December 19th, 2022 – December 26th, 2022
In this week’s Doing, Reading, Eating, Watching – Let’s talk events around town, what books to check out, food to eat and what interesting TV has been on and of course, CHRISTMAS!!!
I will be taking off from DC for Christmas with my family in California. My youngest cousins are teens and it’s much more fun to celebrate Christmas with the kids. Staying for a week and hoping the bay has some warmer weather for us. There is still a lot going on around the city this week. If there are any events you think I should add to the roundup, feel free to shoot me a message!!
Doing – Dec 2022
Who: Profs & Pints DC: How Dickens “Invented” Christmas
What: Profs and Pints DC presents: “How Dickens ‘Invented’ Christmas,” with John Pfordresher, an emeritus professor of English at Georgetown University who has taught courses on Charles Dickens for more than 50 years.
Only an unrepentant Scrooge would say “bah humbug” to this evening with Professor John Pfordresher, who, along with extensively researching and teaching Charles Dickens, curated his university library’s 2012 exhibition, “Dickens at Georgetown.”
We’ll start our scholarly journey through time in December of 1843, just before a Christmas past. Chapman and Hall published a deluxe Christmas book by Dickens titled A Christmas Carol. Bound in cloth, with gilt edges, four color engravings and four more black-and-white wood cuts, and priced at a relatively low five shillings, it sold 6,000 copies before Christmas Eve. Critical response was largely rhapsodic. The already celebrated satirist William Makepeace Thackeray described the book as “a national benefit and to every man or woman who reads it, a personal kindness.”
Flash ahead to Christmas present. In the years since its publication, this little book has achieved an unusual presence in western culture. The basis of many theater productions, films, and television shows, its characters, and some of their catch phrases, have entered in many ways into the ways that people celebrate the darkest days of the year and their hopes for brighter days ahead.
Dickens, more than any other figure, transformed an old religious tradition into a season of compassionate care for those in need. The book emerged from his own indignation at the suffering of the poor he witnessed first-hand, and the callous indifference voiced by many of his contemporaries to those sufferings. Scrooge became the embodiment of a money-hungry capitalism Dickens had been attacking for years, and his radiant conversion became a model for a Christmas of personal generosity to others and convivial celebration of the pleasures of life.
Come hear Dickens and his immortal work discussed in a talk that will fill you with the spirit of Christmas present and looking forward to Christmases future. (Advance tickets: $12. Doors: $15, or $13 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Where: Little Penn Coffeehouse – 801 E St NW, Washington, DC 20004
When: Monday December 19 2022, 6:00 PM — 8:30 PM
Tickets: https://profsandpints.ticketleap.com/dickens/details
Who: The Choral Arts Society Of Washington Presents O Night Divine! Christmas with Choral Arts
What: Embrace the magic of the Christmas season from the sheer excitement of a morning in community with one another to the snowy lilts of a lullaby. The radiant voices of the Chorus return to the Kennedy Center accompanied by the lush sound of a full orchestra. Capture the serene and the joyous with the season’s vibrant treasure-trove of winter carols and Christmas classics.
Where: Kennedy Center Concert Hall
When: Mon December 19th at 7pm and Sat. Dec. 24, 2022 at 2pm
Tickets: https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/explore-by-genre/vocal-choral-music/2022-2023/choral-arts-christmas-o-night-divine/
Who: LP HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
What: The holiday season is here and we’re welcoming back our dear friend Lauren “LP” Paylor O’Brien, winner of Drink Masters on Netflix, for an evening of festive cocktails and holiday cheer. To tip off the holiday season and congratulate LP on her recent wins, we invite you to join us for a cocktail pop-up event at Lyle’s on Monday, December 19th from 6PM-11PM. LP will be shaking things up behind the bar with a holiday themed menu featuring expertly crafted cocktails for you and your friends to kick off the holiday season right.
LP has worked many roles in the food and beverage industry from Beverage Director, R&D Production Chef, Spirits Judge and Beverage Consultant. Today, she spends her time creating diverse, inclusive, and safe spaces through her work with Focus on Health. COCKTAIL POP-UP MENU
Where: Lyle Hotel 1731 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW, WASHINGTON DC 20009
When: Monday, December 19th | 5PM – 11PM
Not Another Drag Show
Who: Logan Stone
What: Join Logan Stone every Monday at Dupont Italian Kitchen for ‘Not Another Drag Show’, a high energy good time show to kick off your week!
Where: DuPont Italian Kitchen 1637 17th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
When: Mondays at 8pm
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/not-another-drag-show-tickets-210258828817?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Modern Nutcracker Ballet – Christmas Legend
Who: Aru Dell’Arte
What: Aru Dell’Arte Dance Company is bringing The Nutcracker into 21st century. Audiences will be dazzled by glamorous Christmas festivities through a sophisticated, modern story twist!
Once upon a time – more then magic was about to happen the night before Christmas. This show presents themes of human compassion, love, and friendships while spinning a well-known holiday tale and putting out fun, cool vibes.
Aru Dell’Arte is determined in its mission to bring the Legendary, vibrant story to Capital residents. Moving past outdated scenes from the original Nutcracker, the company is excited to present diversity of characters, elevate female-lead roles, and include gender-neutral approach in dance partnering.
The show also features works of recognized visual and installation artists from Washington DC. Following the performance, there will be a 30-minute reception featuring various artworks and a silent auction in support of the local art community.
Where: CulturalDC’s Source Theatre 1835 14th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
When: DEC 23, Fri, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/modern-nutcracker-ballet-christmas-legend-tickets-426941101327
Who: Press Club x Service Bar at JÔNT December 19th-Holiday Tasting Collaboration!
What: On Monday, December 19th (three seatings, 5:15, 7:15 and 9:15pm) Bar Director Will Patton of Press Club (plus Hotaling & Co), a new luxury cocktail concept coming to DC in 2023 from the team behind Bresca/Jônt is thrilled to invite DC industry favorite, Service Bar, ranked as #18 on World 50 Best Bars -North America to collaborate and celebrate the ancient traditions of Saturnalia and Yule for a four course cocktail tasting experience ($185 pp) with accompanying small bites.
Where: Jônt 1904 14th Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20009
When: Monday, Dec 19, 2022
Tickets: https://www.exploretock.com/jontdc/event/376310/press-club-x-service-bar-x-hotaling-co
Who: Queen’s English Holiday Market
What: An annual holiday market brought to you by Plntrdc! This is the third year running + with so many incredible vendors this year, plus there will be a wine tasting. snacks, hot cocktails + a solid lineup of perfect gifts from these talented makers @underground.goods goods (vintage goods) @romystudio_ (handmade earrings) @chocolatecityrocks (records) @kinglechecremes (goat milk popsicles) + @wildplaceprints (art)
Where: Queen’s English – 3410 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010
When: Tuesday Dec 20th, 5pm – 8:30pm
Other Places to visit –
Museums – Rubell Museum
Theaters – https://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/
DC Commedy Loft – https://www.dccomedyloft.com/events
Reading – Dec 2022
Still Reading – Christine Platt’s The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living with Less (scheduling a purge sale for December cause your girl’s got too much stuff!!) – Finishing up the High Five Habit, Mel Robbins is truly a treasure and reexamining the Go-Giver!!
Added To The Reading List:
*Tricia Hersey, aka The Nap Bishop – Rest Is Resistance
*Glory Edim – On Girlhood: 15 Stories from the Well-Read Black Girl Library
*Chloe Louvouezo – Life, I Swear
*Helena Andrews – The Mamas: What I Learned About Kids, Class, and Race from Moms Not Like Me
*Yasmine Cheyenne – The Sugar Jar, Create Boundaries, Embrace Self-Healing, and Enjoy the Sweet Things in Life
*Bevy Smith – Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie
*Alex Elle – How We Heal: Uncover Your Power and Set Yourself Free
*April Ryan – Black Women Will Save the World: An Anthem
*Jennette McCurdy – I’m Glad My Mom Died
Eating – Dec 2022
Added Eating because I love food (obvi!!) and wanted a space to share some exciting food/eating news.
Ghostburger: Happy Hour kicked off 12/12 from 4-6 pm – Starting yesterday, Ghostburger kicked off their new happy hour with $2 off draft cocktails like the “Ghostclaw” (gin, grapefruit oleo, soda) or American Spritz (like a bitter Italian adult root beer) and $2 off beers. Happy Hour runs from 4-6 pm every day.
Crooked Run: New lambic-style fermented beers (only few in U.S.) releasing 12/16! On Friday, December 16th, Crooked Run will be releasing their annual lambic-style spontaneously fermented beers, Garth and Drupulet. Crooked Run is one of the few breweries in the U.S. making beer to traditional Belgian lambic specifications.Garth is a kriek style coolship sour ale made with VA malted barley and raw wheat and refermented on Virginia cherries. Drupulet is a framboise style coolship sour made with VA malted barley and raw wheat and refermented on Virginia raspberries.
Rebel Taco Cantina (VA): Fireside S’mores station – Rebel Taco Cantina in Brambleton just launched their family-friendly S’Mores Stations at their patio fireplaces. First come, first serve. Guests can also dine fireside on the patio.
Elcielo: A creative cocktail bar popup behind the MICHELIN-starred Bar Team! “El Caribeño by Elcielo” will be located at Galeria: the Unique Culinary Studio at La Cosecha, December 1-24th. This more casual experience (no reservations necessary, $20 includes the drink and a Colombian street food snack) consists of 5 cocktails and 1 no ABV drink pairing with snacks and an artisan beer by a local Mexican distributor. Themed around Caribbean culture and cuisine with elements of the season, the menu highlights a hot dessert cocktail themed around #beachlifebestlife, an Elvis-inspired Peanut Butter Whiskey Sour & a Horchata for those wishing to leave out the booze.
Estuary at the Conrad DC: “Winter at Bay” Offering through December 30th – Don your winter gear and snuggle up next to a fire pit as you enjoy hot cocktails and delicious warming offerings from the limited-edition Chesapeake-inspired menu. Reservations available from November 28th – December 30th.
Watching – Nov 2022
I really enjoy entertainment of all forms, books are my favorite but I also love television and movies. I watch an embarrassing amount of television sometimes, often while trying to find the bottom of my inbox. Here are some of my favorite series and movies I’ve watched lately.
On Netflix – I’ve been watching a lot of comedy because secretly (well less secretly now cause I’ve started talking about it out loud) I really want to do stand up, so I’ve been writing and doing improv and yeah 2023 you might see your girl in a city near you!! Anyways, Deon Cole is a whole fool in a good way. That man had me rolling laughing. I also really enjoyed Hasan Minhaj’s The King’s Jester and how raw and relatable it was.
Peacock – It’s almost BEST MAN FINAL CHAPTER TIME!!!! Super excited for the upcoming drop of the Best Man The Final Chapter on Dec 22nd. It’s about to be so good and kinda bitter sweet! I haven’t decided yet if I want to binge it all at once or savor the final moments. Still haven’t watched the Barney doc but it’s up next cause it sounds really facinating.
HBO – I’m back on HBO because His Dark Materials is back on and I really enjoy that show. I originally got back on because someone told me I needed to watch Source Code and it was a really interesting. With movies like that and Altered Carbon, I often wonder what we are capable of.
Check back next week for more to do, read, eating and watch!!
PS Holiday Tips
CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY
Immigrant Food (White House): Christmas Eve and New Years Eve Brunch! From 11am to 3pm on Christmas Eve and NYE, Immigrant Food at the White House will be offering a special holiday brunch with specials from Culinary Director Mile Montezuma. Highlights include “Turkish Eggs” which is described as “the Ottomans’ renowned sesame encrusted, house-made simit bread surrounds two poached eggs, labneh, aleppo pepper oil, cucumber, dill, and chives.” Reserve on Resy.
Succotash Prime Christmas Eve and Christmas day Celebration with Live Jazz! Succotash Prime will be open on Christmas Eve from 11:30AM -10PM and Christmas Day from 12-8PM with live jazz music from Sara & Austin (5-9PM on Christmas Eve and 4-8PM on Christmas Day). Brunch will be offered until 3PM as well as their regular dinner plus a special holiday menu for the evening. The limited time only holiday menu available on Christmas Eve and Day includes honey glazed ham biscuit with a cranberry-ginger jam, and walnut butter, a spicy tuna tartare crostini with grilled sourdough, gochujang butter, jicama, and crispy garlic, a miso butter poached lobster, roasted duck breast, and an eggnog cheesecake for dessert. Special cocktail additions will include a campfire cider to keep the holiday cheer going. The full menu can be found here. Delivery is available for the regular and special holiday menu.
Bistro Du Jour: Christmas Eve – New Years Eve Celebrations – Swing by the Wharf between Christmas Eve and New Years Eve to experience the holiday spirit at The Wharf. Bistro Du Jours holiday menu will feature Soupe Aux Châtaigne, (Roasted Chestnut Soup, French Brandy, Creme Fraiche), Bouillabaisse (Seafood Stew with Fluke, Salmon, Mussels, Prawns, Fennel, Saffron, and a Grilled Baguette), as well as Panais Rôtis Au Miel (Roast Parsnips, Honey). The full menu can be found here.
Lupo Verde: Four course Christmas Dinner – Lupo Verde will offer a $65 four course Christmas dinner from 4:00pm – 12:00am. Highlights from the menu include a Cannelloni (homemade pasta with stuffed veal, sausage, parmigiano ricotta, and bechamel) and a Rissoto Frutti Di Mare (Arborio rice, shrimp, mussels, clams, calamari, tomato sauce).
Mr. Bake Sweets: Eggnog Cupcakes & Red Velvet Banana pudding from DC’s Black, Queer baker! For both the holidays and the New Year, DC’s Black, Queer baker is offering a Mini Cupcake Tray of with flavors like Holiday Vanilla, Chocolate Raspberry, Eggnog, and Red Velvet (One tray is $20, two is $37). He is also offering a 20 piece Cookie Platter ($35) with flavors like White Chocolate Cranberry, Chocolate Chip Sea Salt, Ginger Molasses, Pecan Squares, and a Mint Chocolate Brownie. He also be offering a special holiday version of his award-winning pudding, with his Red Velvet Banana Pudding. Email Info@MrBakeSweets.com for order.
The Grill: LTO Christmas Eve and Christmas day menus! The Grill at The Wharf will be open on Christmas Eve (11:30-10PM) and Christmas Day (12-8PM) for brunch and dinner to get into the holiday spirit while enjoying waterfront views. Their special LTO menu showcases josper-roasted chestnuts, delicious bone in short rib with a pomegranate braise, and pan roasted striped bass. To finish it off on a sweet note, they have added a chocolate bread pudding and a special “The Grill Hot Toddy”. Delivery is available. Full menu can be found here.
Mi Vida 14th and The Wharf: Christmas Day brunch and dinner – Both 14th street and The Wharf locations will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for brunch and dinner. Mi Vida’s festive menu will feature a Hominy, Mushroom & Zucchini Soup, Pan-Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops, Hazelnut Mole, Apple Relish, Slow-Braised Chicken Breast with Ancho-Guajillo Sauce, Pickled Vegetables, White Rice, and a Bone-in, Slow-Braised Short Ribs with a Mestiza Salsa, Creamy Rajas. Finish it off with a Warm Bread Pudding, with Cranberries, Tequila-Raisin Ice Cream, and Cream Anglaise or drink your dessert with their famous Chocolate Caliente or the new Espiritu de Navidad with warm Uruapan Charanda Rum, Guava, Pear, Pineapple, Orange, Holiday Spices. You can view the full menu here. All specials are available for delivery.
Gatsby: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day hours – The upscale diner right in Navy Yard will be open for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Brunch will be served from 11:3 – 3PM Holiday additions will make their way to the menu for dinner with a chicory & arugula salad, braised boneless short ribs, and an apple crumble pie from Mah-Ze-Dahr. The full holiday menu can be found here. Delivery is available and happy hour is available for all guests during normal hours (12-6pm) at the Bar Only.
B Live: “Jingle Bell Rock” Christmas Pop-Up – On November 29th, B Live opened their first Christmas pop-up, “Jingle Bell Rock”, complete with over the top decorations, Christmas specials like Christmas cookies and cocktails (like the “Santa Baby” boozy hot chocolate and “Rudolph’s Sangria”), festive events like karaoke, an ugly sweater party, a toy drive, and a mistletoe photo booth.
Lupo Verde: Feast of the Seven Fishes – On Christmas Eve, Lupo Verde and the Lahlou Restaurant Group team will be offering their version of Feast of the Seven Fishes. Feast of the Seven Fishes is a traditional Italian-American Christmas Eve celebration, highlighting seven dishes of fish or seafood. The popular 14th St Italian spot is offering dishes like Carbonara di Mare (Home-made pasta, tuna, salmon, branzino, shrimp, egg cream sauce, pecorino) and Carpaccio Polpo (Grilled octopus, lemon olive oil, parsley). Reservations can be made online at LupoVerdeDC.com. Menu here.
Lupo Verde Osteria (Palisades): Feast of the Seven Fishes – On Christmas Eve, Lupo Verde Osteria in the Palisades and the Lahlou Restaurant Group team will be offering their version of Feast of the Seven Fishes. Feast of the Seven Fishes is a traditional Italian-American Christmas Eve celebration, highlighting seven dishes of fish or seafood. The neighborhood restaurant is offering dishes like a Squid ink Chitarra and Frutti di Mare salad. $95 per person, and the entire table must participate. Call 202 506 6683 to make a reservation. Menu here.
Immigrant Food+ at Planet Word: Christmas Eve Pop-Up Brunch and NYE Brunch! – On December 24th, IF+ at Planet Word will host a holiday brunch with specials like the Milanesa Holiday Sandwich (ham and fontina cheese on toasted sourdough bread, garlic butter, dijonaise, tomatoes, baby arugula, marinara sauce, and two eggs. Fries), Turkish Eggs (The Ottomans’ renowned sesame encrusted, house-made simit bread surrounds two poached eggs, labneh, aleppo pepper oil, cucumber, dill, and chives) and Irish Churros (Irish crown of chocolate Baileys mousse, chantilly cream, and a homemade hot chocolate Baileys). Reservations here.
Clarendon Ballroom Rooftop: Celebrate Xmas Island style with “A Very Tiki Christmas” through 1/1 – Clarendon Ballroom’s rooftop, which is now heated and completely wind and waterproof, is taking a tropical twist on Christmas with tropical Christmas decor (think decorated Palm trees), warm cocktails including a peppermint patty hot chocolate and a Tiki Irish coffee with coconut rum. For bold holiday drinkers, they’ll also have an eggnog shooter menu with flavors like tropical, cinnamon, peppermint, and mocha. The pop-up kicks off this week 12/5, and will run through the New Year.
CitySwing: Celebrate at CitySwing and get a free champagne toast + extra hour of play – Host your colleagues, family, or friends at CitySwing. Enjoy mouthwatering food, craft cocktails, and golf games for any skill level, at their boutique venue in downtown D.C. Book your event by Dec 5 and get a free extra hour to party and enjoy a complimentary champagne toast!
Moon Rabbit: Holiday dinner with Vietnamese ingredients and flare! – Celebrate this year’s holiday season on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (dine-in or takeout) with a Vietnamese-inspired feast from Chef Kevin Tien- their special dine-in (will be available per person) or takeout experience includes Pandan Dinner Rolls with Cane Sugar Butter and Coconut, Spinach & Artichoke Dip plus Crispy Roasted Miso Parmesan Potatoes, a Char Siu Whole Smoked Brisket with Ginger Scallion Rice with Umami Butter. Dessert includes Chef Susan Bae’s Five Spiced Chocolate Cake with Vietnamese Coffee Ganache. Guests can order here, or reserve for dine-in here.
Michele’s: Christmas Celebrations at Michele’s at Eaton Hotel! – The kitchen at Michele’s will be hosting a special holiday brunch from 11am-3pm on Christmas Eve, along with dinner from 5pm-11pm, and a special Christmas Day brunch service from 11am-5pm- with some new holiday-themed dishes for each service.
Gravitas: Christmas Eve celebration! – The team at Gravitas is pulling out all of the stops for their Christmas Eve celebration- dine-in only ($165 pp, reserve via RESY). Guests will enjoy a five-course menu with seasonal holiday treats like Cotechino with Buttered Spinach, Foie Gras, Glazed Apple, Calvados Jus or Seared Scallops with Brassicas, Lobster Emulsion, Confit Sunchoke and Apple Butter; and main courses like Truffle Crusted Black with Toasted Brioche or Pan Roasted American Wagyu with Pommes Puree & Red Wine Sauce. Additionally, those wishing to dine at home can pre-order treats such as Bone-In Prime Rib with Yorkshire Pudding and Dauphinoise Potatoes or Chestnut Veloute with Spiced Date Cake, Foie Gras Snow to name a few.
CMB at Home: Your Holiday culinary one stop shop for the month – Chef Matt Baker at Home is offering something for every occasion. Breakfast features Gruyere and Ham Quiche or lunch/dinner with starters like Goat Cheese Salad, Mains like a Standing Rib Roast/Prime Rib with Red Wine Sauce. Desserts include Holiday Cookie Tin (Linzer with Raspberry Jam, Alfahores,etc ) or Yule Log, Apple Pie, etc. The menus can be found here– and guests can purchase each dish individually or opt for a Christmas/Hanukkah Holiday Package- (Classic Christmas Dinner $270 (serves 4-8ppl), Chef’s Holiday Dinner ($400, feeds 6-10pl) or dessert only ($135, feeds 4-6ppl). Orders can be placed here.
Estuary at the Conrad DC: Feast of Seven Fishes (12/22-12/24) – Enjoy a traditional Italian-American Christmas Eve celebration with a multi-course feast of the seven fishes. Menu highlights include roasted oysters with marinated trout roe, crab rangoon gougeres, smoked fish dip with grilled bread, mussels, Bouillabaisse, and a fried whole fish. Reservations available here for $100 per person.
Estuary at the Conrad DC: Christmas Day Special (12/25) – Celebrate Christmas with your family with a luxurious preset two course menu, including a snack board for the table and a dessert buffet. Elevate your experience with Caviar service or a Seafood Tower. Reservations available from 3pm-10pm here for $90 per person.
Blue Rock: Celebrate Xmas Eve at Blue Rock with a wine-pairing dinner to remember – ‘Tis the season for a multicourse, wine-paired dining experience showcasing seasonal dishes by Chef Bin Lu in an intimate formal dining room near the fireplace with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Reservations are available here for $250 per person.
B Social Hospitality: Bad Santa Bar Crawl (Clarendon) – On Saturday, December 17th from 3:00 -10:00 pm party it up with all day food and drink specials, DJs and bands, souvenir mugs, raffles, giveaways, costume contests and entry to the most popular bars, clubs & heated rooftops in Clarendon. Featured bars include Jingle Bell Rock at B Live, Winter Wonderland at Clarendon Ballroom (main floor, a Very tiki Christmas at Clarendon Ballroom (rooftop), the Grinch’s Lair at Underground, and Miracle Blvd at Pamplona.
Wilson Hardware: Host your next holiday party at Wilson Hardware – Looking for the next spot for a company holiday party or anniversary celebration? Wilson Hardware’s newly renovated three-level space is the perfect spot for a private event. With over 10,000 sq/ft of space, Wilson Hardware can accommodate groups of any size, ranging from an intimate group dinner to a full venue buyout for up to 550 guests. Featuring five different indoor and outdoor areas, Wilson Hardware provides spaces that can work for any event, size, and budget. Learn more about their private event offerings here.
The Wildset Hotel (St. Michaels, MD): Live out your Hallmark Christmas movie dreams IRL + Holiday Specials – The charming town goes all out for the holidays with home tours, a lighted boat parade, and an amazing small town holiday parade (complete with Santa Claus and llamas). Celebrate with the Wildset from December 16-28 and get a special homemade cookie package on arrival as well as an invite to their evening wine and cheese hour, with complimentary wine and artisan cheeses. Cuddle up around the fire for s’mores and boozy hot chocolate to complete your evening and enjoy all the small town has to offer.
The Bygone (Baltimore): Enjoy Christmas Eve brunch while taking in Baltimore’s best view! – Celebrate Christmas Eve at the top of Baltimore’s Four Seasons Hotel at The Bygone’s brunch. This gourmet buffet will include made to order omelets, waffles, and a prime rib carving station. Take in the 360 degree views of Baltimore while enjoying a meal with family and friends. Tickets are $70 per person.
Loch Bar (Baltimore, MD): Send your favorite foodie fresh, award-winning Maryland crab cakes (nationwide shipping available) this holiday season! – Baltimore’s award-winning restaurant, Loch Bar, is shipping their famed Maryland crab cakes from their Inner Harbor restaurant nationwide this holiday season. These jumbo lump crab cakes, with crab meat sourced straight from the Chesapeake Bay, are the perfect luxury gift for the foodies in your life who already have everything. Unexpected and elevated, this gift is sure to impress! Pricing begins at $192.00 for six jumbo crab cakes. Click here to place an order.
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Immigrant Food+ at Planet Word: NYE Brunch! – On NYE, IF+ at Planet Word will host a brunch with specials like the Milanesa Holiday Sandwich (ham and fontina cheese on toasted sourdough bread, garlic butter, dijonaise, tomatoes, baby arugula, marinara sauce, and two eggs. Fries) and Irish Churros (Irish crown of chocolate Baileys mousse, chantilly cream, and a homemade hot chocolate Baileys). Reservations here from 11-3.
Destino: One-night-only cocktails, truffle quesadillas, and live music! – Celebrate NYE at Destino within the La Cosecha marketplace with specials like truffle quesadillas and Mexican-inspired Champagne cocktails like a new Espresso Martini, a Tequila riff on a classic French75, and a Mexican version of an old Cuban. There will also be live music in La Cosecha to celebrate. Reservations here. No cover charges, cancellation fees, or fixed menus in sight.
Moon Rabbit’s Vietnamese NYE Soiree! – On 12/31, the doors to Moon Rabbit’s NYE soiree ($500 all inclusive) opens- starting with a Tarot card reader, a premium cocktail bar and Chef Kevin Tien’s live action culinary stations which will include other local chefs cooking alongside him (TBD) and culinary treats such as a pig roast, a raw bar, a dessert bar, champagne & caviar (8:30pm-11:30pm) then passed light bites after midnight- revelers will party until 2am. Tickets will be available on Tock.
Gravitas: Three Ways to Ring in the New Year at Gravitas! – There are three options for your New Year’s Eve Tasting for the Chef’s Counter: 1) Chef’s counter dining with Champagne, Caviar plus a curated, customized 12-course dinner ($500 per person), or 2) a 4-course dinner fro 5-8:30pm ($175 pp)- outdoor seating available. Enjoy dishes like Seared Scallops with Brassica, Lobster Emulsion, Uni Foam, Truffle Jus or A5 Wagyu Beef with Brussels Sprouts, Squash Puree, Black Rice. 3) Try the luxurious Oscietra Caviar Package – menu + champagne supplement or Popcorn Chicken with Creole Mustard and Buttermilk Ranch ($25) or a Canape Flight $20.
Gatsby: What better place to ring in the New Year than the 1920s themed, Gatsby. Come in your best “Great Gatsby” attire and ring in the new years in old-school glamor. There will be a champagne toast and party favors for guests and a special menu (accessible here). Come and sip on nostalgic cocktail classics like the “Icebox Daiquiri”, “Bees Knees”, Manhattans, and NY Whiskey Sours while enjoying the larger than life atmosphere this upscale diner brings.
Succotash Prime: Ring in the new year with Succotash Prime! The Penn Quarter location will have a live jazz band, festive decorations, a champagne toast at midnight and party favors for guests. Expect their regular dining menu as well as a festive holiday menu with honey glazed ham biscuit, spicy tuna tartare crostini, miso butter poached lobster, roasted duck breast, and an eggnog cheesecake for dessert. If you’re not only drinking champagne, try their holiday cocktail, the campfire cider. The full menu can be found here. Delivery is available for the regular and special holiday menu.
Bammy’s: A five-course dinner, drinks, and a DJ to start the night right – Plan your NYW dinner before the ball drops Caribbean style with cocktails, a five-course dinner by James Beard-nominated Chef Peter Prime – with tunes by a local DJ. Doors will open at 4:00pm and last seating is at 9:00pm. Dinner is $110/person for a five course pre-fixe menu and one glass of bubbles or $175/person (pre-tax and gratuity) for a five course pre-fixe menu with open bar (2 hour time limit), guests will be able to reserve via RESY.
The Grill: Ring in the New Year in style at The Wharf. The Grill will have their special holiday menu available for guests highlighting josper-roasted chestnuts, delicious bone in short rib with a pomegranate braise, and pan roasted Day Boat sea scallops with a brown butter, sage risotto and winter squash. A celebratory champagne toast will occur at midnight as well as party favors for the guests. Enjoy the festivities while in the gorgeous space overlooking the Potomac.
Mi Vida 14th and The Wharf: Join us for Feliz Año Nuevo at Mi Vida! On New Years Eve expect a celebratory champagne toast, party favors, and a special menu featuring camarones & callos en aguachile, budin de langosta con suiza (Corn Tortillas Stacked with Butter-Poached Maine Lobster, with a Creamy Tomatillo Sauce, Chihuahua Cheese), Bone-in, Slow-Braised Short Ribs with a Mestiza Salsa, Creamy Rajas, and their Flan impossible (Vanilla Flan, Chocolate Cake, Raspberry Sauce). Special cocktails will also be available. Full menu can be found here.
Mi Casa: Ring in the New Year at the Tulum inspired Mi Casa! Right in Dupont Circle come and enjoy Grilled Prawns with a Peanut-Morita Salsa, Pineapple, Crispy Cilantro, Pozole Verde (Braised Chicken, Avocado, Radish, Cilantro), Pan-Seared Black Bass in a Yellow Mole, with Cannellini Beans and Epazote, Filet Mignon with Guajillo-Roasted Mushrooms, Jack Cheese, and Chorizo Crust as well as a new cocktail for the celebration the “Mole En Chocolate” which is a Cazadores Añejo Tequila, Dark Chocolate, Xocolatl Mole Bitters, and Maria Cookie. The full menu can be found here. There will be a champagne toast and party favors right before mid-night.
Estuary at the Conrad DC: New Year’s Eve Dinner – Welcome 2023 in style with Estuary’s delectable late-night menu geared for guests to enjoy a delicious entry to the new year. Their menu begins at 10pm and runs through midnight with a countdown to the new year projected on the gorgeous moonlight pendant in the atrium of the Conrad DC. Menu here.
Quadrant: The NYE Cocktail Experience – Seven Reasons’s famous Cocktail Experience is coming back soon, but this time under a new roof at Quadrant within the Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C. Join them on December 31st to celebrate the New Year while enjoying the best Cocktail Experience and paired dishes in town, designed by Michelin-starred Chef Enrique Limardo and Beverage Director Carlos Boada. Limited seating, reservations on Tock. $250 deposit PP.
Michele’s: Michele’s New Year’s Eve Bash / December 31st – Enjoy an Unlimited Night of Drinks & Food for $175 per person (all-inclusive) and ring in the New Year- Bar Director Judy Elahi and the bar team from Michele’s will be partnering with Mumm & Pernod to offer unlimited Cocktails & Mumm Wine with unlimited oysters, small bites, and bar food throughout the night with a DJ booth plus plenty of room for you to dance, dine, and imbibe from 8:30PM–12:30AM. Guests can purchase here.
Ruse: NYE Getaway at St. Michaels – Take a getaway to the Eastern Shore for NYE. While staying at The boutique Wildset hotel you can dine at Ruse to ring in the New Year. This year they are offering a four course $155 pre-fixe menu with wine pairings available for an extra $75. Then, enjoy fireside cocktails and s’mores during your stay.
Blue Rock: Ring in 2023 on the Rappahannock River with a Multicourse New Year’s Eve Dinner – Enjoy an elevated multicourse meal and wine pairing experience curated by Chef Bin Lu. Reservations are available here for $250 per person.
Wilson Hardware: New Year’s Eve “Wilson Wonderland” Party + Dinner at Wilson Hardware (12/31) – Ring in the New Year with Wilson Hardware in Arlington! On Saturday, Dec. 31, the three-level bar & restaurant will be hosting its 6th Annual “Wilson Wonderland New Year’s Eve” celebration (and the first one in its newly-renovated space)! The party will start at 9PM and go until 2AM with drink deals and a live DJ. Make a reservation for dinner beforehand from 4PM-7PM to fuel up for a night of dancing! Ticket prices range from $40-$350, with general admission entry including 2 drink tickets and party favors. Prices will increase closer to date.
Clover Hill (Brooklyn, NY): Heading to NYC for the ball drop? Enjoy an All-Truffle New Year’s Eve in Brooklyn at Michelin-starred Clover Hill – Ring in the New Year with an elegant Truffle-focused dinner- Chef Charlie Mitchell will be serving a luxurious 7-course tasting menu that will feature truffles and champagne ($295 per person), Guests can reserve here.
One Party Four Venues at Atlas Restaurant Group: Celebrate NYE in Baltimore, Maryland – Celebrate New Year’s Eve at The Atlas Quarter in Baltimore and experience Tagliata, The Elk Room, Italian Disco and Monarque. Guests can mingle between all four locations all night long. There will be an open bar, buffets, and live entertainment. Purchase tickets here.
Ring in the New Year with Fireworks at The Bygone: Baltimore, Maryland – Celebrate the New Year at The Bygone, located at the top of Baltimore’s Four Seasons hotel and enjoy the Inner Harbor fireworks display from the roof. This elevated NYE bash will include a premium open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres all night long.
