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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, May 3, 2001; 1 p.m. EDT

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. EST, 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've got 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.

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, pleasure seekers to the live discussion that soothes the what-to-do blues. Ready to trade tips are local experts: Alexa Beattie (Restaurants), Fritz Hahn (Nightlife), Joe Heim (Music), Maura McCarthy (Museums), Anne Kenderdine, Jen Chaney and Rhome Anderson (all three, Magna Cum Laude in cool events and locations). I'm Kate Gibbs, this week's host.

A parcel of us will be in The Plains, Va., on Saturday for the running of the Gold Cup and the filling of our own. We'll be taking snapshots of the horse-faced and the hatted, posting them online early next week. Also on tap for the weekend: Toots and the Maytals, two shades of Gray: Spalding and David, and of course Cinco de Mayo (many celebrations starting Friday night 'round happy hour).

Who's on first?

Metro Center, DC: Hi Gurus! Any advice for celebrating cinqo de mayo on Saturday night? I'd like to try to find a place in DC for a small group of thirty year olds that won't be too crowded. Good food and margaritas essential. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Good food and margaritas? Not just cheap drinks? Well, that's separating the wheat from the chaff. Fritz here. We'd say Jaleo, Red Sage, Austin Grill and Thunder Grill. Those should also have an older crowd than you'll find at, say, Lulu's or Tequila Grill.

Reston, Va: Hey Gurus--

Got a first date coming up this weekend, and I was thinking about hitting two or three museums in the District. Are there any don't-miss exhibits that have recently opened?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Reston. This is Maura. There a number of shows in town that might be fun for you and your date. The newest big show to hit town is Cy Twombly at the National Gallery, but I think you might be better off wandering the permanent galleries there. A great little show - Beautiful Bodies - just opened at The National Museum of African Art. It is next door to their larger exhibition Encounters with the Contemporary, a terrific show on a bit larger scale. Just down the Mall the William Kentridge show closes at the Hirshhorn in two weeks. If you haven't seen it yet, it is well worth a visit, but plan to stay a while. It is quite lengthy. Also, the Newseum's stunning Pulitzer Prize Photography show closes this weekend. Take a peek at our comings and goings for the month of May for more ideas and have a great time.

Cleveland Park, DC: Well, Gurus, I am confused, and want an explanation.Can you help?

Here's the story - at a local Irish place last week. A nice place, really, if a bit divey. Musicians on stage, beer and cider all around. (Burgers too, but that was earlier) It's about 11:30, and we're hanging around for the drinks and the music, when in comes a large group, including a child of about 9. Suddenly, the musicians stop the banter and the insinuating songs that has been a portion of the entertainment, and begin just playing straight ballads. It's late in the evening, and we've been enjoying being silly between ballads. Why did they change? "There's a kid here - gotta keep it family friendly!" Hmph. More like boring!

This led to some discussion among our group. We range in age from 25-40, there were 6 or 7 of us there that night. Here's the question that baffled us all.

This places checks id's at the door. If you're not 21, you can't come in. Is this a matter of law, or simply conveniece for the place? And as a followup, so if it isn't law, how can they say "No one under 21," then let in a 9ish child without it being discrimination?

See, we have some under 21 friends who can't come along with us to some places, including this one, because of this policy, and frankly, we are bothered by the attitude that kids in an adult establishment are ok, but young adults aren't. We want to be able to all hang out together more often! (Ok, we're also annoyed that when a group chose to bring a child into an adult estabishment, despite knowing that it was a bar with entertainment, the place had to change to suit the ONE child in the place.)

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. Yep - this happens. And we've heard about it before, mostly from people who have friends under 21. No, there's no law that says you have to be 21 to get into a bar. Bars set limits themselves to try to cut down on underage drinking.

Let's look at this situation: It's an Irish pub. If you go to Ireland and get out of Dublin, you'll see children in smaller village pubs. It's a way of life there, and it's nice that there's a touch of it here. I can see why you'd be annoyed, though - this is the first time I'm heard of the band changing their material for a "family" audience.

Here's the story: Kids don't try to buy Guinness. And some 19-year-olds do, or would have their 21-year-old friends get it for them. Then the bar gets in trouble. You know what they say about one bad apple. Also, don't forget, these kids have parental supervision. Most 18-year-olds in Nanny's wouldn't. Everyone acts differently around their parents - I know I do.

Beltsville, Md.: Are there any country line-dancing places in the Maryland area?

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. One of our writers went out line dancing and brought back this report.

Arlington, VA: We're doing some bar hopping downtown this weekend, from the 14th & F area by the White to the MCI Chinatown area. We've got a number of places in our sights already...Red Sage for pre-Cinco de Mayo tequila to start and Fado later on...Any can't miss places you'd recommend in that area?

The Going Out Gurus: Arlington, Alexa here. In collaboration with my friend Fritz, we offer you these ideas: Coco Loco is having free Mexican food at happy hour on Friday and Margarita specials on Sat. The Chop House is in that area too. Or how's about the Oceanaire Seafood Room where the cocktails are massive and the oysters slippery.

Super Fruity Fun Frozen Drink Land: My best friend and I are having a girls' night out tomorrow evening, and she has specifically requested "someplace fun..where they serve fruity fun frozen drinks!!!!!!" We live in Arlington/Alexandria, but are thinking of a DC locale. Can you help?

The Going Out Gurus: You know, I think I was in Super Fruity Fun Frozen Drink Land once, but I got kicked out when I tried to order a Miller High Life. Anyway, this is Jen and I think having frozen drinks with the girls sounds like a great way to start a sunny weekend. In terms of recommendations, I urge you to take a look at the Island Drinks feature, which suggests a number of tiki-oriented bars that may very well fit your frozen drink bill. (Some of the D.C.-based suggestions in the article include Third Edition and Island Jim's Crab Shack and Tiki Bar). Two other suggestions: the bars at the Georgetown harbor (Sequoia, etc.) serve frozen drinks, if memory serves. They're on the generic, straight-out-of-a-machine side, but the atmosphere should compensate. And if you just want fruity drinks that aren't necessarily frozen, my friends and I have had a good time at Yenching Palace - just order a round of wacky beverages, set 'em up on the lazy susan in the center of the table and let the fun begin.

20016: There weather looks fabulous for the weekend! And so, I want to find a nice place to have happy hour outside! I'm up at Ward Circle most days, and would be willing and able to get myself to anywhere around here, Cleveland Park, Woodely Park, Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, U Street, Brookland, and if I had to, I suppose Foggy Bottom or even Capitol Hill. Do you have any suggestions for places with food specials (or just good snack-type food) and maybe drink specials where we could hang out OUTSIDE!

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz again. I wrote a piece on places to drink outdoors, but lots of places don't really have happy hour specials. Here are some that do.
In Adams Morgan, there's Toledo Lounge for $2 drafts and $3 rails, the rooftop deck at Madam's Organ, or the large patio at Adams Mill Bar and Grill. In Dupont, we like Lauriol Plaza - even though there aren't any deals, you can't beat the patio. And you might want to try arriving early at the Fox and Hounds to snag one of their outdoor tables and $2.25 rails or bottles. In Woodley, try Murphy's of DC or even the Zoo Bar. Both have good-sized outdoor eating areas. And in Brookland, there's Island Jim's, where you can put your feet in the sand while sipping drinks and eating seafood.

Just remember that everyone has the same ideas about eating outside this weekend, so get there early.

dc: So what's going on with the Washington Monument? Is it open? What hours? Tickets required? Are they done with it yet?

Oh, and while I'm on that subject (tourist-stuff, that is), I know that members of Congress can provide, with enough advance notice, special tickets for White House tours and Capitol tours for theri constituents. As a DC resident, are these things available to me? Should I get in touch with Ms. Norton's office, or am I shut out?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC. If you stop by Delegate Norton's office on the hill, you can get passes to the House Gallery. By booking in advance, her office (or any representative's office) can help you with tickets for a Capitol tour, passes to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and the White House. I (Maura) just spoke to someone there - quite friendly as a matter of fact - and she advised you call 202/225-8050 to reserve tickets/passes in advance, as they only have a limited number. As for the Washington Monument, it is still closed. The Park Service expects it will reopen at the end of this month. We will keep you posted.

Alexandria, VA: Given how nice the weekend is going to be I was wanting to find a good bar in DC with either good outside or rooftop seating. Any reccomendations?

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. We've gotten several questions about this. Refer to the answer above about outdoor happy hours, and check this piece on our favorite outdoor decks, patios and rooftops.

Heavenly on Capitol Hill: Hi everyone!

I just learned that Radiohead will be playing in the Washington area August 11-12...at Bull Run. Um, where is that?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello Heavenly, Joe here. That is indeed the rumor, but I just checked with a couple of people at Bull Run and they tell me that nothing is set in stone (ie, the contracts haven't been signed and there are still some questions about whether these shows will happen, at least at this location.) As soon as we know more, we'll post the info on our music page. Bull Run, by the way, is in Centreville, VA.

USA: Where's a great place for a single to enjoy their birthday by themselves, with overnight stay in the area? (in August)

The Going Out Gurus: Hello big ol' USA. Alexa here. If you're dining solo, we suggest splashing out a bit and getting in on a "chef's" table. I'm not quite sure how it works, but suppose you would call and find out if there happened to be any spaces left. Check out Laboratorio del Galileo, Citronelle for starters. These aren't cheap mind you, but are well worth the treat if you can afford it. Otherwise, you could sit at the long communal table at Neyla, or up at the "bar" that looks over the kitchen at Olives. Yes, I like those ideas.

LAUREL: give me a suggestion on what to do for a evening out. Something different from dinner and a movie

The Going Out Gurus: Yeah, Laurel! I (Anne) applaud your energy to boycott the generica of multiplex and Route 1 chain restaurants. For inventive evenings, I'm thinking of venues near you, since I don't know what kinds of evenings out you like. You could get prepped for Saturday's Derby with rowdy gambling at Laurel Park or get your laugh on at Jokes on Us Comedy Club. At least one D.C. native funnyman started out there - this Friday and Saturday at 8:30, they're holding auditions for the person to open Cedric the Entertainer's new tour. For a more romantic night out, visit the Montpelier Cultural Arts Center. Their spring jazz series just ended last Friday, but the fall one starts in mid-September. Sunday, from noon to 6 is their spring fair. But to really jazz up a monotonous night out, first stop at Cipriano Dancewear (301/490-6663) and outfit yourself with a wig and a wild costume. Then hit Route 1.

Downtown DC: I'm going to Gold Cup on Saturday and was wondering what exactly to expect. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, Downtown. Gold Cup is definitely an event. Whether it is your type of event or not, check out this preview. The annual steeplechase race has become quite the place to see and be seen. You don't have to don your hat a la Ascot, but if you do I (Maura) think you'll fit right in. People tailgate, mix, mingle and definitely people watch. We at the Entertainment Guide will be putting together a photo gallery of everyone in their Gold Cup finery early next week. Hey, maybe we will see you there. Have fun!

Capitol Hill: Hi. I'm new to the area and am a big fan of Brazilian jazz/bossa nova. Can you recommend any good singers or groups that I should check out, and where they perform?

The Going Out Gurus: When I, Rhomie-Rhome, am not ensconced in headphones with Cal Tjader and Sergio Mendes, I venture forth to Chi-Cha Lounge for the sounds of Patrick de Santos or Bossalingo. Chi-Cha has live latin music 5 nights of the week I believe, so make sure you pick up their schedule to see who else is playing. Drum dynamo Mark Prince has an ensemble playing there that I highly recommend (if he isn't on tour now). Patrick plays everywhere and all the time (hence no time to put a record out), he's an affable and animated cat, ask him where he'll be next when you see him. Also on U-Street is Utopia which features Pam Bricker's group and Cafe Nema where you can find Patricia Zarate.

After getting my boogie on at Habana Village one night, I spied a samba band getting busy next door at Tom Brazil. Call or stop by and inquire within.

Head out to Woodley and check for Aroma, which is frequented by Young & Rollins and others. Not specifically bossa/Brazilian, but they meld genres pretty seamlessly, as do most of the artists I mentioned.

DC: Thanks for the kids-in-pubs expanation Fritz. That's what we figured, but it really does bother us. The 9:30 has has 18 and above shows for years with minimal problems. I always wonder why other places can't do that too! (Oh, and we've seen the band clean up the act when a kid walked in at the Dubliner too - about a year ago, I think. Maybe longer.)

Now, on to the next question:

Last week, while brunching at Polly's, we noted a sign for Twins Jazz. Does this mean that the move of Twins to U St is happening? What's going in up on Colorado Ave, where they are now?

The Going Out Gurus: Hey - The Twins move has been touch and go for a while, due to lack of money (i.e. rent on U Street is a lot higher than Colorado Ave.) When we last asked them about it, the Tesfaye sisters told us they wanted to move by this summer. We'll give them a call and report back next week.

Nathan, Va.: A couple of friends and I want to take a roadtrip somewhere relatively close. Two hours each way -- preferably a beach. Any ideas?

The Going Out Gurus: Online Travel editor Ben Abramson here: Since it takes at least 2 1/2 hours to get to Ocean City or Rehoboth, your best options are on the Chesapeake Bay. On the west side of the bay, consider Point Lookout and Calvert Cliffs, nice state parks on the water, plus you can have a seafood dinner at Solomon's Island while you're down there. But be advised that although the bay is swimmable, the water can be a bit brackish.

Another option with similar scenery, on the other side of the Bay Bridge, is Tilghman Island, with the option to eat and stroll in St. Michael's along the way. Follow these links for more info.

Point Lookout: http://yp.washingtonpost.com/E/V/WASDC/0025/07/42/cs1.html
Calvert Cliffs: http://yp.washingtonpost.com/E/V/WASDC/0025/07/33/cs1.html
Tilghman Island: http://yp.washingtonpost.com/E/V/WASDC/0025/07/43/cs1.html

Alexandria, VA: Hey Gurus! Any fun places you like to go for NY Style Pizza in the area? Big, floppy, greasy slices are a plus!

The Going Out Gurus: Alexa here, Alexandria. Pizza Movers on 18th Street for one. AV Ristorante for two.

Springfield, VA: Are there any day trips to some interesting places (like antiques shops, etc.) from Springfield by bus?

The Going Out Gurus: Hurrah for public transportation and hurrah for fun questions, Springfield. We like them. The first thing I (Anne) would do is check out your county recreation or parks department. Several counties in the area offer day bus trips to nifty locations. You can sign up for a monthly or quarterly newsletter that lists all their trips. The pre-planned trip with a chartered bus is probably the best way to go if you're interested in antiquing, because small, quaint town usually doesn't equal massive public transportation centers. Good luck, and let us know what treasures you find.

Somewhere, USA: Hi: We are from New York City and need to plan to rehearsal dinner for Saturday night, October 27 for approximately 60-70 people. We are looking for a place, preferably in the NW part of the DC area, or Chevy Chase, but it could be within a 20-30 minute drive towards or around the city. The tough part is we can only spend between $40-$50 per person all inclusive, including wine beer and soda, tax and tip. Preferable in a private room. The bride's side of the family are mostly doctors, so we don't want too casual. but something that looks respectable and appropriate.

I hope this is the right place to ask. Thanks, and hope you reply.

Very truly yours, Robert Greneman

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, this is Jen. It's not super-easy to find a rehearsal dinner space for the price you mentioned, but it's by no means impossible. You'll obviously need to call around to determine price, but I know Old Ebbitt Grill has private rooms and, I believe, they are within the price range you're seeking (again, call to be sure). I'd also recommend Maggiano's in Chevy Chase; however, I believe you have to pay a minumum amount regardless of the number of people attending. Call to find out more - if it fits in your budget, it's a good option. Explore Sequoia (pretty private spaces) and Occidental Grill (great view of D.C.) as well. Lastly, if you don't mind heading to downtown Bethesda, you might consider Positano's. My fiance and I are hosting our rehearsal dinner there in (yikes!) two weeks. We liked it because the private spaces are quite lovely and the management lets you choose between a wide variety of menus at differing prices. You could easily have your event there and come under budget, depending on which menu you choose. Best of luck and enjoy the rest of your wedding plans!

dc: Solo dining on birthday -

There's also the bar at Cashion's - a great place to eat, and you can interact or not with the bartender, and lotsa people watching!

I've also enjoyed dining alone at many other nice restaurants, generally at the bar. (My partner travels a lot.)

Tom Seitseema (I think I just butchered that spelling) has addressed this question in his discussion in the past, and has several places that he recommends for bar/counter dining, and for single patrons. Looking at his transcripts would be very helpful for this person, I think.

The Going Out Gurus: That's so nice and helpful of you, dc, we thank you. Those transcipts can be found here.

Washington DC: How about a few tips on good corporate summer outings? My company's a bit tired of the "company picnic" and we're looking for something to take the whole place to. Any cool suggestions? Might be worthwhile to do an article on company activities!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC, thanks for the idea. We'll put our heads together. I'm assuming you're already tired with Smokey Glen Farm? I (Anne) think that's where every corporation in the area hosts their summer picnic. How big is your company and how much do you want to spend? If it's small enough, you could rent a pavilion in a local park (their rules may prohibit alcohol though) or take over a restaurant. What about a celebratory afternoon at Six Flags or Dave 'n' Busters? The Clarendon Ballroom is also big enough to handle a few hundred. Let's hear some more ideas from the crowd.

Boston: Will be in town this weekend... any advice for a couple of gay men on places to go?

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. Your best bets are around Dupont Circle, where our picks are JR's (packed with professional men) and Chaos (much more uninhibited, great bar, drag show on Saturdays and Hollywood look-alike drag brunch on Sundays). Mr. P's is also fun. For something more low-key, there's live jazz at Mr. Henry's on Capitol Hill.

On Saturday, Velvet Nation (at Nation) is throwing a "fabulously fruity" Cinco de Mayo party, and their events are always a treat. This time, they're offering DJ Abel (from South Beach, Miami) and Latin go-go boys. Around the corner is Wet, which is one of the best all-male, all-nude strip clubs in the area.

Baltimore, Md.: WWRC's "Business News" format seems to have taken over WGAY's "Music of Your Life" at 1260 AM. Did M-O-Y-L leave the Washington radio market?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello Baltimore, Rhome here. Click on this for what Frank Ahrens has to say about WGAY.

Severn MD: RE: Irish bar last weekend

I was in that same bar and I thought the whole thing was kind of cool - exactly because it was like being at a pub in Ireland. The kid did some Irish dancing and it seemed as though everyone was having a great time. The music changed a bit - but they still were playing good irish tunes that were fun and you could dance to and they still played requests.
And the point made about the 18 year olds drinking is true. Having managed a bar, I would much rather see a 9 year old with parental supervision - or even without, with no chance of getting served bc he's 9 - than an 18 - 20 year old, who may or may not get served, and I may or may not be able to tell they are not 21. That's the way it is in the US, and I, as a bar owner, certainly don't want to get fined or lose my bar just so people can hang out with their underaged friends at my place - its not worth it, financially or legalley. Now we could get into a discusiion on the drinking age, but for now, there are places that allow under and over 21s, and if you want to mingle, you should go to one of them.
Thansk for letting me say my piece!

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the comments.

WDC: For the rehersal dinner...Try Chef Geoffs. We considered them for ours. They have a nice private back room, and if the weather is nice a big pation ajoins it. Food is pretty good. If you do a fixed price they have some nice options to choose from and they are pretty helpful in getting you what you want. Also I love the fact that these guys have brought a nice neighborhhod restaurant to an area that had none, and they are making a go of it!

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, WDC. Another good suggestion for our October bride and groom.

Margaritaville????: Where's the best place in town to get a margarita? I need one desparately after this hellish week at work! Metro accessible is ideal. Thanks so much.

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. We've thought (and fought) about this in the office several times. We couldn't decide on the "best" margarita in the city, but we did come up with this list.

McLean: Gurus-

The Maryland Irish Festival was last weekend, I was wondering if there was one that took place in Virginia? Do you happen to know when the Scottish Festival is??

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: McLean, Alexa here. The Scottish festival you are thinking about takes place on the grounds of Episcopal High School in Alexandria in - get this - August. We shall have all the information you need as we get a little nearer.

washington DC: great dates?

The Going Out Gurus: All the time, buddy, all the time. Kate here, and I have a few tricks up my sleeves:
Dining out:
AV's Ristorante: DC's best (and only) opera juke box and NY-style pizza. This place is full of character, short of menu, vegetarian friendly and lactose-intolerant intolerant.

Sushi Taro at 17th and P: offers a busy, theatrical counter (fun first date with lots to watch and talk about) and quiet tatami corners (second date, plus).

Going Out:
Preview performances at the Studio Theatre: You'll have to wait for the opening weekend of "Jitney" (May 16) but it's pay-what-you-can.

The balcony at the Uptown -- as of tomorrow it's "The Mummy Returns" so be warned: at least for the first week you'll have to share the space with 12-year old boys.

See if you can't find the revolving bar, called the Sky View, I think, at the top of the Doubletree in Crystal City. It looks like a pod, and plays host to an odd assortment of locals and travellers especially at Sunday night's karaoke.

Making Out:
The Einstein Planetarium. But I don't kill and tell.

Washington, DC: My 7 year old niece is visiting me in DC all next week. Any suggestions on great things to do with a child this age?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Washington. Sounds like you have a fun, if maybe exhausting, week ahead. What a lucky niece. I (Maura) must first give you an obvious, but must-see answer - the Zoo. If you can go during the week, you will beat some of the crowds (a big plus in my book). We just did a piece on babies at the zoo and don't forget the pandas. There were lots of little ones at the Star Wars: Art of the Starfighter exhibition opening last weekend at Arts and Industries. Next Saturday the Hirshhorn holds a family festival with all sorts of hands on activities. The Museum of American History is always one of my favorites for little ones and she might enjoy the Paint-by-Number show as much as you do. A paddle boat ride might be fun for the two of you as well. Check out our kid-o-rama guide and see for yourself

In dire straits: I need your help...it's my anniversary and I want to take my girlfriend out for dinner. She has a very touchy stomach due to an ailment and so she usually eats the blandest food possible. We usually go out to places like Clyde's so she can have something plain and I can be a bit more adventurous (relatively speaking...it is Clyde's after all). I'd like to take her somewhere nice but a lot of really nice places, like Nora or Kinkead's, would make her really sick. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Straits, Alexa here. What about somewhere like Grillfish, or Oceanaire where you can custom order how your food comes - grilled, broiled, sauteed, sauce, no sauce etc.

Bethesda, MD: My husband and I are curious about trying out the jazz scene on U Street this Friday night. Who is playing this Friday at Bohemian Caverns or Republic Gardens. What kind of jazz do they play?

The Going Out Gurus: Rhome sez: "Yes Bethesda, the city beckons you." Bohemian Caverns is a good first choice and make their listings available here. My cubicle mate Fritz makes my job easy when he turns out round-ups like this. As an addition, I'd also advise you to check The Saloon. And let us all beat a sad tattoo for the demise of BET on Jazz.

WDC: Humph. It's either an adult venue, a kids venue, or a mixed venue. Shouldn't be expected to be all things, and really, those of us who would rather spend our time with adults should be able to do so, just as those who want to take their kids along should have places to do so.

The Going Out Gurus: Then be forewarned: One Monday a month, and we think it's the second one, Nanny's hosts a kid's jam session. Guess you want to avoid this, no?

Arlington, VA: On this whole Irish theme, why do singers and bands in the so-called Irish bars in the D.C. area INSIST on playing that ridiculous unicorn song? Never has this song been sung in Ireland. At least when they play Country Roads, they don't try to pass it off as Irish.

The Going Out Gurus: We're stumped.

Alexandria, VA: For the gay guys from Boston....you may want to check out Secrets/Ziegfield's in SE. One side, Secrets, is a strip bar. The other side, Ziegfield's, is a club with two drag shows nightly on the weekend hosted by the always entertaining Ms. Ella Fitzgerald.

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. Good call - I think Eric Brace was telling me how much he enjoyed that show.

More for rehersal dinner person.: The occidental Grill is great, that's where we are having our's next friday (ahhhhh!) but it is not even close to $40 or $50 per person. The cheapest of the choices for the meals is $58 (it goes up from there)and that just the food, not drinks, tax, tip, flowers.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the tip. Anyone else have an inside scoop on rehersal dinners?

maryland: Corporate Outing:

Try a charter boat ride out of Annapolis? They have some good deals. We'll be going there at the end of this month for a 2 hour boat cruise and then lunch at Phillips and a walk around the shops of Annapolis. Well worth looking into.

The Going Out Gurus: Are you hiring?

20010: Do you all know of any good flea markets within an hour or three of downtown DC? I'm looking for furniture and depression glass, and would really like to find some fun places to look for them!

The Going Out Gurus: One of the largest and best ones I (Janet Bennett) know (and
it’s a pretty drive on a spring day to get there) is on Route 340 in West
Virginia. It’s open only on the weekends and is filled with all sorts of
knickknacks. Can’t vouch for Depression glass, but I wouldn’t be surprised.
It’s about an hour and a half from downtown D.C.

Arlington, Va.: Any idea when Madonna tickets will go on sale?

The Going Out Gurus: hello Arlington, Joe again. Well, there hasn't been an official announcement, but on the sfx.com website, the ticket sale date is listed as May 21. The sfx site also shows a second MCI date for Madonna on August 11. Again, none of this has been confirmed by either Madonna's publicist or the MCI Center.

Boise, Idaho: I will be in Washington DC from May 3 to May 10. I have my days planned, but what about at night??

What can you recommend for night activities?

The Going Out Gurus: Today's May 3, so you must either be on your way or already here, Boise. In either case, welcome to Washington. My name is Jen and I'll be your guide, at least to helping you figure out what to do in the evenings besides watching "Name That Video."
Some options to consider: if you're at all interested in theater, you could see "Beauty and the Beast" at the Kennedy Center or, if you like your productions on a smaller, more profane scale, "American Buffalo" is at the Source Theatre. Don't know if you're a Sting fan, but it appears there are still tickets for his concert (he's joined by Jill Scott) on Saturday night at MCI Center. Of course, you might just want to spend your evenings putting your finger on the pulse of the city. Stroll around in Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Adams Morgan or in the Old Town Alexandria. You can pop in and out of interesting shops and maybe grab a bite or a drink. I'm sure you're planning to do the touristy thing during the day, but do take part of an evening to visit The Mall and its surrounding monuments at night. It's an even more magical place once the sun goes down.

Arlington: Off to NYC for the weekend. Any suggestion for good (and reasonable) eats (casual atmosphere)? Anyone have a Chinatown or Little Italy favorite?

The Going Out Gurus: The Travel section just did a big spread on NY; here's their roundup of new restaurants. And while it's too late for your trip this weekend, next time you have an outside-the-beltway question, chime in to the weekly Travel discussion.

washington dc: Hey Gurus,
Did any of you see the Fugazi shows last week? We got to post our reviews, but what about yours'? Any thoughts? And any idea when their next album will be out? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: No one here got tickets for the 9:30 Club shows, but Joe and Fritz got tickets for the Sacred Heart show. Good mix of powerful old songs and some interesting new directions for the new material. As for the new album, Eric Brace is lining up a live discussion with Ian MacKaye sometime in May. Keep checking back for more info.

WDC: For the person going to NYC.

I China town go to Joe's Shanghai (downtown, not uptown - its not as good) look at what everyone else is ordering and enjoy. As far as Italian food, don't eat in Little Italy would be my advice.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks

DC: For the rehersal dinner--
Why don't you look into booking the Chevy Chase Ladies club and have the diner catered? It could end up being less expensive if you get the approriate caterer.

The Going Out Gurus: Another good (and potentially money-saving) rehearsal dinner suggestion, thanks.

Fairfax: My husband and I are looking for a place to have a nice anniversary dinner. We were considering L'Auberge Chez Francois, but it's almost impossible to get a decent reservation. Last I called, the earliest table they had was at 9:30 (great if you don't have to worry about getting a babysitter), and the next weekend they have openings is in June and they won't take reservations for that weekend until MAY 12! So, can you suggest anything comparable?

The Going Out Gurus: If you're talking about atmosphere, Fairfax, I (Alexa) think you should try 1789 or outside at the Old Angler. Neither of those, however, are French. Will that pose a problem?

DC: I'm sick of supporting major league baseball - they've taken the fun out (especially my once beloved Orioles. Peter Angelos - BAH!)

Now, I'm looking for good minor league baseball, reasonably close. Where should I start?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi DC. I (Maura) think there are plenty out there who feel your pain. Minor league baseball can be found, if only for a bit of a drive. Two of the closest teams are the Bowie Baysox and the < a href= http://yp.washingtonpost.com/E/G/WASDC/0000/01/66/cs1.html>Frederick Keys. Also in Woodbridge you can find the Potomac Cannons. Minor league games are usually a blast and it doesn't look like Angelos will be doing you any favors anytime soon, but what do I know, I'm a Cubs fan.

20016: They play that annoying Unicorn Song because the Dubliners recorded it, and now, drunken sorority girls think it's Irish and request it. (Note: I've never heard it played at the Dubliner!)

The Going Out Gurus: I was never in a sorority!

Centreville, VA: Hello Guru's.... I need to get in touch with my Spanish music while I am passing through the area. Where would you recommend that I go to dance some salsa and merengue?

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. My favorite salsa spots are Saturday nights at Oasis in Silver Spring with Orquesta Melao, Relish (also on Saturdays, and Cecilia's in Arlington, which has live bands playing salsa and merengue on Friday and Saturday nights. Habana Village and Latin Jazz Alley, both in Adams-Morgan, are always good bets.

Dupont Circle: I'm totally broke this weekend. Are there any good freebies??

The Going Out Gurus: Fancy free summertime wonders, coming up, sez Anne: if pollen's no object, there's the Cathedral Flower Mart. You have to pay for food and carnival stuff or to buy plants, but there's also stone-carving and cooking demonstrations, an organ recital and the Cathdral tower climbs at 9:30 am and 3:30 pm. Saturday. As Liz Phair sang, "Cinco de Mayo" is here. Celebrate for free at the Maru Montero Dance Company's festival with salsa lessons, music and dance at the Organization of American States, 11-6 on Saturday. And, to actually make some money, audition tomorrow to be on "The Weakest Link"game show.

Washington DC: Where's the wildest Cinco De Mayo party this weekend?

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz here. The wildest is going to be at Lulu's on Saturday. They're trying to get in the Guinness Book for the longest tequila slam, so they're giving everyone a free shot of tequila at 8 p.m. Add drink specials and free food and that's a recipe for, um, a good time.

Of course, there's also they Cinco de Mayo party at Velvet Nation. Those parties get pretty damn crazy.

Vienna, Virginia: Where can I get information about local estate sales for this weekend? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Try Friday and Saturday's classifieds. And go with the knowledge that people start to line-up outside at 6 a.m. to get tickets to go inside. The good ones let no more than 25 people in at one time and you have to wait outside with me (Kate) until your number is called.

DC: My boyfriend is finally not working this Saturday. We want to go out to Great Falls. Which is better Md. or Va.? Also best way to get there from Georgetown? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC. Well, I (Maura) am partial to the Maryland side, but I think both are great and have a lot to offer, depending on what you like to do. Check out these profiles of the Maryland and Virginia sides and see for yourself. Both records should have directions, although Georgetown to Maryland is quite simple - just take McArthur out to Maryland through Glen Echo and follow the signs.

McLean, Va: Hi, there. I'm hoping that you can help me. I'm new to the area and I'm looking for a good rock and roll bar kind of place. Something with a bit older crowd, not the 20 somethings I normally find. I've been to 9:30 and to the Birchmere. Any other ideas? Just something with a good bar band.

Thanks for your help.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi McLean, Joe here. Iota is pretty reliable, though it has a lot of folk and country acts, so check first. The Black Cat if you're looking for something edgier. Metro Cafe is a great place to see a band, but check their schedul as they occasionally do theater nights and dance nights. Fritz recommends Cowboy Cafe and Galaxy Hut.

Alexandria, VA: Hi! I am looking for a club in the DC area that plays 80's retro music. Not 80's pop, but somewhere you can hear The Smiths, Pixies, Ministry, etc. Any recommendations? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Alexandria, Jen here, the same gal who hosted a radio show at William & Mary called "Cheezin' Through the '80s." As I'm sure you know, it's much harder to find '80s alternative music at the clubs than it is to find pop of the Soft Cell variety. Your best bet is to hit Metro Cafe when it's hosting Panic, an alternative '80s and Britpop dance night currently scheduled on the last Friday of each month. The cover's just $3 and you're likely to hear all of the artists that make you want to dance (but not in a Kevin Bacon, "Footloose" kinda way). Also consider Bliss, another dance party hosted at Metro Cafe that mixes in some '80s alternative music that will make you yearn for WHFS's good 'ol days.

Arlington/Alexandria Va: Hey ... meeting a girl out tommorow night and not sure what to do. Any ideas? Don't want to do anything on the too romantic or date scene as of yet cuz she just got out of a relationship and doesn't want to get involved w/ anyone else right away. She already hung out with me and some buddies and had a blast. Kinda want to know of some good places that will be lively and we can just chill and have a few drinks and stuff.
I was thinking Old Towne or something.

Any Ideas are appreciated

The Going Out Gurus: Old Town ideas from Alexa? Have you been to Xando for s'mores, held hands over the Bunson burner?
Or the Rock It Grill for a great big hilarious dose of cheese. (Karaoke every night, they say, and dancing too).

Alexandria: Hi: What's up with public transportation between DC and Camden Yards? I'm a huge Mets fan, and I want to take the train up to Baltimore for the game next month, but I'm told that there isn't a train back (?). Have any info?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Alexandria. Kate here. Buy a round-trip ticket in DC when you take the train to the game. And hold on it: 20 minutes after the last pitch a fleet of buses (Greyhound-style) caravan back to Union Station making a quick stop at Greenbelt. It's really easy.

Northern VA. / DC: Know of any good places to go with outdoor decks single or not.

The Going Out Gurus: In Adams-Morgan try: these. In Bethesda, try these rooftops.

Alexandria, VA: The 9:30 Club strictly enforces the drinking age, even with 18-20 year olds in attendance. Went to see a band a few months ago, and one friend (27) forgot his ID. They wouldn't give him an over-21 wristband, so another friend bought him a beer. Both friends were thrown out.

So it is possible to control who drinks and who doesn't.

Also, I grew up in a small village in Ireland (came here in 1992), and there were rarely children in any of the pubs in and around my town. Sunday afternoons, sometimes. But there were never any children in the pub after around 8 or 9 p.m.

The Going Out Gurus: Shame-faced Kate here. I got the boot from the Black Cat recently for a similar situation. I suffered the indignities of huge black X's on my hands but due to a ginger ale/beer confusion me and my group of 5 friends were swiftly shown the door. The good news is that these places are all-ages because they are patrolled as such. I am told I look older than 21, so it must have been the lighting.

Alexandria, Va: Joe - Who else (besides Jaxx) is booking good local metal bands these days?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello Alexandria metal fan. boy, other than Jaxx I really have no idea what clubs are booking local metal bands. Anyone out there have any suggestions?

DC: Any good places to meet single older women?

The Going Out Gurus: Exactly how "older," DC? If it's forties and up, I (Kate) suggest a social club or the Yatch Club of Bethesda. Have you thought about going to the Gold Cup on Saturday? People have been meeting there since 1922.

VA: Hello. Where can I find a list of movies that are open-captioned? My parents are hard-of-hearing, not deaf.

The Going Out Gurus: Good question. Most local movie theater's have portable devices for the hearing impared. I've seen them in use at the Janus. Closed captioning is tougher to find. I (Kate) have called student center at Galludet U. in the past, they've had excellent suggestions.

Bethesda: For the rehersal dinner...we are having ours in September at Meihaw, the chinese restaurant next to Grill Fish downtown. They have a really nice private room upstairs. I have no idea how expensive it is because my fiance's parents are paying, but from what I understand they serve the dishes family style and you can pick what you want.

The Going Out Gurus: Nice idea.

The Going Out Gurus: Nice work everybody. Thanks for chiming in, please come back last week -- and for that person asking about the bar in College Park where you can watch planes land, it's the 94th Aerosquadron.

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