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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, July 5, 2001; 1 p.m. EST

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.

The transcript is below.

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: Hello everyone, this is Joe Heim and I've been appointed host for this week's going-out chat so I'm really feeling the pressure to make this next hour as smooth and painless for everyone as possible. We've got a full house today ready to take your questions: Fritz Hahn knows every bar special in town, Alexa Beattie is your food/restaurants queen, Maura McCarthy will guide you through the museums and galleries, and the all-star platoon of Kate Gibbs, Rhome Anderson, Anne Kenderdine and Jen Chaney can answer anything you send their way. Test 'em. I'll be happy to answer your questions about music (there are lots of good shows coming to town). Let's get started.

Silver Spring: I'm meeting my girlfriend and her parents in Dupont today for supper. She asked me to figure out where to eat (Lucky Me!). Even though I've been in the area a while, I'm not very familiar with Dupont.

The 'rents will be sight-seeing all day, so someplace casual would be best, and not too expensive.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanx

The Going Out Gurus: Hello Silver Spring, Alexa here. La Tomate is easy and inexpensive. Bistrot du Coin isn't easy, but it is a scene. However I might not take parents there. Service can be wacky and you don't want to feel responsible. Thaiphoon is reasonable and so is Al Tiramisu.

Dupont Circle: So, where can all the cool indie kids and Euros be found this weekend? I've got a friend in town and want to treat her to some QT with all the cute art snobs and Brits. My money's on Pharmacy Bar and Panic at Metro Cafe... any other ideas? Fritz?

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, are you calling me an art snob or an anglophile?

For something arty, tomorrow night is First Friday at the Galleries of Dupont Circle. They'll have free food, cheap wine, and lots of artsy people (and some regular citizens) walking around R Street and checking out the various galleries. Maura recommends the shows at the Robert Brown Gallery and Gallery K, or the Kathleen Ewing Gallery for photography.

Then walk over to 14th Street and hit Panic. And finish off at Kingpin.

On Saturday, it's the Wag (also at Metro), which has a less - how do we say - trendy crowd than Panic, since it's more '60s rock and soul than '80s hits and Britpop. Of course, you'll find lots of people at both events. Maybe even me.

For hanging out, Pharmacy's usually a good bet. For arty and "upscale," hit Modern or the 18th Street Lounge.

Virginia: I migrated here from NY and really miss NY-style pizza. Haven't been able to find any really good sources. Wouldn't mind the NY pizzeria atmosphere too. Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: There's good NY pizza at the Italian Store at Spout Run. Have you been there? Anyone one else with ideas?

Washington,DC: Are there any ghost tours in DC? or anything spooky like that?

The Going Out Gurus: Well, if you are rather easily frightened, the Old Town's Ghost and Graveyard Tour or the Capital Hauntings Tour might spook you. Even if they don't start you trembling, I (Maura) still think they are quite fun. If you are interested in other types of spooks, try out the National Cryptological Museum.

The Going Out Gurus: our links to locations and events are temporarily down but our tech staff is working on it. bear with us.

Dupont Circle: I'd recommend Teaism, always a hit with people visiting from out of town.

The Going Out Gurus: Absolutely, yes.

Heavenly on Capitol Hill: Hi all,

Meeting a friend in the Ballston area for dinner and a movie tonight. Any suggestions on places near the theatre?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Heaven to Ballston. Alexa here. Rio Grande or the Flat Top Grill?

Alexandria, VA: Where are some places to see bands in
the Loudoun Co. area i.e., Leesburg,
Ashburn, Sterling. There was a place
called "the Jungle" that featured live
music but it's been shut down. Many
thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Alexandria. This is Joe and I admit I'm stumped. Any of our readers in Loudoun Cty. want to help us out with this one?

bethesda, md: hello everyone - thanks for your weekly ideas. i'd like to plan a picnic with my girlfriend this weekend and wanted to know of any suggestions for a nice spot in montgomery country. thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Bethesda, we have a whole list I would like to send you, but can't right now. See our outdoors and fitness page for a full listing under Maryland parks. In the meantime, Fritz likes Wheaton Regional Park and I (Maura) don't think you can ever go wrong with Great Falls or Forest Glen.

Washington, DC: Hi. It's my good friend's birthday tomorrow night and he wants to eat sushi. I've heard that there is a good place up Wisconsin Ave., but do you have any more suggestions? Is there anywhere worth going for sushi in Old Town? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, this is Alexa. Sushi-Ko is up Wisconsin and yes, it's very good. But Old Town...Let's think. There's a bare bones-ish spot at the foot of King close to the river called (I think) Koto. Or, in the Canal Center Plaza, in the north end of OT, there's the Tokyo Japanese steakhouse that has quite a good little sushi bar.

U Street: RE: NY Style pizza

A close substitute would be at AV Ristorante Italiano at New York Avenue and 6th NW. A nice thin crust, and the atmosphere is the real deal. Opera piped in over the jukebox.

The Going Out Gurus: U know it. Thanks for the reminder.

Washington, DC: Hey, gurus! I need some ideas for a good first date -- something a little off the wall but very low key. Any ideas? Thank you!

The Going Out Gurus: Well, if you want to keep it really low key, strap on your bike helmet and go for a leisurely ride along the GW parkway. Or revisit your middle school dating days and take your special friend to a bowling alley or roller rink (take advantage of the couples skate) and then head to a quaint ice cream shop for a super-sized sundae. If the kiddie thing won't fly, try Visions for a fun indie film, Chi Cha for a hookah hit, or Bohemian Caverns for some jazz and "hand dancing."

Bethesda, MD: Anyone know of some good spots in Great Falls to take a date? Im looking for a spot, maybe somewhere on one of the trails, that isnt difficult to get to and is a nice scenic/romantic location where we can sit, chat, and enjoy the view. Thanks!!

The Going Out Gurus: I guess Bethesdans like to picnic or just get out of downtown Bethesda on the weekends. Since I just recommended Great Falls to another picnicer, I will specifically mention the Billy Goat Trail. It can get a bit crowded during peak weekend hours, but it is a pretty easy hike with enough spots just off the trail to stop and take in the sights.

Old Town Sushi Boy: Yes, the place in old town is called Koto. It is good, very good actually, but rather expensive for what it is. Take your buddy to Kaz Sushi Bistro on eye street or Tono Sushi instead, both far better than Koto and the lagging, sushi-ko.

The Going Out Gurus: R.K. is that you?

Fairfax,VA: HI Gurus....I cant live without you....question: I'm trying to plan an all day date with my boyfriend and i'm interested in taking a scenic drive out to the country (past Gainesville,VA or something like that)...any ideas on what routes to take?Also,i'd love to take a picnic along but not KFC...I heard Fresh Fields has picnic baskets but not sure about what they have....any info could be great!
THANK YOU!!!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Fairfax, it's online travel editor Ben here. First for the easy part, my
colleague Alexa has authored a piece on places that will href="http://yp.washingtonpost.com/E/E/WASDC/0001/66/78/">prepare a
picnic for you. As for the road trip, it's getting harder to find a
country drive in Virginia without the suburban sprawl. Your safest bet is
to take I-66 to Skyline Drive, head south and find a trail head, and hike
to a picnic spot with a view. Consider also Harper's Ferry, W.Va. or
Winchester for scenic drives ending in nice small towns.

Washington, DC (Capitol Hill): We're looking for rescheduled fireworks in the area -- preferably Friday night. Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: This is Anne, saying hello to all with fireworks questions. We have a list of upcoming (some that are rescheduled) fireworks at the star at the top of the Entertainment Guide page. And you'll be able to see this bounteous list as soon as our search is working again. For Friday night, it's all about Wheaton Sparkles. Fireworks start at 10 p.m. at Wheaton Plaza. Call 240/777-8115 for more info. The Fairfax fireworks have been rescheduled for tonight at 9 p.m. You can call 703/248-5077 for more details. And yes, Alexandria is celebrating its birthday on Saturday at Oronoco Bay Park and had always planned to have fireworks then. The music starts at 6 and fireworks start at 9:30.

DC: Hey! My fiance and I would like to go dancing on Friday but we're not sure of where to go. We're 28 and 29 so nothing that has a be-bop crowd. Ideally someplace loungy but has a dance-floor with good music (not techno). We like Felix but want to try something new.
Suggestions?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: What do you have against "Giant Steps"? Just kidding, DC. This is Fritz, and I have a few ideas for you. I'm not sure what you mean by "be-bop," though, so bear with me.

There aren't a wide variety of of lounges with dance floors, and those that do tend to go with house music. You can try Modern, although it has a dress code and is a bit more Euro than Felix. Same with MCCXXIII. A bit snobbier, but good drinks. You could also walk down the block to Cities for international music.

Another option (and I haven't been there yet, only heard about it) might be the lounge party at Murali, a cool lounge near MCI (9th and I, I think). I've been there during the week, and it's a nice little spot with red velvet curtains and cool furniture.

For general lounging, I favor Majestic Lounge, Chi-Cha and Aroma. You find dancing between tables at the latter two, and sometimes lots of dancing at Chi-Cha (on the weekends), but it's not guaranteed.

Wheaton, MD: I am looking for a small quiet restaurant with an intimate atmoshpere in Montgomery County for a special anniversary coming up. What are my best options in the Bethesda area?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, Wheaton. There are a number of options in Bethesda, depending on what type of food you're craving (and how much money you want to spend). Some suggestions: La Miche on Norfolk Ave.; Café Bethesda - you won't have a private booth because the restaurant itself is quite small, but it's quiet and the food is excellent; Black's - I (Jen) went there for Valentine's Day and, in addition to the excellent entrees, I was surprised by how romantic it was; or McCormick & Schmick's - see if you can get a booth with a curtain for serious privacy. You also can have a pretty intimate meal at Guapo's or Cottonwood Cafe as well. Hope one of these suggestions works for you.

Falls Church, VA: Just wanted to say thanks for your suggestions for the break from our kids that my husband and I had on Monday and Tuesday. We went to Annapolis and had a great time!

The Going Out Gurus: glad we could help, Falls Church.

Logan Circle, DC: We've had an intern staying with us for the past month and tonight is her last night here. My wife and I would like to take her out to dinner tonight to someplace nice/interesting. The only snag...we will be taking out infant daughter with us.

Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: Oh, that's a bit tricky, isn't it. Fairmont Bar and Dining in Bethesda has made a name for itself by being kid and baby friendly at any time of day. They even offer organic infant foods. It's nice there. Give it a go. AB.

Speaking of pizza...: How about a good rec for Chicago style deep dish pizza? And no, Uno's, Armando's, or any other chain doesn't count.

The Going Out Gurus: Our Maura says she likes Gepetto's (sp?) in either Georgetown or Bethesda. Does that count as a chain? AB

New York Pizza: I've never had real NY pizza myself, but my friends (NYC expatriates) swear that Tony's N.Y. Pizza (in the Fair Lakes Shopping Center in Fairfax) is the closest thing to NY pizza they've ever had outside the city.

The Going Out Gurus: More pie tips.

rastawoman: can you tell me what ever happened to the killimanjaro on florida ave? is it still there? or did it close? i used to frequent it in the early 90s, but don't hear anything about it anymore.

just wondering!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey rastawoman, what a gwan? This is Rhome, and sadly enough whenever I drive by there it still looks like an abandoned warehouse. Closed down at least 6 years ago if not longer. Someone asked Eric Brace in a chat once if anyone was going to revive that space... no information was forthcoming. Joe shares your concern, as he really delighted in their tasty samosas.

dc: gurus? please help? i have need to buy a nice dress for a black tie dinner - any suggestions on where i can get a good deal (metro accessible) thanks!!!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi DC. Janet (our shopping guru) isn't here, but I (Maura) will do my best to fill in her very fashionable shoes. If you are looking for summer black tie, now is the time you might find quite a bit on sale. Of course, it means selection may be dwindling too. Nordstroms (Pentagon City) always has a decent evening selection and Saks (Friendship Heights) is having a fantastic sale - an extra 40% off all current sale items. Riziks (Farragut North) and Claire Dratch (Bethesda) have extensive selections of evening wear, but I can't vouch for prices there. Good luck!

Washington, DC: I recently met a wonderful young lady who lives in Baltimore, and we have planned our first real date this Saturday. I suggested lunch, and was tasked with picking a place. It now occurs to me that I know nothing about Baltimore restaurants. Can you suggest a good one that is open for lunch on Saturdays? Preferebaly something somewhat upscale and quiet.

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: If you're heading to Baltimore, you best take advantage of its thriving Little Italy neighborhood. You can find standard fare at Sabatino's or Chiaperrelli's, or go all out at Di Mimmo's. If Italian food is too heavy for lunch, then Marconi's on Saratoga is a nice hideaway. If Kramerbooks is one of your D.C. faves, Louie's Bookstore Café will remind you of home. And if you forego the upscale request, Cross Street Market is full of good eats and fun Baltimore sights.

Arlington, VA: Whats the Dress Code at Modern? How Does it compare to 18th Street? I have friends who refuse to dress the part for going out in DC.

The Going Out Gurus: This is Fritz. Dress code at Modern varies. They're picky about who they let in, apparently. You do have to "dress the part" - no jeans, no T-shirts, no sneakers or ball caps, and khakis probably won't speed you to the front of the line.

Last time I went there, I had on a black button down shirt and gray slacks with nice shoes, and had no problems getting in. The girl I was with had a skirt and nice top. It's less Euro than ESL, with pop music (sometimes).

If your friends don't want to dress, don't go to Modern. That's all I can say.

Beach Bum: My roommate and I want to go to the beach this Saturday but can't drive very far (2 or 3 hours max)and would like a beach with the least possible meat-market atmosphere possible. Ocean City? Bethany? Rehobeth? Or someonewhere else we haven't considered? THanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Ben here, with a superficial glance at area beaches. From south to
north
(all are about a 3-hour drive): Ocean City is Times Square by the Sea,
for
those who like big buildings and bright lights on their beach vacation.
Bethany is a nice small beach town, but many wealthy Washingtonians
vacation there so it can be pricey. Dewey Beach is the most meat-market
atmosphere possible. So it sounds like Rehoboth is your place, a medium
size town with a boardwalk and all beach amenities but not too much
tackiness. Also consider Lewes, Del., which is as quiet as beach towns
get.
Check out our href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/travel/seasonal/beach">beach
guide for more research.

Alexandria, VA: My boyfriend and I are taking his mom out to dinner for her birthday. We want something nice, but nothing 2 kids fresh out of college can't afford. Maybe something in Old Town?

The Going Out Gurus: Go the the South Austin Grill. I (Alexa) was there just last week and was very pleased indeed with their new line in high test margs - delivered in mini silver shakers. I had the LBJ - a little bit sweet, a little bit smokey - and couldn't have been happier.

DC Not a State: For the New Yorker looking for good pizza, the answer is that there is none, at least not comparable to a reasonably good NY or NJ one. That stated, the Pizza at Vace (Cleve. Pk.) is darned good. They don't deliver, but they'll prepare one for pick up and they sell by the slice.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks grumpy.

22204: Here's a challenge for Fritz. A gay friend is coming into town and wants to know where gay leather-types hang out. While being very cool, but straight, I was at a loss. Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: This is a challenge? Not hard, 22204. The DC Eagle is the best-known leather bar, if more tame than it used to be. (Check their website for more info: http://dcpride.org/DCEagle/)

You might also want to check Bound, the local fetish night, which is held at Bar Nun on Friday nights, although we've heard they're moving to the Edge. Check their website (http://dcpride.org/DCEagle/) for info. It's a night with all sorts of sexual preferences, so you might not feel too out of place.

Bethesda, MD: Arlington, VA,

I doubt that this will get printed since my past warnings about Modern have been ignored, but I must warn you to stay clear of this place unless you're a masochist.

The Going Out Gurus: Are you sure you didn't wind up at Bound by accident?

For the beach bum: For the most anti-meat-market atmosphere possible, consider camping on the beach at Assateague State Park in MD--it's near OC.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the suggestion.

Fort Collins, Colorado: What's there to do here for a 19 year old?

The Going Out Gurus: Fort Collins, the answer is plenty. While you have some pretty impressive trails for hiking and biking at home, check out our outdoors and fitness page to see what we have to offer. You can't come to town and not stop in a few museums, so try the Air and Space museum if you haven't been or been in a while or the Smithsonian Museum of American History. I (Maura) think their exhibition on the presidency - A Glorious Burden - is sure to give you a taste of Washington. If you are looking for a little nightlife, Fritz has compiled an Under 21 Guide that is sure to keep you busy. Look for the link on our Nightlife page.

NY style pizza: Try Alberto's in Dupont. I had it last week and its the closest I found to NY!

The Going Out Gurus: More pies.

Washington, DC: Great for fancy dresses - Secondi - on Ct about a block up from Dupont circle. THe staff is snotty but you can buy really nice, used formals for a cheap price.

Don't go if you don't wear in the traditional size range.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, DC. We love a good tip.

Silver Spring, MD: Hi Gurus!
My eight year old niece and her dad are coming to DC from CA for a week - her first visit. Do you have any suggestions for fun things to do with kids in DC?
Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Silver Spring, this is Anne. Since it's her first visit, you'll probably want to take her to see monumental D.C. Many of our location descriptions give you some good ideas on how to enjoy them with kids. Get a different view of the Jefferson Memorial on a paddleboat, look at the letters Abraham Lincoln's hands spell in sign language at his memorial, count all the steps at the Capitol, read out loud some of the inscriptions at the Jefferson. We Gurus didn't make this up ourselves, but there's a really fun list of things to do in D.C. on the KidsPost page. If she's coming after July 15, you're in luck -- the Washington Monument will be reopening then. Maybe she'd like the dinosaurs exhibit at the Natural History Museum, or watching an IMAX movies about brave women cavers there. And speaking of tough women, be sure to see the Game Face exhibit at the Smithsonian's Arts and Industries Building, or take in a Mystics or Washington Freedom game. Please check back with us later on when our search is working. On the Entertainment Guide, you can search for "family" events in our drop-down "Places/Events" search box.

Columbia MD: What can you do for 2 sets of parents meeting for brunch in Rockville? Kids are 9, 11, 11, and 16. They can do dressed up, and will probably be for morning services, but don't want to do "stuffy".

Thanks for the good word!

The Going Out Gurus: All right, Columbia, this is Jen bringing you a few brunch options live from post.com headquarters. None of these are particularly formal but they are places that a lot of other families probably visit after church, so you shouldn't feel out of place if you're dressed up. My first thought is La Madeleine on Rockville Pike - I've been here for Sunday brunches and seen plenty of children dining with moms and dads. It's a casual place but the French atmosphere makes it feel special without being stuffy. Other suggestions: Houston's, also on Ye Olde Pike; Copeland's; or the Original Pancake House. The kids will probably love it, but be prepared to deal with a long wait. I had some other suggestions (Addie's, Mykonos Grill), but they unfortunately do not serve brunch. Hopefully one of the aforementioned will do.

alex, va: re: loudoun county. i don't know if herndon is a part of that area, but tomorrow night is friday night live at the herndon municipal grounds. good live music, i think starting at 6:30. and it's free.

The Going Out Gurus: good to know.

dupont: The other night we were out looking for a low-key beer -- the Brick was closed; can you recommend another similar place to just sit back with friends and grab a beer without running into any kind of "scene" (btw, not necessarily a brew-pub)

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Dupont. This is Fritz. Quick question: are you looking for something with lots of varieties of beer for sampling, or a place that's got three or four beers on draft and lots of low-key atmosphere?

For the former, I recommend the Lost Dog Cafe and Galaxy Hut, both in Arlington. Lost Dog has 300+ beers, doesn't allow smoking, and has a great local crowd. Problem is, they limit you to three beers. The Hut is a great place to hang out - really cozy - and has great beer, but has live rock on the weekends, so it's less low-key then.

I'd also recommend Pharmacy Bar (but less on the weekends, when it gets full) or Marshall's, near GW, which should be empty of students at this time of year.

Taxed but not Represented: Fairmont Bar & Grill has gotten a good rap on the pro-kids arrangements, but I found the meal pretty bad, including the kids'. Others have confirmed by assessment. Surprisingly, Cafe Deluxe near the Cathedral (also in Bethesda now, I believe), is VERY good for the kids, and the food's great too.

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, TBNR, I (Maura) would agree wholeheartedly. I have never been delighted with Fairmont in any degree, but have always had good luck at Cafe Deluxe when with friends and their little ones. Just last weekend I lunched at Cafe Deluxe in Bethesda with three adults and one adorable tot and have to say that tables with kiddies were quite the norm. They have a kids menu and crayons and paper tablecloths to entertain restless ones (young and old).

DC: I went to modern expecting really dressed up people and a picky bouncer. First of all, I saw 50+ year old men in khakis. I thought it was supposedly hard to get in though it didn't look like it that night (it was a Thursday though...)

The Going Out Gurus: This is Fritz again. Like I keep saying, it really depends on when you go. If you hit Modern early in the evening, it's locals, a post-work crowd, or people just hanging out before they go elsewhere.

They only really get picky late at night and on weekends, when the demand increases. (This is based on my visits, as well as reports I've gotten.)

Like Eric Brace and I have been telling people: don't expect to show up at 11 p.m. and breeze in, and that goes for ESL as well as Modern.

Alexandria: For the Ghost Tour questions, Old Town has a really neat ghost tour that leaves from the Ramsey House Visitors Center on King Street. It's supposed to be pretty good.
For the NY Style Pizza....I lament with you. I am also a transplanted New Yorker (for over 8 years now) and love going back home for pizza. I've found some good places, but nothing like back home. Try Primo's Family Restaurant in the Belle View Shopping Center in Alexandria, or Ecco Cafe, in Old Town. I've also enjoyed Bertuccis, & California Pizza Kitchen, for good (but not NY) pizza.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Alexandria. I have done the Old Town ghost tour and it would recommend it. Thanks for the pizza tips, but you lost me (Maura) at Bertucci's. To each her own!

Vienna, VA: Here's a date possibility I don't mind sharing: I am planning a surprise roadtrip for my boyfriend to explore Harper's Ferry, stay in a bed and breakfast, and go whitewater tubing. Not too expensive, but I think it'll be a blast! Probably not a good first date, but maybe after a few more!

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Vienna. There is a lot to do in Harper's Ferry and it is great as a day trip as well.

washington dc: what is the best restaurant to eat at in the district for dinner on a saturday where one has a good chance of seeing some famour politicos or celebs? and also has good food.

The Going Out Gurus: This is Kate, sounds like we both missed Tom Cruise at Butterfield 8. To get a starry eye-full I suggest heading to the just-not-as-fancy-as-I-thought-it'd-be bar at Georgetown's Four Seasons. Last I swirled a g'n't, I spied this unlikely trio: Bryant Gumble, Rob Lowe and Princess Victoria of Sweden. Star staffer Stacy exchanged pleasantries with Patrick Ewing at the door of the new Ritz Carlton -- I've heard that that the bar at the new Ritz Carlton lays a dance floor down on Friday and Saturday nights, that might be fertile ground? As for politicos you could try the old steak house stand-bys: the Palm and Mortons (DC). Don't think we'll be seeing much of Gary Condit at Pasta Mia, Tono Sushi or Tryst right now.

Anyone else have a tip?

Bethesda, MD: Can I please get a little insight into any hookah bars in the area. Also, what else do these places offer (drinking bars, dance floors, restaurants) and whats the crowd like (i.e. college-age, older, ritzy, laid back). One last question, which ones are best to hang out with friends and which ones are the best for a date? Sorry for all the specifics and thanks for the help!! I love you all!!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Bethesda.
The obvious answer (to me) is Chi-Cha Lounge, which has hookahs, great live Latin-style music, good tapas, and comfy couches. They only have hookahs on certain nights, though, so call if you're planning on going there. It's the one I would choose for hanging out.

Shalimar in Georgetown is more of a restaurant, but people go there for light food, drinks and the hookahs. This one would make a pretty good date.

Eric Brace recommends Oasis, which is in Falls Church. He says they have free backgammon and good food, along with hookahs.

Arlington, VA: We're taking the kids to the O's game Friday night. Where's a good place to eat dinner in Balto. that's in downtown, Little Italy, or the Federal Hill area? We DON'T want a tourist trap (1.e. inner harbor)!

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: First I (Stacy) have to apologize for the previous Baltimore post. Louie's has recently closed, so don't try to take your date there! With kids, before an Os game, I might steer you in the Canton direction. Looney's Pub and Nacho Mama's always make for fun outings. Ze Mean Bean in Fells Point is a fun ferry ride away from Camden Yards. And One World Café in Federal Hill is good for some light pre-game fare (if you want to save room for some peanuts and cotton candy).

WDC: hey gurus! i need to tap your collective creative brains...a friend of mine will be visiting from boston next weekend and i'm trying to plan a saturday night that consists of dinner (or drinks) at an affordable place with a great view of dc (that's also metro accessible) and that has post dinner options nearby. i'm also curious about sunday brunch options in the district - any good recommendations (not georgia browns)? thanks so much! you guys are truly the best.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, this is Anne, summoning our cooperative powers. Kate likes Hotel Washington for drinks and recommends dining in the garden at the Tabard Inn. Alexa suggests walking from Foggy Bottom to the Georgetown harbor to take in the river view at any number of restaurants. As for me: it's a less grand view, sure, but the first thing that comes to my mind is Julio's at U and 16th streets (U Street Metro). I like their huge salads and the deck is usually less crowded than say, Lauriol Plaza or Perry's and happily relaxed. As for brunch, Alexa thinks the Daily Grill (Dupont) or Cafe Deluxe are reliable crowd pleasers. Dee-loox, as I like to say, has daily specials and is always bustling and often noisy. Now, to browse more ideas, Fritz has a whole list of roofdeck bars, and Alexa, lovely brunch spots.

WDC: Actually for an even more low key beer. Check out Luna Park at the other end of the shopping center from Lost Dog. They also have really good happy hour food specials. For VA Tech Grads they have the best wings this side of Sharkey's.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks WDC

Crystal City: I am looking for more details about the twilight polo matches at the Plains. Is it a good time? When is it, What type of crowd, what's the cost, can you bring in food and drinks? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi CC, this is Kate. Polo at the Plains is sponsored by Oasis Winery -- who are also happy (and hoping) to provide you with a picnic, but I suggest you bring your own.
The chukka begins at 7 and is over by 11 every Friday night, now through the first week of September. On Friday, September 8 there's a special match with England and tickets must be purchased in advance, but you can assume getting in any evening before. Admission is $20 per carload. The Plains is gorgeous, rolling hills and horsey; don't plan on picking up food and drink supplies, there's only a small country store. A mosquito coil is a nice touch but it's not too buggy. Have fun.

For Loudoun County: Try Jimmy's in Herndon or there's a little place in Leesburg next to the new parking garage..the name is slipping me right now, but they have lots of local bands.

The Going Out Gurus: And thanks for this.

Looking for NY Pizza:: I'm a NY transplant too. My pizza favorites are Pizza Mart in Adams-Morgan (huge slices, cheap, open late) and Tony's NY Pizza out in Fairfax.

The Going Out Gurus: OK. Both nice suggestions.

Ah-ling-ton: Hey Gurus,

Where can I swim with my dog?

The Going Out Gurus: How ah-bout ah lake? Try this link: www.swimmingholes.org.

Alexandria: Boyfriend and I are heading to Harper's Ferry for the weekend. Any suggestions for great restaurants, bars, or other attaction we shouldn't miss?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Alexandria. Here is a detailed profile with travel tips for Harper's Ferry. I (Maura)would definitely hike the trail and take in the sights. A little walk around downtown is sure to give you your history fix and for dining you can't beat the views from Hilltop House or the Cliffside Inn.

Harper's Ferry: For a good lunch while you're there try the little restaurant at the bottom of the hill right downt he street from the river. It is in an old trolley car, and had great burgers.

The Going Out Gurus: A great burger is a good thing to know. Thanks, HF.

Arlington VA: Hey Gurus!
My boyfriend likes house music and trance like stuff and I know nothing. Where can I take him to hear some really good DJs?
Thanks

The Going Out Gurus: For the neophyte, Buzz at Nation is a great first stop. Also check out Sam-the-Man Burns at Red, the soulful house nights at Andalu, and the dj lineups at Blue Room. The helpful folks at Districtsoul.com and Capitolvibes.com have heaps more info on the house scene. - Rhome

The Going Out Gurus: OK, that's it for today's chat. We're especially proud this week for working the words "hookah" and "chukka" in to our discussion. Thanks to everyone for joining us. See you next week, same time, same place.

The Going Out Gurus:

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