." Here's the movie info. Click on "Find showtimes" at the bottom, and you'll see tonight's times (including a midnight screening at the Uptown). Make sure you click on Friday, too, because some of the midnight showtimes in our feed are attached to that date (technically 12:00 tonight is Friday, you know). Hope this helps. -- Jen
Arlington, VA: Okay, he's just an intern, but you shouldn't trust him with roman numerals if he can't handle them. This $15 all-you-can-drink Friday happy hour is at 1223, no? Also known as MCCXXIII. The Going Out Gurus: Yes, it's MCCXXIII. Be nice to Ali. It's her first time on the chat. -- Fritz
Arlington, Va: We would like to meet friends near Potomac Mills this Saturday evening for dinner(we will be attending an event down that way). Can you reccommend anywhere to eat down there that isn't a chain? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Not really. But perhaps we're missing something. Personally, I quite enjoy those IKEA meatballs -- meat bullets really. But I think you're looking for something else. Can any of the readers help us? Potomac Mills, no chains? -- Alexa
Union Station, Washington, D.C.: Someone please tell me all about the Russia House Lounge! I can't find anything, anywhere on it but have seen a mysterious flyer about midnight martinis. The Going Out Gurus: Well, Union Station, my boy William was telling me last night that he and a ladyfriend went there for dinner and vodka. It's no longer a private restaurant and club, so the lounge is open to everyone. I'm dying to get down there and try a few of the Ukrainian vodkas.
Anyone been yet? -- Fritz
Re: Piercings: Try Jinx Proof in Georgetown. I've had multiple piercings including navel piercing done there, and they've always been professional and extremely clean. Mine have never gotten infected like some friends'. Ewww... The Going Out Gurus: For the person who wanted info on piercings --
AND THEY'RE OFF !!!: Where is the perferred place to see the Derby, ssuming I can't be in "that old Kentucky Home"? I'm putting it all on a horse named "Brancusi," what a cool name. The Going Out Gurus: Great name -- I'm sure Brancusi is bound to lose. As for your party, Bonnets and Bowties at the Willard's Round Robin is a sure bet. -- Maura
Adams Morgan: Hey Gurus, I'm submitting a bit early because of a meeting. So, I know that complaining about Starbucks is a bit passe and that they wouldn't be there if people didn't buy their stuff... But, isn't the latest wave of SB's just a little too much? I mean, there are already a dozen or so within a few blocks of Dupont, and now they've opened (or are about to) across from Fresh Fields, at 18th/Columbia, and at U/13th. Each one makes me mad for different reasons. At FF -- there's already a coffeeplace inside, plus Sparkys and Caribou nearby. At 18th/Columbia, that's one of the hottest corners in town -- why put something there that's going to close at 9? And at U/13 when there's already one at U/16? Come on! Plus, the people who are building the offices over the metro there said there would be spaces for "two restaurants" on the ground level. Starbucks is not a restaurant! I know there's not much I can do, but is there anyone in the city govt who thinks that this hurts both the character of our nightlife AND takes up spots that can make the nightlife stronger? How do the owners of unique businesses feel when Starbucks opens up on both sides of them? Do I have any sympathy out there, or am I destined to be just another bitter old Grandpa Simpson writing a crazy letter to the local newspaper? The Going Out Gurus: Mmmm, Starbucks. I wish I could complain but I'm a fan of the green monster. Still, the ubiquitousness of Starbucks can't last forever, can it? If you're strongly opposed, I recommend voting with your pocketbook and only patronizing independent coffee shops. Or bribing city zoning officials.
- Joe
Adams Morgan: I have a friend who just moved here from Buffalo...Where would you all say has the best wings in the district? Thanks. You guys are great. The Going Out Gurus: At the risk of launching into yet another discussion on who has the best wings, I'll say the best ones I know are at Ragtime at Arlington Courthouse. -- Alexa
Washington, D.C.: What's the cheapest way to do Gold Cup? The Going Out Gurus: General admission is determined by vehicle, not people, so the cheapest way to get into Gold Cup is to pack six friends as safely but as humanly as possible into the largest car you can find. It's one of two occassions (the other being October's International Gold Cup) when SUVs are deriguer. There's no need to pay extra for the Member's Hill badge: you can spy the toffs eating fried chicken off silver platter from your side of the enclosure and you won't get hasseled by joghper vendors. You can take the party bus with the likes of DC Society of Young Professionals ($70 per person, $89 if you ride their bus) if you want to "do" University Row. Just between you and me, that side of Gold Cup always looks ... what's the nicest way of saying it? ... so pukey. -- Kate
Silver Spring, Md.: Hi Gurus. After hearing for many years about the great Uptown theater, I ventured there for the first time last weekend. The screen was huge, and it had great sound, but those were the most uncomfortable seats I've ever sat in! The seats have huge curves in them! Have you ever heard this complaint before? I can't see myself sitting there for more than 1.5 hrs. at the most! The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Silver Spring. Glad you finally had the Uptown experience. I (Jen) know the seats at the Uptown may not be the newest or cushiest, but I've never found them unbearably uncomfortable. I sat through "Fellowship of the Rings" there and felt fine afterwards, and that movie tests anyone's butt cheek endurance. But maybe others feel differently?
Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Why would Seth book the Polyphonic Spree for two shows ( 6/10-11 ) at 9:30 ? I have never heard of them or their music. There is a widely discounted rumor that Radiohead might actually be the headliner for one or both shows. Your thoughts? The Going Out Gurus: Hello Adams Morgan. It does seem a bit odd but there is a buzz around this group and I don't think they've played DC yet. For those not familiar with Polyphonic Spree, picture 25-30 musicians all dressed in white robes singing and playing instruments. It's definitely weird, sort of like the Danielson Famile, but the shows have been getting rave reviews. I'm looking forward to the show, but yes, it is surprising that two nights are booked. Haven't heard the rumors about Radiohead (there always seem to be radiohead rumors whenever the band is in the states.) - Joe
Arlington, Va.: What are the best happy hour specials on Thursday nights in the Arlington area? Also, most HH's end around 7pm, anything that goes a little later? The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Arlington. Clarendon Grill has $1.50 beers, half-priced drafts and rail drinks and a quarter off all food until 8 p.m. I met some friends at Cafe Asia last night for $1 pieces of sushi and $2 Bass and Miller Lite drafts. That deal goes until 7:30. But I think one of my favorite happy hours is at the laid-back Jay's Saloon, where drafts are $1 and bottles are $1.50 until 7. It's a great place to relax with friends -- especially if you can get a seat on the patio. -- Fritz
Rosslyn, Va.: Hi, GoGs and GoG-enthusiasts,
I've been tempted to chop off my long blond hair and dye it black. The temptation will pass, but where might I get shag-cut wig for under $60?? Just for a night on the town, ya know.
Also, what do you think of Continental, that place on Ft. Meyer Dr. in Rosslyn? What's the crowd like? Drink prices? The decor is tres fab!
One more question (pleeeaase answer my questions, it's my birthday on Saturday--the big 2-4)...what are your favorite furniture stores? Like in between Ikea-quality and Crate and Barrel?? Used/thrift is fine too. Thanks, Gurus, much love!
The Going Out Gurus: Hi, there,
Wig places, eh? There's a wig place on King Street (700 block or so) in Old Town, Alexandria. And that's the extent of what I know about it, but you could give it a try.
Fritz will answer your Continental questions anon.
For furniture stores, I think Ruff & Ready on U Street is a gas. And while you're in the neighborhood, check out Goodwood.
Washington, D.C.: Gurus! I need your collective brainpower! A very good friend of mine who lives out of state just got a job offer in DC. He's coming down this weekend to check out the company and to check out the city. I need to impress! He's used to the NYC lifestyle but we're both on a budget. Where can I take him to show him a good time (that won't break the bank) and to convince him that this is a great town?!?! The Going Out Gurus: Washington, pinch your pennies with drink specials at Home or the VIP Club tomorrow night, followed by dinner at Zaytinya. Closer to Dupont, there's happy hour at MCCXXIII. Afterwards, check out D.C.'s art scene off the main stream at artoconnecto. Good luck. -- Maura
College Park, Md.: Since my boyfriend decided that he didn't want to go to his lame fraternity formal this year, and I haven't been to a formal since prom, I have convinced him that we need to go out somewhere nice in D.C. or Baltimore and have our own formal! The only problem is, I have no idea where to go. We're looking for someplace where we can dress up, have a nice dinner and maybe some dancing for us and possibly another couple or two. Preferably not a senior citizens club or anything -- a younger crowd/atmosphere would be nice. But definitely not just a dance club; something more formal would be nice. Thanks in advance! The Going Out Gurus: Hi, College Park. So you want to go to a formal ... how do you feel about going to a formal from the '80s? The '80s Dance Party is hosting its '80s Prom tonight, so it might be the perfect opportunity for you to get dressed up (cheesy prom dresses with puffy sleeves a bonus) with your friends. The crowd certainly won't consist of senior citizens.
That's my suggestion -- anyone else have others? -- Jen
Washington, DC: Help! I am one of those tiny D.C. apartment dwellers who loves to entertain but doesn't have the space. Since squeezing more than 6 people into my apartment is not an option, I thought I could host a picnic. I cannot, however, find an interesting picnic site. My first thought was the National Arboretum, but they don't have BBQs, nor do they allow music or alcohol. We are all grown-ups, and there is no danger of excessive rowdiness or drunkenness. Are there any outdoor venues that will allow us to enjoy a hot burger and a beer? Alternatively, any other ideas for throwing a party when you don't have enough space at home? The Going Out Gurus: I hear you about the small apartment, DC. A picnic is a great idea. If you want to reserve a picnic spot in Rock Creek Park, sign up in person at the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, 3149 16th St. NW, 202-673-7647. (They go fast!) Almost any place you picnic will be run by the Park Service, where no booze is allowed. What you do is your call. Here's some more picnic ideas. -- Anne
Cleveland Park, Washington, D.C.: Some friends and I are headed to Continental on Monday. How's the food? If it's not great, can you recommend a place in the neighborhood? Fritz - my office is checking out the jordans happy hour next week - thanks for the review! I'll let you know how it goes! The Going Out Gurus: I like the food at Continental. The chef was the chef de cuisine at Jaleo downtown and headed the kitchen in Bethesda, and he's come up with a menu that mixes tapas with Cuban sandwiches. Everything I've had across multiple visits has been really tasty. (BTW, my full review should be up tonight, it's been held up in editing this week.)
Hope you enjoy the jordans happy hour -- Thursdays and Fridays have been cursed since the story ran. -- Fritz
Cambridge, Ma.: Hi gurus- Love the chats! A group of girls are getting together in a couple of weekends in DC, and we were wondering if there are any spas or salons down there that will come to people's homes and give manicures and pedicures. Any leads? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Cambridge,
You may need to ask on an individual basis. Try starting with Andre Chreky.
Arlington, Va.: There is a ferris wheel in Pentagon City. Does anyone have any info. on it? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: It's supposed to start today and run through May 11 on South Fern Street, near Pentagon Row. The carnival benefits the Arlington Community Foundation. -- Anne
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Hi Fritz -- My boyfriend is a transplant from the UK, and I am trying to make his transition to living in the States as easy as possible. The three major things that he misses most about the UK (not counting his family of course!) are the beer, soccer and the chip shops. We have managed to conquer the first two things, but he is still unable to find a good "chippie" in D.C. or near D.C. that can replicate the greasy, salty English chips that he is so fond of. Do you have a recommendation of a place where he can find steak and kidney pie, mushy peas, gravy, chips and other assorted English delicacies? Thanks!
Signed,
A loving and concerned girlfriend The Going Out Gurus: Fritz? No, it's me, Alexa and I, like your fella, am an immigrant from the U.K. The best chips I know are either at Five Guys or Breadline, both of which provide the option of malt vinegar. They don't have the same girth of our chips, are more slender. But the flavo(u)r's right. As for steak and kidney, you might try Murphy's on King Street in Old Town. -- Alexa
Non-government intern, Washington, D.C.: Hey, I think I submitted this too late last week: any tips on getting an unboring summer job in D.C.? My boyfriend needs a means of supporting himself that isn't me, but isn't the cash register-food service-desk job kind of guy. Does anyone know of anyplace interesting that tends to hire for the summer? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: If he favors the great outdoors, check out area golf courses. Zipping around on golf carts will keep him entertained on the job, and perks often include free/discounted golf and club use. Little leagues are always on the prowl for umpires if he favors the ballpark. And if he's into something more serious, all the Smithsonian museums offer summer internships -- including the zoo. -- Ali
Bethesda, Md: Didn't the Uptown replace all its seats in the not too distant past? If it's uncomfortable now, imagine what it was like before... The Going Out Gurus: Yes, they renovated it and replaced seats in 1996. I (Jen) honestly don't remember it even being that uncomfortable before, but maybe I have a high threshold for movie theater pain.
Petworth: I grew up in Rochester. I love wings. The best wings I've found in town are actually at Safari (Georgia and Kansas Aves NW). Yep, it's a Kenyan place. But, see, William (the owner/cook) went to school in Buffalo. So, mixed in on the menu with all this great Kenyan food are nice Buffalo wings. (Make sure you TELL him you want blue cheese on the side. Apparently, it wasn't so popular, so the default is ranch, but he has the blue cheese too.) The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Pet.
Fort Washington, Md.: Do you know anyplace to watch the Oscar de la Hoya fight on Saturday? Thank you. The Going Out Gurus: Hey, FW -- You can watch it at Dream on Friday night. Pay the $10 cover, and they'll have it on large screens throughout the club. Go to http://www.dcdream.com for more info and passes. -- Fritz
Fairfax, VA: Hey. I'm posting this as a follow-up to a question I asked 2 weeks ago that Jen answered, regarding a list of THX-certified movie theatres in the area. I was wondering if a list has been compiled? I tried checking THX's own website, but the theatre list they provided was extremely confusing. The Going Out Gurus: Please accept my apologies, Fairfax. I know I told you I'd do this, but I haven't gotten to it quite yet. But I promise I will. In fact, I'm adding it my list of things to do this week even as we speak. -- Jen
Lorton, VA: For the Potamac Mills question, try Carrabbas, a fairly new Italian restaurant (it might be a chain, but not a large chain). OR..Taste of Tandoor (Indian) is very good. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks Lorton. Sounds nice.
Washington D.C.: Boy and Girl meet. Boy and Girl really like each other. Boy and Girl have been going out on all kinds of expensive dates (Sporting events, Shows, Restaurants, etc.). Boy and Girl are running out of disposable income. Please suggest some cheap Saturday night dates for Boy and Girl. Many thanks!
-Girl The Going Out Gurus: Do you think the two of you would enjoy making pizza (from scratch or with Vace's excellent dough) together? I'm always struck by how much money I can (and could, do, have done) spend on dining out.
If you need an out of the house activity, you may not have to make big adjustments to your dating choices: explore TicketPlace for half-price seats. The number of tickets and performances change day to day, but there's so much on around town that you could really see a first rate show, like "Hedwig" or "Richard III" for half as much as the person sitting next to you. If you need a pre-theater cocktail, hit McFadden's on Penn. where on Saturdays between 6 and 7, the drinks flow free-ly.
If you've enjoyed going to big ticket sporting events, perhaps soccer will appeal. D.C. United has $16 tickets, they're behind the goal, but request section 120 or 121 and whoop it up with the wild "La Norte" fans. -- Kate
Washington, D.C.: For furniture, don't miss Reincarnations, on 17th St NW. The Going Out Gurus: Furniture shopper, take note.
Washington, DC: Recessions on L Street also has killer wings. They were crispy and delicious. Plus, the outrageously low alcohol prices are worth the trip alone. The Going Out Gurus: More wings.
Re: Jaleo: Very reasonably priced for the quality of food. You can easily get some sangria, and 5 tapas for about 30 bucks, perfect for 2 people. The Going Out Gurus: Oh. I stand corrected.
Re: Polyphonic Spree : The buzz from my peeps in NYC who have seen them live say it is a show not to be missed. In fact, you'll regret it if you don't see (and these peeps are music snobs). I've been told that radiohead is not a rumor. The Going Out Gurus: Well, if you say it's not a rumor than it must not be a rumor. Isn't that how rumors get started?
re: formal and artoconnecto: I checked out the Artoconnecto website, but I can't find any details on the time of their May 2nd show. Any idea when it starts and ends? And for the couple looking for a formalesque night on the town, why not try out the many formals sponsored by the DC Young Professionals Society, or by the 1869 Society of the Corcoran or other non-profits in town. They are usually a little pricey (as formals are) but they are often benefits for a good cause and they sound like exactly what they are looking for. Often times they are even at local embassies. The websites of those organizations as well as DC Buzz and others of the sort would have more information. The Going Out Gurus: Well, since you're willing to share, the scoop on Artoconnecto is 7pm - 2am tomorrow night at 1701 Kalorama. I know I am going to try and make it.
If a reader wants more details on young professional societys, start right here. -- Maura
College Park, Md.: Gurus, What do you think? A bunch of us went to Franklin's in Hyattsville (home of Rubber Chicken Ale) for Happy Hour -- half-price apps and drinks. The small bar area was filled, so we asked to sit at one of the empty tables in the dining area adjacent to the bar, separated only by a waist-high divider (the area was completely empty). Much conferring ensued (waiter, bartender, manager), and we were told no, we (party of 7) could not sit at the tables because it would set a bad precedent. To get the happy hour specicals, we were expected to cram together in the postage-stamp sized bar area and stand. Is this normal? We ended up staying for a bit, and eventually a group left and we grabbed their table and chairs, but we are certainly not likely to do group happy hours there again. The Going Out Gurus: You know, College Park, the bar at Franklin's is really too small for any sort of group, but I understand why they didn't want to set a precedent. I've been there for happy hour with five people and we felt too crowded. Good beer, but the cramped bar area almost cancels that out. -- Fritz
Capitol Hill: Sietsema mentioned a new wine bar on the Hill. Any ideas of what/where it is? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: I'm guessing you're thinking of Charlie Palmer's new steakhouse? It opens on Saturday night (Charlie Palmer Steak, 101 Constitution Ave., 202/547-8100). Apparently this new restaurant offers more than 10,000 bottles, all stored "in a wine "cube" suspended" writes Tom, "over a pool of water." Coming from Palmer, this Cirque de Soleil-style presentation shouldn't surprise. At Aureole in Vegas, the bottles are kept in a clear pyrex column and women in catsuits attached to sprongy rubber bungee bands retrieve the bottles like nymphs. Astonishing. The real magic in this new place may be in the rooftop terrace -- there's a view of the Capitol, or in the bill (entrees are in the 20's to 30s). -- Kate
Washington, D.C.: Gurus, My sister is turning 21 on May 26, Memorial Day and our mom is coming to town for the weekend to celebrate. We'd like to do something nice on the actual day to celebrate her new legality, but mom has to fly out late Monday afternoon. We're hoping to do a champagne brunch or some such thing -- do you know of any restaurants that do brunch on holiday Mondays? If not, do you have any other ideas for a Memorial Day celebration? Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Alexa mentioned that Luna Grill does brunches on holiday Mondays, though I'm not sure if that would include the champagne treatment. You might call some of the hotels, like the Four Seasons, to see if they have special brunches for the holiday. -- Jen
Northwest Washington, D.C.: Can we get a Gurus Top 5 Bar/Restaurant decks in DC list? (In no particular order) The Going Out Gurus: A shoutout for rooftops at the Reef, Wazuri, Perrys and Tia Queta and the decks at Blue Room and Clarendon Grill. Check out a full list of options right here. -- Maura
Washington, D.C.: Hi!
I've got some cousins coming into town next weekend - they haven't been to DC in ages, but don't want to do the real touristy things. Is there anything fun going on that weekend that will be very "DC" that people in their mid-twenties would enjoy? Also, could you recommend some bars that are good examples of the nightlife here that aren't too fancy and not dance clubs? Is Strike Bethesda fun?
Thanks so much! The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC. Take them on excursion to Eastern Market or the Arboretum, or some of those laidback bars, like Reef, Tune Inn, Marx Cafe. Another option is to show off D.C.'s neighbor to north: The spotlight goes to Baltimore next weekend for the Preakness, the second leg of the Triple Crown. Hang with the railbirds for gritty betting tips, then follow the party with the Preakness Parade. Strike Bethesda is a pricey bowling alley -- you pay for the decor and the fancy drinks. -- Anne
Small Town Girl Goes East Coast: Hey Gurus! I've got some friends from Wisconsin coming into town on Thursday night and I thought I'd pick them up from the airport and bring them into town for dinner and drinks, ending the night at the Lincoln/Vietnam/Korean memorials. Any suggestions for good food and drinks at cheap to moderate prices, that would also let them have a good taste of D.C.? The Going Out Gurus: There's precious little in downtown D.C. available at cheap to moderate prices that offers a real sense of place. And that's disappointing. Going to Austin Grill, McFadden's (open bar from 6 to 7) or Jaleo (note: reservations impossible after 6:30) doesn't really speak of the real D.C., but your friends are going to be tickled to see you. Why not splurge for a round of cocktails on the roof of the Hotel Washington. It's easy to forget how special that view is for visitors.-- Kate
Arlington, VA: Any suggestions for 2 gals eating out in the AU area? We are looking for somewhere cheap, casual and quiet enough to chit-chat (although loud enough that no one can easily listen in:) Thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Arlington, not super cheap, but relatively so, try Chef Geoff's or sushi at Murasaki. -- Maura
22314: To the girl with the UK boyfriend: My girlfriend is from Glasgow and the best pies she's found, including great sweeties like malteasers and flakes, are at the British Connection in old town. The Going Out Gurus: Oh yes, that may be. But I am loath to promote a place that charges such EXTRAordinarily high prices for such pedestrian things. She must mark stuff up about 300 percent, so I simply won't go there. Better -- though not much -- is the Brit shop up in Clarendon. -- Alexa
Arlington, Va.: PLEASE, Ideas for two grrls and a Cinco Celebration, low to mid prices, downtown good. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE what do you think? No one has discussed Cinco yet, and we're dying to know some ideas. So far, we're thinking Cactus Cantina. . . .? The Going Out Gurus: Well, there will be plenty going on at Tequila Grill, for starters. Tortilla Coast on the Hill always has all-day food and drink specials. I was told there would be a party at Vida but haven't heard more.
So, where's everyone else going? -- Fritz
Washington D.C.: For the person inquiring about Continental, I've been there a couple times. The bartenders are helpful (and chatty) and mix a pretty good drink. The food I've had there has been way above the quality at other Bedrock establishments. I'm also entranced by the glittery bar. I think the guy from Good Eye did the decor. And it's always nice to play pool with new equipment.
Anyhow, thumbs up, too bad it's over the bridge. The Going Out Gurus: Why is that too bad? Continental is one block from the Rosslyn Metro, which is one stop into Virginia. Are you a vampire or something? -- Fritz
Re: Adams Morgan/Starbucks: To the person from AM posting about Starbucks, they must be new to the 'hood to claim that the corner of 18th&Columbia where Starbucks is going is the hottest corner in the 'hood. Nothing, and I do mean nothing (Boston Market, local deli, Long John Silvers, etc) has ever survived on that corner. Sadly, Starbucks probably will.... Just spend your money elsewhere. The Going Out Gurus: Yeah, like Tryst.
Washington, D.C.: I have been to the Russia House a couple of times and it has been mellow and cool everytime. The bartender and guys who are running it are super nice. They even remembered my name on my second visit. They made me feel like a guru. Not sure if that is a good thing or not. The Going Out Gurus: Of course it is!
Unless, of course, you're impersonating Fritz. Then it's bad.
Russia House: I went a few weeks ago for drinks, right after it opened. It's a nice space and decorated amazingly, good bartender, nice chill loungey music. We talked to one of the owners/managers(?) and they were still working out some of the kinks. I think it's a great place to go before or after something, as a place to meet up. I don't know about the food there, though, didn't sample. It was a, uh, diverse crowd, which is to say weird. My friends and I spent the entire time trying to figure out who was in the Russian Mafiya. Nice selection of vodka though.... The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the Russia House info.
Baltimore, Md.: Our favorite guru is Fritz. We (as a city) repect beer drinkers. Even if he has a weird Puma shoe fetish. The Going Out Gurus: Thanks.
Downtown Washington, D.C.: Hey GoG's today is a great day thanks to your chats! I need some help! My boyfriend and I are excited to see 2 of the film fest movies tomorrow night at the Avalon Theatre. We will have a break between the two shows and was hoping you guys could recommend some restaurants for dinner.
The Going Out Gurus: Near the Avalon, Arucola is likely to please. If it's early in the day and you want something more downscale, but tasty, try the deli at Pumpernickels. -- Maura
For Ex-pat's girlfriend: Make sure he knows that DC United are playing an exhibition against Spurs on May 14th at RFK. Whether he likes or hates the North Londoners - he'll probably be interested. The Going Out Gurus: And Blackburn Rovers later this summer, too.
Polyphonic Whatever: How come you didn't say the Trachtenburg Family is opening for this show? They are the greatest, worth the price of admission alone. The Going Out Gurus: "Do you know what I mean?"
I think you do, P.W., I think you do. I was lucky enough to the see the Fam play a matinee in January. Half the audience was eight year old girls, have were hard-hearted adult-types like me: all of us mesmerized by the performance. For the uninitiated, The Trachtenburg Family Slideshow Players is a trio: umm, the Trachtenburg Family: Mum operates the projector, Dad plays keyboards and sings, little Rachel (age 9? if that old) plays drums. They write kooky off-kilter lyrics and some quite lovely pop songs inspired by found collections of slides, hence ditties like "Mountain Trip to Japan." I wasn't sure it was a conceit that would last the afternoon, but the pleasure of that concert lives on and on! As nutty as squirrels, the TFSP opens for Polyphonic Spree on Tuesday, June 10; Corn Mo (beats me as to what that is) opens the next night. -- Kate
Wings at Recessions: I'll second that. Crispy and gots flavor and the hot sauce kicks a bit too. Another big beer for me, please. The Going Out Gurus: When they're so cheap, how can you say no?
Cafe!: I'm totally with the Starbucks hater. They use a cannibalistic business model around here by positioning stores in area that are so saturated with other Starbucks that they have little chance to succeed, but also just close enough to small, independent stores to cause them to fold or lose a great deal of market. Starbucks at 20th&P v. Soho, Starbucks at Fresh Fields v. Sparky's, Starbucks at Conn&K v. Brothers (?) and Firehook... (Also see a similar theme in Chipotle opening up essentially next to the Burro, Kemp Mill opening next to Melody, and on and on.) I do vote with my wallet, but I'm only one person. And, unfortunately, it really seems that the vast majority of people would prefer homogenized, bland businesses that serve up things exactly the same way here as they do in Chicago, Phoenix, Miami, San Francisco, and Cape Cod. How dull. The Going Out Gurus: Indeed. Another cup?
Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: Are there any field hockey summer leagues in the DC area? I used to play in one near Annapolis, but that has become too much of a trek. Much thanks! The Going Out Gurus: Try the US Field Hockey Association, for local club teams.
Carnival Lover: Oooh, i love carnivals. Is it open during the day this weekend? The Going Out Gurus: Yup. Hours are noon-midnight Saturday and 1-11 Sunday. It'll cost you a buck to get in, then you pay for rides.
Rosslyn, Va.: I work next to Continental and love Bedrock/Atomic/Buffalo, so I was excited to check the place out with the office crew. The decor IS sweet, but my coworkers have panned the food (overpriced small portions) and other kinks are still being worked out. The 1/2 priced burger Wednesday is intriguing, though. Also, with that location, how do they expect to stay around? The Going Out Gurus: I dunno how long they'll be around, D.C., but they've had decent happy hour crowds when I've been through, and Rosslyn is pretty starved for anything to do after work or in the evenings.
The portions are small -- in theory, you're supposed to order several and share (like Jaleo). If you're hungry, it doesn't work so well. -- Fritz
Washington, DC: Who has the best jukebox in DC? These new all-access, mp3 boxes are kind of cool, but I'm talking old-school, sometimes you have to hunt to get that last song for your dollar kind of jukebox. The Going Out Gurus: Fritz likes the machines at Bedrock and the Raven. And I have to agree. Bedrock's is particularly Brit-filled. The majesty of the collection at the Big Hunt's list is almost enough to get me in the door. What's your favorite? -- Kate
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Why can't I find a decent, not elaborate breakfast/brunch in Dupont? My parents are coming to town and we've done Kramerbooks one too many times. The Going Out Gurus: It's so easy to forget Teaism, so quietly tucked away there. And I always love Luna Grill and Diner, south of the circle.
Best Jukebox: Pharmacy Bar! Pharmacy Bar! Pharmacy Bar! The Going Out Gurus: Okay! Okay! Okay!
They have Dexter Gordon on there, so they get props.
Falls Church, Va.: Hey Gurus, I am trying to plan a Happy Hour for my college alumni chapter. Since I live in the burbs, I am at a loss of where to have it in D.C.. Do you have suggestions of a few places that could accomodate 30-60 people for a happy hour, and that do not charge a lot of extra fees or covers? THANKS!! The Going Out Gurus: Party locations.
Fish & Chips: Not sure if they've got good chips there, but a Guru might know - what about the Royal Mile in Wheaton? The Going Out Gurus: They're pretty good, but I don't recall the chips being exceptional. I know some people love the curry chips at Fado, but I don't think they're quite right. -- Fritz
Eeeewwww Starbucks!: All there coffees are overroasted, lacking real character. If the previous poster doesn't want to feed the evil corporate green monster, might I suggest Caribou at 14th & RI or 17th & L. They are a privately held company that does not franchise (in order to maintain product quality). AND......their coffees come in (get this) small, medium and large.......... The Going Out Gurus: What do you do if you want a grande?
Hoboken, NJ, formerly Bethesda: RE: Radiohead They will be in the states 6/7-6/8 for the Field Day Festival on Long Island along with Beastie Boys, The Roots, Theivery Corp. and tons of others. So a show is DC a few nights after wouldn't be too far fetched. Just fanning the flames. The Going Out Gurus: Cue Timex Social Club: "I ain't got no time for rumors in my life ..."
Good Jukebox: I like Zack's. LOTS of variety. The Going Out Gurus: True dat. Aerosmith, AC/DC, Patsy Cline, old blues ... about as diverse as the clientele -- which is quite a spectrum.
Washington, DC: Any other drinking establishments besides the bars at the Willard and Eciti that are holding Derby-themed events? Would love to watch the race in a fun atmosphere with other fans, but don't wanna pay $25. Thanks. The Going Out Gurus: Any sports bar worth its Bud Lite should have the race on an army of TVs, but it never hurts to call ahead. I just called Old Glory (they have 70 plus bourbons for juleps) and they're showing it. Old Glory won't offer any specials and peeps might look at you funny if you wear a seersucker suit, but there's no additional fee. And hell, there's a menu of barbecue. -- Kate
Polyphonic Whatever, Again....: Kate has gotta be the best guru....she was at Underdog, and has seen the TFSP....anyone can find out about beer, Kate has real taste. The Going Out Gurus: Agreed. She's lovely. And that wraps up another week of fun and games with the Going Out Gurus. Join us next week for more interesting discussions, won't you?
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