The Rookery D.C.

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 City Guide or read transcripts of past Got Plans? discussions.

The transcript follows:

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washingtonpost.com: Hi there chatters. Welcome to another week of Got Plans? Do you have a three-day weekend to fill with fun activities? Even though we don't have Monday off (sigh), Fritz, Anne, Rhome, David, Jen and I (Steph) will still help you out with your planning, so let's get started.

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Washington, D.C.: Fritz, I read in the chat last week that Galaxy Hut is pouring North Coast's Brother Thelonious(!), but do you know where can I also get Red Seal Ale and Old Rasputin on tap? Pref. in D.C. ? Cheers!

Fritz: I used to see Red Seal all over the place. Think the last place was Kramerbooks? The Brickskeller's upstairs bar usually has Old Rasputin on draft, as does Birreria Paradiso.

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Annapolis, Md.: I just landed a new job and need some serious relaxation and pampering before I start. I wouldn't mind taking an overnight trip alone to a resort/spa to unwind. I'm in my late 20's and not into the golf scene or dinner shows and whatnot, just want a great spa and a relaxing, peaceful environment. Got any recs? Thanks from over here in Annapolis.

Stephanie: Hey congrats on the new job! I went to Nemacolin once, and it was a bit of a drive but definitely worth it. Maybe the chatters have some other ideas...?

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Washington, D.C.: Hi guys. I'm lucky enough to have obtained a West Wing tour of the White House this weekend and I'm having a few friends in town for it. I'm wondering if there are any nice places to go to afterwards to grab a drink, we'll be in suits, and I was thinking of a very "Washington" dressy place within walking distance from the White House. Would Town and County fit the bill for this? I've never been but ahve heard of it. Are there any bars in the nice hotels where we would fit in? Thanks!

Fritz: Honestly, just go right across the square to the Hay-Adams Hotel. Off the Record is a dark, clubby, formal little bar that makes a mean martini, and you might run into some journalists and politicos. (I've yet to meet a source there, though I've thought about it.)

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus- I have yet another "parents in town this weekend" question, but I will try to keep it focused.Having just missed the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival, what are your recomendations for the best jazz this weekend; Friday, Saturday, or Sunday? The 'rents are jazz fans and I would love a heads up on anything going on this weekend, or your opinion on the best of the regulars. Noise level isn't really an issue and I am close to U street... Thanks!!!

David: Too bad about the timing, I'm sure they would have loved the free concert on the Mall last weekend with Dee Dee Bridgewater, McCoy Tyner, Taj Mahal, etc. David Sanborn is at Blues Alley all weekend, that should be a pretty safe bet. If you want something a little more out there, the David Bond Jazz Festival is at Twins Jazz, more in your neighborhood, too. Also in your neighborhood is Jacky Terrasson at Bohemian Caverns, he'll be doing a pair of solo piano performances on both Friday and Saturday.

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Solly's U St.: Hey Fritz - want to meet at Solly's for happy hour tomorrow? First round of Buck Hunter is on me.

Fritz: If this is who I think it is, I apologize, but I'm already booked, so we should reschedule. If it isn't who I think it is, apologize, but I'm already booked. But seriously, how can anyone go wrong with cans of beer, shots and Buck Hunter?

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Glover Park: Hi GOGs, my friend is coming into tonight for a long weekend and is a HUGE Phillies fan. Where can I take him to watch the game? I've heard conflicting things about the Phillies-ness of Capitol Lounge and Ventnor online. Thanks!

Fritz: I honestly don't know about the Philly/Phillie-ness of any bar in D.C., though I know the Iggles fans love them some Rhino Bar. Chatters? Phanatics?

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Adams Morgan Early Planner: Hi Gurus, Long time reader, first time writer. Any idea about the NYE events in the city this year? I'm especially looking for things that one can only do in D.C. - like embassy events, etc.

Is it too early to be thinking about this? Thanks! You guys are great!

Fritz: Yeah, it's really early to be looking for New Year's, but I applaud your planning approach.

As the guy who's done the NYE roundup for washingtonpost.com and the paper for the last five years, I can tell you that I usually start getting the bulk of announcements in November, with a fuller picture of the big-ticket parties by the middle of the month.

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Washington, D.C.: I had made plans to go with my cousin and her 1 year old son next weekend to Glen Echo to take him on the Carousel. No dice, closed for the season. Then I thought it would be fun to go the Muppets exhibit at the Smithsonian - closed last week. I'm batting two for two, what can we do with a 1 year old that will be fun for him and for us? We're both local, so no specific time frame applies - Personally, I'd prefer a wine festival in VA/MD. But, I don't think the kid would enjoy it too much!

Jen: I know, why do they have to and go close things? Thoughtless heathens!

Seriously, if you don't mind a drive, you could take them to a corn maze or maybe to pick pumpkins at Butler's Orchard? If the 1-year-old is toddling or walking, he'll just love being able to run around. And it's a nice outdoor activity, too.

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Washington, D.C.: So for her birthday, my friend has requested that we go get those pedicures where little fish chew on your feet. -shiver- Please say you know where to get this done! (Preferably in the District, MoCo would be second choice.) Thanks!

Stephanie: I have to admit, pedicures in general gross me out a little; I always think "how many feet have been in this tub?" And when you throw flesh-eating fish into the equation, well let's just say you're far braver than I am. The only salon I've heard about that does this locally is Yvonne Hair & Nails in Alexandria.

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Arlington, Va.: Looking to go out to a karaoke bar on Sat. night. Are there any places in D.C. or NoVa that could offer a private room, and any idea how much that would cost?

Thanks GOGs!

Fritz: Cafe Muse in Annandale remains the best for this -- private room for up to 10 people will run about $47/hour, but you have the machine all to yourselves. Honestly, I think it's worth it.

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Cabin fever: Submitting this for the second time. The nice crisp fall weather is giving me an itch to go away for a weekend in the Shenandoah, or anywhere within 3 hour drive of D.C. for that matter. Do you guys know of anywhere to stay that is isolated/secluded/in the middle of the woods? I've only found resorts or huge luxurious cabins with satellite TV and phone (come on people, you can survive for 2 days without TV!) I'm looking for rustic cabins that sleep 2 with private bathroom and wood-burning fireplace. Needless to say I would prefer to be close to trails, waterfalls/lakes, wineries and outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, boating, fall foliage viewing, etc. Thanks a bunch.

Stephanie: I'm more of a tent person when camping, so I don't have a lot of experience in the cabin area, but I would probably start with Virginia State Parks. Do those look rustic enough? Chatters, help a camper out!

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The Ohio: Fritz-- Previously you said that the gourmet pizza place going in on H Street was scheduled for the end of the year. Is that still the time line? PS, I checked out the Pug's "brunch" for the first time. Totally sketchy, but totally fabulous.

Fritz: If you're talking about the Tonic/Radius at the Ohio Restaurant, it's not going to be so much the Radius bit as the Tonic. They've gotten permission for a roof deck and patio, so they decided that a 4,0000-square-foot restaurant needed to be more diverse than a pizzeria.

You'll find individual gourmet pizzas on the menu -- more Tonic at Quigley's than Tonic Mount Pleasant, owner Jeremy Pollack says -- but it's not going to be strictly a pizza place.

They hope to start construction later this month, with an opening planned for February/March 2009.

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Jim Halpert: How was the Hot Chip show last night? The Against Me/Ted Leo benefit concert last night was killer. And looking forward to the Of Montreal Show tonight.

David: Hi Jim. Congratulations on your recent engagement. Anyone want to report back from Hot Chip? I saw them last April and it was pretty enjoyable, although I bet it'd be even better this time since they had a live drummer. I was where you were last night, at the Black Cat. You left out the best band, openers Future of the Left! Make sure to get to the 9:30 club early tonight for openers Love Is All.

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Alexandria, Va.: Are there any curly haired Gurus? I have been on what seems like a never ending quest to find a D.C. stylist for my curly hair but have had zero luck. Please say you have some recommendations!

Fritz: As (a) resident one, and (b) at the risk of screwing myself over by never being able to get in again, I will say that my boy Ian Palmiero at Kibana in Silver Spring is getting featured on NaturallyCurly.com as an expert with curly hair. I have to agree -- the guy is good.

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Union Station, D.C.: Hi Gurus, love the chats! I'm confused about the time for the Wedding Present concert at the Black Cat on Saturday. I got a voice mail from Ticketmaster saying the time had changed to 8, but the Black Cat website still says doors open at 9. Any idea when doors actually open, when the opening act will start, and most importantly, when the Wedding Present will start? Thanks!

David: Between this question and another reader getting a call from Tickets.com saying the (amazing!) Nick Cave shows were canceled, there's some weird automated phone stuff happening these days. Anyway, the Black Cat Web site is accurate. Openers at 9:30, the Weddoes around 10:30. Their last two shows at the Cat have been great, very much looking forward to this one.

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Arlington, Va.: I'm becoming bored with my normal Arlington haunts: Whitlow's, Ragtime, Eleventh Street Lounge... any suggestions to spice things up?

Fritz: Galaxy Hut, happy hour at Spider Kelly's, Eatbar, and Gua-Rapo, which has the best $5 happy hour cocktail menu around Court House, and, as featured in this week's Nightlife Agenda, some great house DJs tomorrow night.

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Washington, D.C.: This might be a more food chat related question, but I'm wondering if you have any suggestions for a big farmer's market akin to Union Square market in NYC. I love D.C. 's small 5-10 stall markets, but I'm wondering if there is anywhere in the area/region with something bigger and more diverse.

Stephanie: There's a big one at Capital City. Mostly I stick to the ones in Dupont and Courthouse in Arlington (which are both larger than five stalls though smaller than Union Square), and you can get info about these and more with our Farmers Market map.

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Washington, D.C.: For Spas, try the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. Hotel in the mountains, not sure if the leaves are changing yet, but I would wait till they do...

Stephanie: Another spa suggestion.

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Smithsonian Jazz Cafe?: I know the it closed down for the summer, any idea when the jazz series at National History is going to resume? Some friends and I have been looking forward to trying it out.

Thanks.

Fritz: Sadly, the Smithsonian Jazz Cafe has closed indefinitely. Not surprising, as it was losing money for years, and the Smithsonian's budget is tight enough as it is.

Your best bet for a similar vibe is the Kennedy Center's Jazz Cafe -- how sweet does that Nov. 7 New Orleans show with Alain Toussant and Henry Butler look? -- but I'd also encourage you to check out Thad Wilson's Orchestra at HR-57 or Bohemian Caverns when you get the chance.

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No Tents : Cabin fever, where can i find those nice cabins you were talking about? I've been to Gatlinburg in TN but dont want to make the drive all the way down there again. If anyone has ever been there, does anyone know a place like that in the area (aka 3 hrs from here)

Stephanie: Cabin Fever, care to weigh in on the upscale, television-equipped cabins you found?

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Washington, D.C.: I have an odd question that, perhaps, ONLY the Gurus can answer: Last night I was walking by 443 I Street, NW and there was a band playing in an upstairs space at the back of the building. There were also orange and white Christmas lights visible through the window. There is a sign for an art studio on the building, but it looked boarded up. Was this a private party or some type of event?

David: That's the space that used to be known as the Hosiery, which hosted some pretty choice shows over the past couple years. I was under the impression they stopped doing shows there, but I think some bands might still use it as a practice space.

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Oktoberfest Update: So how'd the Shirlington Oktoberfest turn out? I was really looking forward to it but decided against going when I heard they had to limit the pours. WOuld it have been fun?

Fritz: I went (as always) and turnout was the heaviest I'd ever seen. Early in the afternoon (around 2ish?) Cap City brewer Mike McCarthy said they were on track to have their best-ever sales day. I tried most of the Oktoberfest/fall seasonal/fest pours -- about a dozen -- and have to say that Cap City's (on cask) and District Chophouse's were neck and neck. Starr Hill's was the most disappointing.

I like the expanded area, which gave more breathing space, but the lines were out of control by the end of the day.

Anyone else go and have a report?

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Arlington, Va.: I'm interested in going to PX in old town, but i heard that their hours are erratic and they are only open when their blue light is on. The thing is, i don't want to get all dressed up and to make the hike down to old town and then have them be closed. Do you have any information on when they are open, and whether they are usually open on thursday, friday, and saturday? Or, is there a way to find out if they are/will be open other than just going there? thanks!

Fritz: The PX is open from 7 on, Wednesday-Saturday. I've never heard of them being closed during those hours UNLESS there's a private party, and even then, they open to the public after 10.

They don't have a public phone number. The easiest way to get in is to make reservations (e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or have dinner at Restaurant Eve and let them use the Batphone to tell the PX staff you're coming over. Otherwise, you risk getting turned away at the door -- and they DO hit capacity up there. It's a small place that's never too crowded, which is why I'm always happy to pop in for a cocktail when I'm in the neighborhood.
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Tenleytown: Hi GOGs! Sorry to submit late, but my friends are in need of some help for tonight, so I hope you'll answer. We're all new-ish grad students in the city, and are looking for some place for happy hour tonight (preferably along the red line). We like to grab drinks around the table, maybe get some munchies, and just yap, i.e., nothing too fancy. We like the ambiance of Cleveland Park B&G, but have already been there twice, so we're hoping for something new. Drink special are a huge plus, obviously. There are just so many choice that I don't know where to start, so I was hoping you could help narrow it down for us.

Thanks! Love the chats.

Fritz: Up by you, I'd say Chef Geoff's should be stop #1 because of the huge Supermug! beer special and cheap burgers.

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Curly Hair request: Try Beth at Fiddleheads in Dupont Circle. I've been going to her for about 2 years and she does a great job!

Fritz: Just passing this along.

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Washington, D.C.: Hot Chip was a hot, sweaty, disgusting mess of fun. It's amazing how some geeky white British guys can make the 9:30 Club move like so few other groups can do.

David: Thanks for the report. Those are some pretty geeky looking dudes, aren't they? The singer reminds me so much of the brother from "Napoleon Dynamite," very distracting.

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The Source: Fritz, I'm curious what a 'source' would disclose to you....what bars are about to get an alcohol violation? The spice blend secret for Duffy's wings?

Fritz: The restaurant and bar industries are essentially giant gossip mills. Gin mills, gossip mills --

Great, now I want gin.

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Arlington, Va.: Sorry if you got this already...I was having problems submitting earlier. Anyway, need your help. Election returns watching/birthday party combo -- need a location. Preferably inexpensive, private room would be helpful but not required, non smoking would be great but not required, and Arlington/Alexandria is preferable, but D.C. would work too. Oh, and obviously either one HUGE TV or several good sized ones...with the sound on. Suggestions?

Rhome: In all seriousness, I think that for the biggest election of our generation, in a town full of politicos, you won't find any private election viewing options unless you've got wads of recession proof cash.

You might just want pack in to whatever spot fits your partisan leanings because you'll then instantly find yourself in the middle of an explosive, joyous party or a massive group therapy session.

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Washington, D.C.: Hey guy - There are like a million new places in Columbia Heights/Mt. Pleasant since my friends last visited D.C. Which would be the best for dinner before a birthday night out in AdMo (around 6 people)?

Julia: I'd do Logan at the Heights. I just went there last weekend with some people after Columbia Heights Day and it was so nice to sit outside. Food's pretty good and reasonably priced. I like the vibe at RedRocks, but I'm still not sure the pies there are worth the money you shell out for them.

CommonWealth is another option -- particularly for those delicious Scotch Eggs.

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Alexandria, Va.: RE: spa resort - It's not cheap, but I just got back from Bedford Springs and it is phenomenal and worth every penny. It's been completely restored to its 1800's splendour, and while there is golf, there is so much more than that. I went trout fishing and hiking while my wife enjoyed the spa one day and the 1905 vintage indoor pool is fantastic. It's also only 2.5 hours away...

Stephanie: Another spa idea that sounds amazing.

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Falls Church: Hi gurus -- My mother-in-law is coming in town for a conference this weekend, giving us a free babysitter! The upshot is that she's staying at the Dulles Airport Marriott, and wants us to drop baby off there while we go on our date. I noticed that there's an Oktoberfest scheduled for the Reston Town Center this weekend, but didn't find much info about it on the web site, do y'all know anything about it? We like food and German musik ...

Fritz: There's German music Friday night and Saturday during the day, with more bluesy and zydeco acts scheduled for Saturday night. (As much as I enjoy the Crawdaddies, I'd rather go see the German dancers and bands at Oktoberfest.)

Dancing is on the main pavilion, and food/beer come from restaurants in Reston; I seem to remember Clyde's doing decent sausage platters at past events, washed down with German beer.

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Clifton, Va: The Greenbriar has some very nice TV-equipped cabins. If you have to ask you cant afford!

Stephanie: This is a good (and very expensive) suggestion for the person seeking an upscale cabin.

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Logan Circle, D.C. : Hi Gurus! I have Columbus day off and want to make the most of it. What are some things to do that I either can't do on a weekend or are annoying to do with the Saturday crowds. Also, can you suggest a nice restaurant (Downtown, Dupont, etc.) that may be expensive for dinner but a great deal for lunch since I'm rarely in those areas during lunch hours. Thanks!

Anne: Lucky you! If I were you, I'd take advantage of Restaurant Eve's weekday lunch deal. Yeah, it's not downtown, but what a deal for the value. This is a great time to hit some tourist attractions/museums -- no school groups but we haven't hit the holiday rush either. Bet you could have Mount Vernon all to yourself.

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I'm A Dancing Machine: I love to go dancing. Specifically, I love to do The Robot (in all seriousness, I am quite good at it - I have one routine where I act out part of the cantina scene from "Star Wars" that is phenomenal!). But most places I go, people start laughing or staring when I bust my moves. Is there any place in the area where the locals are accepting and open to someone expressing themselves freely? Thanks!

Rhome: If you were a true dancing machine you'd instantly win admiration, free drinks and phone numbers from fawning members of the opposite sex.

If you don't believe me, we can battle.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi, we're celebrating a 40th birthday with a group of 11 people, we're looking for a fun Asian place that serves scorpion bowls- any idea?

Fritz: Meiwah can fulfill your tiki-drink requests, flames and all. I believe City Lights of China in Dupont is another option.

(Last year, I would have just said "Yenching Palace," but you know, Cleveland Park needed ANOTHER drug store.)

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Downtown, D.C.: Because of the season change, can I still plan to wear stappy sandles out on a Friday night or should I put them away in the closet now?

Julia: I say it depends on the strappiness and whether you wear it with jeans or a skirt. These? Probably not. These? Yeah sure. With some nice long jeans.

These? Never.

Thanks for the lovely excuse to go shoe browsing.

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H St. NE: So I know Pizzeria Paradiso's Dupont Circle location is moving, but where? I got in an argument with the GF over whether it is moving into the old Dupont circle Movie theatre or the Huerich Brewery Mansion. I said the Mansion. Also, is it going to have a variety of beers like the Gtown location does?

Fritz: It's moving down the block to 20th and P, according to the last conversation I had with beer guy Greg Jasgur. And yes, he's going to start handling the beer program there, too, which means Dupont residents can look for their own Birreria. (He did say it won't have as many beers as Georgetown, but will still have a lot.)

Between Church Key (near 14th and P), Birreria II and the Brickskeller (22nd north of P), it looks like that's now the road to good beer.

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Spa in Asheville for the weekend?: Yeah, that 1,000 mile round-trip will be relaxing too!

/snarky

Stephanie: Snarky, yes, but also a valid point. For a longer period of time though, Asheville is a great place to visit.

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Arlington, Va.: I'm heading over to Eastern Market this Saturday and was wondering if you could recommend a good place to grab breakfast before hitting the stalls. I remember hearing about great blueberry pancakes at a place over there, but can't recall the name. Also are there any cool stores in the neighborhood that would be worth hitting up after I'm finished with the market?

Anne: Get your bluebucks, at Market Lunch, one of the indoor stands at the market. And go before noon. Afterward, walk south on Eighth Street through Barracks Row.

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For Cabin fever:: I've stayed with the folks here (www.lioncrowcabins.com/) in Luray, Va. Very, very remote, and the owner is quite possibly one of the craziest old men I have ever seen. We stayed in the Little Truckee Lion cabin (no, I did not make that up). There is a TV in that one, but its not hooked up or anything -- there's just a VCR (and seriously -- no one forces you to turn it on, anyway). The cabins are in good condition and some even have jacuzzis, but it's not glam or anything. Also, the area is REMOTE. We didn't see another soul the entire time (except for crazy owner man). There is a shopping plaza a few miles away if you need to get supplies, though. It's up in the mountains and was lovely.

Stephanie: Another option for Cabin Fever.

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Apple Cider Doughnuts: Hi GOGs, last week, a chatter asked about apple cider doughnuts. The only place to go is Miller's Farm in Clinton. They took over the bakery and ice cream facilities that used to be at Cherry Hill Farm. Their apple cider doughnuts are the best! They also have a hayride, etc, as one would expect at a farm in the fall. As for people looking for a fun activity for a toddler and grown ups, may I suggest the MD Renaissance Festival? Lots of fun activities for the kiddies, and wine/beer for Mom/Dad/Auntie, etc. Bonus, kids are free! My family has been attending renn fest for years, since my kids were tiny, and in the spirit of full disclosure, my daughter works there now. It's supposed to be a glorious weekend for outdoor activities.

Anne: How right you are! Cherry Hill used to be the main place, so it's nice to know that Miller Farm took over. Thanks for the tip on this. You can get a pumpkin there, too.

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Rosslyn: Oh Gurus of the Going Out. I know you answer this question constantly but please help a girl out. Where can a group of 30 year olds go to shake their tailfeathers in D.C. ? Looking for Top 40 type stuff from today and years before. I'm a native and the ponderance of this question has gotten so bad I would open my own place if I had the money. Clearly there is a need. You hear that all you entrepreneurs?! We need a dance place in this city for the over 30 crowd. Nothing with a $20 cover please, remeber most of us don't have the fancy lobbying jobs and are still trying to survive on non-prof and gov't salaries!

Fritz: I hear this one all the time. The really funny thing is that the places that spin all '80s -- or almost all -- well are places like Gin and Tonic, the Gryphon Room or the Rookery, which have that Late Night Shots stigma that turns some people off. (G&T's was heavy on Journey, Mellencamp, Michael Jackson, etc. when I was last through, and the crowd was dancing like crazy.)

Other ideas: I might suggest the special '80s night this Sunday at Modern to start -- you do have Monday off, Gvmt types -- or weekends at Chief Ike's Mambo Room.

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Herndon: I hope it's not too late, but I'm taking a date to the Caps game on Saturday, then want to take her out for a nice time. She likes dancing, just not a club where you can't move or hear the person screaming at you and I'm the same way. Where can we go around Verizon Center for a fun night. Metro accessible is ok as well. Gives us time to talk. We just don't want to be deaf when the evening ends.

Fritz: The lounge at IndeBleu is hip, has good music, is not too loud and has great cocktails, though it can get pretty pricey pretty quickly, thanks to $12 drinks.

I like Ultrabar, a nightclub just down 9th, but the main floor can be a hard place to have a conversation. (This is where I hope the guys opening Muse in the old Rock/Coyote Ugly/R&R Bar and Lounge space can get it together.)

If you don't mind a short trip up to K Street, add the Park at 14th and Lotus to your list. (Josephine's hard to get into these days, Tattoo is way crowded on Saturdays, hard to dance at kstreet.) See djgeometrix.com for free passes for Park at 14th.

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For the PX Poster: Dont bother. It's totally lame and overpriced. You would get the same vibe from mixing your own cocktails in your attic.

Fritz: Wow, you make your own tonic water, bitters and essence of tobacco in your attic? Sweet.

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Arlington: I always use this site when looking for a cabin - it has hundreds to choose from: www.mountain-lodging.com/virginia.htm

Stephanie: One more cabin suggestion.

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Shirlington Oktober: I went withhout knowing about the change (as seemed to be the case for most) I just used half tickets at places that buckets to drop the tickets in and was able to taste all I wanted until it got super crowded around 4:00 and I left. The Allagash Curieaux was hands down my favorite, even over the chimay white (before it ran out). Overall, a decent time, but the food lines and the wait at cap city and come other restraunts were the bigger problem for me for most of the day. It was fun(ish) but I don't foresee returning unless they do away with the ticket limit and/or get more serving stations.

Fritz: Yeah, by 4 the lines were just getting ridiculous, especially as more brewers started to run out of beer. I realize they got a lot more space this year, but Cap City should really improve the taps-to-paying-customer ratio.

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Washington, D.C.: Help! We have some out of town guests w/ kids staying with us this weekend, and are planning on taking them to the Smithsonian. Can you recommend any fun places to eat downtown that everyone would enjoy? They are not the most adventuresome eaters, so I'm thinking American fare is probably best. My first thought was ESPN Zone, but am hoping that you can provide some other recommendations. Thanks so much!

Anne: Clyde's or downtown Chef Geoff's should fit the bill if your dining plan does not include arcade games.

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Church Key on 14th and P?: DETAILS, PLEASE!!

Fritz: We've covered this before, I think -- the team behind Rustico is opening a two-level bar and restaurant with 50 beers on tap, 500 in bottles and gourmet pizzas in the old Dakota Cowgirl space on 14th, just south of P.

Latest scuttlebutt says it won't be opening until next year, though.

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Bethesda, Md.: I'm going to Busch Gardens this weekend is there anything fun to do around there in terms of nightlife?

Jen: Well, you are talking Williamsburg. I know, I know: Colonial times immediately conjure images of dance clubs and 24-hour tapas joints. Yet oddly, the place isn't exactly nightlife central.

Having said that, there are some perfectly nice places to get a drink. There is a martini bar -- now called Alize, I think -- if you want a cocktail. The college kids (at least in my day) used to hit the Deli trifecta of Paul's, the College and the Green Leafe. And there's always the taverns in the Colonial area, which can be fun if you're up for some old-fashioned ale and a rousing sing-along. And really, who isn't?

I know there are some newer places I either haven't visited (it's been a while) or am forgetting, so Williamburg people, chime in, please.

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Washington, D.C.: Hi Gurus! I'm looking for a first date suggestion. She works in Crystal City and recently moved back to the area after having interned here a few years back. I've been here for several years and work near Union Station. We've been talking about the happy hour scene in D.C. and would like to do drinks around 7 pm sometime next week. The location doesn't necessarily have to be equidistant between us, but does need to be Metro accessible. I'd prefer somewhere midprice where we can be reasonably assured of getting seats in the bar area, can hear ourselves talk but still have enough activity/atmosphere to provide distraction if conversation lags, and where we could order at least appetizers in the bar area if we decide to extend the evening a bit. Any suggestions? Please don't say Rosa Mexicano, and I'm also not huge on Indian food. Thanks!

Julia: Poste, perhaps? It's a bit tight at Oyamel, but I like the atmosphere there as well. Chef Geoff's downtown is another option -- one that's a little closer to her end of the Metro.

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Falls Church, Va.: Hey GOGs. I'm looking for some place to have drinks/dancing with a good girlfriend of mine. I haven't seen her in ages-- she's picky, and I'm racking my brain trying to think of a fun, affordable place we can go for drinks that won't leave both of us completely broke. Do any of the lounges in downtown D.C. have happy hours?

Fritz: I just wrote about the happy hours at Ceiba, which I think are great: $5 cocktail of the day until 7, and then $5 cocktails from 9 to close, plus free snacks at both times. Science Club's happy hour ($4 mixed drinks, $5 wine) isn't bad. I still dig Vintoteca's 20-wines-for-$5 deal.

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Rossyln: Forget the Robot. I'll do the worm for you if you answer my question about dancing locations for the over 30 crowd!

Rhome: The best place hands down is Daylight.

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Galaxy Hut: Stop telling people to go to Galaxy Hut! I love it just the way it is -- not too crowded! better-than-average-beer! good grilled cheese! friendly crowd, but one that will leave you alone with a magazine at the bar! Spider Kelly's, though? What's it like? I haven't been yet, but intend to head over eventually. Am a little scared that it will have the Liberty Tavern problem -- liked it as a post-work spot when it opened, then it got too crowded and the crowd was more "going-out" and less post-work, and they inexplicably turned the music up so loud that it is impossible to have a conversation downstairs, even on Sunday. Now I'll only go if I can sit outside. Still love the pizza and fresh cocktails, though ...

Stephanie: We don't need to tell people to go to Galaxy Hut when you're doing such a great job. I went out to Liberty Tavern a couple weekends ago and it was so insanely crowded, that I went to Spider Kelly's instead. Great decision. It wasn't crowded at all, the people were nice, the beer was good. My friends and I all agreed it had the same laid-back vibe as Eleventh Street.

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Oktoberfest in the US: Totally amateur. What's with places celebrating Oktoberfest the entire month of October? Ugh.

Fritz: Well, I think once you leave Bavaria, the normal rules don't apply. I mean, how many people know the words to "Ein Prosit"?

I'm just happy that it's easy to find Bavarian beer for a month out of the year.

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Washington, D.C.: Gurus! Hi! I know it's late in the chat, but hoping you can help...

I know you get this question a lot, but I'm finally heading to the Gold Cup next weekend with my fella and I have no clue what to wear and what to except. Please help? Is it super fancy? Can I get away with pants and a blouse? I'm having a wardrobe crisis....

Thanks!

Fritz: Almost all women, even at Fall Gold Cup, wear dresses. Even skirts seem to be in the minority. It really depends where you're sitting -- Member's Hill is fancier than the party tents along the Rail -- but I'd say you should lean toward preppy sundressy kinds of things (I have no idea what the correct term is), even if it's fall.

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Chef Geoff's: Did you buy you guys lunch or something? You seem to be recommending him a lot today, or is it just that great? Do I need to check it out?

Julia: Are we? That's kind of funny. (I'm not reading the chat live . . . just answering away.)

CGs isn't actually *that* great a restaurant. Its competition is particularly steep at the downtown location. I probably wouldn't choose CGs for dinner (unless I was seeing a show at the Warner), but I do love that they have an extensive menu of apps (that goes well beyond typical bar food) and that the bar area at the downtown location is so nice and open.

It's a casual but nice spot for happy hour -- especially on a first meeting.

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The burg:: Blue Talon Bistro (at the old cheese shop). Or the wine bar at the new cheese shop for some classier nightlife... Beware at the delis, it's unbelievable how much people smoke at wm (or how bad that ventilation is?).

Jen: Thanks for both of these. I knew the Cheese Shop change-up might yield some possibilities.

And yes, the Leafe in particular is synonymous with smoky, from what I remember. (Other thing I remember about that place: It's where I first discovered Zima. Yes, I am old.)

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Williamsburg:: Corner Pocket or Center Street are the two bars that are available for the non-college crowd. Fortunately, they're right next to each other.

The "other" Green Leafe location is next door, too. Second Street is good too.

Jen: More suggestions ... consider them duly noted!

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Bethesda, Md.: Do you know where I can buy the delicious framboise beer they sell at Bar Pilar?

Fritz: It's Lindemann's, if I remember correctly, so you should be able to get it at Chevy Chase Wine and Spirits or most Whole Food Stores.

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Resubmitting Until It Goes Through: I've been to IOTA and I liked it: intimate, clean (not funky smelling and not super smoky), dual bar access in performance area, personality.

Will you please briefly rate the following: Galaxy Hut, Black Cat, Velvet Lounge, Rock and Roll Hotel on these factors, relative to IOTA: size, cleanliness/odiferocity -did I just invent a word?], bar access, character

David: Galaxy Hut - very tiny, quirky character (at least by Arlington standards), not smelly unless a lot of people are smoking. Bar access is usually fine, but if it's crowded you might have to wait in line a bit.

Velvet Lounge - definitely cleaner and less smelly than in the past, plus a bigger downstairs area now. But it still has its underground/outsider vibe. Phew. Bar access is fine. Separate performance area upstairs, also recently expanded.

Black Cat - big downstairs bar, the "classic indie" spot in D.C. Long bar, can get crowded, but they'll have two people working if that's the case. Then there's the big upstairs where they have all the shows, of course.

Rock Hotel - unlike the last two, the bar w/no admission is upstairs. Trying for "rock" character, might get there one of these days. Can change depending on whether there's a DJ or not. Some comfy couches. Tons of seating, very spacious. Performance area downstairs.

That help at all?

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Gaithersburg, Md.: A little New Orleans food help?!

Julia: Wait -- food in New Orleans? Or New Orleans food here? If it's the latter, I like Bardia's for its cozy divey -- um, for lack of a better word -- atmosphere and Acadiana for a special occasion. A few weeks ago some fans of the south recommended Southside 815 for just this kind of question.

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Washington, D.C.: Fritz, you suggested the Park at 14th? Is it really possible to get into that club? Are you serious?

Fritz: Yeah. DJ Geometrix is there on Saturdays now, and he sent out this message:

TO GET FREE ACCESS TO ANY OF DJ GEOMETRIX'S PARTIES or EVENTS,
SIMPLY EMAIL YOUR FIRST & LAST NAMES TO This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it BEFORE 7PM AT THE NIGHT OF THE EVENT.

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Dog Whisperer, Va.: HELP! I read your chat religiously and recall sometime, maybe last year, that you talked about dog friendly bars. We just got a puppy and I want to take her everywhere. Any dog advice, be it parks, bars, restaurants, events, anything, would be much appreciated!!

Fritz: Dog-friendly bars: I'd say the Tues-Thurs happy hours at the Hotel Monaco in Old Town should be top of your list. Lots of new friends for your puppy to meet. I don't know much about dog-friendly parks in Va., but for a daytrip, Annapolis is a completely dog-friendly town -- restaurants put out water bowls on the patio -- and Quiet Waters is a fantastic park with plenty of room to play.

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Waldorf, Md.: I'm curious, which of you has the best "how I became a GOG" story? Discuss...

David: It'll be tough to top Fritz's famous "banana hammock" story.

Jen: Is it necessary to remind me of the horrible hazing process I had to endure? Really, why must you bring it up? The horror, the horror.

(And by horor, I am just referring to the thought of the banana hammock right now.)

Fritz: Well, I think David's was pretty ... classy, in a National Lampoon way. Let's just say it involved "American Idol" karaoke, Crisco and a jockstrap.

Rhome: I was adopted.

Julia: I sent them my resume and they hired me. Craziness, I know.

Stephanie: Julia is lying, obviously. How could it be that simple? There's a beer pong tournament. Banana hammocks are involved.

Anne: Have you seen the tryouts montage in "Bring It On"?

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Washington, D.C.: Hey, Gurus!

My friends and I are finally high school seniors and, with the poor quality of our school homecoming dance, we've decided to go "Nick and Norah" and spend a night on the town. We've got all Saturday afternoon and night to go anywhere in D.C. , so do you guys have any suggestions for a bunch of 17- and 18-year-olds looking to have an amazing time? We've got cars, Smartrips and feet.

Thanks!

David: OK you crazy kids, here are some ideas. You can check out the art opening that Stephanie wrote about. You can maybe check out the Wedding Present at the Black Cat, although you'd be on the younger side, not that that matters. They influenced lots of bands on the "Nick and Norah" soundtrack. If you're feeling especially European and arty during the day you can check out some of the movies at the New Swiss Cinema festival at the National Gallery. All of that will be better then lame homecoming, I'm sure.

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Woodley Park: Re: Curly Hair - Fiddleheads is great...I go to Tina and recently got one of the best haircuts of my life! Beth is great too!

Fritz: Y'all seem to love Fiddleheads.

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Washington, D.C.: Any suggestions on a nice, upscale restaurant with great rooftop seating? I want to take advantage of the weather while it lasts.

Fritz: A day like today is crying out for Straits of Malaya.

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Cleveland Park, D.C.: I joke with my boyfriend that every fall, I lose him to Football, especially on the weekends. Any suggestions for places to go where we can reach a compromise? Someplace he can watch the game, but not totally sports bar-y so I can join him but not get bored for the duration of it?

Julia: Don't try to beat him. Join him. I was pretty much indifferent to football when my husband and I started dating -- and I REALLY hated those chicks who were all like, "I LOVE football!" when they really didn't, just get some guy's attention. But then I started watching it and I've gotten really into it. Great sport. I'm even in an All Girl's Fantasy Football league.

Anyway, rant over. I like places like Cleveland Park Bar and Grill where you can invite some girlfriends and chat during the game without some rabid fan shushing you the whole time. The Mount Pleasant Tonic also comes to mind.

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Ending a gorgeous weekend indoors: I've never been to H St., but thinking about checking out the Rock n Roll Hotel on Sunday. Any bars in the area you'd recommend to catch some NFL before heading over the show?

Fritz: Langston's, which I just wrote about on Benning Road, is the place for soul food and NFL on big screens.

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Centreville, Va.: Closest thing to NO in this area is a little place in downtown Manassas and no you cant have the name. Great beer and great food.

Julia: Are you talking about Okra's because I've been there and I totally agree.

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washingtonpost.com: Thanks for coming out, and enjoy your camping/homecoming/robot-filled weekends.