Check Out These Last-Minute Thanksgiving Desserts (That Aren’t Pie!)

This Thanksgiving will be anything but traditional, from the guest list to menu planning. Many people have decided that this is the year to stray from pumpkin and pecan pies and try out something completely new for Thanksgiving dessert!

TheSoul Publishing – the company behind some of the biggest viral videos on the web – and they have suggested some fun and different desserts to finish off this year’s Thanksgiving feast. Here are a few to tempt your appetite!:

  • Homemade Caramel Crème Bowls: Create a decadent and delicious caramel bowl filled with fluffy crème puffs – and top with chocolate! This is a treat that’s (almost) too good to eat. (Full instructions here.)
  • Oreo Ice Cream Pops: Is anything better than cookies and cream ice cream? Enjoy this childhood favorite after your Thanksgiving meal with homemade ice cream bars, covered in chocolate and the topping of your choice. (Full instructions here.)
  • Mini Cookie Crème Brûlée: This super-easy dessert has only four ingredients, and takes a fraction of the time that it usually takes to make crème brûlée. (Full instructions here.)
  • Molten Red Velvet Cake (In a Mug!): Scrumptious molten red velvet cake is quick to make with the help of pre-packaged cake mix, a white chocolate bar, and a microwave. This easy dessert has major “wow” factor! (Full instructions here.)

Catch Mario Batali on Complex x Fuse – Thanksgiving Edition

Tune in to Fuse on Friday, November 17th at 11 p.m. ET/PT for an all-new Complex x Fuse, featuring celebrity chef, Mario Batali.

Here are some highlights from the episode, which airs this Friday, November 17th at 11 p.m. ET/PT:

  • Complex On Food – On a special Thanksgiving edition of First We Feast’s Hot Ones, chef Mario Batali samples spicy chicken wings; plus Sean Evans explores the perfect nacho. 

Complex x Fuse features exclusive first-looks of athletes and celebrities eating killer food, answering burning questions and revealing the secrets behind the hottest kicks. The weekly 90-minute Complex-branded block features first-run segments from Complex’s core slate of more than 20 digital shows including signature series like Hot OnesSneaker Shopping and Everyday Struggle.

 

Amazon Prime Now: The Ultimate Destination for Thanksgiving Prep

In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, Amazon Prime Now is the ultimate convenience for customers looking to skip the line at the busy store and receive all of their Turkey Day items right to their door with one and two-hour delivery. This year, Prime Now will be operating on Thanksgiving Day until 8 p.m. to make sure customers can easily get their last-minute ingredients, décor or even board games while still spending quality time with friends and family during the holiday. 

We can all relate to being in the kitchen cooking the biggest meal of the year and realizing you forgot the cranberry sauce, pie crust or are out of cooking oil. Prime Now can bring these items and more to customers in one hour or less so they can continue spending time with friends and loved ones. In select cities Prime members can also order beer, wine and spirits for superfast delivery right to their door. 

 Last year, Prime members around the country relied on Prime Now to deliver their last-minute Thanksgiving needs. See below for some interesting data captured by Prime Now around Thanksgiving 2016:

·         In the week leading up to Thanksgiving, some of the most popular items ordered by Prime members for superfast delivery were:

o    Yellow onions

o    Organic canned pumpkin

o    Russet potatoes

o    Salted butter

o    Fire TV Stick

·         On Thanksgiving Day, bestselling items included:

o    Starbucks Doubleshot

o    Haagan-Dazs Coffee Ice Cream

o    Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil

·         

Beyond the last-minute ingredients and cooking essentials, Prime members also used Prime Now on Thanksgiving for family fun items.

The most popular board games delivered around Thanksgiving last year were

o    Jenga Classic

o    Uno

o    Hasbro Pie Face game

 

 Through Prime Now, customers receive free two-hour delivery and one-hour delivery is $7.99. Prime members can download the Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, and check eligibility of delivery in their zip code. Prime members can also shop on www.primenow.com.

Celebrate Friendsgiving with Superfast Delivery of Party Essentials from Amazon Prime Now

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, which means that friends everywhere will be coming together for “Friendsgiving” celebrations over the next few weeks. Whether friends are gathering an impromptu party or pressed for time, Amazon’s Prime Now service can deliver all party essentials to customers’ doors with superfast one and two-hour delivery!

Featured Photo from People.com

Prime Now offers superfast delivery of tens of thousands of items, including decorations, beverages, and party games like Taboo and Jenga to entertainguests.

More guests than you expected or trying to avoid time cooking in the kitchen? Prime members in Baltimore can also order food delivery from local restaurants through Amazon Restaurants. No matter your Friendsgiving plans, Prime Now has you covered.

Through Prime Now, customers receive two-hour delivery and one-hour delivery is $7.99. Prime members can shop on www.primenow.com or download the Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, and receive real time status updates on their order.  

Amazon Prime Now: The Ultimate Destination for Thanksgiving Prep

As we are gearing up for our Thanksgiving feasts, wanted to call to mind that Amazon’s Prime Now service can deliver all Turkey Day essentials to customers’ doors in just one hour!

We can all relate to being in the kitchen cooking the biggest meal of the year and realizing you forgot the cranberry sauce, pie crusts or the roasting pan. Prime Now can bring customers these items and more in an hour or less so they can skip the trip to the store and continue spending time with friends and loved ones.

Beyond the food, customers can also find hostess gifts or “family fun” items, including the most popular board games that have been delivered in one hour through Prime Now: Pie Face Game, Connect 4, Catan and Taboo.  We also have localized shopping data for all Prime Now cities available upon request.

In Baltimore, Prime Now is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and will be operating on Thanksgiving Day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. to help account for anyone that’s forgotten the butter, paper towels or other essentials. Two-hour delivery is free and one-hour delivery is available for $7.99. All Prime members can download the Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, and will be notified when the service is available in their zip code.

Prime Now: The Ultimate Destination for Thanksgiving Prep

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We can all relate to being in the kitchen cooking the biggest meal of the year and realizing you forgot the cranberry sauce, pie crusts or the roasting pan. Prime Now can bring customers these items and more in an hour or less so they can skip the trip to the store and continue spending time with friends and loved ones.

 

Beyond the food, customers can also find hostess gifts or “family fun” items, including the most popular board games that have been delivered in one hour through Prime Now: Jenga, Uno, Monopoly and Pandemic.

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In Baltimore, Prime Now is available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, and will be operating on Thanksgiving Day to help account for anyone that’s forgotten the butter, paper towels or other essentials. Two-hour delivery is free and one-hour delivery is available for $7.99. All Prime members can download the Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, and will be notified when the service is available in their zip code.

BJs Wholesale Club – Holiday Destination and Lifestyle Segment

The numbers are in. The National Retail Federation expects a solid 3.7 percent increase in 2015 holiday buying amounting to $630.5 billion – an astonishing total for just two months of sales.  However, they are tempering their glee noting that “…Americans remain somewhat torn between their desire and their ability to spend; the fact remains consumers still have the weight of the economy on their minds” and  “expect families to spend prudently and deliberately.”  The NRF also expects online holiday sales to increase between 6 and 8 percent this year, adding up to $105 billion.

What does this mean to the holiday shopper?  It means that consumers will be shopping where they know they will get the most gift-giving bang for their bucks.  And that’s where wholesale clubs like BJs step up with a tried and true value proposition. Not just in-club either. The online deals at BJs.com also fill the void of many Johnny-come-latelys to subscription online buying, because BJs has the power of expertise to seek out and offer exclusive deals on the most popular items this holiday season.

The experts at Selling Christmas have identified some of the  biggest trends this year, and for both online and in store gift buying, BJs members will see 2015 holiday favorites, such as:

 

Precious Metallics at Non-Precious Prices:

Straight from the pages of Elle Magazine: “Iridescent fabrics are the stuff dreams are made of. Seriously, try and look at them without being mesmerized. We predict that these fabrics will be a major street style staple. “

Glimmering metallic from copper to silver to gold can make any room or person look and feel glamorous.

·         Satina 8-Premium Cosmetic Brush Set with Travel Case – Get the look professionals create to achieve pro-perfect application of face and eye makeup with various brushes including an angled foundation brush, large eye shadow brush, smudge brush and more.   $19.99 In-Club Only

  • Moscow Mules Mugs – Set of two traditional stainless steel mugs with a long-lasting shiny copper finish and brass handle. The perfect drinking companion for cool, refreshing drinks year round. $17.99 In-Club & BJs.com
  • Crystal Bead Love Knot Stud Earrings – Pair these gorgeous round earrings with any look, day or night. Packed with dozens of round crystals, each 12mm earring possesses a startling amount of sparkle and shine. The base is not without its own elegance, combining the smooth cool of sterling silver with the warm richness of 14K yellow gold in a swirling design. IGI Appraisal Value $135 At BJ’s: $89.99 In-Club & BJs.com
  • Berkley Jensen 100 Sq. Ft. Gift Wrap Ensemble – Five rolls of premium wrap, gift tags and coordinating bows and ribbons in a variety of metallic hues for the holiday season. $14.99 In-Club Only

Winter White:
Even if snow doesn’t touch down, incorporating winter white is still a popular way for getting into the holiday spirit. Adding classic white ware pieces will elegantly contrast with reds, greens and metallics.

·         Berkley Jensen Write-and-Wipe Menu Board and Place Card Set – Let your dinner guests know what’s on the menu with this write & wipe ceramic menu board and six place cards. Use the included dry erase marker to write entertaining dinner highlights, a special dessert menu or messages of congratulations. The place cards can be used for table settings or labeling different dishes. This set is easily washable to reuse again and again. BJ’s Exclusive $14.99 In-Club & BJs.com

·         Berkley Jensen Swirl Chip and Dip DishConstructed of super-white porcelain, the attractive Berkley Jensen Swirl Chip and Dip Dish is the perfect vessel for favorite party snacks. The bright white color makes a nice background for special occasion fare, allowing the cuisine to take center stage. Dish has an 11.8″ diameter with built-in well for dip, olives and other snacks. BJs Exclusive $11.99 In-Club & BJs.com.

·         Berkley Jensen 5-Tier Buffet ServerMake the food table a display with this 3- or 5-tier buffet server from Berkley Jensen. Five stoneware trays can be used individually or as a unit, and the wire stand makes all dishes easy to reach. The trays are microwave-safe for convenient reheating and dishwasher-safe for easy clean-up. BJs Exclusive $29.99 In-Club & BJs.com

·         Berkley Jensen 3-Piece Graduated Porcelain Trays with Handles Berkley Jensen Porcelain Platters are a sleek and modern way to serve food. With pierced handles for easy handling and three different sizes, you will host and serve with ease. Comes with a small (8″x7 5/8″x1 1/8″), medium (10″x9.5″x1 38″) and large platter (12″x11 3/8″x1 3/4″). $14.99 In-Club & BJs.com

LED Lights to Light up Your Life:
Think light emitting diodes (LEDs) are just for flashlights and cell phone displays? Think again as new products are helping to bring more seasonal glitter to homes.

  • Sylvania Color-Changing LED Garland  – Nine feet of color-changing LED bulbs intricately woven through garland is a perfect holiday accent to mantles, doorways or stair railings. Choose between steady warm white lights, steady multi-colored lights or continuously changing white to multicolored lights. The timer feature means the lights will only be on when you want them to be on without worrying about turning a switch on and off..$34.99 In-Club & BJs.com
  • 24″ Berkley Jensen Oversized Pre-Lit Gold or Red Ornament with LED Lights – Brighten up any front lawn with these festive oversized ornaments.

48″ Berkley Jensen Stacking Snowmen with LED LightsColorful and festive stacking snowmen bring a sense of joy to holiday decorations. The bright LED lights are both cool white and multicolor and the included timer function allows for energy-saving convenience. BJs Exclusive $149.99 In-Club or $179.99 (Delivered) BJs.com

Chalkboards

For a rustic and classic theme, chalkboards continue to be a stylish way to create conversation starters when entertaining.

  • Slate Wine and Spirit Notes, 3-Piece – These slate notes in assorted seasonal designs is such a unique way to label a gift for a wine bottle or to help label holiday cocktail fusions. $9.99 In-Club Only
  • Slate and Wood Paddle Serving Set, 13-Piece – Serve a variety of cheeses in an elegant manner with this 13-piece wood and slate cheese board. With black slate markers and white slate pencils, your guests will know exactly what they are sampling. Includes antique brown wooden tray with leather rope, black slate board, 3 stainless steel cheese tools, 4 black slate cheese markers and 3 white slate pencils $17.99 In-Club & BJs.com

Enjoy photos from the holiday Lifestyle Segment at WBAL News.  The serving platters, recipe, and ingredients used for the Cranberries Holiday Cooking Demo are compliments of BJs Wholesale Club:

Cranberry-Orange Chutney

Ingredients

  • 12 oz. Cape Cod Fresh Cranberries
  • 2 Tropicana Navel Oranges
  • 2 cups Domino Pure Cane Sugar
  • 1 cup chopped, toasted Wellsley Farms Walnuts

 

Directions

Pour cranberries into a food processor bowl. Cover and pulse in 2-second bursts, scraping down bowl with a rubber spatula, until the berries are coarsely chopped. Do not over-process. Transfer cranberries

to a medium mixing bowl and set aside.

 

Quarter unpeeled oranges and place in the processor bowl. Pulse until just coarsely chopped.

 

Combine oranges with cranberries in mixing bowl. Stir in 1½ cups of sugar and chopped walnuts (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more

sugar a little at a time.

 Pecan and Cranberry Crusted Salmon with Cran-apple drizzle

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 2 Tablespoon Butter, melted
  • 2 Tablespoon Wellsley Farms Organic Honey
  • 1/2 Cup Panko Bread Crumbs
  • 1/2 Cup Chopped pecans
  • 1/4 Cup Dried cranberries, chopped
  • 2 Tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 4 6oz. Salmon filets
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Drizzle

  • 1 Cup Fresh cranberry sauce (prepared according to package directions)
  • 1/2 Cup Apple juice
  • 1 Tablespoon Apple cider vinegar

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Add fresh cranberry sauce, apple juice and vinegar in blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for five minutes stirring often. Remove from heat. Set aside.

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Celebrate Thanksgiving 2015 in Washington DC – Delicious Dining

Restaurants throughout the nation’s capital are giving diners plenty of reasons to give thanks this holiday season by offering a cornucopia of culinary offerings to make Thanksgiving 2015 memorable.  Some have stress-free “to go” options while others offer a chance to celebrate in style with great service and no dishes or leftovers to tackle.  From classic American to Italian and Indian fare in the mix, Thanksgiving takes on an international flare for the feasting.

bombay-club

In anticipation of the gluttonous feast of turkey and pie that awaits this Thanksgiving, the classic Belgian French bistro Et Voila!, located at 5120 MacArthur Boulevard, NW, 20016, will host its annual “Stretch Your Belly” party.  Guests will have the opportunity to stuff their faces with unlimited Blue Bay Mussels Diablo with lobster cream, tarragon and cherry tomatoes paired with Belgian Fries and Affligem Blonde Ale, or choose the Coq au Vin with trofie pasta paired withBelgian Fries and a glass of Côtes du Rhône for an affordable $29.95 per person (tax and gratuity not included).  This special offering will be available exclusively during dinner service from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25th.  For additional information please call (202) 237-2300 and visit www.etvoiladc.com.

Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt Washington, located at 24 and M Streets, NW, 20037, will present farm-fresh options to tempt the palate.  Guests are invited to gather and celebrate as Chef de Cuisine Brad Deboy will artfully prepare holiday dishes that reflect the all-American spirit of the award winning Blue Duck Tavern with an array of tempting desserts to complete the experience.  On Thursday, November 26, Blue Duck Tavern will offer “brunch into dinner” service from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 pm.  Guests opting for the Thanksgiving, three-course holiday meal will enjoy Blue Duck Tavern’s inviting ambience.  A bountiful selection of starters will be placed throughout the open-air kitchen for guests to help themselves to their first course.  Starters will include seasonal salads, breads, meats, and cheese to be followed by a choice of plated entrées and side dishes showcasing produce from regional farms.  Seasonal desserts, on display in the Pastry Pantry, will complete the Thanksgiving feast.  The holiday menu is priced at $110 per person for adults and $55 for children between six and 12 years of age.  Children under six years of age are complimentary.  Reservations can be made by calling +1 202 419 6755 or by visiting www.blueducktavern.com.

Those wishing to savor Blue Duck Tavern’s exceptional cuisine in their own home this Thanksgiving can call ahead and order their three-star feast to-go.  Orders must be placed by Thursday, November 12.  The star of the dinner for Blue Duck Tavern’s take-it-home Thanksgiving is a 10 to12 pound free-range roasted turkeyfrom the Earth and Eats family farm in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania.  The feast will also include two freshly baked breads and four traditional sides from the restaurant’s menu.  For the sweet finale, who can resist seasonal pies which are both included in the Thanksgiving package.  This all-American feast is designed to feed six to eight and is priced at $350, plus tax.

This year, Blue Duck Tavern is offering an additional add-on item for your Thanksgiving feast – a charcuterie and cheese board priced at $95 (tax not included).  This special offering includes a selection of domestic farmstead cheeses and charcuterie items, along with homemade mustard, seasonal preserves, spiced nuts, and crispy Lavash crackers; plated by Park Hyatt Washington’s very own Cheese Specialist Sophie Slesinger on a handcrafted wooden platter.  Orders must be placed by November 12, 2015 at 11 p.m., with pick-up available in the Pastry Pantry on November 25 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or on November 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  To place an order, one must visit https://www.giftrocker.com/BlueDuckThanksgiving and be sure to specify the date and time of pick-up.

Cleveland Park hot spot, Ardeo+Bardeo, located at 3111 Connecticut Ave., NW, 20008, will be featuring a sumptuous three-course menu crafted by newly appointed Executive Chef Jonathan Dearden featuring some of the finest flavors of the harvest.  Menu highlightsinclude Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with orange walnut chutney and pumpkin seed oil; Shrimp & Grits, Anson Mills grits, Andouille and fennel salad; Smoked Turkey Rillette with cranberry-fig compote, pickled radish and rustic bread; Sweet Potato Gnocchi with cauliflower, sun dried tomato pesto, arugula, and truffle pecorino; Roasted Turkey Breast with pear and polenta stuffing, smoked mushrooms, confit leg and giblet gravy; Grilled Atlantic Swordfish with forbidden black rice, pumpkin puree and garam masala yogurt, as well as Slow Roasted Berkshire Pork Osso Bucco with spaghetti squash, baby root vegetables and fall bean cassouletThe dessert menu will feature classics taken to delicious new heights.  Highlights include Pumpkin and Ginger Cheesecake with pumpkin seed granola and vanilla ice cream; Chocolate Cappuccino Bar with coffee-Kahlua mousse and cinnamon anglaise, and Fall Spiced Apple Tarte with balsamic fig compote, taleggio and mascarpone ice creamThe Thanksgiving menu will be served on November 26th from 12 p.m. until 8 p.m. and is priced at $45 per person and $23 for children under 10 (tax and gratuity not included).  Ardeo+Bardeo will also feature an extensive list of wines by the glass for this delicious day of gathering.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 244-6750 or visit http://ardeobardeo.com/.

Thanksgiving guests at The Bombay Club, located at 815 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20006, will be delighted to find a variety of Thanksgiving Day specials in addition to the full a la carte menu.  Executive Chef Nilesh Singhvi is preparing festive specials for the occasion including the Achari Turkey Tikka marinated with yogurt, garlic, pickled spices grilled in a tandoor oven and served with cranberry chutney, Brussels sprouts foogath, and sweet potato bharta for $20.50.  For dessert, The Bombay Club is serving a PumpkinBrûléewith hazelnut tart & cranberry semifreddo for$9.  The Thanksgiving menu is offered from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.  The Bombay Club offers valet parking for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 659-3727 or visithttp://www.bombayclubdc.com/.

Just across the street at sister restaurant, The Oval Room, located at 800 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20006, newly appointed Executive Chef John Melfi is preparing a three-course holiday menu offered from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., priced at $55 per person, excluding gratuity and tax.  Serving up flavors of the season in an innovative fashion, Chef Melfi will feature a menu that includes Foie Gras “Crème Brulée” with chestnut, sage, maple, puffed rice and plum jam; Fairytale Pumpkin Squash Panna Cotta with braised chestnuts, cranberry emulsion and crispy sage; Yellowfin Tuna Crudo with crispy sweet potato, blackberry, cornbread croutons and maple emulsion, as well asBlack Pepper Cavatelli with crispy bacon, cranberries, chestnuts, thyme and Winter truffleMain courses include Red Bourbon Turkey with oyster stuffing, Brussels sprouts, cranberry chutney and giblet gravy; Duck Breast with cornbread pudding, heirloom carrots, snow peas, pepitas and cider gastrique; Pan Seared Scallops with parsnip purée, wild watercress, Asian pear and preserved lemon vinaigrette, as well as Acquerello Risotto with toasted alba hazelnuts, compressed apples, dried cherries and PecorinoTo complete the meal, dessert options include Pumpkin Cranberry Bread Pudding with pepitas, brown butter gelato and a cranberry emulsion; Fallen Chocolate “Soufflé” with raspberry meringues and coffee panna cotta, and theHoneycrisp Apple Tart with cinnamon gelato, feuilletine tuile and rum caramelValet parking is available at The Oval Room for $8.  For reservations, please call (202) 463-8700 or visit http://www.ovalroom.com/.

The newly renovated power dining spot, 701 Restaurant, located at 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, 20004, will be dishing up a classic Thanksgiving feast with a three-course, prix fixe holiday menu available from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.  This special meal is priced at $49 per person, and $24.50 for children 12 and under, excluding tax and gratuity.  Executive Chef Benjamin Lambert will be preparing a variety of starters such as Roasted Beet Salad with caramelized labneh, pecans and pomegranate vinaigrette; Jonah Crab with kuri squash, cashews and grapefruit;Squash soup with ricotta, pumpkinseed oil and nasturtium ice cream, as well as Holiday Meatballs with fregula, almond, cranberry and gravy.  For the main course guests can opt for the Turkey Duo with sweet potato puree, stuffing, cranberry jam and gravy; Grilled Pork Loin with plum jam, potato polenta and piperade; Roasted Salmon with butternut squash puree, trumpet mushroom and blueberry kosho, or the Cauliflower Shawarma with sesame hummus, yogurt and lavash.  For the perfect ending, there is Chocolate Crémeux withmango whipped cream and fresh berries; Pumpkin Piewith cranberry sauce and cinnamon ice cream; Pecan Pie with marshmallow, sweet potato ganache and maple syrup,and Crème Brûlée with raspberries, praline cake and raspberry sorbet.  Creating the perfect ambience, 701’s live jazz duo of piano and bass will be performing during Thanksgiving service.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For more information and reservations please call (202) 393-0701 or visit http://www.701restaurant.com/.

1789 Restaurant, located in the historic Federal townhouse at 1226 36th Street, NW, 20007, will showcase a classic three-course Thanksgiving dinner in addition to its seasonal a la carte menu on Thursday, November 26th.  Executive Chef Samuel Kim’s three-course menu, priced at $55 per person (tax and gratuity not included), begins with a choice ofRoasted Beet Salad with rainbow beets, endive, candied walnuts, goat cheese, Meyer lemon confit and sherry vinaigrette or Butternut Squash Soup with pomegranate beurre noisette, rye croutons and fried sage. Traditional Turkey with roasted breast, confit leg, sausage-sage stuffing, pomme purée, cranberry sauce, mélange roasted vegetables and pan dripping gravy is the featured main course.  Restaurant-goers can complete their meal with a selection of desserts prepared by Pastry Chef Lauren Petri. Highlights of Chef Kim’s seasonal a la carte menu include farm fresh dishes such as D’anjou Pear Salad with frisée, radicchio, bacon lardons, candied Fresno peppers, feta and Kalamata olive vinaigrette; Fried Oysters with celeriac puree, champagne-crème fraîche foam and hackleback caviar;Bucatini Cacio e Pepe with shallots, mignonette pepper, Parmesan, coddled egg and white truffles; Nantucket BayScallop Crudo with apple soubise, French breakfast radishes, Meyer lemons, pickled fennel and celery hearts; Maple Glazed Ham with braised collard greens, vanilla turnip puree, roasted pineapple, turnips and Cognac-cherry pork jus;Rack of Lamb with spiced yogurt, eggplant caviar, rainbow Swiss chard, baby carrots and natural lamb jus; Scottish Salmon with spinach, fennel soubise and roasted fennel; as well as 35-Day Dry Aged New York Strip, a 12oz portion with bone marrow grits, horseradish cream, shallot and cipollini onion confit, new potatoes and Bordelaise.  1789 Restaurant will be open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  Dishes are priced from $14 to $47.  For reservations, please call (202) 965-1789. For more information visit: www.1789Restaurant.com.

Macon Bistro & Larder, the French and Southern-inspired bistro in Chevy Chase, located at 5520 Connecticut Ave., NW, 20015, will offer traditional fixings for purchase out of the Larder this Thanksgiving.  Macon Bistro’s culinary team, led by Executive Chef Daniel Singhofen and Chef De Cuisine Jenna Pool, will prepare classic side dishes to spice up any Thanksgiving feast.  Sides include: Stuffing; Cranberry Sauce; Casserole; Mac & Cheese; Collard Greens, and Sweet Potato or Buttermilk Biscuits, available in servings of four, eight or twelveDinner packages are priced at $100 for four servings of all six side dishes, $150 for eight servings, and $200 for twelve servings.  Additionally, Pastry Chef Jameela Hassa has prepared two nine-inch pies that will be available for purchase: Sweet Potato and Apple-Brandied Raisin Pies, priced at $45 each.  Food orders can be made daily through November 20th and all pick-ups will be scheduled for November 24th-25th from 12 Noon to 5 p.m.  For more information, please call (202) 248-7807, or visitwww.maconbistro.com.

In Old Town, Alexandria, The Majestic Cafe, located at 911 King Street, 22314, is offering up delicious specials which will be available in addition to their regular a la carte menu this Thanksgiving.  The menu at The Majestic, prepared by Corporate Executive Chef Graham Duncan and Executive Chef Lisa Marie Frantz, features classic dishes with a Southern twist, with a big emphasis on what’s local and in season.  Specials that will be available this holiday include Whiskey Barrel Smoked Fields of Athenry Farm Tom Turkey with cranberry and roasted chestnut bread pudding; Pan Braised Escarole with fried garlic and Virginia wildflower honey; Papa Weaver’s Maple Brined Berkshire Pork Chop with sweet potato puree and braised savoy cabbage with Virginia ham and green apples; Farro & Toasted Almond Pilaf with baked kabocha squash casserole and Brussels sprout leaves with cream and hard cider.  For dessert, guests can opt for theCinnamon Red Hot Apple Cobbler with local apples, cinnamon Red Hots and whipped crème fraîche.  Specials are priced from $22 to $27 each.  The Majestic will be serving from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  For more information please call (703) 837 – 9117 or visit www.majesticcafe.net.

nopa Kitchen + Bar, Ashok Bajaj’s American brasserie located at 800 F Street, NW, 20004, is offering a few festive specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Thanksgiving.  Prepared by Executive Chef Matt Kuhn, standouts includeRoasted Heritage Turkey Breast Roulade with grain mustard potato puree, farro & oyster mushroom stuffing and cranberry-sausage jus; Beef Coulotte Steak “Frites” with red vein-spinach, crispy fingerlings and horseradish-red wine crème fraiche;Grilled Moulard Duck Breast with tatsoi, brown butter squash puree, crackling crumble and roasted fig jus, as well asGrilled Roseda Farms NY Strip withwinter truffle-celery root puree, compressed caviar, sunny quail egg, rainbow chard and lobster jusTo complete the meal on a sweet note, seasonal dessert offerings includeMaple-Cider Doughnuts with candied Benton’s bacon and house-made honey crisp apple sauce; Pumpkin Mousse Napoleon with gingersnap cookie and tiger stripe fig brûlée, as well as Rosemary Scented Apple Streusel with cider caramel sauce and bourbon-cinnamon ice creamThe Thanksgiving menu will be available from 11 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  For reservations or more information, please call (202) 347-4667 or visit the website http://nopadc.com/.

Met Bethesda, located at 7101 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD, 20817, on the mezzanine level of Westfield Montgomery, is offering two festive specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Thanksgiving.  Prepared by Chef de CuisineAndrew Kern, the Salt Crusted Red Snapper with herb scented roasted baby potatoes and broccolini, serves two people and is priced at $35.  For the perfect pairing, guests can enjoy a Limoncello Pomegranate Prosecco priced at $14.  The Met will be serving these holiday specials during lunch and dinner service from 11:30 AM to 10 PM on November 13th-14th and 20th-21st, as well as December 11th-12th and 18th-19th.  For reservations or additional information, please call (301) 767-1900 or visit www.metbethesdamd.com. 

 Rasika West End, located at 1190 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, 20037, is offering a special Thanksgiving dish in addition to the a la carte menu.  Prepared by Group Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam, guests can enjoy the flavorfulTurkey Kofta Biryani, spiced turkey dumpling cooked in a sealed pot with aromatic basmati rice, flavored with stone flower and star anise, and served with butternut squash kootu, broccoli poriyal and cranberry raitaThe featured turkey entrée is priced at $20, excluding tax and gratuity.  The complete a la carte menu is also available on Thanksgiving Day.  Rasika West End will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Valet parking is available exclusively during dinner service for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 466-2500 or visit www.RasikaRestaurant.com.

At its sister four-star restaurant, Rasika Penn Quarter, located at 633 D Street, NW, 20004, is offering an exotic Thanksgiving addition to its a la carte menu.  Prepared by Group Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam, guests can enjoy the flavorful Turkey Mussalam, charbroiled turkey breast simmered in a sauce made of cashew nuts, saffron, screw pine essence and cranberry purée, served with smoked butternut squash, broccoli amchor and saffron rice.  The special turkey dish is priced at $20, excluding gratuity and tax.  The complete a la carte menu is also available on Thanksgiving Day.  Rasika Penn Quarter will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Valet parking is available exclusively during dinner service for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 637-1222 or visit http://www.rasikarestaurant.com/.

Bibiana Osteria-Enoteca, located at 1100 New York Ave, NW, 20005, (entrance on 12th and H Streets side) will be offering an authentic Italian twist on Thanksgiving.  The prix fixe menu is priced at $50 per person, excluding gratuity and tax, and will be served from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.  Executive Chef Jake Addeo’s tempting starters include Frico, traditional Friulian Montasio cheese crisp with roasted sweet dumpling squash, prosciutto cotto and arugula; Carpaccio, big eye tuna with crab roe aioli, preserved lemon, chives and olio primo; Pinzimonio, local seasonal farm vegetables with fennel cream, lemon emulsion and herb salad, as well as Ostriche, crispy Well Fleet oysters withcreamed spinach and black truffle aioliEntrées include Tocchino alla Porchetta, roasted herb and spice stuffed turkey with fennel pollen mustard and Italian plum jam; Panzott, butternut squash filled ravioli with roasted chestnut brown butter and crumbled Brutti Ma Buoni, as well asSpigola, pan roasted rockfish with baccala mantecato, salt roasted sweet potatoes and crispy kale.Tempting dessert options include Zucca, ginger cake with Hubbard squash mousse, candied ginger and milk gelato; Torta, red delicious apple tarte tatin with candied walnuts and a cider reduction, or the Budino,robiolina custard with mocha syrup, amaretti cookie and zabaglione gelato.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations or more information call (202) 216-9550 or visit http://www.bibianadc.com/.

Situated in the newly developed Southwest Waterfront, Station 4, located at 1101 4th Street, SW, 20024, will be offering a special four-course, prix fixe menu this Thanksgiving.  The prix fixe menu is priced at $40 per person, excluding gratuity and tax and will be served from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  Executive Chef Orlando Amaro’s tempting menu starts with an amuse of Pork Belly with pickled cucumber, red sorrel and yuzu vinaigrette, followed by a choice of starters such as Beet Salad with goat cheese, pistachios, frisee and cumin vinaigrette; Cream of Butternut Squash Soup with truffle essence and micro chive; Crab Tartar with avocado, cucumber, lemon aioli, chive oil and wasabi foam.  Main courses include Lobster Ravioli, homemade ravioli with tomato butter and dill; Beef Tenderloin, seared Angus beef with bone marrow sauce, potatoes au gratin and asparagus, as well as Butternut Squash Risotto, farro risotto with Pecorino cheese and Brussels sprouts.  For dessert, guests can enjoy tempting treats such as Double Dark Chocolate Ganache Tart with black currant puree and French vanilla ice cream; White Chocolate Bread Puddingwith salted caramel gelato, or Homemade Gelato Trio (Chef’s Choice).  For reservations, or additional information call(202) 488-0987 or visit www.station4dc.com.

Lupo Verde, located in the bustling 14th Street corridor at 1401 T Street, NW, 20009, is offering a few festive specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Thanksgiving. Prepared by Chef de Cuisine Domenico Apollaro, the menu at Lupo Verde showcases authentic, rustic, Italian fare with standouts such as Zuppa di Castagne, chestnut soup with onion puree, squash chips and raisin walnut croutons; Tortellini al Tacchino, house-made tortellini stuffed with turkey ragù and buffalo ricotta in smoked bacon consommè, and Tacchino Inaspettato with turkey stuffed with seasonal vegetables, pork sausage, and pears, baked beneath cabbage.  Thanksgiving specials range in price from $12 to $26.  For a sweet finish guests can take pleasure in Torta di Melee Gelato alla Zucca, cinnamon and brandy apple pie served with butternut squash gelato, priced at $12The Thanksgiving menu is offered from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  For reservations, or additional information call (202) 827-4752 or visit www.lupoverdedc.com.

Located across Lafayette Square from the White House at 800 16th Street, NW, 20006, the historic Hay-Adams offers guests Washington’s most prestigious address with views overlooking the White House, Lafayette Square and St. John’s Church, the “Church of the Presidents.”   On Thursday, November 26, the Top of the Hay will offer a holiday buffet with two seatings available at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.  Guests can anticipate contemporary American cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Peter Schaffrath and Senior Executive Sous Chef Jaime Montes de Oca, in addition to attentive service in a stately, elegant setting. Menu standouts include Carved Free Range Heritage Whole Turkey with fresh sage and celery stuffing, sautéed Brussels sprouts with caramelized onions and bacon, sweet potatoes and golden Yukon mashed potatoes rosemary gravy, and pear and cranberry chutney; Pan Seared Potato Gnocchi with fall vegetables; Vitello Tonnato, seared veal tenderloin and tuna with lemon and caper sauce; Compressed Watermelon Salad with tomatoes and yellow beets; Waldorf Salad, iceberg wedges with granny smith, red delicious apples, walnuts and Waldorf dressing,as well as Portobello Mushroom Raviolis with porcini sauce.  For dessert guests can enjoy a vast selection of sweet treats created by Pastry Chef Josh Short.  Highlights include the Persimmon White Chocolate Bread Pudding; Apple Sour Cream Crumble Pie; Spiced Cranberry Poached Pears; Butterscotch Pecan Cake; “Sugar Pie” Pumpkin Squares, as well as Maple, Pumpkin, and Vanilla Bean Crème BrûléeAdditionally diners will receive complimentary house Champagne or house wine with their meal.  The Hay Adams’ Thanksgiving feast is priced at $110 per adult and $55 for children 12 and under.  For reservations, or additional information call (202) 638-6600 or visitwww.hayadams.com.

Legal Sea Foods is urging dinners to take a step back in time to the first Thanksgiving, when people were said to have dined on shellfish and fish.  The restaurant will offer its full menu for traditionalists as well as a Turkey Dinner with sausage stuffing, mashed potatoes, butternut squash and cranberry sauce that is priced at $21.95 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) and $7.95 for children 12 and under.  The Thanksgiving menu, in addition to Legal’s fresh signature seafood menu, is available at three Legal Sea Foods locations in the Washington area.  The hours on Thursday, November 26 are the following: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 704 7th Street NW, Washington, DC, (202) 347-0007; 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Tyson’s Galleria in McLean, VA (703) 827-8900; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, VA (571) 551-5988.  For a complete list of locations please visit: http://www.legalseafoods.com/.

Kingsmill Golf and Spa Resort – Holiday Travel 2015 {Lifestyle}

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Fall Weekends Frighteningly Busy as Halloween & the Holidays Near

* Low Gas Prices, Means Holiday Travel/Get-A-Ways Are On The Rise*

The countdown to Halloween is on, and as we creep closer to the holidays, Kingsmill Resort’s reservation system is spooky busy with many key weekends in October, November and December starting to fill up.   The reason, according to Kingsmill Resort, is the increased desire to create multi-generational memories by establishing new traditions for family travel during the fall and Holidays.  Low gas prices and high demand for Kingsmill’s riverfront cottages and spacious condos featuring full kitchens support this trend.

Kingsmill Resort is the only AAA Four Diamond condominium resort in Williamsburg and the only property with direct access to the majestic James River.  Sitting on 3,000 acres of land, Kingsmill Resort is ripe with stories of fright and holiday delight dating back to America’s beginnings.  It’s also a fall/early winter harvest of golf, watersports, heated indoor pools, a million dollar spa, restaurants, tennis, biking and just a cannon-ball shot away from the area’s iconic major attractions.

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What does this all mean?  For travelers planning a visit to Greater Williamsburg this holiday season to take in the fall foliage, ghoulish frights at Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream, or Greater Williamsburg’s holiday lineup, that means it’s best to book now or beware.   There may be no room at the proverbial “inn.”  A word to the wise, if you are thinking of calling Kingsmill Resort ‘home’ for the upcoming holidays it is best to book now, or the resort may be stuffed and your family will be crying foul.

Fall/holiday packages that are exceptionally value driven and popular include:

·       The Howl-O-Scream package through October 31 which includes accommodations for two nights in a  guest room (upgrade to condo available), daily breakfast, complimentary shuttle service to Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg and access to Busch Gardens with two Fun Cards.

·       The Thanksgiving package, featuring a two-night stay in a one bedroom condo, breakfast daily, complimentary transportation to Colonial Williamsburg, and of course a traditional Thanksgiving buffet.

Three distinct Christmas Season packages:

1.     Christmas Town: a two-night stay and multi-day tickets to Busch Gardens

2.     Let It Glow: spacious accommodations in a condo for two nights, breakfast daily and curbside transportation to Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg.

3.     Holiday Traditions:  featuring two-night accommodations in a holiday-decorated condo including a tree and fireplace, meals, and more…

Kingsmill Resort is an AAA Four Diamond condo resort and member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Located on the James River off I‐64 between Richmond and Norfolk the property is within minutes from Williamsburg’s numerous destinations including Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, The College of William & Mary, Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center.

Dress Your Best to Meet the Parents: Fashionable, Chic, and Classy

The holidays – like Thanksgiving –  are a stressful time for ladies who will be meeting their man’s parents for the first time.  You must find the perfect look to impress his mom and sisters — one that’s fashionable, chic and classy.

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STEP 1: DO YOUR RESEARCH

No one will be a better judge of the in-law’s judgment than your significant other. Ask him what his moms and sister’s fashion sense is. Check out Facebook photos from past holidays. If they look like East Coast Blue Bloods, dress conservative. If they’re total ex-Berkeley activists, try hippie chic and go vintage.

STEP 2: PACK FOR EVERY OCCASION
Bring one flowery dinner outfit, one semi-sexy outfit for a night on the town with your guy, and one laid back combo for that Sunday morning stroll with his mom. Tiny skirts are best left at home – because you don’t want them to think you’re Miley’s doppelganger – and don’t channel Lady Gaga with uncomfortable fashion ensembles that will just make Granny give you side eye.

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STEP 3: BRING THE WHOLE KIT & KABOODLE
Pack tons of great accessories, especially a statement necklace to glam up any normal outfit. Stella & Dot pieces, for example, can enrich any holiday outfit.

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STEP 4: CHECK IN WITH YOUR FRIENDS
We know you can’t bring your fashionable friends that weekend to help you find your perfect outfit. But you can send them your fashion selfies and ask them for advice. Postelio is the perfect app to quickly and discreetly ask your friends for fashion advice.

About Postelio

Founded in 2012, Postelio (www.postelio.com) allows you to quickly ask friends and family for opinions on the items you like while out making purchases – all through your phone. You can also check out what is trending around you, follow your favorite stores, get top deals, and even earn points that you can redeem for cash or rewards. The platform enables you to quickly reach key friends and family at shopping decision-making times and fashion emergencies. While shopping at our retail partners, you receive deals as you visit the store, helping shopper get great deals, and helping  retailers. Postelio’s first iPhone app was launched in August 2013 and the android app was launched in October 2013.