Shop Unique Holiday Gifts at Tabletop
“How they managed to cram so much personality into one adorable little shop, I'll never know,” writes one Yelp reviewer of Tabletop, a unique store in Takoma Park. “The shop is chock-full of wonderful, fantastic, hilarious things for your home that you never knew you needed, but shouldn't ever have to live without.” You might not have realized you needed a tabletop bowling game in your life, but you’ll feel the need soon enough, once you’ve set foot in Tabletop.
The same goes for a cookbook showcasing beans (“the world’s most versatile plant-based protein), a self-infusing cup coated in sakura blossoms, and an ice mold shaped like the Death Star. With so many options available, you’ll be sure to find something to buy (and plenty more to add to your wishlist).
Shopping for gifts? Look no further. You’ll be ready for every birthday, holiday, housewarming, and baby shower from now on, with little to no risk of bringing the same gift as another guest. And, because so many of their items are eco-friendly and/or locally-made, you can feel good about the gift you give after a purchase from Tabletop’s Takoma Park location.
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Start Your Day With an Espresso at Zed’s Cafe
Zed's Café calls themselves "one big living room."It’s even printed right on their sign! And there is something so wonderful about eating a hot meal or enjoying a fresh cup of coffee in someone else’s living room for a change after a long few months of self-quarantining.
Zed's Café not only feels homey, but they also have the food that you’d make at home. Simple vegetable quiche, omelettes on a croissant, and turkey on focaccia all come with a side of mixed greens. Lots of folks like to bring a laptop and just get a coffee or pastry, and Zed's Café makes a mean macchiato for under $3. Artists and musicians also love Zed's Café for their monthly open mic nights, live music, and social gatherings. As restrictions continue to ease, look for a calendar chock full of events to attend or to showcase your artistry. Find Zed’s Café in the heart of downtown Silver Spring on Georgia Avenue. Doors open daily at 8 a.m.
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Fall Treats to Bake in November
Sweet potato, pumpkin, apple—these are a few of the ingredients that flourish in the fall, so it makes sense they’d also play a starring role in your baked goods. If you’re looking for some sweet autumn treats to make this month that are a little more creative than pumpkin muffins and apple pie, try these recipes.
Gingery Sweet Potato Pie [Country Living]
The distinct addition of ginger lends a rich, complex flavor to this otherwise traditional sweet potato pie. You can make your own pie crust or buy one pre-made to cut back on prep time. Then bake about four small sweet potatoes and mash them with milk, eggs, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and, of course, sugar. Fill the pie crust with the sweet mixture, bake it, and top with homemade (or storebought) whipped cream.
Pumpkin Crisp [Delish]
Sure, pumpkin pie is delicious, but pumpkin crisp in a cast-iron skillet? You really can’t beat that. This recipe guides you in mixing together pumpkin puree, eggs pumpkin pie spice, heavy cream, and vanilla with ample amounts of sugar. Next, you’ll craft a crumbly topping using flour, brown sugar, salt, butter, and pecans. Pour the creamy mixture into a greased cast-iron skillet, sprinkle the buttery crumbs on top, and bake for about 45 minutes—then enjoy a slice a la mode.
Apple Dumpling Bake [Taste of Home]
This recipe is much easier than apple pie, and it features one unexpected ingredient: Mountain Dew. Apple slices wrapped in crescent rolls simmer in the sweet, bubbly beverage with sugar, butter, and cinnamon for about 35 minutes. The result? Flaky, golden-brown rolls bearing the perfect balance of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet soda and sugar. For an extra-delicious dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.