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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, Nov. 29, 2001; 1 p.m. EST

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: Hello super friends, glad you could join us. I'm Kate and I'll be hosting the week's championliest action-packed what's going on and how do I get there discussion. Join me is, of course Alexa (Restaurants), Maura (Museums), Joe (Music), Jen (Theater), and Rhome (Best All-Round Individual). Before we get started, I need to let you all know that Anne, Maura and I packed out trunks and headed to the Zoo's Elephant House this morning, and man! if that sweet, hairy, wobbly baby elephant isn't the greatest in Washington. So, here's this week's Got Plans? Challenge. Tell us about something going on in town, or a favorite thing to do, or a date idea half as wonderful as a baby elephant, and you'll win a pass for two to the Monday night premiere of "Ocean's Eleven." Now, who's on first?

silver spring, MD: Hi. My boyfriend and I are looking for something fun and exciting to do on friday night. Starting off with a nice restaurant, but where? We've been to Smith & Wollensky already. After dinner, where is a nice place to go? We are 28 and 36 respectively, and would like to be someplace lively. How is Timpano on Rockville Pike, or maybe TenPenh? Help!!

The Going Out Gurus: Silver Spring. It's Alexa. You act like there are only these three to choose from and can't decide. There are plenty of places to go. Some of our favorites: Johnny's Half Shell, Cashion's, Cafe Atlantico. You don't say where you want to be map-wise, so I'm not sure how to steer you.

November birthday girl: Maura, thanks for your birthday suggestions, I loved the Great Places exhibit, especially the Komodo one, and Teaism too!

Next challenge: can I go to the White House tree lighting? Do I need tickets? Is it worth trying?

The Going Out Gurus: You're welcome, Birthday Girl. Happy to know you enjoyed In Response to Place (relive it here in our photo gallery, but sorry to say the tickets for the Christmas tree lighting on the Ellipse also known as the Pageant of Peace are all sold out. Could we interest you in D.C.'s tree lighting ceremony this evening at Union Station? The theme this year is a Norweigian Christmas and the holiday model train is already chugging along. Otherwise, try our holiday guide, chock full of merrymaking. Enjoy.

Annapolis, MD: Korean restaurants accessible from Metro: a couple of favorites?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, It's Alexa. There's Woo Lae Oak in Pentagon City. It's not, however, in the mall, but is certainly in walking distance.

Capitol Hill: Hi Gurus! Submitting early, since I have a lunch appointment. Thanks for taking my question. As the President and Guiliani have suggested, I'm heading to New York this weekend to do what I can to stimulate the economy. We're hoping to get tickets to a show at the 1/2 price TKTS line at Times Square on Saturday. Anyone know how bad the line is now this time of year and considering the decline in tourism? We're trying to get an estimate of what time we'll need to get in line for tickets to one of the good shows. Thanks for your help!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Capitol Hill. I (Maura) just did the TKTS line two Saturdays ago. I think I showed up around 3 p.m. and had tickets for my play of choice 45 minutes later. Not sure what you're interested in, but they seemed to have many of the big plays - Hedda Gabler, Shape of Things, Much Ado About Nothing, Dance of Death, Everett Beekin (not sure about The Women). My guess from others in line is that Mamma Mia and Lion King may have been harder to come by, but other big musicals were available (no, not The Producers). Good luck. You'll have a great time, I'm sure.

Bethesda, MD: I don't know if the Post has done it yet since it's still a bit early, but I'm looking for a listing of places in the Metro area that might have special offers for New Years- special dinner deals, hotel packages, etc. Can you point me in the direction of one? If one does not currently exist, what are a few of your suggestions for a nice, but not excesively expensive dinner in the Metro are for two?

PS- In regards to that Chateaubriand question previously, the Russia House restaraunt In Herndon, Va has an outstanding chateaubriand for two! (from the siz eof it they should say "for AT LEAST two")
Thanks!!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Bethesda, Kate here. You are a wee bit early, Though you should check out our New Year's Eve page, as events are announced, we'll stick'em up. We've got 6 parties so far, but expect many more.

Restaurants will likely start announcing menus and dining times for NYE: traditionally restaurants offer both a less expensive (though equally extravagent) 7-7:30 seating and a more expensive (plus champagne toast and silly hat) seating at 9-9:30. I think that by the end of the first week of December, we should have a few to choose from. Personally, I'd look for great food and atmosphere, somewhere like Lavendou.

Fairfax, VA: Hi - it's my partner's birthday tomorrow and while I've managed to persuade him that he'd like to decorate the house on his birthday (he's a very amenable man!), we'd also like to go out to dinner. He fancies Korean, but we love the places where you can barbecue the food at your own table. Do you have some recommendations?

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Fairfax. It's Alexa. Tom Sietsema has good things to say about Sorak Garden last week. Did you see? But out your way, I think there's a place called Songbird that might be worth a try.

Fairfax: This might be a question better suited for the travel gurus, but I'll ask you anyway. My husband and I are going to NYC next weekend to visit a friend. We can't take a long weekend, so our time in the city will be pretty limited (we'll have all day Saturday and possibly a couple of hours on Sunday). What are the absolute must-dos, given our limited time? Seeing the tree at Rockefeller Center is a given, but other than that, we'e stumped.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Fairfax. Maura again. I had just about the same amount of time on my last trip and you should be able to squeeze a lot in. Of course, I would encourage you to visit a museum or two (attendance there is down 50%). The fabulous Neue Museum just opened on 86th and 5th. It's a wonderful little jewel full of Viennese and German art from 1890-1940 (Gustav Klimt, the Bauhaus, etc.) in a converted Vanderbilt Mansion. Stop in their Viennese coffee house for a drink and a bite before you hit the street. If you missed Jacob Lawrence here you can catch him at the Whitney and his newly installed mural at the Times Square station. Shopping? From the Whitney I'd stroll down Madison into Barneys and then over to 5th for more luxuries at Bendels and bargains at H and M. From there you're just a few blocks away from Rockefeller Center and all those holiday windows. Spend another day downtown strolling through SoHo or grab brunch at Kitchenette (one of my faves). You could also catch the subway to see the British Museum's Egyptian Art Collection temporarily installed in the Brooklyn Museum (I think it's o.k. with Rudy to go there now). As for plays, see my answer to Capitol Hill above, but most of all have fun.

Potomac : Alexa, i do not know how often you get to Baltimore but if you are in the Fells Point area you should check out Peter's Inn. Great food and a great bar.

The Going Out Gurus: Are you Peter?

For the Challenge: I guess the Scottish Walk in Alexandria is too obvious, although it sounds like great fun...

So I'll suggest the "Christmas in Middleburg" festival and craft fair in Middleburg, VA (about an hour from DC), this Saturday. Christmas parades, Santa, music, hayrides, etc.

For details see http://www.middleburgonline.com/christmas/christmas.mb/christmas.mb.html

Middleburg is a great little town, and the best part is you feel like you're getting away but it's not a long drive.

The Going Out Gurus: We like the Scottish Walk too!

Bethesda, MD: Hey gang,

Have a date Friday or Saturday night, This is fourth date territory, and I have no ideas! need something fun, not too loud, not too boring, semi-intimate setting, but not so obvious. . More than happy to go downtown, but prefer red-line oriented. Help!

The Going Out Gurus: Oh come on playa! (or playette) You make this hard for a guru. Semi-intimate but not too obvious? If you made it to a fourth date it must be obvious that y'all like each other, pat yourself on the back. How come I always get the questions that seem like they should go to Carolyn Hax? Naw, for real. I would think that you two should just go sit down somewhere nice, have a few drinks and talk some more. Wanna be spontaneous and move that date forward a bit? Try checking out K'Alyn at Andalu tonight. It's on the red line and not too loud, and although that spot is candle lit and cozy, there will be a lot of people so you won't seem too "obvious". Fashion show at 7:30, performance at 8:30. What are you into? What have you already done? Knowing those things would help us help you.

Bethesda, MD: Hi Gurus. Wondering if you know when Lewie's in Bethesda is opening (if not already) and what the new "format" there will be? Also, is it true that Chrome now has a cover? What's up with that?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello my fellow Bethesda resident, it's Jen. Here's the skinny on Lewie's: it reopened last Wednesday and is starting to build up its slate of events. The format, I was just told by one of the managers, is going to be eclectic: a mix of alternative rock, blues, jazz and other stuff. There will be much live music, but also occasional DJ nights sprinkled in -- for example, every Tuesday, Lewie's will host Disco Inferno, a dance night with all funkadelic, '70s style grooves. (Lord knows Bethesda could use some funk.) Tomorrow night the band Corduroy (who you may know from the Dewey Beach scene) takes the stage at 10 -- cover's $8.

Now that brings me to the Chrome situation. There is no cover at Chrome unless there's a band at Lewie's. You'll pay the same cover to enter on the Chrome side or on the Lewie's side. The reason: people can go back and forth between the two bars now that Lewie's is open, so everyone's got to ante up.

Hope this helps, and see you at Disco Inferno night!

New York,NY: Hi-- i m coming to DC for the weekend and was wondering if u could recomend one or 2 good and inexpensive restaurants in ARLINGTON?
also- any cool stuff/events in DC area this weekeend that you would recommend?

The Going Out Gurus: New York. Hello up there. This is Alexa and one of my utmost faves in Arlington has to be the Village Bistro. Consistently delish and a menu so a-bulge with goodies that it's hard sometimes to choose.
As far as fun stuff to do this weekend, I'd say listen up. Suggestions are coming in thick and fast. Anyone else with an Arlington favorite to share?

Bethesda, Maryland: I really want to check out Gazuza but a lot of people have told me that it's more of a summer place. Is it worth going now or should I hold out until the spring?

The Going Out Gurus: It's Rhome again (didn't identify myself earlier). Since Gazuza opened just in time for this past summer, we'll have to see for ourselves how it will fare into the colder months. The patio was the big draw on warm evenings, but if the drinks are as tasty and the servers as pleasant as they were when I went, I don't see why you shouldn't go and check them out now.

Gaithersburg, MD: I was wondering which of the local municipalities will be hosting "first night" activities this year. I'm particularly interested in Monthgomery County

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Gaithersburg, Anne here. Actually, Montgomery County will not be holding its First Night event this year, I'm afraid. But, Baltimore, Leesburg, Alexandria, Annapolis and Falls Church are all holding family-friendly, non-alcoholic events. Annapolis and Baltimore will have tons of performances and concerts and fireworks over the water at midnight. We'll be adding all details on New Year's events to our holiday guide as soon as we get them.

NW DC: Anyone have any insights on what to see this season at the Studio Theater? Has anyone seen "A New Brain"?

The Going Out Gurus: Jen here. I have not seen "A New Brain," but I can tell you that The Post review, written by Nelson Pressley, was not too keen on it. He had problems with the play itself, but seemed to think the production of it was decent. Of course, you may not agree with Mr. Pressley, so give the review a read and see if you still want to give the show a shot. Having looked at the rest of Studio's slate, the play that looks most interesting is "Lobby Hero" -- it was written by Kenneth Lonergan, who wrote and directed the wonderful film "You Can Count On Me." That means it has great potential in my book -- it's coming around this spring.

Potomac : Nope. There is no Peter. Just a fan of the place.

The Going Out Gurus: Well thanks very much for sharing, Potomac. I (Alexa) was naughty to tease.

WDC: Just wanted to let everyone know that there's a big Guiness Toast tomorrow (Friday) at most Irish bars, from what we've heard.
Which is the best place for a group of 22-25 year olds who work in Farragut/Dupont to go to? Murphy's? 4-Ps?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi WDC, Kate here. My goodness, the "Guiness Toast" (give that ad man a raise!) will take place tomorrow night. As long as you've got your pint in hand at 11 p.m., you're a participant, but go to Murphy's of DC or Alexandria or the Four Provinces or Nanny's or MacKayes and you might not be able to tell the difference. All will be packed to the gills. Not my idea of fun, but for them's that like it, I say pick whatever Irish bar makes for the shortest walk home.

Dulles, VA: Date idea: go ice skating!

Even if you've never done it before (actually, it might be even better, because then you'll have an excuse to hang onto each other), it's so much fun and you can rent everything at the rink. Outdoor rinks like the one in Reston are nice, if it's cold enough.

The Going Out Gurus: BAM!! There it is. And to think I (Rhome) actually had this on my list and forgot to share. It takes a village to plan a great date, or something like that. Bring along a thermos of hot cocoa or hot cider!

Reston, VA: Hi everyone,
I am giving my husband a couple of tickets to see the Wizards for Christmas. It's a Sunday 1pm game. ANy ideas for lunch near the MCI center? I'd like to pair the tickets with a gift certificate for a nearby restaurant. Nick and Stef's is closed on Sundays it looks like, as is Coco Loco. We like good food and nice atmosphere - not sports bar-ish. THanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Reston. I (Alexa) think Jaleo is the place for you. They do sell gift certificates, they are open on Sunday and it's just a generally fun place to go. Try it. You'll like it.

Washington, DC:
I think a fantastic date idea is a romantic dinner and drinks for two at Spices in Cleveland Park and then catching a movie at the Uptown Theater. I've done this before and it was the best date ever. Did I mention that this is even better when the movie is a premiere, stars George Clooney and Julia Roberts, and is on a Monday evening?

The Going Out Gurus: I like you're style Washington, stick around for another half hour and we'll see if some other smartypants can top this!

CLifton, VA: My girlfriend and I are thinking of heading to
Annapolis the weekend of Dec 15 for her bday.
Your thoughts on a place to stay. Lowes on
the water or one of the Annapolis Inns?
Places to eat? TIA

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Clifton. The Marriott is right downtown on the waterfront and quite nice. The Loewes is a few blocks away. I (Maura) hear it is lovely as well, but maybe our readers have a thought or suggestion? As for restaurants there's the standard Harry Browne's or more recent Aqua Terra, but I am sure our readers have more thoughts on those as well. Anyone?

re: restaurants in arlington: Well, right on the border between Arlington and Alexandria ...
Try Bombay Curry Company, on Mt. Vernon Avenue. So delish, inexpensive, and the people who run it are really nice.

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, absolutely. I (Alexa) was going to mention it, but didn't, because of its place. The Bombay Curry rules.

For Daters out There: I'd recommmend bowling as a great date activity. It gets you moving, and if you can't laugh when you're bowling, then something is wrong. But, I know that the last time that I went, we crashed at GW's lanes, which is really not allowed unless you are a student. Are there any other good places to go?

The Going Out Gurus: Nice rec, FDoT. Speaking of which, do you know about Strike Bethesda. The "father" of NYC's Bowlmore Lanes, has swankified the old Bowl America in Bethesda. This place will be tricked out with lanes, couches, snacks, DJs, etc., and the grand opening is next Saturday night. We'll probably know more by next Thursday!

Washington D.C.: Hi!
It seems all of the clubs you guys talk about are for the twenty-something crowd. There are alot of singles (myself included) in their forties. Any suggestions for us old folks who still like to boogy?
Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hello DC, this is Joe. Unfortunately Fritz is the only one of us over 40 and he's not here today to help with that question. Any "old folks" who boogie out there have any suggestions for WDC's request? I'm sure there are lots of places.

For the athletically-inclined....: Register for a holiday race. There's a 10K coming up called "Rudolph's Red Nose Run" in Fairfax on December 15th--you get red noses at the finish line. Another great race series is the Jingle Bell for Arthritis 5 and 10K--one in Reston, Frederick, Glen Bernie, DC, Solomons Island, and Baltimore--you get bells to attach to your running shoes for this race series! These races all support charity, and it's a great way to meet people. Find out more about these races at http://www.racepacket.com.

The Going Out Gurus: Nice tips! Kate here, and the incentive of a red nose might just get me through a 10 K.

Arlington restaurants: Other favorite restaurants in Arlington include Whitlow's, Mexicali Blues, and Gaujillo!

The Going Out Gurus: Here come some Arlington faves now.

Clifton, VA: RT's restaurant in just over the border in Alexandria. Or LE Cote D Or in Arlington on the Falls Curch/Arlington border. Was the reader looking for something Metro accessible?

The Going Out Gurus: More.

Arlington: Queen Bee is always excellent!

The Going Out Gurus: And more.

Washington, DC: A couple of questions about holiday events this weekend. Would you recommend A Tuna Christmas? Or is it totally silly? I also heard about a Christmas sing-along event at Wolf Trap on Sunday. Do you know what time that is and how much it costs? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Washington. For starters, here's the info on the sing-along at Wolf Trap. I've heard this is a great event, plus admission is free, so you don't need tickets.
Regarding "A Tuna Christmas," I have never seen it but I've heard it's great fun. I have seen, read and even performed part of the original, "Greater Tuna," and it's a great, laugh-out-loud play. So if you don't mind sparing the cash, you should check out "Tuna Christmas." You'll probably have a good time. I believe the TICKETPlace has half-price tickets to "Tuna," so you might investigate that option -- TICKETPlace is located inside the Old Post Office Pavilion at the South Plaza entrance.

Bethesda, MD: Hi there!

I know a new baby elephant arrived at the Zoo this week. Is the public able to see the new addition yet?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Glad to hear it Bethesda! Yes, you can. He's hairy and sweet and while the Zoo opens at 8 a.m., you have to wait until 10 for the Elephant House to open. We stood in line for 5 minutes and watched critter have a bath (didn't like it) and respond to a basket ball (scared him). Wonderful.

Petworth: You did hear that they are going to let unticketed people into the standing room for the National Tree lighting, yes?

Now, if only they would re-open the White House Candlelight tours!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Petworth, welcome. This is Anne, and under the original policy, you needed a ticket to be there at the National Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 6. But now, yes, the Secret Service changed their minds just this week, and said they'll do things just like every other year. They decided that the public can try to cram into the standing room only space on the Ellipse to watch. For more info, you can read this Washington Post story about the latest details. and remember that the tree-lighting is just the beginning of the Pageant of Peace, several weeks of concerts and performances on the Ellipse. Now, about those White House tours ... let's just say that you should stay tuned to the holiday guide, and you may be surprised!

Washington, DC: Hi gang!

You all do a great job! I look forward to your chats every week. I have a quick question for you...

I'm going out to dinner tonight with some friends, one of which has a one year old. Can you suggest some restaurants that are fun but don't frown on little ones? DC or Bethesda would be the easiest locations.

Thank a lot!

The Going Out Gurus: I (Alexa) would say that either location of Cafe Deluxe or 2 Amys, the new and very nice pizzeria owned by Peter Pastan, would be fine for a baby on a Thursday night.

Fairfax, Virginia: My boyfriend and I have been taking ballroom dance lessons. Do you know of any fun places for two 20-somethings to go to show off their skills? Maybe someplace with a good band, some swing music?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Fairfax, Kate here. I believe of all places Lulu's has a regular swing night, but the secret to finding good dancing, is finding the best bands. Paisano's on Rockville Pike draws a big crowd regularly for James Bazan's band. Fritz would argue that they're not a classic swing band, but he's not here. Try it out, and maybe someone else has a better suggestion?

Curious, Maryland: Can you tell me about this new place called Dream that just opened? What is this I hear about group showers?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Curious. Maura here. Dream is Mark Barnes' newest addition to area nightlife. Eric Brace has a full write up in Friday's Weekend, but here's the skinny: four stories, a deck (complete with heaters), seven bars (other than those in the VIP lounges). It's all in a converted warehouse, next to the old Hecht's warehouse, enormous and quite sumptuous. As for what happens in the 4th floor VIP jacuzzi and shower room, I'll leave to your imagination.

tuna!: yes!!! go see a tuna christmas!! i've seen all of the tuna plays ... when i saw red, white and tuna at the warner theatre this summer, people actually moved away from me because i was laughing so much. so fun ...

The Going Out Gurus: response! strong!

Alexandria, VA: On the TKTS question, I used to live in NY and the best way to do this if you don't really care what you see, show up at around 6:30-7. More tickets are released then and the line is normally shorter because evenone thinks they have to get there earlier. In my past experience you will get better seats the later you show up.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks A, Va.

4th Date Recommendation: Don't know what style you're looking for, but I'd recommend dinner somewhere in Dupont Circle (maybe Pizzeria Paradiso for something casual; Johnny's Half Shell for more up-scale) followed by shooting some pool at Buffalo Billiards (even more fun if you make some bets while you're playing). This was pretty much what my last 3rd date was -- and we're getting married next year.

The Going Out Gurus: Now there's a recommendation worth taking note of.

Adams Morgan: Is there anyplace in my neighborhood to go on a
Friday/Saturday night that's not packed to the gills
with 24-year olds and that's not dancing? I'm only
30, but I didn't even hang out with the 24 year old
set when I was 24. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Adams Morgan, Kate here. Sounds like you need a new scene. Have you enjoyed the bar at Cashions? No dancing, but I can only guarantee you no under 21s.

The Going Out Gurus: Ok, Ok, Fritz isn't really over 40. Only his liver is over 40. He's not even over 30. He may not even be 20 yet. We're doing a background check now.

WDC: Help me!
I just told a friend that I'd make plans to go to see the Nutcracker. However, I don't know of a good production. We're not looking for anything fancy, just something in the holiday spirit. Any sugggestions as to good productions? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi there, sugar plum fairy. You came to the right place with "Nutcracker" questions. Here's a list of all local productions of this classic holiday ballet. I (Jen) would recommend seeing it at the Kennedy Center or the Warner Theatre. If you're conserving cash, tickets are a little less expensive at the Warner, where the Washington Ballet performs.
Alternatively, if you want something slightly less theatrical and more cute, the Olney Children's Ballet performs "The Nutcracker" at Montgomery College and tickets range from a mere $8-$14.

The Going Out Gurus: For Adams Morgan person: Rhome here, and I can hit you with a few possibles that have been on my list for awhile to check out. Marx Cafe and Staccato. Who out there can comment on these? I guess you want to avoid rowdy folks. For that I've always liked lounging with a drink and checking out the jazz bands at Columbia Station and Cafe Toulouse. You might find some of those dreaded 24-yr olds at Rendezvous, but it's too small for them to dance so you just might enjoy hanging out there.

silver spring girl, again: Hi Jen. You asked where on the map I wanted to go with my boyfriend on friday night. any place downtown is fine. Perhaps Jaleo, then head to Tryst, or Coco Loco's? Which has better food?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello again, Silver Spring girl. I always have a good time at Jaleo, so I recommend that, assuming it's not a mob scene. And I think Coco Loco's would be a better bet, only because it's closer to Jaleo than Tryst and it will keep the lively, Latin/Spanish theme going. And if Coco Loco's ends up being a bust, you can always head next door for a pint at Fado. Hope you have a great evening!

Washington, DC: I'm looking for a symphony/orchestra conert, featuring Christmas musics. I'm trying to avoid the Kennedy Center, but anywhere else in Maryland or DC is fine. Any suggestsions? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Do we have suggestions? Dear Washington, try this list on, it's just your size.

As for recommendations, have you considered the Loudon Symphony Orchestra's "Messiah" next weekend?

I'm very sweet on Wolf Trap's annual Holiday Sing-Along, this free event takes place this Sunday at 2 p.m. It the weather continues to be as mild, a picnic (or at least tailgating is not out of the question.)

Re: Nutcracker: Another smaller performance is done by the Alexandria Ballet, at the Athenaeum on Prince St. Tickets are $10, 703-548-0456 for info. Note: it's not the entire Nutcracker ballet, just "highlights." But that should be enough to put you in a holiday mood.

The Going Out Gurus: We think so too.

Arlington, VA: You definitely do not go to Whitlow's or Mexicali Blues for the food.

All of the other Arlington/Alexandria suggestions were good ones. My fave is the original RT's in Alexandria. It's so much better than the RT's in Arlington.

The Going Out Gurus: Okidoke, Arlington.

Old Town, VA: I heard somewhere that the Smithsonian shops are open a bit later right now for the Holidays. Is this true and do you know the times. THanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Right again, Old Town. Do you know you can find this tip and many more in Janet's weekly "Sales and Discovery" column.

Alexandria, VA: Can't say enough good stuff about the Scottish Christmas Walk in Old Towne Alexandria this weekend. Its a great 2nd or 3rd date choice especially for some of us older daters. Parade at 10:30 am on Saturday while sipping Starbucks, then tours of home and great Christmas shopping at the shops. Its a great day time date which could go into the night!

The Going Out Gurus: We all think it's pretty special too.

U Street: RE: Stacatto

An unassuming little joint with a baby grand piano and pretty decent cocktails. Sorta like Rendezvous but with a bigger upstairs. Good live music. A great place to mellow out, much less crowded and meat-markety than Common Share across the street. Good age mix, too. Twenties, thirties and older.

The Going Out Gurus: We thanks U.

Glover Park: Challenge: Drive out to Great Falls with a picnic and some wine. Take a short walk to a quiet spot. Picnic and cuddle up with a blanket, watch the sunset.

The Going Out Gurus: We want details GP!

Bowie, MD: I will be spending the holidays with my 5 year-old little girl. Where could I take her in Washington during the day?
Where coud we have lunch?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Bowie, Anne here. I fondly remember going with my mom and best friend to see the Nutcracker when I was young. It seems the kind of thing that can thrill young girls -- Clara growing older and discovering her prince, the amazing costumes. There are many performances in the area to choose from. Santa also makes appearances at more than area malls -- my personal favorites are the waterskiing Santa in Arlington and the Santa fly-in at the College Park Aviation Museum. Also, many museums in the area host special events for kids: the Newseum in Arlington has a Family Day from 10-5 on Dec. 15, where Robert Prosky will read "Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus"; the Capital Children's Museum will host an interactive play at 1 and 3 p.m. Dec. 22-30
that explains many December holidays; and the Discovery Theatre's annual multicultural holiday show runs until Dec. 20. But why not look over our list of holiday event for kids? And here's some ideas for truly kid-friendly restaurants.

rockville, md: We (my husband and I) are going to dinner in Great Falls with another 30-ish couple on a Sat. in Dec. for her birthday. What would you suggest for fun afterwards? Dancing would be fun, but where? We're fun and down to earth, NOT yuppie-ish and will be somewhat dressed up. What else to do besides dancing?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Rockville. If you're in VA, I (Maura) say head into Arlington and dance at the Clarendon Ballroom, shoot pool at Whitlow's or lounge at Gua Rapo. Enjoy.

Annapolis MD: For the person coming to Annapolis, I would definitly recommend a B& B, because there are so many, and they are all so wonderful. The Marriott on the water is overpriced for substandard rooms, and Loews is really nice, but really expensive, and out on West Street. There are some great B&Bs on Prince Georges, right downtown, I can't remember the names, but check out www.annapolisbandb.com for more info. If you don't want to stay right downtown, stay at the fabulous Inn at Spa Creek, right across the drwbridge in Eastport, and close by to Eastport's dining attractions (Lewnes - Great Steak!, Boatyard and Davis - great local bars, cahrt house and Carrol's). For eating dowtown, try Middleton's for history and great food (including Chateubriand, for the other questioner), or the formentioned Harry Browns, Aqua Terra, or Maria's or Piccola Roma for Fine Dining.
Have a great time!

The Going Out Gurus: You're very good Annapolis, maybe too good . . . We appreciate your advice. Cheers!

Annapolis, MD: From south Texas and one of my favorite Mexican dishes there was also one of the simplest: cheese enchiladas in chile gravy.

Been to the larger restaurants and chains in the DC area and while they do pretty well on guacamole and grilled dishes -- still can't find memorable cheese enchiladas that I'd go back for.

Suggestions on a couple of restaurants to try? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Gosh. I'm not a monster fan of enchiladas, so I don't have ready knowledge I'm afraid. But in our few mins left, let's see if the kids at home can help.

Slave 4 Britney: Do you know if there are still tickets left for the rescheduled Britney Spears concert at MCI?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello slave 4 britney, (that's more than we wanted to know) Just checked with Ticketmaster and yes tickets are still available. Enjoy the, uh, show.

Date Suggestion: Cafe Ole in Tenleytown is Middle Eastern Tapas. It's not that expensive, creative food, and very quaint and intimate. They have a wonderful ambiance and a very cool bar. This time of year, it's perfect to eat there, and walk over the the National Cathedral and see the x-mas lights. In the summer, you can eat outisde, and then walk over to the Cathedral for one of their summer concerts. And, they have the best sangria I've ever had.

The Going Out Gurus: Good ideas, DS.

The Staying In Guru: Got the XBox last weekend. Haven't been out of the house since. Pizza delivery and quickly emptying fridge ensue. Please help. It's the crack cocaine of video games!

The Going Out Gurus: There is nothing we can do, but we're working on a Game Boy vs. XBox piece. Maybe we'll join you.

Capital Hill, DC: My office is trying to arrange a little holiday happy hour get together in December. We're about a dozen people. Do you have any suggestions on restuarants/bars? By the way, we work for a non-profit, so nothing too extravegant is preferred.

The Going Out Gurus: If you're wanting to stay on Cap Hill, why not try the reasonable new French restaurant Montmartre?

Clifton, Va: The new tiger cub is cuter!

The Going Out Gurus: Our baby elephant can beat up your tiger cub (cute as he is, now on display in the small mammal house).

Bop and Bowl Mania: Just wondering if there was another Bop and Bowl coming up before the end of the year. Rockabilly and duckpins - who could be against it? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Haven't got the skinny yet, but as soon as we do, we'll stick on the bars and clubs front. These events are fun and the word is spreading. Always good because that spurs the next one to happen sooner, no?

Bethesda: Joe, loved your Jewel review yesterday, but aren't you worried about Natalie Merchant.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks Bethesda. I'm worried about everything. All I do is worry.

Rockville, Maryland: I live in Rockville and my friends are all very into the Bethesda bar scene. My boyfriend lives in Gaithersburg and refuses to go out with me and my friends in Bethesda. Is there a cool place in Gaithersburg where I can take my bethesda friends to convince them that gaithersburg is a fun place. They like places like Chrome and Fairmont. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Rockville, this is Jen. I live in Bethesda and worked for several years in Gaithersburg, so I feel I can be brutally frank here: there are no bars like Chrome or Fairmont in Gaithersburg unless something major has opened there recently without my knowledge. Bar scene wise in Gburg, the best you can do is Mrs. O'Leary's, a pleasant, unassuming little Irish place at the intersection of Clopper and Quince Orchard Roads; Buffalo Billiards in Olde Towne Gburg, which can get pretty lively, and also pretty smoky; or one of the places at Washingtonian Center, like Joe's Crab Shack, which doesn't have great food per se, but has excellent drink specials. (If you take your friends there and get them drunk enough, all the colored lights and paraphernalia on the walls may confuse them into thinking they're in Bethesda.)

The larger question here is how to convince your friends to visit one of these places. This will not be easy. I suggest that you appeal to their insecurities: tell them to stop being such snotty snot Bethesda people who only want to hang around with well-dressed, pretentious law school students who graduated from Whitman, Walter Johnson and Churchill High Schools. (I can say this because I am both a Bethesda native and a WJ graduate.) If this fails miserably, you have one last-ditch plan: compromise by going to Hank Dietle's on Rockville Pike, which should shock the Bethesda crowd with its downhome, roadhouse vibe and give your boyfriend a good laugh at their expense. Good luck, my friend.

Date idea: Probably too obvious, but: ice skating! Outdoors, at night, followed by a foamy cup of cocoa. And of course, there's all that "accidentally" falling all over each other out there on the ice. . . .

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, a great date idea. I (Maura) just spoke with the National Gallery and their skating rink (along with the Pavillon Cafe)is open -- Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight and Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Plenty of time to take a friend.

Washington, DC: Hail the Gurus! First of all, the flattery - you guys are great! Great 411, great advice. Can't say enough...

Second, the question. A group of us are throwing a big 3-0 birthday bash for a friend and we want to book a place (perferably in DC or Arlington) for 50-60 people. Problem is - well, we don't really know where to start. If the dollars (right now) are not a problem, do you guys have any suggestions? We're open to different types of venues. The party is months away, but we want to get a start on it earlier rather than later.

Thanks a lot!

The Going Out Gurus: Is the party for us? Because if it is, we'd recommend the upstairs at Chief Ike's. Very reasonable and the perfect private space for a group of 50-ish who are 30-ish. And you're right to start planning ahead of time.

Arlington, VA: I recently went to Costa Rica and picked up a few Spanish words. Any suggestions on where I can take entry level Spanish classes?
Thank you.

The Going Out Gurus: The first thing that pops to my (Anne's) mind is the USDA grad school. I know a lot of people who've taken classes there and been pleased. But any university around the area probably offers continuing education classes for cheaper than the normal tuition. Also, we hear Fritz talking about writing a story on foreign language conversion groups/happy hours, so keep an eye out on the bars and clubs section ...

Washington DC: Hey Gurus-
Can any of you recommend a play or theater production in DC or Baltimore that would be suitable as a birthday gift for a girl whose boyfriend (me) would have to attend but isn't too hot on the prospect? Anything between now and the end of January is cool.
Thanks

The Going Out Gurus: Nice q., DC. Have you considered "Dirty Blonde" (new play about Mae West, the quips will be flying) or the touring companies of "Cabaret" or "Scooby Doo" (both coming to the Warner) or as Jen mentioned above, the promise of "Lobby Hero." That said, I think that you should get advance tickets for "Mamma Mia" the ABBA musical scheduled to open in March. Supposed to be tons of fun, and you might even enjoy yourself too.

The Going Out Gurus: Well that's all we have time for, but t'was fun, no? I'd like to ask "teacher's pet" (the person from Washington who wrote in about dates at the Uptown "especially if its to see "Oceans Eleven" on a Monday night, you know who you are) to send me an email. You'll find my address (Kate Gibbs) on the help desk page. Thanks

The Going Out Gurus:

That wraps up today's show. Thanks to everyone who joined the discussion.

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