Football Season Eats

Football season is upon us and there’s no finer way to make your team play better than by shouting at multiple television screens fueled by cold beer and carbs, amirite? Clearly, I’m not one for fanaticism, but I do enjoy rooting on the ol’ home team, especially when there are good eats to be had. 

Gordon Biersch in the Annapolis Towne Center had the perfect perch for which to enjoy the warm fall we’ve been experiencing while catching some Sunday night football. Their bar opens up to an outdoor patio during fair weather, and seated on the outdoor side I had the game right in my line of sight. 

I immediately got my hands on a tall glass of GB’s Marzen beer and ordered the Marzen-Simmered Bratwurst Sliders. Not only was it an ideal pairing, but the sliders were truly something to cheer for. Served on a wooden board came three bite-sized brats nestled in pretzel rolls smothered in caramelized onions and housemade mustard. 

Football Season Food

Honestly, I could eat a modest pile of twenty or so of these and have no regrets. (Word to the wise: use the accompanying pickle chips with the sliders.) There’s even a little pile of housemade chips which I found darling and delicious. By the end of the first half there wasn’t a morsel left on that board.

The next course called for a Hefeweizen to go with GB’s Southwest Egg Rolls. They make these in-house and they’ll be sure to tackle any and all hunger pains right into a coma. Packed with chicken, black beans, corn, roasted red peppers, onion, carrots, zucchini, and pepper jack this finger food eats more like a meal. 

Football Season Food

What kind of foodie would I be if I didn’t finish things off with GB’s Cheese Curds. The fried cheese certainly did not disappoint, especially when combined with the bits of candied bacon involved. There’s a honey whole grain mustard on the side for some extra savory sweetness. I washed it all down with a Naptown Pils and felt like my team wasn’t the only one winning. 

Football Season Food

The following week I returned to the Annapolis Towne Center, but this time to check out the eats and game at Union Jacks. The self-proclaimed “mega-pub” is just that with enough space to house 25 televisions and anyone who wants to yell at them. (Does anyone feel bad for the tv’s here?)

Union Jacks has an extensive beer selection, including 30 beers on tap! I kicked things off with a Fat Tire Amber Ale and Chicken Nachos. These nachos were a sheer mountain of tortilla chips, melty cheese, fresh jalapeno, and seasoned chicken. I appreciated the crowning “condiment chip” on top, which was filled with sour cream, guacamole, and pico. Just watch out, if the jalapenos don’t get ya, the chicken has a decent kick too!

Football Season Food

This next dish could very well be the MVP – most valuable pizza, that is! Union Jacks make their dough in-house and you can taste the difference. I ordered the London Bridge which was topped with prosciutto, goat cheese, cherry tomato, red onion, roasted garlic, baby arugula, and balsamic glaze. I enjoyed each bite with a swig of Smithwick’s and was too pleased to notice who was moving the ball or scoring the points. 

Football Season Food

To sweeten the deal Union Jacks is running football specials every Saturday (11-5), Sunday (11-9), and Monday (5-9) on select buckets, pitchers, spirits, and appetizers. You can even hop on one of their pool tables if you find the game isn’t going the way you’d like.

No matter whose colors you wear Gordon Biersch and Union Jacks have the fare and libations to see you through all the disappointments and celebrations alike. Like my new favorite t-shirt says, “I just hope both teams have fun”.  

 

Featured blog by Rhea Torreon @annapolis_foodie

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Fall Must-Haves

Believe it or not, Fall is just around the corner. This means one thing and one thing only. No, I’m not thinking pumpkin spiced lattes. To me, the changing leaves and cooler air means stylish and cozy Fall fashion!

It’s not too early to start stocking up on cooler weather wear. Early Autumn is the best time for a transitional style where you can pair some of your favorite summer pieces with some must-have Fall trends. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite outfits from Annapolis Towne Centre to get you jazzed up about the latest and greatest. The hot spot this season is everything in between eye-catching textures and warm fall hues.

fall styles

One of my absolute favorite trend for Fall is statement bottoms. From leggings to wide-leg culottes, its time to bring the hem down below the knee. My top three pants to look for are faux leather leggings, textured pants and, statement trousers.

Switch your pant game up this season and bring on a blast from the past. That’s right ladies, bell bottoms are back! As a That Seventies Show fan, I hope this trend is here to stay. Pair your flares with some booties, platform sandals or chunky heels. The goal is to elongate the leg to really make the pants pop as the center of attention. I found flares in all textures and colors. Try a classic denim pair or be bold with some leather-like the pair I found at South Moon Under.

Fall Styles

Other fun pant finds included statement pants from Anthropologie. These truly unique pieces like the patchwork pattern culottes and blush pink corduroy flare are to die for. Loud pants like these look best with a solid top or sweater. Don’t be afraid to layer your look.

fall styles

When we think Fall Fashion the first thing that comes to mind is “sweater weather”. How snuggly does that sound? I discovered countless unique sweaters from chunky knitted to oversized and slouchy like this animal print from Scout and Molly’s. You’re going to want to stock up on a variety of sweaters for the months to come.

Fall Styles

Let’s talk patterns. Animal Print is a neutral in my eyes. The best thing about snakeskin and leopard is that it virtually goes with everything. Think this isn’t a trend you can pull off? Try adding a pop of these prints to your style with a clutch from Lou Lou.

Florals are not just a spring fling. I highly recommend including some botanicals to your wardrobe with fall colors like gold, copper and forest green. Scout and Molly’s carries a ton of flowy floral pieces than can be paired with a light jacket.

Suede, leather, and corduroy are in this season. One of my favorite pieces I found was this suede jumpsuit from Anthropologie. Talk about a 1970’s dream! You’ll find these textures sprinkled around the Towne Centre shops. Try a practical leather moto jacket or suede shawl for those cooler autumn nights.

Fall styles

Top off any outfit with some extra bold accessories this season. Heat up your look with a chunky headband, a baker boy hat or felt wide brim from Anthro. Layer on some jewelry and statement earrings this season. Stop into Lou Lou to find countless accessories and wearables to add to your collection.

My absolute favorite thing about fall fashion is that you get to be creative. It’s time to get your wardrobe cool weather ready with all the coziest trends. Trust me, you’re going to want to run (with that pumpkin latte in your hand) to the Towne Centre for all the latest Fall apparel.

Written by Stephanie Nielsen of  The Tangerine Desert

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Spa Day at the Annapolis Towne Centre

It always seems as though summer unapologetically flies by, and the next thing you know June turns into September. But between family trips and summer camps, summer can be more stressful than we all like to think it is. Looking around the Annapolis Towne Centre, there are some great places to indulge in a day of self-love. Whether you are preparing for a big day or just want to treat yourself, there are some great spots that can make you feel fully immersed in relaxation mode.

About Faces

About Faces has been at the Annapolis Towne Centre for nine years. They are a full-service spa and salon that has been in business for 49 years offering amazing spa packages to varying degrees. Whether you’re looking to relax, relieve stress, or revitalize – this is the spot!

Enjoy anything from deep tissue massages to CBD oil massages and special techniques to help relieve pregnancy pains or quick recovery and muscle overuse for athletes! If you need a last-minute pick me up before a weekend away, you can even get a lash brow and tint! Brides-to-be can also find something for their special day or indulge in some elevated girl time with a bachelorette spa day which includes lunch from a special Brio menu!

One of the best features of About Faces is the retail store paired with their services – when you first walk in, you are met with shelves and displays of their curated retail selection that offers amazing products for both guys and gals. They offer a range of men’s services for those who know how to enjoy a day off!

Vein Clinics of America

At Vein Clinics of America, looking good is just one of the happy outcomes of being healthy, and our patients feel and see the difference. A successful outcome is their main goal, and patient satisfaction plays a major part.

They are committed to you as a patient from the first to the last step. Dr. Garzon has been with the clinic for 7 years and he prides himself on having tools and tech more comfortable for patients paired with unmatched bedside manner. Because of his background in family practice, he has created a family-like environment with him, his staff and patients. The wonderful people at the clinic want to help you be and feel like the best version you can be.

Hair Cuttery

Hair Cuttery is the largest family-owned and operated chain of hair salons in the country. A full-service salon for men, women, and children, Hair Cuttery offers the latest trends in cut, color, blowout, and styling, all at an amazing value. They have more than just a cut and blowdry. They have a range of services going or for prep and pampering you for any occasion. Whether you’re having a treat-yourself-day or are preparing for a night, these packages add a little something extra like a brow shape, hair treatments, and specific dye jobs!

The Annapolis Towne Centre has something for everyone and their different ways of spending a day off! Whether it’s at About Faces, Vein Clinics of America, or Hair Cuttery, the Towne Centre has much to offer!

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The Back to School List You Don’t Want to Miss

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3 Best Places for Wine Lovers

If you consider yourself a wine enthusiast, you have found yourself reading just the blog you need. There are incredible wine bars and restaurants all over Annapolis offering amazing wines and food to pair. Check out a few of the most popular places for vino below!

Cooper’s Hawk

At Cooper’s Hawk, their Wine Club is designed exclusively for those who love to explore, share, and pair new wines with wonderful food and memorable moments. Wine Club Members enjoy access to extraordinary events and partake in one-of-a-kind experiences.

Wine in Annapolis

Wine Club Membership brings extraordinary access inside the Cooper’s Hawk experience – starting with receiving monthly wine that is not available to the general public. You also get invited to Friends of Cooper’s Hawk events. These dinners, book signings, wine tastings, and chef presentations are an opportunity to interact with celebrity chefs and sommeliers. These special evenings provide a warm, intimate, and memorable way to expand your knowledge of both food and wine.

Wine in Annapolis

Every year, Founder Tim McEnery and Executive Chef Matt McMillin plan epic trips to some of the world’s greatest wine regions, and the itineraries are crafted specifically with our adventure-loving Members in mind. Take time away to live the wine country lifestyle with other members of our Cooper’s Hawk family. Expand your horizons, explore the world of wine and global cuisine, and create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Giolitti’s Deli

Giolitti’s is a landmark that has been open for business for over 25 years and is a full-service Delicatessen specializing in authentic Italian cuisine. As their returning customers would agree, there is an emphasis on fresh ingredients, value-prices, and a hand-picked curated menu. You can tell, by just looking, that each bottle on the shelf has been selected for a reason. They make sure to taste every wine and never feature a wine they wouldn’t stand behind, further speaking to their personalized service.

Wine in Annapolis

On the first Friday of each month, Giolitti’s hosts a fantastic Friday night wine dinner! From either a region or winery, they select four wines and then carefully pair them to four amazing courses with a wine representative on hand to impart wisdom and wine tidbits to all. They have great fun with these evenings, welcoming old friends and making new. 

Wine in Annapolis

Another great added value is the ability to walk in, grab a bottle off the shelf, and for a $2 corkage fee can sit down and enjoy it with a meal. If you’re shopping around the Towne Centre, their outdoor patio if the perfect place for that midday break! They also have a to-go shelf where you can grab some delicious food on the go.

Wine in Annapolis

 

Bin 201

Bin 201 is Annapolis’s destination for truly exceptional wines, beer, and spirits. They specialize in little known bargain wines, collectible wines, and low yield vintners. Their goal is to make wine enjoyable and accessible to all wine lovers, regardless of their level of experience. For the more seasoned wine drinkers out there, they keep a dynamic inventory of exclusive imports. Every week you will find something new on their shelves.

Wine in Annapolis

Bin 201’s Thursday night tastings take you on an informal tour of favorite regions, varietals, pairings, and new discoveries, while the “Meet the Winemaker” series gives an opportunity to meet the wonderful people behind the wine. Sip by sip, month by month, “Girls on Grapes”, an all-women tasting club, meets to examine the world of wine in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. They also offer ‘Binology’ classes that cover a wide range of topics from the basics of wine tasting to in-depth explorations of wine regions and varietals every Saturday from 2-3:30.  In addition, Bin 201’s tasting room can accommodate up to 30 guests if you would like to host your own personalized private tasting party. Join Bin 201 for an afternoon and learn more about all things wine!

Whether you’re looking for a reason to quench your thirst after an afternoon of shopping, or looking to join wine experts for an afternoon and learn more about all things wine, the Annapolis Towne Centre as an option for any wine lover!

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HERE. a pop-up shop

For the past 6 years, HERE. a pop-up shop has hosted 28 retail space events, given back to the community and charities, and has featured over 400 local artists. A pop-up shop is a temporary boutique that is on-trend, seasonal and a fun place to shop. They feature apparel, jewelry, accessories, art (originals & prints), photography, gift items, home goods, furniture and more. Concentrating on local artists and designers, HERE. a pop-up shop, pops-up 4 times a year, in and around Annapolis, and is always in a new location with a new inspired theme.  While collaborating with local businesses, they bring in a great deal of interest and visitation every time they pop-up. Co-founder El Lunay shared,

“We love the idea of being able to bring a hip vibe, as well as local designers to Annapolis.”

This summer, the theme is Sweet Like Summer and is being hosted in the Annapolis Towne Centre next to Paper Source. Friday, July 12th marked the opening night celebrations. Towne Centre residents, retail tenants, and community members alike came out to celebrate the kick-off with drinks and live music from the Summer Concerts by Misspent Youth!

With a core mission of supporting and vocalizing the art community, El wanted to make sure they were giving back in more ways than one. On the last day of the pop-up, July 28th, part of the proceeds will be donated to a different charity or foundation. This summer, HERE. a pop-up shop is working with Partners In Care, a private non-profit organization offering programs and services that support the independence of older adults in the community.

Throughout the weeks, they host an array of events such as Paper Flower Art – Make & Take Walk-In Workshop on Thursday, July 18th where you can create a mini 3D paper flower piece of art or wearable paper flower cuff. Or sign up for Sunday, July 21st to create a paper Black-Eyed Susan worthy of any gallery wall!  ​And for any 10-16-year-old aspiring artists, on Friday, July 16th, they can learn with Megan Elizabeth at their Summer Art School! With lunch, snacks and art supplies provided, students will complete a painting of their own, create a group mural project & have a lunch Q&A about all things art and business. Who knows, they may just be the next featured HERE. artist with all they learn! There are just a few examples of workshops you can participate in.

HERE. a pop-up shop is excited to be at the Annapolis Towne Centre and said when moving in, they were greeted by residents and tenants that couldn’t be more excited to feature their shop! El said she is looking forward to collaborating with the Towne Center to make more of the space by creating an experience and community bond for shoppers and get involved with events like the Summer Concerts and Movie Nights at the Towne Centre. Make sure you check it out while it lasts!

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