ML Interest Tag: dessert

Valentine’s Day Food and Treats Everyone Will Love

by Susie Foresman

We’re loving the heart-shaped pizza!

This Valentine’s Day, take your festivities to the next level by whipping up some Valentine’s Day food for kids. We’ve fallen in love with these inventive recipes, from super-simple Valentine’s Day dinners for kids to drool-worthy desserts. We’re talking faves like a chocolate cake recipe, red velvet everything, puppy chow, mousse, and more. 

Heart-Shaped Breadsticks

cute valentines day food
Meg’s Everyday Indulgence

These heart-shaped breadsticks from Meg’s Everyday Indulgence will make the perfect side for your V-Day meal. Made with just four ingredients, they’d be great alongside a big pot of soup or pizza (psst ... more on that below!). 

Saltine Toffee

Kylee Cooks

For an easy treat, try this sweet idea from Kylee Cooks. Saltine crackers, caramel, and chocolate come together to create the most addictive dessert around—just don’t forget the sprinkles!

Heart-Shaped Fruit Puff Pastries with Vanilla Glaze

fruit puff pastries are a cute valentines day food idea
Flour & Floral

It’ll be love at first sight (and bite) with these heart-shaped puff pastries from Flour & Floral. They’re a breeze to put together with frozen puff pastry and your favorite fruit jam.

Related: Costco’s 2023 Valentine’s Day Rose Sale: 50 Long-Stem Roses for $59.99!

M&M Rice Krispie Treats

Salt & Baker

You can never go wrong with a big batch of Rice Krispy treats, and this Valentine-inspired twist from Salt & Baker is no exception. An old-school favorite, it gets even better when you throw in some colored candies.

 

Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

Tara’s Multicultural Table

Get all the flavors of cheesecake without having to spend hours in the kitchen, thanks to this genius dip from Tara’s Multicultural Table. Paired with graham crackers, berries, and pretzels, it’ll be an instant hit with your little valentines. 

Mini Heart-Shaped Pizza

heart shaped pizza is a fun valentines day food
Sarah Khandijan

Mini pizzas and hearts—a match made in heaven. We love how simple these cheesy little bites are to make for a quick Valentine's Day surprise. Grab your cookie cutters and head over to Sarah Hearts for the recipe.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

chocolate covered strawberries are a classic valentines day food
Eat Cho Food

Chocolate-covered strawberries are a classic Valentine’s Day food, and this version from Eat Cho Food will definitely win over your kids. You can swap in your favorite type of chocolate (white, milk, and dark all work) and top them with graham cracker crumbs or chocolate swirls. 

Dark Chocolate Strawberry Shortbread Cookies

Apple of My Eye

These little gems from Apple of My Eye are like chocolate-covered strawberries in cookie form (sign us up!). Get the kids involved in rolling out the dough and topping the freshly baked cookies with jam and chocolate. 

Related: 60+ of the Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her (the Ultimate “Hint-Hint” List for Your Fam)

Deep Dish Red Velvet Cookies

Show Me the Yummy

Red velvet is the perfect pick for Valentine's Day, and this recipe from Show Me the Yummy is an easy way to make your loved ones smile. It's the perfect size for sharing, and it gets even tastier with the addition of vanilla ice cream and some chocolate syrup.

Glazed Strawberry Muffins

strawberry glazed muffins are a fun valentines day food
Garnish & Glaze

For a lighter dessert, whip up these pretty muffins from Garnish & Glaze. With strawberries dotted throughout and a lightly sweetened glaze on top, this one is sure to be a hit with your whole crew.

White Chocolate Raspberry Mousse

white chocolate raspberry mousse is a delicious valentines day food
Something Swanky

Keep things a little lighter but just as festive with this delish mousse recipe from Something Swanky. It may look complicated, but it's actually super easy to pull off using an instant pudding mix, cool whip, and some raspberries.

Red Velvet Sugar Cookies

Creme de la Crumb

These chewy, moist cookies from Creme de la Crumb are heavenly when paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. The whole fam will be impressed by how adorable these look with pink and red sprinkles on top—we're willing to bet they won't last 'til the 15th!

Valentine Puppy Chow

puppy chow is a fun valentines day food
Sarah Halstead

If your kids are fans of classic puppy chow (aka muddy buddies), chances are they'll love this Valentine-themed twist on that classic snack from Sarah Halstead. It'll come together in 10 minutes flat with red velvet cake mix, M&Ms, and chocolate.

Chocolate-Filled Raspberries

Glen Carrie via Unsplash

This tangy but sweet treat might be the easiest of them all. Grab a handful of fresh raspberries and your favorite chocolate chips, then slip a chocolate chip in each berry. Done! 

Related: 28 Easy Valentine’s Day Cards You Can Make at Home

Valentine's Day Pretzel Bites

Cathleen from A Taste of Madness

All you need to make these adorable little snacks are three ingredients. And chances are you already have them in your pantry. Check out A Taste of Madness to find out how to make them.

Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies

funfetti cake mix cookies are fun valentines day food
Sara via Bitz N Giggles

These super delicious cookies are also super easy to make, which is a total win when baking with kids. Sara from Bitz N Giggles adds M&Ms and sprinkles, giving them an extra boost of color.

 

 

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The 10 Best Spots for Hot Chocolate in LA

by Jennifer O'Brien

Indulge a little with the best hot chocolate spots in LA that will warm your heart (and soul) during this winter-y cold snap

There’s nothing more comforting on a cold and rainy day (and we’ve had our fair share of those lately) than a cozy cup of silky hot chocolate—guaranteed to brighten your spirits and warm your soul. But when you’re looking for the best hot chocolate near me, any old, run-of-the-mill cocoa won’t do! We’ve done some Nancy Drew-level sleuthing to uncover the best of the best hot chocolate in LA and are delivering each, delicious cup below. Ready for the best hot chocolate ever?

Best Hot Chocolate in LA

1. Café Demitasse

If you’re on the prowl for some of the dreamiest hot chocolate in LA, look no further than Café Demitasse in Santa Monica. Known for their Liquid Lavender Hot Chocolate with a huge, toasted marshmallow for dipping, this cozy coffee purveyor is likely to become a regular stop in your schedule—especially during chilly winter months. Enjoy a cup in shop or make it at home with their Lavender Hot Chocolate Kit that comes with 8 oz. of hot chocolate, 5 jumbo marshmallows, and a vial of lavender extract. There’s a reason they are rated as one of the best hot chocolate Santa Monica has to offer.

1149 Third St.
Santa Monica
Online: cafedemitasse.com

2. Lady Chocolatt

As one of the most impressive chocolate shops around, it’s no surprise Los Angeles’ Lady Chocolatt’s hot chocolate makes our list. This Brentwood standout handcrafts their chocolates in Belgium and has them flown to the shop, garnering a devout customer following. Though chocolate candy is the star here, Lady Chocolatt’s dark hot chocolate is far from an understudy—it’s truly some of the most decadent we’ve tasted and may just change your life—it’s that powerful.

12008 Wilshire Blvd.
Brentwood
Online: chocolatt.com

3. Chokolatta

While there is no longer a favorite hot chocolate Beverly Hills location (it recently closed), Chokolatta is still open for business in North Hollywood. With traditional Hot Chocolate and a Spicy Mayan flavor made from the finest cocoa beans available, you can’t go wrong. And if that’s not enough, the shop also sells a selection of chocolate covered strawberries, bon bons, and other delectable treats.

5264 Tujunga Ave.
North Hollywood
Online: chokolatta.biz

4. Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar

If regular hot chocolate isn’t doing it for you anymore, stop by the adorable Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar in Pasadena. Their extensive hot chocolate bar features a wide variety of assorted flavors to wet your whistle, including white chocolate, peppermint, salted caramel, campfire, P.B. cup, cupcake, and more. And if you prefer your hot chocolate frozen, they can handle that too.

1383 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena
Online: lavenderandhoneyespresso.com

5. ChocoVivo

ChocoVivo’s single-source bean to bar chocolate is a one-of-a-kind experience. Featuring one of the best hot chocolate menus we’ve seen, customization is the name of the game here. Customers choose the style of drink they want – whether it’s sipping chocolate, hot chocolate, iced hot chocolate, mocha hot chocolate, or frozen hot chocolate. Next, pick your base from various types of milk or filtered water. Lastly, choose the type of chocolate you desire – everything from 100% Cacao to Mayan Tradition and more. If that’s not enough, they have a fantastic selection of desserts as well.

12469 W. Washington Blvd.
Culver City
Online: chocovivo.com

6. La Monarca Bakery

La Monarca is always top of mind when Angelenos want to grab some mind-blowing Mexican pastries, but they also deliver the best Mexican hot chocolate Los Angeles has to offer. What starts with fair trade cacao ground in house, ends with a totally unique hot chocolate that’s both foamy and cinnamon-y with a kick. Or try the Champurrado—a delicious thick version of Mexican Hot Chocolate that pairs great with an order of conchas. You can also purchase containers of both mixes to go.

12 Locations across LA
Online: lamonarcabakery.com

7. Guelaguetza

Regarded by many critics as one of the best restaurants in the country, Guelaguetza isn’t just killing it at the food game, but the hot chocolate game as well. If you’re going grab a bite at this beloved dining star, don’t dare leave without trying their Mexican Hot Chocolate. Rich and creamy to the last sip, this is some of the tastiest artisanal Oaxacan chocolate you’ll ever have. They also have a hot chocolate gift set available for purchase so you can recreate the experience at home.

3014 W. Olympic Blvd.
Koreatown
Online: ilovemole.com

8. Churros Calientes

If you find yourself in West LA, Churros Caliente is well worth a stop. Their delicious Spanish style hot chocolate is even better with a side of the most mouthwatering churros this side of Madrid.

11521 Santa Monica Blvd.
West LA
Online: churroscalientes.com

9. Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Not only does the Hollywood Walk of Fame have Spiderman, Darth Vader, and a disheveled Elmo, but it also has some of the best hot chocolate in Tinseltown. Famed Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop features everything from Classic and Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa to Frozen Hot Cocoa and Decadent Drinking Chocolate. And if you happen to load up on some of those dreamy little chocolate squares during your visit, we’ll never tell.

6834 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood
Online: ghirardelli.com

10. Bardonna

While you won’t find it on their online menu, for those in-the-know, Bardonna on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica is one of the best places to get hot chocolate. Their one-of-a-kind hot chocolate bombs will delight both kids and adults alike—not to mention, a favorite spot to grab brunch (to balance out that sugar rush).

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Where to Dine In or Get Takeout for Thanksgiving Dinner in San Diego

by Aimee Della Bitta

These San Diego restaurants offer take-out and dine-in Thanksgiving meals for a stress-free Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving is the best holiday to gather family and friends around the table—especially when you’re not stressed about burning the bird or fitting all the side dishes in the oven at once. This year, give yourself (and your kitchen) a break—and support local businesses—by either ordering your Thanksgiving dinner from one of our favorite local restaurants that’s a hit with the kids, or dine-in at a top San Diego restaurant that’s open on Thanksgiving Day. We’ve also found the best bakeries for that perfect, made-in-San Diego dessert.

The Best San Diego Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day

Rancho Valencia

Treat yourself to a meal you'll remember for years to come. Rancho Valencia offers a buffet stocked with everything from a cold seafood station to a full kids' buffet. There's live music from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and desserts that'll have the whole family feeling grateful.

Cost: $195/adults, $55/kid (3-11); Kids under 3 dine free

5921 Valencia Cir.
Rancho Santa Fe
Online: ranchovalencia.com

 

best thanksgiving dinner in san diego
Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood

In Little Italy, Chef Brian Malarkey adds a Mediterranean and Mexican-inspired flair to the traditional Thanksgiving spread. Guests can choose from a turkey roulade with lemon rosemary stuffing, lamb shank, or a brown butter blondie with pumpkin mousse.

Cost: $92/adults; $38/kid

2210 Kettner Blvd.
San Diego
Online: herbandwood.com

Park Hyatt Aviara

Choose from any of the three Park Hyatt restaurants to book your Thanksgiving reservation this year. Ember & Rye and Ponto Lago both offer guests a sit-down dinner option, while The Park Hyatt hotel serves a Thanksgiving buffet from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Cost: $155/adults; $65/kid (3-12) for brunch and $125/person for dinner at Ember & Rye; $105/person for dinner at Ponto Lago; $140/adults and $60/kids at The Park Hyatt 

7100 Aviara Resort Dr.
Carlsbad
Online: parkhyattaviara.com

 

George's at The Cove

This year, George’s at the Cove is serving a three-course prix fixe menu in the Ocean View Room with roasted turkey, along with sausage and chestnut-stuffed leg and potato puree with turkey gravy. The turkey special will also be available along with the regular menu at the Ocean Terrace and Level2. Don't miss George’s bourbon pecan and brown butter apple crumb pie, which you can also pre-order. Kiddos will love sitting at a premium table, closest to the sea, which includes credit toward food and drinks.

Cost: $85/person

1250 Prospect Street
La Jolla
Online: georgesatthecove.com

Tom Ham's Lighthouse

The iconic San Diego restaurant at the end of Harbor Island is offering a smorgasbord of seasonal favorites. The carving station will have free-range turkey with rosemary gravy and roasted tri-tip. Other accompaniments include clam chowder, brown sugar sweet potatoes with marshmallows, and creamy green beans. The grand seafood bar will have Maine lobster claws along with oysters and scallops on the half-shell.

Cost: $72/adult; $24/kid (age 6-12), kids 5 and under eat for free

2150 Harbor Island Dr.
San Diego
Online: tomhamslighthouse.com

Del’s Hideout, Pioneer BBQ or Coaster Saloon (Cohn Restaurant Group)

Bring this Thanksgiving BBQ Feast to your table this year from either of these three Cohn restaurants or choose to gather the crew and dine in. Either option will satisfy your family and keep you frazzle-free. 

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by: 3 p.m. on Nov. 22; pick-up Nov. 25 between 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: Serves 6-8 servings for $190; add on a pie for an additional $20; Purchase the main a la carte: $115for turkey or $130 for brisket

Various locations
Online: cohnrestaurants.com

 

Where to Order Thanksgiving Dinner in San Diego

 

Giuseppe Restaurants & Fine Catering

Mix and match a cornucopia of delights by choosing all of your Thanksgiving dishes a la carte. Choose from roasted and carved natural turkey (fully cooked, heat and eat) and such delectable sides as Focaccia-leek & pistachio stuffing, caramelized Brussels sprouts, truffle parmesan mashed potatoes or a poached pear salad. It may take you a while to decide on the sweet ending with choices like Frangelico chocolate truffle lollipops to Meyer lemon bars or pies.

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by noon, Nov. 21; Pick up or have it delivered on Nov. 23
Cost: Whole turkey is $155

7853 Herschel Ave.
La Jolla
Online: grnfc.com

Seaside Market 

Seaside Market in Cardiff, is known for its mouthwatering Burgandy Tri-Tip, infamously nicknamed "Cardiff Crack" by locals. And, this Thanksgiving, you can swap the turkey for their tri-tip Feast which comes with sides like roasted vegetables, candied sweet potato mash, broccoli gorgonzola salad, and more (served chilled in aluminum pans with reheating and serving instructions). Or, keep it traditional with their Complete Turkey Feast and side dishes. Seaside also offers a vegan meal with lasagna as the main dish. Whatever your crew is craving this holiday, you can order it at Seaside Market and sit back and relax because your meal is certain to be an utter crowd-pleaser. 

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: 48 hours in advance 
Cost: $250 for Complete Turkey or Cardiff Crack Tri-Tip Feast that feed six; $90 for Vegan Feast that feeds 2-3 people

2087 San Elijo Ave.
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Online: seasidemarket.com

Ranch 45

Ranch 45 is just what you need to help with holiday hosting. They offer traditional fare with a modern twist that'll impress any foodie at the table. Try their olive oil mashed potatoes or gluten-free carrot cake to switch things up this year—orders are fully cooked, heat and eat. 

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by Nov. 21; Pick-up from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Nov. 23
Cost: All items are ordered a la carte; approx. $185 for 3-4 servings

512 Via De La Valle
Solana Beach
Online: ranch45.com

 

Whole Foods Market

Celebrate the season with Whole Foods Market's catering menu which has something for everyone. You’ll find the classics like organic turkey,  and prime rib with all the sides, but also paleo-friendly paleo and vegan-friendly options that are fully cooked, ready to heat and eat. Holiday appetizer platters are also available.

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: All Holiday Selections orders must be placed a minimum of 48 hours ahead of pickup date and time
Cost: Thanksgiving Extravaganza for 12, $569; Classic Thanksgiving Feast for 12 is $400

2600 Via De La Valle
Del Mar
Online: wholefoodsmarket.com

 

Ruth Chris

Take the hassle out of Thanksgiving Dinner this year and order out from Ruth’s Chris Steak House. They have a family meal that's chilled, fulled cooked and ready to heat and eat that serves four and includes roasted turkey and all the trimmings, including four personal pumpkin cheesecakes.

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: 48 hours in advance; pick-up on Nov. 23 from noon-6 p.m.
Cost: 4 servings for $175

Various locations
Online: ruthschris.com

Urban Plates

Bring home a fresh scratch-made feast just like grandma used to make. Choose from a Family Feast that serves 6-8 or a smaller Family Meal that serves four and you’ll get an herb-roasted cage-free turkey breast, mushroom stuffing, homemade gravy, sweet cranberry relish, artisan bread and a choice of two sides (everything comes chilled, fully cooked with heating instructions). Add on a scratch-made dessert made in-house by their pastry chef: mango tart, seasonal pumpkin & walnut layer cake or a Hummingbird Cake, among others. Order early, they sold out last year!

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Order by Nov. 20; Pick-up on Nov. 22 or Nov. 23
Cost: A la carte sides $18 each; desserts are $24-$59; A turkey plate that serves one is $24; Turkey Family Meal serves four for $100; Turkey Family Feast serves 6-8 is $169

Various locations
Online: urbanplates.com

Chart House

Chart House is big on holidays, which means you can expect a mouthwatering Thanksgiving dinner without having to lift a finger, except to carry the bags into the house. The Chart House Thanksgiving To-Go offers a choice of slow-roasted prime rib or turkey, stuffing, cranberry dressing, creamed spinach, mashed potatoes, and pecan or pumpkin pie.

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by Nov. 18; Pick-up times are based on store hours—delivery is also available
Cost:  $105 for turkey, or $130 for prime rib for a group of four

Various locations
Online: chart-house.com

Elijah's Restaurant & Deli

Having your Thanksgiving meal delivered doesn’t get any easier than this! Order your classic Thanksgiving meal from Elijah’s and they’ll bring it right to your front door—all dinners are freshly cooked with no reheating is required! Just put it on the table and eat. Choice of turkey, beef brisket, or ham served with two classic side dishes to choose from, and add on an apple, pecan, or pumpkin pie for only $15 extra. 

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: 48 hrs notice; Schedule a time with the restaurant for pick-up, delivery is available for an additional charge
Cost: Servings are for 10 people, $179 for turkey dinner, $199 for beef brisket dinner, and $179 for spiral ham dinner

7061 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
Clairemont
Online: elijahsrestaurant.com

Where to Order & Buy the Best Thanksgiving Desserts in San Diego

Pop Pie Co. 

Southern California's go-to artisanal bakery for all things encased in crust, Pop Pie Co. will whip up your Thanksgiving pie the morning you need it. Choose from Salted Honey, Honey Bourbon Pecan, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel Apple Crumble or Apple Crumble (vegan).

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by Nov. 17 or until they’re sold out; Pick-up Wed Nov. 23 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. or Nov. 25 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $35/pie

Various locations
Online: poppieco.com

Nutmeg Bakery

Top off your day of eating this year with a non-traditional Thanksgiving pie from Nutmeg Bakery. They’ve got all kinds of cream pies: Chocolate, Banana, Boston or Coconut; as well as Key Lime and Maple Pecan (gluten-free). But if you want to go the traditional route they’ve got you covered there with Apple Lattice, Apple Crumb  and Pumpkin. Now if you want a Thanksgiving cake, well they’ve got plenty of options too with everything from Carrot Cake to chocolate chip cookie dough, vanilla (vegan) or lemon raspberry, orange cranberry, lemon blueberry, coconut rum hummingbird, Italian cream and oh so many more. Many of these options are gluten-free so be sure to ask.

Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders with 72 hrs advance notice; Pick-up times are based on order
Cost: $20-$35/pie

12640 Sabre Springs Pkwy.
Sabre Springs
Online: nutmegsd.com

 

 

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9 Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner (Plus To-Go Options!)

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Don’t want to spend your entire Thanksgiving in the kitchen? These DC-area restaurants will serve up turkey dinner for your whole family

Real talk: Turkey Day isn’t actually about the turkey, so why spend all day in the kitchen? Make Thanksgiving dinner an easy lift by skipping meal prep all together and letting a local restaurant do the work. We’ve rounded up a number of dine-in and to-go options so you can spend more time with your family (and less time hunched over a stove).

Whether you’re looking to kick dinner up a notch with a fine dining experience or you want a simple and casual spread, these DC-area restaurants dish up Thanksgiving dinners even the kids will love (and if they don’t, a few offer regular items, too!). Read on for some of Washington, DC’s best restaurants open on Thanksgiving—plus to-go options for those that want to eat at home, because not having to cook the biggest meal of the year is something to be thankful for! 

Related: The Best Meal Delivery Services Near You

Casual DC Restaurants Offering Dine In & Take Out on Thanksgiving

Lincoln Restaurant
Dine in: We're giving thanks for the endless sides this restaurant serves up as part of their Thanksgiving feast. Mac and cheese, brioche stuffing, maple brown sugar sweet potatoes, charred Brussel sprouts and cheese grits are just some of the side stars. In addition to endless sides, enjoy endless meats at the carving station, one a la carte entree and a dessert for $65 ($25 for kids 12 & under).

Take out: Lincoln Restaurant is also offering Thanksgiving at home with a salad, farm turkey with country gravy, three sides, and dessert. Prices range from $75-335 depending on whether you choose the package for 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 people. Orders can be placed by going to their website and clicking the link for Thanksgiving at home or calling the restaurant.

1110 Vermont Ave. NW
Downtown
Online: lincolnrestaurant-dc.com

Founding Farmers
Dine in: The pre-fixed for this dinner is sure to please even picky eaters. Enjoy a three-course meal that starts with either soup or salad followed by your choice of a main: turkey, ham, pan seared white fish, salmon, veggie loaf, prime rib ($8 uncharge) and (for picky eaters) fried chicken. Each is served with an array of sides, including mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beens and corn bread. And sweet tooths, rejoice! Founding Farmers is dishing out pies on pies this holiday, among them are apple, pumpkin, pecan, key lime and coconut cream. Dinner costs $43.99/person ($20 for kids 12 & under).

Take out: From brunch to dinner to left over kits, Founding Farmers has you covered on Thanksgiving (as well as your entire holiday weekend). Order a turkey and you can technically lay claim to cooking this bird; you'll receive a "raw and ready to roast" Spatchcock Half Turkey that comes enough bread, sides and dessert to feed 4 ($200). Beyond the classic Thanksgiving entree, you'll find maple-glazed salmon, herb-crusted prime rib, veggie loafs and honey-glazed baked ham as take-and-make at home options.

1924 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Foggy Bottom

12505 Park Potomac Ave.
Potomac, MD

1904 Reston Metro Plaza
Reston, VA

1800 Tysons Blvd.
Tysons, VA
Online: wearefoundingfarmers.com

Smokecraft
Take out: This modern BBQ joint is rumored to have one of the best catered meals in the DMV. You’ll find expertly smoked meats as the mains here, including turkey, ham, prime rib, leg of lamp (from $135-200). Elevate your sides with duck fat roasted potatoes, smoked cauliflower, flash-fried Brussel sprouts and award-winning Mac-and-cheese. Don’t forget to grab a pie. Pumpkin, pecan, and apple are all on the menu.

1051 N. Highland St.
Arlington, VA
Online: smokecraftbbq.com

Ted's Bulletin 
Dine in: There are plenty of reasons to love Ted's. Many locations feature a toy box (we're looking at you Capitol Hill and Fairfax), project movies while you eat and feature a long list of kiddie food favorites, like pop tarts, milk shakes and homemade tater tots. You'll find some Thanksgiving specials on the menu, like house-brined turkey and homestyle gravy, but you and your crew can also select from the regular menu making this a best bet for picky eaters.

Take out: Have a Tedsgiving at Home with Ted's take out. Holiday packages include all the staples of a classic Thanksgiving, like turkey, house-whipped potatoes and rolls. Don't forget to add on one of Ted's famous sweets for dessert. Order by Nov. 19 for Nov. 23. pickup.

505 8th St. SE
Capitol Hill

1818 14th St. NW
U Street

2911 District Ave.
Fairfax, VA
Online: tedsbulletincapitolhill.com

Chef Geoff's
Dine in: It doesn't get more friendly than Chef Geoff's where kids can opt out of the whole turkey deal all together and choose from an array of kid-friendly menu items like cheeseburgers, grilled chicken, steak and grilled cheese. For little pilgrims that want a plate with all the fixings, Chef Geoff's offers that, too ($14). The three-course adult menu ($55) features 10 alternatives to a turkey dinner, like vegan cauliflower steak and Hong Kong scallops.

Take out: You can bring the stand out Thanksgiving offers served at Chef Geoff's to the comfort of your own home (remember to order by Nov. 11): think maple-glazed turkeys, chicken sausage and sour cherry stuffing (!), port wine cranberry sauce and apple crumble pie. Each package serves two ($90) or four ($175).

3201 New Mexico Ave.
Cathedral Heights

2201 M St. NW
Foggy Bottom
Online: chefgeoff.com

Mitsitam Cafe
Dine in: It doesn’t get more casual than a Smithsonian cafeteria for a Thanksgiving meal! Pay tribute to the dishes and foods the Natives brought to the first Pilgrim Thanksgiving at Mitsitam, voted DC’s best cafe. You can explore classic indigenous entrees from across the Western Hemisphere, including dishes that hail from The Plains, MesoAmerica, the Northern Woodlands and more

Independence Ave. SW & 4th St. SW
National Mall
Online: mitsitamcafe.com

Related: DC’s Best Places to See Fall Foliage

Upscale DC Restaurants Offering Dine In & Take Out on Thanksgiving

Equinox
Dine in: Todd Gray’s DC institution doesn’t have a children’s menu per se, but the restaurant will accommodate young diners with off-menu options, like house-made pasta ($20). The prix fixed menu ($80) includes the annual tradition of a  free oyster (and oyster mushroom!) bar. At every turn, you’ll find plant-based alternatives alongside meat and fish dishes at this vegan-friendly restaurant.

818 Connecticut Ave. NW
McPherson Square
Online: equinoxrestaurant.com

Rose’s at Home
Take out: Elevate your Thanksgiving spread by indulging in Rose's Thanksgiving feast to-go. This meal comes with lemon-pepper brined and roasted turkey, salad, three sides, a classic cranberry sauce, and Hawaiian rolls. Serving 2-4 for $250 and 6-8 for $490, this meal will not only satisfy your craving for turkey and carbs, but also provides a donation to the DC Food Project. Each meal includes free delivery within a 30 mile radius of Capitol Hill.

717 8th St. SE
Barracks Row
Online: rosesathome.com

 

Sequoia
Dine in: Enjoy views of the Potomac River at this contemporary American restaurant where floor-to-ceiling windows means every seat has a first-rate view. While enjoying the Georgetown waterfront, indulge in a buffet-style Thanksgiving feast that features free range turkey, lamb chops and pecan pie from noon-8 p.m. ($120/person, $60/children 11 & under, kids 5 & under are free).

3000 K St. NW
Washington Harbour
Online: sequoiadc.com

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8 Traditional Cuban Recipes for the Entire Family

by Karly Wood

Looking for a new take on Taco Tuesday? Try Cuban food! While just as flavorful as Mexican food, Cuban food recipes are often less spicy and not as fried, making it the perfect cuisine to try with kids. Discover your favorite from our collection of everything from the traditional Cuban sandwich and black beans to the perfect Medianoche bread recipe.

Cuban Medianoche Bread

Medianoche Bread Cuban food recipe
Hostess at Heart

Can you make a Cuban sandwich without medianoche bread? You can, but with this easy recipe from Hostess at Heart, you shouldn't! With simple ingredients and novice baking skills required, you'll be whipping up Cubanos in no time.

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja is a classic Cuban food recipe
The Daring Gourmet

The Daring Gourmet's Ropa Vieja recipe is so easy, that it will quickly become a part of your menu rotation. Made with flank steak, veggies, and lots of fragrant spices, this traditional shredded beef dish easily pairs with rice and beans—things even picky eaters like! Dinner is served.

Cuban Sandwich

The Cubano is a famous Cuban food recipe
Marta Rivera

Remember that medianoche bread? It's time to whip up that Cubano sandwich now! This Cuban food recipe from Simply Recipes pairs traditional ingredients like pork, ham, cheese, and pickles into a hearty sandwich that is beyond filling.

Related: 14 Restaurant-Worthy Middle Eastern Recipes Families Will Love

Boliche

Magnolia Days

Cuban stuffed roast is the stuff of holiday dinners. While it is a labor of love, this savory roast stuffed with chorizo, olives, and garlic is even harder to pass up once it's covered in gravy. Your little meat-eaters will have no problem eating this up! Get the recipe from Magnolia Days. 

Cuban Black Beans

Black beans are part of this classic Cuban food recipe.
A Couple Cooks

Whether you use dried or canned beans, you can still make authentic Cuban beans in a flash. Ingredients like green pepper and onions come together in this recipe from A Couple Cooks to create an easy side dish or main meal that easily pairs with rice.

Cuban Beef Picadillo

A Spicy Perspective

Ground beef with cinnamon and raisins? Toss in green olives and you've got Beef Picadillo! This simple recipe from A Spicy Perspective makes dinnertime adventurous and quick. Serve with rice or in taco shells, and everyone is on their way to full tummies.

Flan de Leche

A good cuban food recipe is flan
Max Griss via Unsplash

You've had flan, but have you had Cuban Flan de Leche? The ultra-creamy dessert is made with condensed and evaporated milk and finished with a creme brûlée topping. We love Bacon is Magic's recipe, which is easy and quick.

Arroz con Leche

Coco & Ash

Condensed milk is back in this creamy and traditional Arroz con Leche recipe. Cuban rice pudding is made with simple ingredients and just a little attention. This recipe from Coco & Ash walks you through the super kid-friendly dessert in just an hour.

 

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Lavish Breakfasts You Can Serve for Dinner

by Susie Foresman

Breakfast for dinner, anyone? Breakfast food is having a serious moment, and we couldn’t be happier about it. We’ve rounded up a bunch of fancy breakfast recipes that are also feasts for the eyes, from pancake charcuterie boards to epic waffle bars and more. Read on to get inspired.

Fried Egg Sandwich

A Couple Cooks

This fried egg sandwich is just as good in the morning as it is in the evening. The best part is that you don't have to stick with just one way of prepping your eggs, you can make them scrambled, fried, over easy, poached and more. Get the recipe from A Couple Cooks. 

Bagel Breakfast Board

Windy City Dinner Fairy

This board by Windy City Dinner Fairy is the kind of thing bagel lovers dream about. Imagine a nice spread of bagels with plenty of topping options—from classic cream cheese and smoked salmon to fresh fruit and veggies.

Epic Brunch Board

Proper

Our mind is blown by the sheer scale of this brunch board by Proper. It’s filled with an impressive mix of bread, fruits, cheeses and jams. There’s no need for a centerpiece when the food looks this good!

Waffle Breakfast Board

Sandra’s Easy Cooking

This fun board from Sandra’s Easy Cooking would make the perfect breakfast for dinner. Homemade waffles make it even more special, and everyone can top them with their favorite fruit, yogurt or syrup. 

Pancake Charcuterie Board

Valentina’s Corner

More of a pancake person? This breakfast for dinner idea has you covered with a drool-worthy charcuterie board. Get all the details (including how to make your pancakes extra fluffy) by clicking here.

Brunch Board with Cheesy Popovers

Vegetarian Ventures

For something a little lighter, we love this veggie-forward board from Vegetarian Ventures. Think cheesy homemade popovers that are paired with piles of fresh veggies and sliced cheese. 

No-Cook Brunch Board

Sarah J. Hauser

This board has just enough elements to keep it interesting, but not so many that it’s too overwhelming to put together on a Tuesday night. Get tips on how to make your own (plus a version that skews more savory than sweet) by clicking here.

Burrata Breakfast Board

Fork in the Kitchen

Burrata fans, you don’t want to miss this breakfast for dinner idea! The deliciously decadent cheese is the centerpiece of this board from Fork in the Kitchen, and it’s complemented by soft scrambled eggs, roasted tomatoes and garlicky potatoes. 

Waffle Charcuterie Board

Wholefully

Try this sweet idea from Wholefully for your next party (or just because). The topping options are endless, from berries and jams to chia seeds, nuts and whipped cream.

Breakfast Banana Split

Smart Nutrition

Banana splits: they’re not just for dessert! This breakfast from Smart Nutrition is sure to put a smile on your kids’ faces. With Greek yogurt, granola and berries on top, it’s a healthy way to start the day. 

Dessert Hummus Brunch Board

We Are Not Martha

Dessert and hummus in the same sentence? It might sound crazy, but as you’ll learn from We Are Not Martha, it’s surprisingly delicious. This decadent brunch board centers around chocolate hummus with a bunch of dessert-inspired dippers. 

 

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Here’s Where to Score Free Pies & More for Pi Day, because Math Is Delicious

by Erica Loop

If you love baked goods and math, it’s almost your lucky day! We’ve got the scoop on where to get free pie—and a whole lot more—for Pi Day. Arithmetic enthusiasts already know that Mar. 14, a.k.a., 3/14 is the first three digits of the mathematical constant known as Pi. In celebration of this day, plenty of eateries are offering either deep discounts or straight-up freebies.

Here’s where can you find Pi Day pies this year, of both the sweet and savory varieties.

Grand Traverse Pie Company

Get a free slice of ABC Crumb Pie, with any purchase, at all 15 of the Michigan-based pie shops on Mar. 14. GT Pie Company’s ABC Crumb Pie features apples, blueberries and cherries—all from Michigan! If you don’t live in or near one of GT’s shops, order your Pi Day pies online via the company’s website. You’ll need to order by Mar. 10 for Pi Day delivery. Sorry, the promotional free slice doesn’t apply to online orders.

Lauretta Jean’s Pie Bakery

The Portland, Oregon pie shop is featuring three pie slices for $14 on Pi Day. Get it? Three for 14—3/14.

Blaze Pizza

If pizza-pie is your idea of “pie,” Blaze Pizza has a Pi Day deal for you. Download the eatery’s app before Mar. 14 and get a special reward to use.

Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe

With locations in Charleston, Columbia and West Ashley, South Carolina, this pie place has slices on sale for $3.14 from 5 pm through 10 pm on Mar. 14.

CiCi’s Pizza

Get access to the endless pizza buffet for just $3.14 at Cici’s.

7-Eleven

Grab a whole pizza for $3.14 each when you stop in-store at your local 7-Eleven using the  7Rewards or Speedy Rewards app.

Boston Market

Get a free Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie with the purchase of another pot pie and drink through the Boston Market app.

ModCloth

Grab 31.4% off when you shop modcloth.com today only.

 

—Erica Loop & Karly Wood

 

 

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15 Unique PB&J Recipes Kids Will Love

by scott wardell

Looking for a little variety in the routine that the kids will actually still eat? Try these twists on an old favorite

If you’ve got a picky eater, there’s one thing you can almost guarantee they’ll eat—a PB&J. It might not be the most exciting combo in the world, but the good news is, there are a bunch of inventive recipes with peanut butter and jelly out there to help you kick it up a notch. To keep things fresh, we’ve found 15 ways to enjoy this classic treat for breakfast, snacks, and dessert.

Breakfast Recipes with Peanut Butter and Jelly

Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast

This recipe brings two classics together in the most perfect way. The only problem will be having to stop yourself from making it every Sunday.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Waffles

What we love about this breakfast idea is that you can absolutely use frozen waffles. Top them with peanut butter, honey, banana, raisins, or jelly.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Swirl Bread

PB&J Swirl Bread
Cook Nourish Bliss

As much as we'd like to have a sit-down breakfast every morning, sometimes we just have to grub on the go. That's where this tasty breakfast bread from Cook Nourish Bliss comes in super handy—no messy knives and no sticky fingers, just a hearty slice of heaven to start your day. A word of warning: do NOT try and toast this bread, it will make quite a mess!

PB& J Pancake Sandwiches

Weelicious

Using pancakes instead of bread? Why not? Before you go thinking you're spoiling your little jelly monsters, take a look at this recipe from Weelicious—it's healthy! We're pretty sure you won't hear many complaints, as your kids will be too busy snacking on their new favorite way to eat PB&Js.

Related: 23 Easy-to-Prep School Lunch Ideas for Kids

Snack & Lunch Recipes with Peanut Butter and Jelly

Peanut Butter and Jelly Energy Bites

These energy bites could work as a quick breakfast or an on-the-go snack. Full of protein and flavor, they take 15 minutes to make. Get the recipe from Favorite Family Recipes.

PB&J Pizza

Heat Oven to 350

Our kids are already big fans of the cheesy variety, so we're pretty confident that they'll be beside themselves when they hear you're making them Nicole's special PB&J pizza for snack. They'll be even more excited when you let them pick a topping or two—banana slices for pepperoni, coconut flakes for shredded cheese, get creative! Major style points if you can pipe the jelly out onto the pizza like this.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi

How do you make a sandwich even more finger food-y? Roll it up and cut it into sushi rolls. These would be great for feeding a bunch of little rugrats, as they could just pop a few of these in their mouths. We love Brit + Co.‘s idea of topping them with fresh fruit to compliment the flavors of the jelly.

Peanut Butter Quesadillas with Jelly Dipping Sauce

Home Cooking Memories

This PB&J from Home Cooking Memories goes south of the border. Reducing the jelly down to a sauce makes a sweet, syrupy mixture that is great for dunking. Another great snack choice for multiple hungry mouths, whip up a few of these and lay them out for an afternoon snack.

Dessert PB&J Kids Will Love

Peanut Butter and Jelly Milkshake

Chocolate Covered Katie

Sounds good, looks good, tastes great. This Chocolate-Covered Katie recipe uses a mixture of milk and vanilla extract instead of ice cream, so it's at least a little healthier for you. Adding in frozen berries for jelly also makes this shake extra smooth without the extra guilt. Best enjoyed with a crazy straw.

Dark Chocolate Dreams Sandwich

Peanut Butter & Co.

After this treat, you may never want to sink your teeth into plain ole PB&J again! Peanut Butter & Co.'s Dark Chocolately Dreams spread, preserves and coconut is all it takes to make the sandwich of your dreams a reality. 

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cake

How Sweet Eats

Sweet and savory is a classic flavor combo, and no two things bring together these tastes like peanut butter and jelly. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that Jessica of How Sweet It Is thought to create a PB&J-inspired dessert. Using whole wheat flour makes this cake a little more healthy, so you don't have to feel guilty about eating it for dessert...and next morning's breakfast.

PB&J Pops

Weelicious

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a PB&J pop? We're not sure, but we know of a few little ones who wouldn't mind being our guinea pigs for this little experiment. Thanks to Catherine of Weelicious for another great PB&J recipe.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes

My Baking Addiction

We love bite-sized desserts almost as much as our kids do. Plus, desserts always seem that much more adorable when they're just pop-able enough to warrant eating at least two or three. Jamie of My Baking Addiction makes these cupcakes with white cake in lieu of white bread, and have a hollowed-out center filled with sweet jelly, then topped with peanut butter frosting. Simply decadent.

 

 

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10 Snacking Tips to Keep Your Kids Healthy & Happy

By Goddard School

It may seem like your child’s snack times are defined by endless requests for “junk” food. Requests for cookies, chips, and ice cream—to name a few—are made while driving in the car, riding in the stroller, sitting on the couch and maybe even during dinner. To help parents navigate, The Goddard School’s team of early childhood health and education experts share 10 tips on how to swap “junk” for healthy alternatives and how to make healthy snacking fun!

Dr. Jack Maypole, pediatrician and member of Goddard’s Educational Advisory Board (EAB), offers three easy ways to swap in healthy foods in place of your child’s favorite maybe not-so-healthy treats:

1. Keep it out of the house. Help your child avoid carb-loaded sugary items by buying very little to none of them. Instead, keep your fridge stocked with fresh, age-appropriate fruit like bananas, grapes, apples, peaches or berries.

2. Watch the drinks. Milk, within reason, and water are great beverage choices for young children. If your child is bored with these options, flavored seltzer can be a great alternative. The occasional chocolate milk, juice or soda is fine for most children. However, if having them in the house is too much of a temptation for your child, see tip number one. And if you do buy orange juice, for example, be sure to buy the variety with calcium and vitamin D supplementation.

3. Redefine desserts. Limit sweets in terms of amount and frequency and teach your child that dessert doesn’t have to equal “junk” food. For example, if your child is craving dessert after dinner, offer a healthier alternative that is still sweet such as blueberries in a bowl of milk. And remember to encourage kids to eat a reasonable portion of their dinner before they tuck into a sweet after-meal snack.

In addition to finding healthy alternatives, another step is to help your child enjoy eating them. Goddard’s EAB chairwoman Lee Scott is an early childhood development expert and shares seven ideas to make healthy snacking fun:

4. Teach them a trick. Help your preschooler carefully work with a peeler to learn how to peel an apple (or peel a tangerine by hand). Can they peel the whole skin in one go? Probably not. But trying can be a fun challenge.

5. Be expressive with veggies. Cut up fruits and vegetables and have your child create faces with the pieces on a plate. Ask them to make a silly grin or show a sad frown and then talk about the good foods in each face. This also supports creativity and helps them explore emotional expressions.

6. Find a rainbow. If you can, take your child food shopping and challenge them to help you pick out good foods in five main colors—red, orange, yellow, green and blue.

7. Create a family recipe. Build a fun and healthy snack together. Take a picture of the result, list the ingredients, give it a creative name and share with friends and family.

8. Incorporate math. Two handfuls of a small snack like raisins, blueberries or nuts are all you need to create a guessing game. Which hand has more? While your child decides, talk about strategies that go beyond counting. Does one pile weigh more than the other? Is one pile taller or wider?

9. Name foods. Using the letters in your child’s name, have them name a yummy, healthy food that begins with each letter. If you can’t think of one, research foods and discover new items to try such as umbrella fruit for “U.”

10. Use books. Books are a great way to support conversations about healthy eating while making it enjoyable for children. Here are some of Goddard’s favorite books that use humor, wonderful illustrations and great stories to help convey these messages and lessons to children in a manner they will understand:

  • The Sandwich Swap by Queen Rania of Jordan Al Abdullah and Kelly Dipucchio
  • The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
  • Eating the Alphabet by Lois Ehlert
  • Bee Bim Bop! by Linda Sue Park
  • Gregory the Terrible Eater by Mitchell Sharmat

As you practice these 10 healthy snacking tips, remember to never say never when it comes to your child’s snack requests. Absolute vows tend to fail absolutely. Having the occasional ice cream cone or juice box is OK, as long as your child eats an overall balanced meal for the day. Finding this balance and guiding your child to understand when snack requests will be satisfied will help them learn that eating a meal together is an occasion of love, culture and joy—without the sugar high to follow!

The Goddard School’s mission is to make the world a better place through early childhood education. As the nation’s leading premium early childcare provider, Goddard is trusted by parents and families, reaching more than 70,000 students from six weeks to six years old in more than 560 Schools across 38 states.

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These Are the Most Popular Trader Joe’s Products, According to Customers

by Karly Wood

It’s no secret Trader Joe’s has a cult following. From heat and eat meals and fun florals, to unique products you can’t find anywhere else, it can be hard to know where to start as a TJ’s newbie.

Luckily, the grocer has revealed it’s 13th Annual Customer Choice Awards: the yearly rundown on fan faves that take the cake. Continuing in the pandemic tradition, many of the items are the same as last year, but that just goes to show you can always count on Trader’s for your go-to groceries. Keep reading to see who took home the prizes.

Favorite Overall: Mandarin Orange Chicken & Entree

A winner for the last several years, this tasty frozen dish makes you a superstar at the stove. Kids and parents will love the saucy meal that pairs great with frozen rice that heats in three minutes.

Favorite Beverage: Non Dairy Oat Beverage

Honestly, we aren't sure how this product over-performed and beat out ginger beer and spiced apple cider, but now we've got to try it.

Favorite Vegan/Vegetarian Item: Soy Chorizo

2021 called, it wants its soy chorizo back! This vegetarian friendly item is a winner again for the new year.

Favorite Cheese: Unexpected Cheddar

When it comes to Trader Joe's, we're just here for the cheese. Like last year, Unexpected Cheddar is the big cheese.

Favorite Snack: Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets

These nuggets of goodness continue to be a fan fave. Perfect for snacks or pairing with a glass of wine, they're filling and pack a salty punch!

Favorite Sweet/Dessert: Chocolate Chip Hold the Cone

Hold the Cone Ice Cream treats won favorite dessert in Trader Joe's customer choice awards in 2023

So cute and so perfect for a mom trying to inhale a dessert before her kids catch her.

You can check out the rest of the winners at traderjoes.com.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

 

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