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Thanksgiving Day is full of fun, love, excitement, and immense pressure for certain individuals. Good thing the tenants at Annapolis Town Center can set you up for success, no matter if you are a host or a guest. Check out our best tips for either role you may play this holiday season.

For Hosts

Turkey Day is by far one of the most treasured holidays of the year, but for hosts – it can be one of the most stressful days as well. With so many moving parts, a stacked guest list, and the 21st-century expectations of table decor – your head could be spinning before you even begin! So, let’s start with the basics and break down which tenant should be your go-to stop. 

Table settings and decor can be simple or elaborate, depending on your preference. Get started with personalized invitations straight from Paper Source. When you start here you can streamline a look for the entire Thanksgiving experience. Liking pairing the invitations with day-of personalized napkins and place cards. Next, head to ArHaus for the perfect table runner and drink glasses to cheers the evening away. They pair beautifully with Smyth Jewelers’ timeless serving platters, knife sets, and salad bowls. Don’t sweat the small stuff with the help of Bed Bath & Beyond. Get your table accents like pumpkins, flowers, garland, and long-stemmed candles. You can even welcome your guests with a Thanksgiving-inspired outdoor welcome mat.

 

What is Thanksgiving without the food?! Most families create dishes of their past for the present. So, Whole Foods may be your only needed stop for the best variety in ingredients. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t start some new tasty traditions. Sop in True Food Kitchen to purchase their Recipe Book. Seasonally changing, this book may have just the missing dish to complete your table. Feeling a bit overwhelmed yet? Cheat the system and let our property restaurants take the reins. With a plethora of dining options for all palettes, you can easily order ahead of time and pick up just before guests arrive (giving you enough time to put the dishes in your own serving bowls and plates)! 

For Guests

If you are not hosting the dinner yourself, practicing your best guest etiquette should be your top priority. In most instances, guests are required to simply show up with an empty stomach. Though, it is always polite and recommended to bring something small to show your appreciation to the host. Maybe their favorite bottle of liquor or wine from Bin201. A seasonally fragranced candle from Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, or one of the many home furnishings stores. You can even prep them for the next holiday with a wine-themed 12 Nights of Christmas advent calendar from Cooper’s Hawk. Or, grab the latest in accessory fashion fun! No matter your choice, our variety of tenants can provide you with what you need.

If you happen to take part in a potluck-style dinner hosted at someone else’s residence, then you know choosing the right dish to appease all in attendance is crucial. Start at Whole Foods where the ingredients are endless and the pre-made food can be the answer to your holiday prayers. From specialty appetizers in a variety of serving sizes to prepped charcuterie boards and aisles of delicious, healthy food options, Whole Foods can easily become your one-stop-shop. Be sure to pop in Target to help get those side dishes prepared the best way possible with the latest in cooking supplies, and looking fancy in their decorated serving dishes and side bowls. You will be sure to “wow” others with your Martha Stewart or Joanna Gaines-esque skills. 

So regardless if you are a host or guest, we have what you need to make this Thanksgiving Day special. Make sure to stay up to date on all things Town Center by following us on Instagram and Facebook (@AnnapolisTownCenter)!

You may think that spouses or live-in significant others need a breather from each other after a year-long, 24/7 forced bit of “togetherness”. However, we think just the opposite! These longtime love birds need to jump back on the bandwagon of newly dating partners who have been longing for one-on-one time. As the weather turns and the nation re-opens, it is clear that more than ever we all need a little more fun and a lot less stress. That is why we have jotted down a few date idea favorites around the property.

Whether you are looking for a night of romance, a day of pampering or a basket of fun, Annapolis Town Center has what you need to keep that spark going.

A Pampering Experience

A rejuvenating escape may be the best date idea yet for 2021. Nothing says I love you more like a full day of relaxation and tranquility, side-by-side with your partner. Thanks to the Town Center, there are a number of ways you can get to pampering. Book a couple’s massage or bodywork therapy at About Faces Day Spa & Salon. Get her nails done at the highly sought-after Paint Nailbar. Or, have a couple’s makeover session at Salon Unlimited! It feels good to take care of yourself – together!

An Evening Out

Who else is ready for someone else to cook a great meal?! Or, maybe you are just excited to wear something other than lounge clothes. Get out of the house and treat you and your loved one to a casual or romantic dinner date. Annapolis Town Center boasts a variety of restaurants to fit everyone’s palate. Enjoy dinner and a show at Ziki Japanese Steakhouse with their Hibachi tables. Indulge in a Napa-inspired experience at Cooper’s Hawk Restaurant and Tasting Room. Share flavorful, Asian-inspired entrees and innovative cocktails at P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. Catch a game and a great brew at Gordon Biersch Brewery & Restaurant. Or, keep it simple and visit one of the many quick-stop eateries like NEO’s, Burgers Grilled Right, Giolitti Deli, and Mission BBQ.

Shopping Made Fun

Shopping may seem like a bit of a bore for a date idea. But, there are plenty of ways to make it fun and exciting. Mix it up a bit and have a fashion show. Or, become each other’s personal shoppers. Set a spending limit and let the gift-giving commence. Annapolis Town Center has an array of retailers that boast the trendiest clothing items and accessories. Shop from tenants like Anthropologie, Charm City Run, J. Jill, Lou Lou Boutiques, and South Moon Under. Once you are finished, grab a few drinks at one of the many restaurants or head over to Bin201 for some take-home refreshments.

Hands-On Approach

Let your creative side shine. Muse Paintbar hosts a number of instructor-led painting sessions throughout the week. Bring your loved one and test your skills, all while sipping on wine for this fun and interactive date. Paper Source also hosts a variety of craft classes, workshops, and events to further explore your artistic side. Looking instead to create your own personalized date experience? Head over to Whole Foods and grab all the perfect fixings for a picnic. Annapolis boasts a ton of great locations to sit, eat, chat, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whole Foods has the snacks, refreshments, and cutlery for the ultimate spread.

We all know that after a long day of work, planning dinner is the last thing you want to think about. Well, we are here to let you know that the restaurants at the Annapolis Town Center are here to help. From pre-planned meals to delivery, these establishments can help ease the stress of planning while also satisfying everybody at the table. 

Lunch Kits

PF Changs truly makes ordering on the fly as easy as it gets. Their Family Meals can satisfy families of all sizes. Order for 2, 4 or even 6. It all starts at only $13 per person! Or, if you’re just looking for something quick on your lunch break, take a look at any of their lunch bowls! The best part? You can order online and get contactless delivery, curbside pick-up, or takeout. 

Recipes

Target has made sure that planning dinners for the week doesn’t take up too much of your time. Check out the Groceries section of their website for a number of yummy ideas; from Pizza Nights to Target to Table, and a ton of seasonally-themed meal ideas.

Whole Foods has all the recipes for those looking to master the basics, the classics, or the I’ve-never-cooked-this-before-but-really-want-to meals. On their recipe page, you can find ideas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But, look a little further and you can find dishes for each season and ethnicity – plus vegan and keto options. Of course, we could list them all here, but we think you should go look for yourself. You never know what you’ll find! 

Happy Hour

From 2:00-5:00 pm (Mon. – Fri.), Cooper’s Hawk serves up some amazing Happy Hour specials that are too good to not try at least once. Of course, they have their wine, specialty drinks, and cocktails, but their appetizers and flatbreads are just as worthy of praise. 

The Annapolis Town Center has always made it a priority to foster a sense of community with our guests, employees, residents, and tenants. As the ongoing public health situation continues to evolve, it is our promise to our community to remain proactive. Per Governor Hogan’s guidelines, many restaurants, bars, and other dining options are currently operating under modified schedules and serving options.

The Annapolis Town Center is pleased to announce that many of our dining retailers remain open, operating under modified hours, ready to serve you via delivery or carry out. 

This is a challenging time for many. Help support local businesses and their employees while maintaining a sense of normalcy by picking up your Town Center favorites for lunch or dinner! 

Below is a complete list of our restaurants availability:


Whole Foods

  • Salad Bar Open Daily: 10am-8pm
  • Hot Bar Open Daily: 10am-2pm and 4pm-8pm

P.F. Chang’s

  • Open Daily till 9pm 
  • Take-out orders only.
  • Free chicken wrap with purchase of an entree.

Baltimore Coffee & Tea

  • Monday-Friday: 7:00am-3pm
  • Saturday: 9am-4pm
  • Sunday: 9am-2pm
  • Take-out orders only.

Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar

  • Open Daily: 11:30am-8pm
  • Curbside pickup and 3rd party delivery only with limited menu.

Neo Pizza

  • Sunday-Thursday: 12pm-9pm
  • Friday-Saturday: 12pm-10pm
  • Take-out orders and 3rd party delivery only.

Giolitti Deli

  • Open Daily: 10am-7pm
  • Take-out orders only.

Bin 201

  • Open Daily: 10am-6pm
  • pickup and free delivery within Annapolis area.

Gordon Biersch: Closed for 30 days.

Ziki Japanese Steak House: Closed until further notice.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant: Closed until further notice.

 

Whether it’s the first date, a special occasion or a weekly ritual, Annapolis Town Center provides fun, unique options that suit all budgets and interests for Annapolitan couples. The variety of bars, restaurants and shops (plus easy, ample parking) sets the mood and will quickly become your go-to spot for those romantic evenings.

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Start with a Drink

Most of the restaurants offer a large bar area for a pre-dinner beverage, but a couple are definitely worth an early arrival, especially for happy hour. Paladar Rum Bar and Gordon Biersch Bar serve up a diverse selection and sociable vibe that brings people together. Wine tasting at Bin 201 and Cooper’s Hawk Tasting Room are also great starting points for a memorable date night.

Image courtesy of the author

Grab a Bite

Although you can extend your cocktail hour into dinner at Paladar, Gordon Biersch and Cooper’s Hawk, there are several other restaurants that provide different cuisines and ambiance. Enjoy the flavors of the orient at P.F. Chang’s or Ziki Japanese Steak House with mouthwatering dishes such as crispy honey chicken, sushi and hibachi – a date night favorite! For a more casual evening, NeoPizza is convenient, delicious and budget-friendly. Their unique pizza toppings, beer and wine menus easily elevate a simple meal out.

Image courtesy of the author

Roam the Shops

Annapolis Town Center offers several enticing stores to roam around in walking distance to the bars and restaurants pre or post dinner. In addition to the several high-end furniture stores such as Ethan Allen and Restoration Hardware, stroll hand-in-hand through Anthropologie and Lou Lou Boutique to browse and possibly treat your special someone. If your date night is a big success, Smyth Jewelers and Wren Bridal are also readily available!

Netflix and chill has nothing on a night out at Annapolis Town Center! Wine and dine your special someone with flavors from around the world in the comfort of your hometown.

Thanksgiving is upon us and that means the start to the season of spending time with loved ones around a table covered in classic comfort foods. Although the holiday is filled with good times, preparing for such a feast can be stressful, especially when you’re running all over town to get things done. Luckily, Annapolis Towne Centre makes it easy to get all of your Thanksgiving shopping done in one stop!

Whole Foods

Prepare your fresh feast with some help from Whole Foods. This high-end grocery store prides itself on fresh ingredients and healthy prepared food to elevate any meal. Thanksgiving is no exception. Whole Foods offers bountiful produce to make the classic Thanksgiving side dishes. Organic turkeys are available through pre-ordering or near the butcher section. Be sure to swing by the Bakery for freshly baked pies, cakes and breads to round out your Thanksgiving feast. Although Whole Food carries delicious prepared items and quick alternatives, their fresh produce, meats and other essential ingredients are best used for homemade dishes. Visit the recipe section of their website to inspire your Thanksgiving menu.

Thanksgiving Recipes

Target

Target is a one-stop-shop for many occasions, including your Thanksgiving dinner. To start, Target sells several cookbooks that provide a guide as you craft your menu.

Once your recipes are selected, head over to the grocery section of the megastore to find everything on your list. Target offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, but it’s also a reliable place for quicker options. You will find classic, familiar brands such as Kraft’s Stovetop, Mrs. Smith’s pies and Idahoan mashed potatoes that warms the heart and stomach. Since it’s hard for anyone to complete a trip to Target and only get what’s on the list, be sure to stroll through the seasonal home decor aisles for those final festive touches.

Thanksgiving Recipes

Beverages

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without some adult beverages! After shopping for recipes and ingredients, add some beer and wine to your dine. Check out these local favorites in Annapolis Towne Centre.

  • Bin 201 Wine Sellers specializes in little known bargain wines, collectibles, and low yield vintners. All types of wine drinkers will find something that delights both their palate and wallet to accompany their holiday meal.

Thanksgiving Recipes

  • Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant has an exceptional variety of upscale wines. From sparkling to sangrias, Cooper’s Hawk will satisfy all of your wine needs for Thanksgiving and year-round with their all-inclusive wine club membership.

Thanksgiving Recipes

  • Gordon Biersch is conveniently located in Annapolis Towne Centre for the beer lovers at your Thanksgiving feast. Fill up a few growlers of their various beers on tap to enjoy while watching football during the day and that will take you through the meal.

Thanksgiving Recipes

Annapolis Towne Centre has it all no matter your budget and cooking ambitions. They have the recipes, tips, and ingredients to make a delicious meal for your special guests this coming holiday! Take advantage of the Towne Centre’s complimentary valet parking to make the most out of the holiday season.
Valet Hours:
November 29-December 1
December 6-8
December 13-December 24
Hours: M-Sa 11pm-8pm, Su 11am-6pm

 

Blog written by Kristin Dyak.

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Cooper’s Hawk values each and every Team Member. We couldn’t do it without our talented and dedicated staff. That’s why we create an atmosphere to show how we care about people and where we have fun and celebrate. With our growth, we encourage team member growth too—whether it’s learning our about wine and starting out in our Tasting Room, Serving our Guests or being a part of the magic on the line in our made-from-scratch kitchen. The opportunities are there for you!