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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, Jan. 30, 2003; 1 p.m. ET

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, washingtonpost.com's Entertainment Guide experts share their best bets for local flavor, great dates and family fun. Got plans? Great. Need plans? Just ask. We have the skinny on the bars and clubs, concerts, kitchens, theaters and special events that keep life interesting. We're going out gurus, and we're at your service.

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

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

Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion.

The transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

The Going Out Gurus: Hello All. I'm Rhome and I'm a bit bobble-headed today, almost forgot I'm in the driver's seat. We've got a reduced crew today but since the temperature is soaring into the balmy 30's we're feeling quite energized. I've got Jen, Fritz, Alexa, Maura and Joe on deck. The floor is open.

The Hill: I want to get my java-crazed sister some really good coffee for her birthday. Any thoughts on special beans or the perfect store?

The Going Out Gurus: Well, Hill, here's what I think. Misha's Route 66 are some very nice beans, and I think Starbucks' (quiet please) French roast is hard to beat. -- Alexa.

Washington, D.C.: How is the Reef in Adams Morgan? Worth a trip for a group of twenty somethings? THANKS!

The Going Out Gurus: The Reef is a very "In Style Magazine" kind of place with a fantastic selection of draft beers (no bottles or Bud) and bartenders who whip up excellent mixed drinks. I'm a huge fan of the jungle room. Just remember: arrive late, stand in line outside in the cold. -- Fritz

Washington, D.C.: Hey there!

Do any of you know of art classes available in the D.C. area for at a fairly beginner level that are not outrageously expensive for someone just wanting to try something out? (about $600 at the Corcoran is what I would consider too expensive; looking for something around $200) And also I've already checked out the D.C. parks and recs classes, the timing is not right. (next class apparently does not start until September) Any ideas?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Not sure what kind of art classes you are looking for, Washington. The Smithsonian Associates offers a beginning painting class that starts tonight. Call 202-357-3030 to see if there's still room. If you're into different media, check out the classes at the glass studio Meltdown, a little higher priced than what you're looking for, but they're a friendly and talented bunch. There's also Hinckley Pottery in Adams Morgan. If you have access to a car, you can check out the classes at Glen Echo. Their semester started last week, but they do have late registration. Good luck. -- Maura

Takoma Park, Md.: I am always looking for more quality vegetarian restaurants in the D.C. area. Could you suggest any?

The Going Out Gurus: Just last week, Eve wrote about Misha's Route 66 are some very nice beans, and I think Starbucks (quiet please) French roast is hard to beat. -- Alexa.">Siena's in Rockville that sounds rather interesting. Do you swoon in the company of meat? Or will a restaurant with plenty of vegetarian options do? If this latter is the case, you've plenty of options. Have a looky here. -- Alexa

Washington, D.C.: Any info on Firefly the restaurant? Is it stuffy and expensive, or are folks who wear T-shirts and want to try their fries welcome -- or is it both? Does it get crowded? Also, what's the skinny (I sound like my dad) on RFD?

The Going Out Gurus: Yes. Well, both, actually. I've been there in jeans and Adidas to sit at the bar and sample the appetizers and the top-shelf cocktails. If you don't want dinner, you can sit at the bar or in a small lounge area. No one's going to hassle you. Trust me.

As for R.F.D., I've been several times and am working on the story now. Great beer selection (30 drafts, 300 bottles) and food that's made with the brews, although service has been somewhat iffy so far (friends ordering venison stew and getting beef, being told that a beer was off when I was already drink it, etc). I've had a great time, though, and will be going back -- especially when the outdoor beer garden opens this spring. -- Fritz

Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus! The Chinese New Year begins this Saturday -- will there be any big events down in Chinatown this weekend? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Dupont, celebrations are next weekend, I'm afraid. If you can wait that long, there's the Chinese New Year Parade Feb. 9 and dance performances at the Millennium Stage. -- Maura

Washington DC: I'm sitting in my office listening to Steely Dan, drinking Diet Dr. Pepper, and munching on a Potbelly Sandwich Works "Wreck". Based on only this info, where would you suggest I go for entertainment this evening?

The Going Out Gurus: Your couch. -- Alexa

Larry who?: Why isn't Larry's Lounge in the database? You guys mentioned it once and it sounded totally cool. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: That's odd indeed, because it's one of Kate's favorite neighborhood spots. We'll have her get on it when she gets back from the 'Nam.

But they have great martinis, cozy booths and a Ms. Pac-Man machine. You should be sold on that alone. -- Fritz

Reston, Va.: HELP! I've had the same haircut since the sixth grade (I'm 24 now) and I think it's time for a change. Can you or your readers recommend a good place that styles and cuts men's hair?

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Well, Reston, if you have the same haircut you had in 6th grade, and you're 24 now, then your haircut is probably back in style. I'd say just leave it alone. But then, what do I know. Readers, help Reston out.

Washington D.C.: So is Dream now officially 21+ all nights? I heard they recently dropped anything 18 and under.

The Going Out Gurus: Yes. No more Thursday night at all. At the end of last year, they went to Friday and Saturday only, and both are 21 and over. -- Fritz

Alexandria, VA: I've been to 1223 before and really enjoyed the scene...I remember hearing about the possibily of reserving a table that comes with a bottle of liquor, glasses, mixers? Any ideas how much this costs?

The Going Out Gurus: Several hundred dollars, depending on whether you want vodka or Courvoisier, for example. I think in Spank it was like $300 for a bottle of Absolut, mixers and a "bed" for you and three friends. -- Fritz

Arlington, VA: Hey GOGs! I've always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. Do you have any advice on where to go for private lessons at a fairly reasonable price (either in the District or VA)? Or, to all of you tuned in today, is it impossible for a 27 year old to even learn how to play a new instrument? thanks

The Going Out Gurus: If octogenarians climb mountains and run marathons, you can learn to play the guitar. Folks willing to teach often advertise their services in the back of the City Paper or put up postings in local music stores. Have you tried searching for guitar on our site? - Rhome

Bethesda, Md.: Hey gurus!

Anyone been to Bistro Francais in G'town? I'm thinking of that place for V-day. What is this place like as far as dress code and do we need reservations? Probably stupid question being Valentine's Day in DC...

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, I'd certainly reserve. Ask then about dress code. You'll like it there. -- Alexa

Bethesda, Md.: I went to The Barking Dog in Bethesda last Friday with some friends and had a blast. Have you ever been? What are your suggestions for a mid-20s guy on Friday night Bethesda?

The Going Out Gurus: Really? At the Barking Dog? I've been and didn't think much of it. It's a room with beer, although the upstairs ballroom cut be put to better use. (Actually, I hear they're doing Eurodisco and international dance music now with videos from MTV Europe.)

For a mid-20s guy in Bethesda, I say Rock Bottom and Tommy Joe's are a given, maybe Caddie's if you like sports (Willie and Reed's always rubs me the wrong way). Chrome is lame. Anyone else want to weigh in? -- Fritz

Skokie, Ill.: Hey Gurus,

What good movies are coming out? I saw a preview for "Old School" with Will Ferrell. Anything else that looks good?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) suppose what's good depends on your taste, Skokie. This weekend's openers include "The Recruit" (standard suspense with Al Pacino and Colin Farrell), "Final Destination 2" and "Russian Ark," which is screening here in D.C. at the AFI Theater and will receive a rave review in tomorrow's Weekend section. I'm not sure if "Ark" is at a theater near you at the moment, but it's worth checking.
Next week, "Shanghai Knights" is coming out, if you're into that sort of thing, and on Valentine's Day there's Ben Affleck (and Colin Farrell -- he's everywhere!) in "Daredevil." If you want my two cents (and I guess you do, or you wouldn't have asked), I'd encourage you to see all the Oscar-potential movies that are out right now. "Chicago," "Adaptation," "About Schmidt," "The Hours" -- these are all wonderful films that you may have missed during the glut of other great movies that came out during the holidays. You can find links to all of them here. As for "Old School," it could either be totally hilarious, or an utter disaster. The trailer did make me laugh, though.

Del Ray, Va.: Can you fab gurus give me a list of bubble tea (also known as peal tea) places in D.C. or Alexandria? I have my normal haunts in New York and Chicago but haven't found any places here. Any help would be great!

The Going Out Gurus: Bubble tea can be found at Teaism, certainly. But let's ask the group if they've seen this tea (floating with balls of semolina) anywhere else... -- Alexa

good coffe: fourbucks coffe and the word good should not be used in the same sentance.
unless saying "good god thats some awful swill"

try ordering from petes in califorina, it might be called peetes too as all i can find is peets.com

The Going Out Gurus: Ah, the ever-fashionable Starbucks-bashing begins. It may be hip to rail against Starbucks, but the truth is the place has great coffee. And, for better and worse, the place is responsible for changing America's coffee habits. - Joe

Arlington, VA: I'm looking for a small, hip-hop club in NW. Where might I find it? Seriously, strictly hip-hop on a Saturday night.

The Going Out Gurus: Seriously (sadly), it's hard to find. You'll only reliably find hip-hop (of the mainstream variety) in the mega clubs like Platinum, Dream, etc. I don't know if Le Tarbouche would qualify for you but it's worth checking out. Some promoters have been throwing a jiggy-style, mostly hip-hop event in the smaller environment of this spot that serves as a restaurant by day. I did write about a few smaller scale options here but even this list has already changed because Bin Tumani is out of the picture. - Rhome

Washington, D.C.: I recently went on a dinner date to Sushi-Ko in Glover Park and it was the best sushi meal I've ever had. And pretty cheap for a dinner for two on a Saturday night. Try the banana tempura with ginger ice cream and chocolate sauce. It's splendid.

So here's my question: are there any good sushi restaurants in Dupont Circle that have happy hour deals? Someone once mentioned Uni Sushi to me, but I've never heard anything else about it. Thanks very much

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks, Washington. And I'm a devotee of Uni's happy hour: $1 Nigiri and $3.50 rolls from 5-7, and $3 Kirins. Grab a seat at the bar and watch James and crew do their magic. -- Fritz

Arlington, Va.: What info can y'all give me about Ragtime?

The Going Out Gurus: They have fantastic chicken wings. And a load of very American, very calorific 1980s-ish bar food. -- Alexa

Arlington, VA: What happened to the movie multiplex in Pentagon City? It's DARK!

The Going Out Gurus: What happened is that it closed a few weeks ago. Hence the darkness. Kind of a bummer, especially since it was such a Metro-accessible theater. No word yet on what, if anything, will replace it. -- Jen

Washington, DC: Last minute evening plans. Meeting a friend around 8 for a flick, then meeting other friends afterwards for drinking. Not enough time to go home for dinner. Please help me with a good food idea! I'm sick of Chipolte & the Whole Foods salad bar. Either fast foodish or sit down, but I'm wearing jeans, so it's gotta be casual. Is 15 Ria worth going to solo? Or do you have a better idea in the Logan/Dupont `hood?

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, I'm not sure 15 Ria is worth going to solo or otherwise. Why not try the bars at Firefly, Savino's, Sushi Taro or Helix instead. -- Maura

Bethesda, Md.: Hi, I love the chat! There's so much to do and having a little guidance is a necessity.

Is it foolish to think the Mr. and I can enjoy dinner out on Valentine's Day? We want a long slow meal (thinking Melting Pot).

I would be open to postponing until Saturday to celebrate, but I fear 50,000 other couples will have that same idea. Help!

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, you are probably right. Why not postpone it a whole week and stay in together? Cook. That, in my book, is a far better idea. -- Alexa

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Hey Gurus! I'm looking for a place to experience some good drum and bass. I'm not familiar with the scene at all (if there is such a thing), but I love music and just want to check out some new spots. Any guidance is appreciated. Thanks!

P.S. Where are the Gurus' stomping grounds for this fine weekend?

The Going Out Gurus: Fritz likes this one the best. There's also Player's Ball, Up Nightclub and Tangent. - Rhome

Washington, D.C.: Hey All,
I was wondering if you have the restaurants that have dinner specials for Valentine's Day. Last year my husband and I went to Cafe Atlantico, and it was great!
Thanks and I love the chats!

The Going Out Gurus: If you want to go there again, you'd better make a reservation sharpish. They have another menu of aphrodisiacs planned and it costs $65 per person for a five-course meal. 202-393-0812. -- Alexa

Fairfax, Va.: You mentioned last week a film "Russian Ark" that will be playing at the AFI Theater at the Kennedy Center. Trying to get information on this has been like pulling teeth. The Kennedy Center gives out a number for the AFI and an answering machine answers with no message. I know the dates, can you give ticket information and times? I'd be very grateful.

The Going Out Gurus: No need to go all "Marathon Man," Fairfax. Here's our info on "Russian Ark"; if you click on AFI, then click on the day you want to see the film, the showtimes will magically appear. Hope this helps, and stops the teeth pulling.

Washington, D.C.: What's the deal with Caddie's in Bethesda? Fresh new addition, or another Bethesda meat market?

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, the deal on Caddie's is that it's another Bethesda meat market. But a step up, I'd say, from Willie and Reeds and the like. You could certainly do far worse out Bethesda way. -- Maura

Downtown Washington, D.C.: Re: hip-hop

Sadly, I heard that there's a problem with Casava, something to do with the liquor license. That's a shame because although it was pretty grimey (and although my purse was stolen there last spring), I usually had a good time switching between the hip-hop and reggae levels. Other small-ish hip hop joints include Timehri (spelling??) and Fasika's.

The Going Out Gurus: I would have mentioned those except the events constantly change (at least at Fasika's), they are pretty cruddy, and my boy got stabbed outside one of those spots. Fritz said it was okay for me to expose my misgivings. - Rhome

Washington, D.C.: Hello folks,

I was wondering about the International, which I read about in yesterday's weekly dish. My questions are kind of about all hotel bars, but particularly this one, as it sounds pretty cool. The food seems reasonable, but are the drinks totally expensive? Are the people snooty? Can you wear jeans? can you linger over one or two drinks and not feel bad about using up a table?

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Washington. You'll actually be reading more about the International in tomorrow's Nightwatch column in Weekend (plug, plug), but let me answer your questions now. I'm not sure I'd call all the food there reasonable -- the burger is $16, as is the hanger steak, but the appetizers are in the $8-10 range. (I have a menu sitting in front of me.) The fondue Wednesdays are a good deal though: $14 for two people. Martinis are $7-9 (6 ounce size) or $11-13 (10 ounce), but they're very well made. Beers are $5.25 to $7, but again, it's a very good selection.

People aren't snooty. I wear jeans just about everywhere, and no one said anything at the Internation, whether it was '60s dance night or a weekend at the bar. And lingering is fine. Last time in, some friends I killed a few hours over two drinks, and it was no sweat.

By the way, the same goes for most of the hotel bars in D.C. -- although you might not want to wear jeans to the Four Seasons or the Hay-Adams. -- Fritz

Burke, Va.: Looking for a nice, not-terribly-expensive restaurant, preferably in Northern Virginia (Metro to downtown is almost an hour). Food type really doesn't matter. Non-hip preferred. Am I wishing for too much?

The Going Out Gurus: You might like the Village Bistro, just up the hill from the Rosslyn Metro; or Singh Thai close to Courthouse. -- Alexa

11th and U St NW: What's been going on in the U-Turn Bar at 11th and U on Saturday afternoons? There's always a bunch of uber-punk kiddies hanging outside and loud racket coming from upstairs, and the telephone poles are becoming covered with their arty lil'punk flyers. Any clue as to what this is?

The Going Out Gurus: Probably a punk show. Kids had to migrate somewhere once Kaffa House closed. - Rhome

Arlington, VA: In regards to movies - I saw "The Recruit" earlier this week, I wasn't impressed. It is a mix of "Spy Game" and "Enemy of the State" and very predicable.

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, that's my impression, too (though I haven't seen it yet and probably won't). But to some people, that description means good, which is why I mentioned the movie to Skokie. Subjectivity is a complicated thing. Thanks very much for the input, Arlington. -- Jen

For Logan solo diner: How about Skewers on P Street, or right below it, even quicker, Luna Cafe?

The Going Out Gurus: More for Logan.

Bubble Tea Sightings: I've also seen several varieties at Wok & Roll in Chinatown and, oddly enough, at a kiosk in Mongomenry Mall.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for those two tips.

Arlington, Va.: I wanted to send you a note to thank you for the recommendation of the restaurant "Lattanzi" in the New York theater district. I went there last weekend with my boyfriend before seeing "Imaginary Friends" and both he food and service were excellent!

I also recommend the play to literary-minded theater goers! Thanks again!

The Going Out Gurus: Glad we could help Arlington.

RE: Bethesda Hangout for Mid 20s: Rock Bottom rules in Bethesda nightlife. Other than that Tommy Joes is fun, Caddies is too crowded, Willie and Reed's is very quiet sonce Caddie's opened. South Beach upstairs bar is decent. Flanagan's is a mainstay there.

The Going Out Gurus: Ah, South Beach. How could I have forgotten? Drum'n'bass on Sunday nights, cheap happy hours during the week. Thanks. -- Fritz

Re: Art Classes: Just wanted to mention the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria.

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Torpedo Factory, of course.

HOMEcoming: Hey, GoGS -- What's the word on Home, the new nightclub in downtown D.C.? I've read the Post review, but haven't heard many people talking about it. What are the crowds like, and is it worth checking out? Or is it just another VIP/Dream clone?

The Going Out Gurus: Since I wrote that, I've been by and seen a line out the door on weekends. It's similar to VIP and Dream, but far more intimate. If you liked VIP Fridays, check out Home on Friday, where you'll find loads of young professionals. If you like VIP Saturdays, hit Home's happy hour and Flirt on Wednesday nights for hip-hop and R&B. -- Fritz

Art Classes: I took a drawing class for under $200 at the studio on P street in Georgetown. The name is escaping me, but I'm sure they're on the web. They had a whole catalogue of classes. And Hinckley is great!

The Going Out Gurus: Good news, thanks!

Art classes: I know the Art League in Alexandria has them. Don't have the number, but they are on Union Street and you can surely 411 them. Also, the Torpedo Factory has classes.

The Going Out Gurus: Here's another.

Mt. Pleasant on quick yums in Dupont: Dude, you're looking for somewhere to munch that's not Chipotle or Fresh Fields? Hit Malaysia Kopitiam on 19th and M. It's cheap, quick, casual, and they have the tastiest roti with curry chicken sauce.

The Going Out Gurus: Are you still there, Logan?

RFD=bad: Since there was a discussion on what RFD was like last week I thought I'd throw in my two cents. I went for dinner earlier this week and the service was bad. I tried to give our server the benefit of the doubt since the place is new, but it was B-A-D. Slow service, didn't bring food we ordered repeatedly, didn't know the beer or food menu at all and ended up bringing food we didn't want or eat, messed up the bill and then the credit cards at the end of the night, and it was REALLY slow. And the whole place looks like a food court with lit up beer coolers and the open kitchen looks like you should grab your tray and head up there for your meal, and the food was OK, but I wasn't bowled over by it. The only really great thing about the place was that they had DeGroen's dark lager.

Oh, and for all our trouble including not getting food we ordered and getting food we specifically didn't want they took $3.50 off our $50 tab for the food we didn't want. And only after we asked.

The Going Out Gurus: Damn. I had some server problems too, but that seems really bad. I would have had a quiet word with the manager and listed your complaints at the time.

The decor ain't much, that's true, but I like the beer coolers. And where else can you find 30 draft beers in the city? (There are 50+ at Last Chance Saloon in Columbia).

Good call about the open kitchen. That seems very much the rage these days -- see Poste or Firefly for example.

But the service -- yeesh.

-- Fritz

Downtown Washington, D.C.: Re: Drum & Bass

There's an event this Friday at Casablanca in Old Town that I'm supposed to check out. Metro accessible, too. $6 cover. More info at www.lemurgene.com.

Jen

The Going Out Gurus: I haven't been there but I know of the folks that run it and know the work of many dj's that play there... it's a quality event. From my understanding though it's mostly house, unless there's a guest dj spinning drum & bass booked for a specific night. You should definitely go though. - Rhome

Washington, D.C.: So, I just won tickets to see David Gray on Sunday from my favorite book/CD store Olssons (can I plug them?). He's got a very suburban sound, so it figures that the show would be in the middle of nowhere -- the Patriot Center. I need to figure out how to get out there and back. Is there any kind of public transport that will serve my needs? The show starts at 7:30, I guess.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi DC, getting to the Patriot Center (and back) on public transportation isn't an easy task. But go here to see what the options are. - Joe

Washington, D.C.: One museum I don't hear you recommending is the Kreeger on Foxhall. It is past G-Town, but a wonderul art museum displaying all sorts of Monet, Picasso, and Kandinsk. If you haven't already, you should check it out.

The Going Out Gurus: Washington, the Kreeger is a definite gem. I just interviewed their director this morning, so look for a feature on the museum next week. For those unfamiliar, the Kreeger features 20th century art in a home designed by Phillip Johnson. Reservations were once always required, but now there are open hours every Saturday from 1 - 4pm. And yes, if you haven't seen it, check it out. -- Maura

Single on Valentine's: Hey, Gurus! Looking for your always-on suggestions. I've got a friend coming into town Valentine's weekend. She and I are both late 20s, fun-loving, stylish chicks, but I'm a little concerned that we're going to run into a wall of depression if I take her out and all we see are mushy couples. Can you recommend some places where the singles will hang for Valentine's? Would be elated to chat up some fun guys, but not in a desperate way. Know what I mean?

The Going Out Gurus: So far, I've heard of anti-Valentine's Day parties at the Exchange and Lulu's (that one involves a shredder), and a speed dating/"Dating Game" party at Fado, as well as plenty of events for couples who want to make googley eyes at each other. They'll all be in our database soon.

If you don't want to see mushy couples, just do what I'm gonna do: Go somewhere grungey (i.e. the Black Cat or Asylum), stay home or take a six pack over to a friend's house, and drink there while watching "Fatal Attraction." -- Fritz

Good god: A 10-ounce martini? What is this world coming to?

The Going Out Gurus: A state of intoxication, that's what. Mark my words. -- Fritz

Washington, D.C.: Any ideas for someplace within an hour or so drive from D.C., where I can take my beau for an inexpensive night away? Preferably someplace where we can curl up in front of a fire and relax.

The Going Out Gurus: Dig through here and see if something looks good. Chatters are invited to chime in too, there are some tried and true favorites. - Rhome

Arlington, VA: Hey Gurus--
your chats keep me sane ~ thanks! anyway, I really want to go see a theater production sometime in February. I'm not too into musicals, but anything else would be fine. What do you think is a must-see?

The Going Out Gurus: One of the upcoming shows that interests me (Jen) is Woolly Mammoth's "Jump/Cut." It was written by a former MTV writer and is about a trio of friends who try to make a reality film. So that might be good (and Woolly's tickets are pretty affordable). "The Silent Woman" at Shakespeare Theatre is supposed to be excellent. You also could catch Balki himself in the Kennedy Center's "Stones In His Pockets." (Yes, I realize Bronson Pinchot is a talented guy who has done other things besides "Perfect Strangers," but I still find it hard to look at him without thinking "Don't be ri-deec-ulous.") Lastly, I know you said you weren't into musicals, but if you've never seen it, "Rent" is coming to the Warner next month. Don't know how this particular production will be, but the show itself is phenomenal. In the words of Comic Book Guy, best musical ev-er.

Anytown USA: Did any of you guys attend any of the new year's parties at Topaz/Rouge/Helix? I just wanted to know which bar/hotel was rockin?

My friends are having a debate over this so I thought I would ask you guys. Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Topaz. Definately Topaz. The others were a little laid back, but DJ Dredd and his '70s funk show had the party going on. -- Fritz

Fedland: Hey GOGs!

Quick Thursday night question for ya -- my friend and I are planning on heading to Five tonight for some serious dancing. Never been before -- what do you think of it? We were also thinking about getting a drink at 18th Street Lounge beforehand -- is there a cover tonight to get in there?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Five looks great, sounds great and has great dj's. An ESL cover will vary from $0 to the $20 range depending on day of the week, time, what you're wearing, your gender, and the doorman's psychic assessment of your aura. - Rhome

Maryland: About Bubble tea or Boba: I just saw a new place being built in College Park across the street from the University of Maryland Book Exchange. It's right next to Papa John's Pizza on the strip. It's called Lollicup and their Web site is here.

Looks real nice.

The Going Out Gurus: Lollicup. We make a note.

Re: Ragtime's Wings: Y'all are yippin about Ragtime's wings, but you never mention that, other than that fact alone, the place stinks. The food is comparable to Crapplebee's, and the staff must spend at least an hour in the morning whoring themseleves up.

There's this Ghanian place on 18th that has pretty good wings, although they stray a bit from what most folks expect in a wing.

The Going Out Gurus: I have to say that I'm not a Ragtime fan, even though it's right down the block from us. It has no personality, and other than the wings, is kinda dull. Four Courts or Gua-Rapo are much better. Or Joesph's! I love that place. -- Fritz

Downtown Washington, D.C.: Re: art classes Also, the DCJCC has art classes for beginners at around $140 bucks or so. Anyone can join and the painting teacher is really nice.

The Going Out Gurus: Great to know Downtown. Thanks.

Bethesda, Md.: What's the beef with Willie and Reed's? As a mid-20's female my friends and I go there often. We LOVE the create your own salads, big screen TV's and private booths.

The Going Out Gurus: It's like "Shallow Hal." You see the place's inner beauty. Some of us only see a crowded sports bar with overpriced beer and blah food.

Washington, D.C.: I went to the House of Secrets Saturday night, have any of you been there?

The Going Out Gurus: Yup. But since you have too, why are you asking us? Share your experience with the class. - Rhome

Alexandria, Va.: Is there a Metal Scene in DC? E.G. A place where I can go see heavy rock bands? And I'm not talking about wussy rock bands like Matchbox 20 or Blink 182.

The Going Out Gurus: One word dude: Jaxx.

Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: I've been wanting to try out Firefly (restaurant) and have two questions:
1. Is it vegetarian-friendly?
2. OpenTable.com says that they aren't taking reservations for Valentine's day for Firefly. Any idea why this is, if it's booked, etc.?

The Going Out Gurus: If you are strictly vegetarian, the Valentine menu at Firefly won't suit you. I'm not sure why opentable.com isn't taking reservations for the 14th. But the restaurant does plan the same menu and mood for the 13th and 15th, too. -- Alexa

Woodmont: Rhome,

Last week you told two women to go out and "shake their money-maker." Please tell me you don't think of women that way? Please? Maura, Jen, if he does, kick him in the shins for me would ya? I know it may just be an expression, but think about it, it's kind of rude.

The Going Out Gurus: Rhome has always been a respectful and thoroughly professional colleague who exemplies the concept of gender inclusiveness. And as a woman, I don't find that expression rude because it can be used in reference to men, too. When the great James Brown sings about the moneymaker, everybody, regardless of sex, color, or creed, shakes it because they just can't help themselves. And it is just an expression, so no offense was intended.
P.S. If there was a legit reason to do some shin-kicking, my foot would be the first one flying in the air. -- Jen

Washington, D.C.: I have a friend -- no, really!-- who would like to find a service organization or cultural organization where she can meet people close to her age (40's, 50's). I saw a great article about cultural groups for younger singles in The Post a while back, but there was nothing for older singles. Any ideas?

The Going Out Gurus: Not all members groups are that age specific, but your friend might join institutions at a higher member level like the Corcoran's Friends group. Often they skew a little older. -- Maura

The Going Out Gurus:

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: I popped into Savino's Lounge a few weeks ago to get a few drinks during happy hour, but unfortunately they did not have any happy hour specials. Drink prices were unbelieveable ($6 for a Heinekin?) so I ended up going to Ozios (French martinis are fab!). What's the deal with Savino's? Have their prices always been this high? Do they even have enough customers to be charging outrageous prices for mediocre beer? THANKS!

The Going Out Gurus: Prices are high at Savino's but I love the martinis -- INCLUDING THE LYCHEE MARTINI -- as their new menu is one of the most inventive in Washington. (Then again, it's like $8-10 for a 10 ounce glass). Compare the martinis at Savino and Ozio and you probably won't be disappointed, although I, too, love Ozio's French Martini.

But it was packed last Thursday night around 7 p.m. -- Fritz

Wow, I've been here for five years...: And never heard of M.E. Swings! Cool! Can't wait to try it...Bet it's not open on the weekends, huh?

The Going Out Gurus: I don't think so. But you can get it fresh at some stores around town, including the Washington Gourmet in Woodley Park. They get theirs fresh daily, and I've seen the deliveries. -- Fritz

Washington, D.C.: What do you hear about "Angry Inch" in the old Guantanamera space in Adams Morgan?

The Going Out Gurus: That it's not open yet? I've heard rumors and nothing more. -- Fritz

Arlington, Va.: Where can I go to hear live blues in this city? Seems like we're overflowing with jazz places, but nothing for blues (although a few of those jazz places throw us off by using "blues" in their names).

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Arlington,
this is Joe. Yeah, Blues Alley is a jazz club. That confuses people. For live blues, try Madam's Organ on 18th Street on Saturdays for Bobby Parker and Ben Andrews on Tuesday. Also, keep an eye on places like the State Theatre and the Birchmere as they often have blues acts perform. - Joe

12th & F Sts, Washington, D.C.: I have my mom and 18-year-old brother coming into town this weekend. Thinking that Blues Alley or HR-57 might be a fun spot to hit...but will an under-21'er fly?

The Going Out Gurus: You should be fine at both.

Dupont Circle: Hi Gurus,

A friend had to cancel a trip to New Orleans due to a bad illness. We'd like to cheer him up & give him a mini N'awlins right here in DC. Plans include po boys at Bardia's and renting Girls Gone Wild to give the full experience (as none of US are going to flash him). We're thinking drinking Hurricane's at Lulu's, but part of me shudders at the thought of going there. Any other bright ideas? (but hey, if Lulu's is the best for cheesy re-creation, at least this is a group that can appreciate the absurdity)

And where can we get some mardi gras beads?

As always, thanks much for your sage advice.

The Going Out Gurus: Sure, Lulu's. Beads and drunk folks. It can get kinda "GGW" there at times.

But I think Louisiana Express is better than Bardia's.

-- Fritz

Alexandria, VA: Fritz--too bad your boys couldn't beat a team that has won 3 matches in the past 3 months.

The Going Out Gurus: Too bad your boys are STILL 14 points behind the champions. -- Fritz

Momma: Rhome, I tolds you nots to run with scissors, and be sure to shake your money maker for momma, just likes you used to do.

The Going Out Gurus: See, y'all know y'all ain't right, we've got R. Kelly and Pete Townshend running around these days. And someone really asked why we don't play matchmaker. This must be my cue to bid you adieu. We'll be back next week like always.

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