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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, Oct. 10, 2002; 1 p.m. EDT

Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours.

Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the Entertainment Guide.

Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion.

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 friends, we're all here: Fritz, Maura, Anne, Joe, Jen, Rhome and me, Kate. We're ready to change your life, but only if you are.

Heading out this weekend? The National Book Festival and Taste of D.C. are taking over the Mall and Pennsylvania Ave., respectively. Heading in? An exhibition of Judith Leiber's crystal-encrusted handbags opens at the Corcoran on Saturday. Is the "egg" Mr. Big gave Carrie on display? Ask Maura - she's had a sneak peek. Anne and Fritz have popped into Local 16 (for dinner and drinks), and they're ready for a second helping. But who's on first?

Arlington, Va.: Hey, GOuGs.

So whaddya think of the bands at Black Cat on Friday? (Cinerama, VHS or Beta, and Ballboy) What are they like? See, I really wanna go to Panic at Metro Cafe. But it's freakin' closed! My New York peeps are in town this weekend, and we want to have a cheap, fun, entertaining evening. And Galaxy Hut doesn't do Friday shows. What's going on at Velvet Lounge? Please help, GOuGs!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey Arlington – you like the Wedding Present? Cinerama is Weddo singer Dave Gedge’s current band, and they write brilliant (if somewhat bitter) indie-pop love songs. You might also want to consider heading over to the Marx Café for their indie/brit/soul/rock DJ night, Taking the Piss. Excellent DJs and crowd, and it’s free, but there’s no dancing. -- Fritz

Arlington, VA: Planning on going to the Cap City Brew Fest at Shirlington this weekend. My question is how long should I plan on being there? Are there other activities or is it justdrinking beer in the street?

The Going Out Gurus: Well, Arlington, there are 30+ breweries bringing multiple beers for you to sample, so it depends how open you are to trying everything. I usually take a few hours to get around to all the beers I want -- make that "need" -- to taste. And the entertainment is primarily a traditional Bavarian band and dancing. So yeah, drinking in the street it is. -- Fritz

Rosslyn, Va.: Hi gurus

A close friend of mine just finished a nasty week of tests and job interviews, and we want to take him out to forget his troubles. Problem is, one of the people going with us is not quite 21 yet. Is there anywhere in Arlington where we'll be able to get her in (not to drink, just to hang out) and still have something for him to get schnockered on? If possible, somewhere not too smoky? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Rosslyn. A few places come to mind. First, the Lost Dog Café has a few hundred beers available in bottles and doesn’t allow smoking. Problem is, they only allow you to have three alcoholic drinks, so your friend’s stress relief won’t come with a hangover. The Capitol City Brewing Company’s Shirlington branch is another option, as they have a large restaurant in addition to the delicious microbrewed beer and a full bar. It’s never been too smoky for me. If it was nicer out, I’d suggest the Astroturf porch at Jay’s Saloon in Clarendon. You might still want to go – it’s a laidback joint with cheap pitchers and friendly folks behind the bar. – Fritz

McLean, Va.: Where do D.C. lawyers, lobbyists, and other professionals frequent for happy hours downtown these days that attract the late 20s, 30s and 40s crowd?

The Going Out Gurus: Try McCormick and Schmick’s, TenPenh, the Capital Grille, the bar at Sam and Harry’s, Ortanique, Juste Lounge, Ozio -- basically, anywhere the drinks cost more than $3 at 6 p.m. (I should note here that I’ve met my fair share of late-twentysomething lobbyists (and the occasional lawyer) at happy hours at Capitol Lounge and the Hawk and Dove). – Fritz

Washington DC: Love the chats especially as a relative new comer to DC. Plan to go out to have my first martini this evening - where should I go in the city for the ultimate martini experience??

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, it depends. If you’re into martinis-that-really-aren’t (the fruity kind), then you’ll want to check the bar lists at Ozio, Felix or Bar Rouge. I think Ozio makes great drinks, although Felix has a longer cocktail menu. But if you want the classic martini – meaning gin and vermouth served up with fat olives – I don’t think you can go wrong at a great hotel bar like the Round Robin Bar in the Willard or Off the Record at the Hay-Adams. One of the high-rolling steakhouses, like Sam and Harry’s or the Palm, would be excellent choices.

Oh, and never, ever order a rail martini. Cheap gin is bad, bad, bad news. Pay the extra money and specify your liquor. For gin, I like Plymouth Dry, Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire. And while I’m not a huge fan of vodka martinis, it’s all about the Hanger One or Pearl. -- Fritz

D.C. Work-a-holic from last week: Hi Guys-
Thanks for the info on museums. I got to the Phillips Collection, and must recommend the Bonnard Exhibition to all. Some really great pieces.

Quick museum question: Is the Spy Museum worth the price and the wait? It sounds interesting, but is it done well?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: D.C., thanks for the feedback. Glad you enjoyed Pierre Bonnard. For those who haven't been, here's a preview.

As for the Spy Museum, I'd say go ahead and drop the $11. It's kind of espionage lite, but flashy and fun, if that's what you're in for. The gadgets might be worth the trip. As for the wait, it's open until 8pm through the end of this month and you can get advance tickets by waiting in line on another -- less crowded -- day. -- Maura

Re: Cap City Brew Fest: Do you all have a link to that? When/where is it? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: The Mid-Atlantic Oktoberfest.

Springfield, Va.: Where's a good cheesy Cellar/Odds/Sports Fans type club these days in D.C.? I want to hear some Humpty Dance yall!

The Going Out Gurus: The basement of the Irish Times and Crush instantly come to mind. And, if you’re lucky, Tom Tom. – Fritz

Washington, DC: Do you know anything about a Downtown DC Bar Crawl? I went on one this time last year one Saturday Day and it was a lot of fun. Is one planned for this fall?

The Going Out Gurus: Here's the info on the Cap City Bar Crawl.

9:30 Club: I want to go to Jack Johnson so bad when he plays at the 9:30 Club. Is ebay my only option of getting tickets to this sold out show?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi so bad, this is Joe and you can always check out the forum on the 9:30 site to see if people have extra tickets. But I just took a peek and it looks like a lot of people are looking for tickets and no one is giving them up for that show. You can always try a ticket broker in town. We don't recommend any particular one, but you can track them down in the yellow pages.

Silver Spring, Md: Hi Gurus. I am planning a happy hour for a group of 15-20 people. What restaurants/bars in the Silver Spring/Rockville/Bethesda area would have a separate room for us? A place where I wouldn't have to put money down in advance, but could rely on the food and beverage sales of the group? Thanks. Also, it doesn't have to be a Friday, but maybe a Thursday.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Silver Spring. In Bethesda, try Montgomery's Grille, The Barking Dog, South Beach Cafe, Uncle Jed's or Rock Bottom (I know for sure R.B. has a private room but the amount you have to spend per hour may be a bit much). The other spots may not have definitive private rooms, but they might at least cordon off a section of the restaurant for your group. In Silver Spring, you might also look into Quarry House Tavern, a neighborhood, hole-in-the-wall spot that might be fun. If other MoCo folk have ideas, please chime in. --Jen

Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Oh Wise Gurus! We are looking for a place to pick some pumpkins, sip some cider, maybe purchase a pie or two for this weekend. Any thoughts on a great orchard that won't be all theme-parked out? No need for face painting or pony rides with this crew. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: I feel you Dupont. Here's a couple ideas: Norman's Farm Market and Garden Center in Olney (301/260-8780) has no kids activities, just fall produce. Rock Hill Orchard in Mount Airy (301/831-7427) uses their gourds to decorate, not skeletons and the like. And here's two old-school style places way out in Virginia: Marker-Miller Orchards (540/662-1391) have their own bakery on site; Rinker Orchards 540/869-1499 makes their own cider. Always call ahead to doublecheck hours; also, Marker-Miller has relatively limited hours on the weekends to begin with. -- Anne

Downtown: Kate,

Where can a girl celebrate the 221st anniversary of the victory at the Battle of Yorktown? Yorktown Day is next Saturday (the 19th) and I plan on celebrating in style. Got any ideas?

The Going Out Gurus: Well, Petula, I'll have to be somewhere French, no? Happenstancily, I pressed my nose (a la "Bicycle Thief") against Pied de Cochon this morning. (I still can't figure out what the devil construction is going on next door). You could have a B of Y party there. What about making a call to Chez Antoine. If your group is larger than 25, couldn't you take over the whole place, say at 9 so he can feed early diners? La Fourchette is easy-breezy and I do have an enduring love for the late-night three course special at Bistro Francaise. The "bottomless" carafes at du Coin have been known to go down easy and they do serve champers by the glass. What about reserving a long table along the balcony?

Washington, DC: Hi Gurus, Can you please tell me about the Grog & Tankard? I am going there tonight to catch my cousin's band. I have never been there and don't know much about it, like is there a cover charge or do I need tickets or something? Your help would be appreciated. Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hey DC, this is Joe. Your cousin's playing and he's not putting you on the guest list?? That's lame. Tell him to hook you up. The Grog and Tankard is pretty much of a divey bar with pool tables and bar bands and cheap beer. The crowd is usually early to mid 20s. I think they might have food there but I can't remember. If you want to eat you should go to Rocklands or Austin Grill, both just a door or two away.

Washington, D.C.: I will be going to Fallingwater, Pa. this weekend. Anything else to do there?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Washington. Fallingwater alone is worth the trip, but if you're looking for something more, we'll give it a go. There is a second FLW house up there, a few miles away - Kentuck Knob (www.kentuckknob.com). It's the same price of admission as Fallingwater, but nowhere near the masterpiece. You might as well check it out, if you're there, but I'm just prepping you for a bit of disappointment.

If the temps were warmer you could whitewater raft on the Ohiopyle, but I suggest you stop in for pie at a diner you'll see on your way in on Route 40 (the name escapes me, but there aren't any others around). So delicious I even brought one back for my fellow gurus last year. Have fun. -- Maura

Metro Center, DC: Hi gurus! Any word on Man of La Mancha? Good? Bad? Overrated? It does look like the National Theatre has a great lineup of shows this season. Do you know if they have a Young Professionals or Young Benefactors group that raises money in exchange for cheaper tickets?

Also- just a word of caution. I went to John Harvard's BrewHouse last night and it was the worst service/food/beer experience I ever had. We were sat at an unbussed table. 3 of the 6 types of beer they had were flat, and we didn't see menus or a waiter until 30 minutes after we sat down. Needless to say, we caught a bite to each at McDonalds before heading to our event at the Warner.

The Going Out Gurus: Sorry to hear about John Harvard's. I (Jen) have been there before shows on a couple of occasions and, though it's never rocked my world food-wise, I've never had problems with service or beer. That's a bummer.
As far as "Man of La Mancha," I haven't heard much as of yet. I personally am not terribly excited about it (what I know of the show doesn't really intrigue me), but the Brian Stokes Mitchell factor certainly adds something. As far as the deal on discounts at the National, read this. And the line-up there this year is pretty decent, though I could do without the Dame Edna. (Why, oh why, couldn't we have gotten Baz Luhrmann's "La Boheme" before it hits Broadway?!)

Woodley Park, Washington, D.C.: Hello -- We are trying to find a place to have a rehersal dinner that will allow us to use our own caterer (Rocklands!). We are hoping to have it outdoors to give it a "backyard" BBQ feel, but not end up shelling out the same amount of money we did to rent the actual wedding site. Any suggestions?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) suggest you look at local parks. Surely there must be some that allow for private events. Call around to D.C., Montgomery, Fairfax and other local park departments to see if anyone can provide suggestions. I know the Montgomery County Parks Dept. has some spots, but they may be beyond your budget, as a lot of them are used for wedding receptions. But certainly check and see.
If that doesn't work, start sucking up to one of your relatives or friends who has a nice backyard.

Georgetown U.: It's raining. Where's a nice spot with lots of glass looking over a side-street to drink coffee and pretend you're doing homework? Don't say those hoity toity crap holes in Dupont. Or, these terrible pretentious flop houses in Georgetown.

The Going Out Gurus: Whoa Georgetown, there's a lot of anger in that question. Why so bitter? Let's see, not pretentious or hoity toity (is that how you spell that?), hmm, how about McDonalds? Does any one out there want to suggest a place that'll suit Georgetown's needs.

Michael Moore: Hi guys,

I looked first in your search engine and found nothing, so I come to you. Any word on when "Bowling for Columbine" is coming to town?

Thanks a bunch, you guys are a great source of info.

The Going Out Gurus: Since you're Michael Moore, shouldn't you know when your film is being released? Ah, just kidding. "Bowling for Columbine," which, in light of the concern about guns, seems quite timely, is slated for release next Friday the 18th. However, movie release dates often change at the last minute, so check back with the entertainment guide to be sure. (In light of the violence locally, it's possible someone might decide it's inappropriate to release "Columbine" in the D.C. area. But hopefully that won't happen.) -- Jen

Ellicott City, Md: Looking for some great places to hang out with the girls on Friday night. Live music (jazz or latin), good but inexpensive food, nice atmosphere, good urban crowd.

The Going Out Gurus: Cafe Nema is cozy with a little jazz combo. Ortanique will provide the latin flavor on a more upscale tip. U-Topia is probably your best bet for the atmosphere/crowd/price combo. Head to Rumba Cafe if you want that latin jazz served up with a lot more energy and people and you don't mind a small space. - Rhome

For Georgetown U: Try your library. you can get the excellent coffee out of the machine, and look around for a seat near the window. enjoy.

The Going Out Gurus: There's an idea.

Staring out the window: Gurus!

Happy Thursday, finally!

So, I want to volunteer somewhere, but I don't know where, or how to start looking. I'm really not down with the whole "single volunteer" thing or those one-time dealies; I just kind of want to help out somewhere once a week. Any ideas of where to look?

Have a great weekend!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi SOTW. Volunteering is a great idea and you've got lots of options. With DC Cares you can try out some different places and find what you like. You can certainly sign up for something once a week. Otherwise, I'd think about what your own interests are and try and go from there. If you're really ready to set aside an hour a week, you could try tutoring, kids or adults, but it's a long term commitment. A few gurus actually have experience with this, so if you want more information, e-mail me at maura.mccarthy@washingtonpost.com

Washington, DC: Ok, I have a really random question. My parents are coming to visit me and they heard of this Hindi play that's being put on somewhere in the area and they want me to find info on it. I did a search on the web and couldn't find anything. Do you by any chance know where I can find info on something like this?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) have to plead ignornance on this one. Not sure I know of a Hindi play being performed locally. Kids? Care to help out our friend here?

RE: Humpty Dance: Fritz, Tom Tom dont play that way anymore. all lounge all the time now.

by the way, caught slaid cleaves at iota tuesday, excellent stuff.

The Going Out Gurus: The Humpty Dance isn't cheese, it's classic! So Tom Tom is jiggified now? Duly noted - Rhome (serving as Fritz proxy)

RE: Michael Moore: Bowling for Columbine in an exclusive screening, including Q's & A's following the film with Michael Moore!!!

Tuesday, October 15, 2002, 8:00 p.m. Screening, Cineplex Odeon Cinema at 5100 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, DC, Metro: Friendship Heights

Individual tickets are only $25!

STUDENTS: A limited number of discounted tickets are be available for $10 with a student ID.

Space is limited. Please respond by Friday, October 11th. Sponsored by the Alliance for Justice. For more information go www.afj.org.

The Going Out Gurus: This is a deal.(Carrie, is that you, darling?)

Silver Spring, Md.: My girlfriend's 21st birthday is coming up in a few weeks on a Tuesday night (election night). I am a college student so obviously not something too expensive. How about a fun place for dinner in the area (could be D.C. but I like the Maryland suburbs better). Both of us like Italian but we would go for almost anything. Also, she is not a drinker but would go for one "fruity" mixed drink. Where would be a fun place to go after dinner to get this drink and maybe do some dancing. Any ideas for gifts?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, SS. This is Anne, and I like this small sweet Mexican place on Georgia Ave. south of Colesville. Durn if I can remember the name -- is the Tijuana Cafe? Anyone else remember? It's not fancy, but not pricy either. Of course, there's many offerings in Bethesda -- Jaleo or Black's should hook you up with food and drink. Since it's election night, the only people dancing will be the winners. Stay out of Capitol Hill and out of the way of any people crowded around the TVs.

Re: Bitter Georgetown Student: Hey, I feel the pain-- I graduated from GU three years ago. My recommendation is to head way up Wisconsin Avenue to Friendship Heights and go to Booeymonger's. I know that there's a Booeymonger's in Georgetown, but it doesn't have the screened porch/patio seating, so you don't get the "out of the rain, yet almost sitting outside watching the world" feel there.

The Going Out Gurus: another tip. thanks.

Washignton DC: For the person looking for a place to have a bbq rehersal dinner--call the National Park Service. they run the parks here and my friend who works there said that a lot of places are available for events of this type. and they don't cost a fortune either.
Ps. Yorktown Day at Au Pied (it rhymes)

The Going Out Gurus: An excellent suggestion to that question. (also rhymes)

re: bad service at John Harvards: This always amazes me. Why don't people complain on the spot about bad service? I'm not a prima donna, but if I get bad service, I complain to the manager, right then and there.

The Going Out Gurus: Good point. It's also possible our previous poster was in a huge hurry to make a show and didn't feel like waiting around to find a manager, have a discussion, etc. But you're right -- when we can, we should make our voices heard. It's the only way restaurant owners will know they or their employees have screwed up. Or we can just tell the world about it in a Got Plans? discussion. Whichever works. - Jen

Sure, its just water under the bridge : I mean I would have let it go; my embarrassing little harangue about the still water at Zola. But no, you guys had to post the response on the front page of the entertainment guide; of course Tom was polite enough to add his timely review as well. Well - that got my obsession gland going.

First let me say that we do know the difference between still and frizzanté, but honest – the way the waiter phrased the question, “bottled or still” – we ALL thought we were getting tap, plus the bottle actually said “Still” on it.

Let me tell you what we did get - Voss, Taken from a virgin aquifer shield it is the first ultra-premium bottled water from Norway available in America (so, maybe Mr. Smartypants wants to tell me what a virgin aquifer is, or for that matter, the difference between premium and ultra-premium).

Apparently Voss is the preferred water of Madonna, it comes in a cool bottle that I swear looks likes the drugs they find at the end of Alien Nation and, (in the words of Dave Barry - I’m not making this up), the water sommelier at the Ritz Carlton New York, characterizes it as “neutral, low in minerals and bacteria … it should be paired with a Chateau Latour”, as it will allow you to focus on an expensive wine.

Your obsessive fan in Falls Church

PS – We all got a kick out of the black-napkin thing at Zola’s, wonder what happens if I wear my seersucker?

PPS – We love a good ghost tour – have you heard of anything more interesting than the regular Old Town and Leesburg haunts? I once heard about one in an abandoned insane asylum around Ellicot City.

The Going Out Gurus: Sorry

I believe you.

Uh huh.

O.K.

I don't know.

Here's our skinny on ghost tours.

-- Maura

For Georgtown U: Umm, perhaps it'd be best if you stay in your apartment/dorm room. And drink something a little stronger than coffee.

The Going Out Gurus: And yet another idea.

Arlington, VA: For the coffeehouse grouch: Try the CyberStop Cafe on 17th Street a block or two up from Mass Ave. Go upstairs and snag one of the couches under the painted sky. Or sit on a stool overlooking 17th Street. It's not hoity-toity, it's funky. And it's always quiet.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks Arlington.

for the fallingwater visitor: the diner is called Glisan's (nice crowd, nice food, and yes, excellent pie). a fun thing to do if the weather doesn't improve is to keep heading out on 40 to uniontown (of some historic importance, and an object lesson in the evolution of towns and small cities).

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, sweetie-pie. Gilsan's it is.

Pumpkin fans from McLean, Va.: Folks,

We would like to take my two sons to a hayride, goat petting thingy, pumpkin patch, etc., inside the beltway. Everything fall and festive seems to be in Centreville, Leesburg, Fairfax, etc. Want a short drive north or east, please. Any specific recommendations?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, pumpkin fans, Anne here. I'd suggest Krop's Crops in Great Falls (703/430-8955). They have farm animals and a hayride to the pumpkin patch. Do call ahead -- today for example, they're closed because it's raiing. It is hard to find a patch inside the beltway -- I think that's because the joy of pumpkin-patching is the old-fashioned rural experience.

Baseball Playoffs!: I'll be in a meeting at 1 today so I'm posting early: I'm a California native and baseball fan. Do you know of any sports bars that you recommend as places to watch the Angels/Twins and Giants/Cardinals games? I live in Bethesda and also open to places in the District. Thanks much.

The Going Out Gurus: Hey Bethesday, you could try Willie and Reeds in Bethesda, also Parkers and there's a new place on Cordell across from a dry cleaner, but I can't remember the name. Can anyone help with that one?

Random Citizen on the Hill: RE: Georgetown U...How about Teaism Penn Quarter. They have a few tables near the front doors, great place to watch people walk by and enjoy a hot cup of chai tea.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks RCOTH. Everyone's being very helpful with this one.

Washington, D.C.: Quick Question: I have 5 guests coming in town this weekend. I would like to take them to get a drink at The Hotel Washington's Sky Terrace on Saturday at around 5:30PM. Should I expect to wait for a table?

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC. 5:30 shouldn't be a wait. You're smart to visit now, for the Sky Terrace closes for the season Oct. 27. -- Anne

For Kate: Last week you said that you were going to Temple Hall Farm's "American Gothic" corn maze on Saturday, en route to the Waterford Fair and that you would report back today. So whats the story?

The Going Out Gurus: My obsession with Temple Hall continues unabated. The Waterford Fair prooved too rich, too thick with reenactors that leaving enough time for the maze didn't even cross my mind. And had you seen the reenactor "skit"/skirmish that I witness (one mangey Reb shot another in the back for desertion while the Yanks advanced!) you might have stuck around too. These guys had period clothes and period teeth. Period. Wildly amusing. Full stop. But I'm determined to make it to the corn maze -- their brochure language alone had me at hello: "Corn-fused?" "Get Lost ..." "aMAZEment" I love that hoo-hah.

Arlington, Va.: Hi there! Love your chat. Where can you find incense around the D.C. area? I am specifically looking for a place that sells single sticks and you pick how many and what fragrances you want.

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Your options are myriad, Arlington. If you're anywhere around the U Street/Cardozo/Shaw area, you can always find brothers peddling wares hand-to-hand (incense, oils, philosophical tracts, bean pies, whatever you fancy). Some of the street level entrepreneurs have stands downtown (K & L Streets, Conn. Ave). I'm partial to the indian goods myself so I'll usually grab some Nag Champa in bulk from the moroccan store in Adams Morgan. To get the self-serve variety pack action, I'd suggest you stop into any one of the numerous muslim/health food/afrocentric type stores on Georgia Ave near Howard University. There's a little hole in the wall spot at Georgia and Florida called Mecca that I frequent. Further north on Georgia and right off the HU campus there's Blue Nile and a handful of others. - Rhome

Lucky Ducks: So we have a rainy weekend ahead of us, but some lucky ducks have off from work on Monday (me included), so the three day weekend cancels out the rain if you ask me! Anyway, give us some ideas for Monday, will ya? Are museums, shops, restaurants open on Columbus Day?

The Going Out Gurus: Lucky duck, indeed. Expect everything -- except the government -- to be open. As for museums, only the Phillips is closed, as it is every Monday. As for shops, find some ideas from our friend Janet right here. Enjoy. -- Maura

AFj/Bowling for Columbine: How do we "respond"? There's nothing on the AFJ website mentioning the event.

The Going Out Gurus: I tells you what: Why doesn't AFJ send the info to me (kate.gibbs@washingtonpost.com) and we'll post it.

Arlington, Va.: Hey y'all--

Are there any spots in the District carrying cool clothes for guys? Maybe something with a little more funk to it than the Diesel boutique?

Thanks, Naked in D.C.

The Going Out Gurus: I know I need help with this one too. It's either Burlington or the thrift store for me. What can I say? I'd rather buy records than a cool shirt. I know some cats that buy funky wears in the consignment/vintage shops along U-Street and 14 Street. Any GQ types out there want to share their haberdashery secrets? - Rhome

D.C.: do u think the taste of dc is worht it for the food and price?

what about the book festival?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) think Taste of DC is worth it if you've never been. (After you've been once, however, I think you've gotten the basic gist.) The fun lies mainly in the atmosphere and not so much in the food, some of which falls into the generic chain restaurant category. But one of the participants this year is a Jamaican restaurant from Bowie called Just Jerk It, and how can you resist visiting a booth with that name?

And I think the National Book Festival is worth it, too, especially if you're the type who loves literary stuff. Plus it's free, so if you find yourself less than enthralled, you can leave without losing anything except a little time. (Anne also asked me to point out that children's author Eric Carle will be at the festival. He's the guy who wrote "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" and "The Very Quiet Cricket," a favorite of my nephew's.)

Former New Yorker in DC: On a rainy like this, I'm craving a big bowl of Asian soup with wontons and noodles. In NYC, noodle shops are on every corner. I haven't been able to find a place to get the soup here. What do you recommend?

The Going Out Gurus: Pho 75 on Wilson Blvd. in Arlington (just a mile from the Key Bridge) is amazing and incredibly cheap. There's also a Pho place in Cleveland Park that you might want to try.

Happy Halloween!: Last week someone asked about the goth scene -- just wanted to mention Catacomb has now relocated to Havana Breeze, and changed its name to Dark City. Also, an extensive calendar of events can be found here.

B00!

The Going Out Gurus: Boo to you too! Freak! Ha, ha. Thanks for the tip. - Rhome

Mexican in The Sprang: There's a GREAT place in Silver SPring called "Mi Rancho" fun place. inexpensive.

The Going Out Gurus: Nicely sprung, Sprang.

Actual Chai: Speaking of "chai tea", by which I assume the chatter meant that strange overly-sweet premixed concoction that so many coffeehouses serve--any suggestions on a coffeehouse where one could get actual Indian-style chai, as in freshly brewed black tea with cardamom, cinnamon, cream, and sugar?

The Going Out Gurus: I think Teaism is still the best bet for chai. I too hate the overly sweet stuff mixed up at Starbucks, Cosi, etc. Kate endorses the chai at Tryst. Any other chai chatters?

Au Pied de Cochon Construction: The building next door, which used to contain my bar in APdC, was sold and the new owners decided to make some changes. They did not know it was a historic building until after they took of the roof and the city shut them down. The roof was still off when I was there more than a month ago.

The Going Out Gurus: Wow, what a story. Thanks APdCCdpdC....

arlington va: been growing these eyebrows out for a while. In desperate need of a shaping wax. Who's the best around?

The Going Out Gurus: What about Lance at Blue Mercury? He runs around 25 bucks but he uses this bizarre (and painless) waxy jelly. -- Kate

Re: Staring out the Window: I volunteer with DC Cares and imo, they're the best organization. They cater to professionals by having the projects after "business hours" on weekdays, and for a couple of hours in the late morning on weekends. You can sign up for as many or few projects as you like, and the projects range from working with kids, to the homeless, to doing manual work on houses/gardens. Their website is www.dc-cares.org.

I submitted a question before the chat and not sure if it got through. Looking to dine Morccon style Saturday, and have heard good things about Taste of Morocco in Clarendon. Opinion? Alternate suggestions? Do I need reservations?

Thanks, you guys are always fun.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for volunteering the info. Am afraid I haven't ventured to try Taste of Morocco. Anyone else?

Not Dupont Circle: Okay GOGs - the flip side. I am looking for a totally themed-parked out place to do a corn maze, hay ride, decorate pumpkins, bob for apples and whatnot. Whats your favorites.

The Going Out Gurus:
NDC, pretty much anything you go to is more tricked out than a Vin Diesel-mobile. Here's our Halloween Guide, with lots of suggestions. I (Anne) went to a mega-fest at Cox Farms in Centreville (703/830-4121), and it is Kid Central. Big ol' haybale obstacle courses and giant slides, tho. You can easily spend a whole afternoon. Watch out for bees around the food areas.

Logan Circle: Hey Gurus,

This gripe is a little outdated, but it slipped my mind these last few chats. If anyone out there reading these chats has ANYTHING to do with the Adams Morgan Day festival, or other similar fairs, -please- -please- -please- try to get more interesting food and vendor stands.

A few years ago it seemed like the actual restaurants and stores on 18th St. played a more active role in getting out into the streets and hawking their goods. But this year, it was just a bland mishmash of fried rice-chicken kebab-$3 lemonade stands and guys selling the same old African masks and incense, which completely contradicts the A-M reputation of eclectic and unique. Why not get the merchants who actually operate in A-M to come to the fair?

I missed the Takoma fair last weekend, but based on that area's reputation, I wouldn't be surprised if they had a little more autheticity in their offerings.

Sorry for the lateness on this, but boy did it bother me!

The Going Out Gurus: I agree whole-heartedly. These vendors have nothing to do with the neighborhood and contribute little but their garbage to local businesses. You should write to the Adams Morgan Citizens Association and to the Adams Morgan Day office and ask them to reconsider the purpose of this so-called "Festival." -- Kate

Noodle Soups: Pho 75 is nice, although they vary in quality from location to location; you might also want to try Hope Key in Clarendon (their Hope Key Noodle Soup has squid, wontons, roast pork, and chicken, plus the noodles... I'm getting hungry just thinking about it), or Full Kee in Chinatown. Most Vietnamese places also have a couple of non-Pho noodle soups on the menu; Clarendon (again) is a good place to go for those as well.

The Going Out Gurus: thanks for the tips.

For New Yorker wanting Pho: Try Eden Center in Falls Church -- this shopping center is like a little Saigon. Tons of pho places and good Vietnamese bakeries. It's on Wilson Blvd.

The Going Out Gurus: Another good suggestion.

Washington, DC: Hey GOGs! Hope life is treating you well!

Here's my question: My wonderful amazing fabulous boyfriend wants to take me to L'Auberge Chez Francois to celebrate my new job. I drive (he doesn't) but expect that we will want to celebrate with a bottle of wine. Is it too far to cab-it? Or do you suggest getting a car service? Or maybe I should suck it up and only have one glass of wine? Thanks!

Also, for the martini-newbie: Check out the expresso martini's at Savino's - excellent for when you're tired after work. Also Ozio's makes a delicious Chocolate Truffle martini.

The Going Out Gurus: Oooh, cabbing it would be really pricey. As would overdoing the wine and getting behind the wheel. How about calling L'Auberge Chez Francois and seeing if they have any suggestions? This has certainly happened with others before, right?

Oh, and congratulations on the new job. -- Maura

Washington, DC: The 2002 DC Asian Pacific American (APA) Film Festival will take place Oct. 10-19 at Smithsonian Institution's Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, the Freer Gallery & Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, and George Washington University. We will screen feature-length films, shorts, and documentaries on a variety of topics from the best and the brightest of APA filmmakers. The festival will be supplemented by panel discussions and live music events and parties at MCCXXIII (1223), HR-57, and Club Daedalus.

The Going Out Gurus: All right, we'll let you play the promotion game. But just this once. Also, here's our info on this festival.

Yorktown Day: Don't forget the tricorn hats, the fifes, and a tipple of Sam Adams ale!!!

What a great celebration idea! I dare say, better than July fourth!

The Going Out Gurus: Then you must come along!

East Capitol, Washington, D.C.: Have you been to the Royal Lee in Arlington for a show yet? It's my new favorite place to see Kick A rock shows. I don't know what's going on there this weekend, but next Friday should be debaucherous.

The Going Out Gurus: None of us have made it there yet. We'll have to check it out.

Jay's Saloon: Where is it? Could you post a link if you have info for it online? I'd search the site for it, but the spectacularly craptastic redesign that the Post did of its online Entertainment Guide included adding in a bunch of javascript rollover stuff that doesn't work with half of the web browsers I've seen, including the one I have to use at work. (Can you go smack whoever designs your site and tell them to stop making it so whiz-bang "cool" that it's become the least useful site on the web, by the way?)

The Going Out Gurus: Umm.

By the way, here you go: linky-loo

A burbs question for you, o wise gurus: : Anyone know anything about the Sterling Cinema & Drafthouse? We were thinking it might be a fun place to see XXX. Word is it turns into a bar with a DJ after the flicks. Cool, or is it merely trying to be cool? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey there, burbs. I (Jen) have been meaning to get out to the Cinema & Drafthouse, but have not yet. What you have heard is correct, it does turn into a bar/dance club after the last movie is screened, around 10 or so. I can't say yet whether it's cool or trying to be cool. I'll let you know once I've visited. It's certainly something different, so for that reason alone it might be worth a shot. If you go, please report back.

Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus! I'm going to the National for an 8 p.m. show. Can you recommend somewhere nearby to go for pre-theatre drinks/appetizers and where I won't be out of place in somewhat formal dress? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) recommend that you take a look at this pre-theater dining feature. There are a number of options near the National, and I think you could get away with semi-formal dress at any of them.

Washington, DC: Your chats used to be great. I miss the early days of the gurus when you were nice, kind, and just answered the questions. You've become quite sarcastic and frequently suggest places outside of the inquired about area.

The Going Out Gurus: Oh DC, you know that's not true. We've never been nice and kind. But, we'll try from now on to just answer the questions and have no fun at all.

Rockville, MD: I believe Timpano in Rockville has a nice size back room for parties. As well as That's Amore. Hope this helps.

The Going Out Gurus: Yes it did.

Arlington VA: I'm doing research to find out where all the open mic nights are in the area. You guys wouldn't happen to have such a list compiled yet, do you? I searched on Open Mics in the database but only came up with seven items, and I know there are more than that.

The Going Out Gurus: Not yet. But I saw that Open Mic night has returned to Staccato on 18th. -- Kate

Sterling: Sterling, inherently, is uncool.

The Going Out Gurus: See, that's the kind of attitude we don't need. It's only inherently uncool because no one has come around to cool-ify it yet. Don't know if the Drafthouse raises or lowers the cool quotient, but it deserves partial credit for trying.

Signed,
Jen Cool

Between here and Fallingwater: We did a rather cirular drive to a wedding in Pittsburgh last year, that included Fallingwater.

As I recall - some of the more interesting things we saw were along the old Lincoln Highway, where we saw a building shaped like a coffee pot, and an amazing art deco Gulf gas station. We never found the restaurant that looks like a ship.

your obbessive fan in Falls Church

The Going Out Gurus: I love the idea of the coffee pot building. Do tell, where?

Washington, D.C.: Has anyone been to Firefly? Is there a bar/cocktail scene there? Or is it mostly just a restaurant.

p.s. I met David Segal the Wash Post music critic last night and he is FOXY.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Washington. I was at Firefly last week and found the bar rather small, but very charming. I loved the little orange lanterns in the trees. Service was excellent and drinks and din delish. I'd recommend it, especially on a weekday night that might not be so crowded.

As for the p.s., we'll pass it along. -- Maura

Too much caffeine, Mt Pleasant: C'mon guys, out with the Halloween stuff already! (My birthday, so it's an extra special time of year) What's the word on the cool stuff? I know about the high heeled race already, and I don't want to do the crappy midtown bar crawl on Halloween night. Give me the digs on something cool for a mid- to late-20's semi-hipster crowd!

The Going Out Gurus: Lookee here, Mt. P. Our primer is on the front of the E Guide: boo.

re: volunteering: www.servenet.org is an excellent national site that hooks up volunteers with programs that need them. and they have loads of programs in dc.

The Going Out Gurus: More offers.

Re: Moroccan: Taste of Morocco in Clarendon is mighty, mighty tasty. It's often a quiet place. Usually a belly dancer on the weekends. The chicken with couscous is wonderful, with moist, tender chicken. Okay, now I'm hungry...

The Going Out Gurus: Me too!

Taste of Morocco: Very good food, for a pretty good price; just avoid going during the belly dancing, unless you enjoy being nearly deafened by blaring middle eastern techno. (If you actually want to watch the belly dancing rather than talk to your dinner companions, though, I guess it's pretty good as such things go. I just don't appreciate having to give up half an hour of my meal to something that loses its novelty factor after five minutes.)

The Going Out Gurus: Hmm, less hungry now.

DC: For the person looking for an outdoor venue for a rehersal dinner -- you can reserve picnic areas in Rock Creek Park.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, DC. I knew there must be an option like this.

The Going Out Gurus: Hello everyone on this crappy day, I just wanted to add something for our disgruntled user because we don't like when you're not happy. Since I'm the squad member responsible for making sure you all are happy and our stuff works well (although I don't design things, so there are limits to my powers) the answer I'll give you is that we design our stuff by site-wide standards based on the configurations (O.S., browser, platform) that MOST people are entering our site with. That means that the small minority of folks using things like Opera and NS6.0 (which is actually really craptastic, let's face it. Why code for something with so many bugs?) can often be left out in the cold. I can also tell you that these standards do evolve and our user input is important so if you email me with specific problems you've encountered (details work better than generalizations) we can give you even better answers. - Rhome

Arlington, VA: Hey DC going to National-
For drink and an appitizer before a show at National, I like Old Ebbitt. If you're driving - it has free valet parking and you can leave your car there until after the show. Just a thought.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Arlington. I (Jen) exercised this option (sans car) before seeing "Mamma Mia" at the National, and it worked out well.

re: taste of morocco: I had one of my worst meals there! My bf found a piece of STEEL WOOL in his food, and we were told that that tends to happen, since they use that to wash dishes!! And they completely messed up our orders, and even after complaining, really didn't do much at all to make us feel that they felt bad or watned our business again. I know the food at Marrekesh is nothing to rave about, but at least the service is decent, and the food is better (and steel wool-free!) than Taste of Morocco. Thanks for letting me vent!

The Going Out Gurus: Something to chew on.

Capitol Hill: I'm not sure if this a question for you guys but if not hopefully someone else on the chat can help me. I'm thinking of having a happy hour at my house next weekend and want to have the food catered (don't want to be stuck in the kitchen the entire time). Can you recommend a few good caterers? I'm ideally looking for good New Orleans food. Thanks-you guys are great.

The Going Out Gurus: I've done that before (way easier with sushi, trust me), but I'm sure if you called say, Bardia's or some such Cajun kit'jun, they'd help you out. Not too long ago I made a big curry and pick up papadums and samosas and such savories at a nearby Indian restaurant, and while I couldn't begin to pass it off as my mine, it was a not too too expensive extra. -- Kate

Capitol Hill, DC: Another pre-theatre option:

I went to Chef Geoff's the other day (right around the corner from the National), and it was phenomenal. They have a three course prix fix pre-theatre dinner special for around 20 dollars. Yum!

The Going Out Gurus: I've heard good things about the downtown Chef Geoff's. We may have to add that to the theater dining feature - thanks for the tip! - Jen

Mt. Pleasant: re: street festivals - not sure if this is good, bad, or indifferent, but at the Takoma Fair, a lot of the exact same crappy food vendors set up as at the A-M. But they do have the Nuclear Free Zone t-shirts, which are priceless artifacts from the People's Republic of Takoma.

The Going Out Gurus: Indeedy. The Zone = priceless.

Capitol Hill: Karaoke on the Hill-- every other Wednesday, starting October 16th, upstairs in Politiki! I'll see you there?

The Going Out Gurus: How good is the song book?

Royal Lee: Don't know what's going on there this weekend, but next Friday is a punk rock extravaganza with The Goons, Monster Puss, Meat Joy, a kissing booth, tattoo raffles, and more mohawks than you can shake a wallet chain at.

The Going Out Gurus: Thank you Mr. Lee.

For AFJ: Call (202) 822-6070 to RSVP

The Going Out Gurus: If you build it, (s)he will come. Have at Moore-fans.

Washington, DC: Can you tell me more about Local 16. I'm dying to go!

The Going Out Gurus: You can read what Fritz thinks and what Tom Sietsema thinks, and I (Anne) am still blissful after dinner there. I want it to be my dining room. A blend of the neighborhood-sensitivity of Carolina Kitchen, the price-points of Kuna and the veggie options of the old Blue Plate in Dupont. If Restaurant Nora were cheaper, on U Street and scads louder. Of course, part of my awe comes from the transformation of the old Julio's space ... it could reinvigorate home-renovators everywhere. Reservations seem a must -- it was packed at 8:30 on a Tuesday ... but the upstairs wasn't open.

Krazy for the Corn Maze: HI Great GOG's. Boyfriend and I went to the Fredrick Corn Maze on Friday night with our flashlights, and had a blast...we showed up just before 10:00pm and explored till 11:30. Very tall corn, it was tre' fun. It is shaped like the Capital, altough you can't tell except for the map they give you. Not too crowded, and barely any kiddies. Thanks for the idea!

The Going Out Gurus: See, that's what I'm after. Very glad you had such a good time.

U Street: Baltimorites who're missing their Panic buzz should check out Fletchers (701 S. Bond Street)in Fells Point Saturday night. Mark's DJing Bliss there, bringing Britpop to Charm City. And you can get National Bohemian for 75 cents a can!

The Going Out Gurus: That right, hon.

:): Washington and Beyond:
Have a great weekend, enjoy our Nation's capital and don't forget your umbrellas! That's all folks!

The Going Out Gurus: Yeah, what they said. See you next week.

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