Now that the turkey has been carved, it’s time for leftovers–and to think about the next holiday. This week, local restaurants are closing out November with shopping events, decorating contests, and festive food and drinks.
Here’s a look at what’s happening:
Openings and announcements
Taco Noche, which quietly opened about a month ago in the Rotunda, just celebrated its grand opening. The menu includes tacos, burritos, chips and salsa, all of which are available for purchase from the stand or via delivery from Uber Eats or GrubHub.
On Jan. 7, Nick’s Inner Harbor Seafood will cease operations in Cross Street Market. Earlier this week, a Baltimore City judge ruled that the longtime market vendor was no longer operating under a valid lease.
Silver Queen turns 3!
Silver Queen Cafe in Hamilton turns three this weekend, and the owners are celebrating in style, with $3 off small plates and a free botanical gin pour with purchases of lemon rosemary fizz. The party takes place on Saturday, coinciding with the neighborhood’s Small Business Saturday events.
Small Business Saturday
Like Silver Queen Cafe, many local businesses will put their best foot forward on Saturday to coincide with the national “shop small” movement.
This includes locally owned restaurants all over the city. When you’re out patronizing shops and it’s time to stop for lunch, dinner or a drink, choosing a locally owned spot will be more appropriate than ever!
Libations & Creations at Monument City
On Saturday, head to Monument City Brewing Company for a few beers…and some shopping. The brewery will host a maker’s market, with local goods for sale and food by Triple J Food Co. from noon until 5 p.m. Some of the vendors included in the market are Saucier Willy, Coco Couture and Matt Muirhead.
Holidays at Gertrude’s
Gertrude’s’ festive season kicks into high gear this week, with the launch of the restaurant’s annual Holiday Row Home competition and the beginning of Holiday Afternoon Teas.
The competition is a fun tradition amongst the Gertrude’s staff. On Monday, they’ll gather to assemble and decorate model row homes all decked out for the holidays. The houses are on display throughout the season and Gertrude’s guests can vote on their favorites. The winners get cash prizes…and bragging rights.
Holiday teas begin on Nov. 30; every Friday and Saturday afternoon through Jan. 5, the restaurant will offer high tea, including both sweet and savory offerings. Think crab beignets (savory) and chocolate-peppermint profiteroles (sweet!).
Whiskey Wednesday at Wayward
On Nov. 28, Wayward Smokehouse celebrates whiskey with a tasting event featuring numerous “classic and small batch” whiskies. While tasting, guests can nourish themselves with Wayward’s barbecue, raw oysters and other treats.
Sip & Shop at Cunningham’s
On Nov. 29, Cunningham’s, partnering with event company Cluster & Vine, hosts a Holiday Sip & Shop at the restaurant. The event includes drinks and appetizers like crab balls and mac and cheese bites, to sip and nibble while checking out locally made crafts and gift items from a variety of vendors.
Planning Ahead
Here are a few events to look forward to over the next few weeks:
December 3: Distiller’s Dinner at Ryleigh’s Oyster Hunt Valley
December 11: Rodney Strong wine dinner at Gunther & Co.
January 11-12: Krautfest at Gertrude’s
