holiday parties – Baltimore Magazine

No Matter the Size of Your House—Host the Party

Janelle Diamond — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 22:02:03 +0000

—Photography by John Waire/The Wairehouse

It started more as an act of defiance, in 2018, the very first year we opened up our home. We had always had a few friends over to celebrate Hanukkah, but that year I had posted on Facebook that everyone was welcome to stop by, eat potato latkes, spin some dreidels, and help light our menorahs at a multi-day open house that lasted almost all eight nights of Hanukkah. It was less than two months since the horrific Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh and I had decided the best way to challenge antisemitism was to fill our home with friends (mostly non-Jewish) who could celebrate with us and learn about our holiday.

And I wasn’t going to let our small house, already maxed out on space, with its six occupants plus a dog, stop me from inviting the world. “But how many people are coming?” my husband asked as the open house dates approached. I’d simply shrug my shoulders and place another bulk order for dreidels.

The start of Hanukkah fluctuates because of the Jewish lunar calendar. And so, the 25th of Kislev—the start of the holiday—can be anywhere from late November to the end of December and sometimes even dip its toe in January. In 2018, it started the first week of December, so it wasn’t competing with a million holiday parties. Over a few nights, we hosted 37 people. The next year, in 2019, it grew to 84 people. My husband made around 250 latkes, and we lit 176 candles over eight days and across four menorahs.

It was often standing-room-only as friends packed into our family room, spilling up the steps and into the kitchen. If someone offered to bring something, I said yes. So we ended up with tons of disparate food and drink—cookies, wine, salads, limoncello, chicken nuggets, babka—along with lots of smiles, questions, and love.

I laid out a hodgepodge of paper plates and Hanukkah decorations I’d amassed over the last few decades. It was as far from perfect as you could be. There weren’t enough seats for everyone. No catering. Barely enough room to park on our street. Things ran out. But I’m so glad that didn’t stop me from hosting.

“I realized for me it just doesn’t feel like a holiday if I can’t share it. And if that means being okay with an imperfect venue, so be it.”

I’ve been thinking a lot about the pressure we all put on ourselves. The social media videos we watch of put-together tables and food displays that look like art. I see gender reveals that are fancier than my wedding. There is a fear that what we can offer isn’t enough.

I reached out to my friend Nelle Somerville, who is a great party host and was also the assistant director in the Office of Events at the Maryland Institute College of Art. She even owns a soup tureen. She has hosted countless celebrations at her home in Dickeyville, including a few I’ve been lucky enough to attend.

She’s the type of person that, when life gives her lemons, she makes lemon risotto and invites the whole neighborhood over to eat it. I need someone to tell me that no one cares what my house looks like or how big it is.

“Don’t let perfection get in the way of celebration,” she tells me. “I’ll never forget having 70 people in my 500-square-foot apartment in Dupont Circle,” recounts Somerville. And maybe that’s just it. She doesn’t remember a single person complaining about the accommodations, but she does remember the warm feeling of being surrounded by so many people she loved. “I think the hospitality given by the host is more important than the décor, size, or even what is being served.”

That was never more apparent than December 2020. Our first pandemic Hanukkah. The house felt quiet and empty. There wasn’t a line for the bathroom or people eagerly awaiting the next batch of fried latkes. We missed the smell of vegetable oil that hung in the air for a full week no matter how many windows we opened. I had no excuse to buy another menorah. That year I placed a bowl of dreidels (with how-to-play directions) and gelt (chocolate coins) on our porch, encouraging friends to stop by. Our family celebrated, of course, but it also felt a little less joyous without all the noise and chaos. (Lighting candles over Zoom just wasn’t the same.)

“Don’t let perfection get in the way of celebration. I think the hospitality given by the host is more important than the décor, size, or even what is being served.”

In the fall of 2021, I started to wonder if we could have people over safely for the holiday. We have an itty-bitty front lawn and a decent-sized covered porch, and I crossed my fingers that the weather would work out—and it did. On the very last night of Hanukkah, we placed tables out front, lit a fire, and waited.

Neighbors—who made room in their driveways for our guests—and old friends, new friends, school friends, Jewish friends, and non-Jewish friends alike filled our yard. We lit menorahs and ate latkes, and I might have given a speech.

There were s’mores made with gelt and lots of dreidels and my husband carrying out trays of latkes. We had sour cream and homemade applesauce, pickles, lox, and cream soda, and lots and lots of sufganiyot—a round jelly doughnut eaten in celebration of Hanukkah. We had a cool and dry night and lit a big, beautiful fire. There was hot cider and lots of laughter and not enough time to talk to everyone.

I realized for me it just doesn’t feel like a holiday if I can’t share it. And if that means being okay with an imperfect venue, so be it. If I waited for everything to be perfect, I’d still be waiting. And I’d miss out on friends telling me it’s their favorite invite each year. And it’s not because we have a bartender (just a good Irish friend who makes a mean Old-Fashioned) or a coat check (just a bedroom where jackets get flung on the bed), it’s because the act of being together is enough.

Last year I agreed to consolidate our open house to a more manageable two nights. The first one took place on the first night of Hanukkah. (Don’t tell my rabbi, but it meant blowing out and re-lighting candles so everyone got a turn.) It was the first year I truly didn’t worry about everyone being squished in our house. Or everything not being perfect. Because it felt perfect. Our friend, John, brought his family and camera and snapped pictures of the mass of people gathered to hear the prayers. I have a big, stupid, happy grin in every photo.

I felt like a dreidel that night, spinning around the room, trying to take it all in, talk to everyone, look for more plates and forks. (At one point Happy Birthday plates came out.) It was one of those nights that I cling to all year.

And here we are again, Hanukkah 2023 is fast approaching—thank you Google for telling me it begins sundown on Thursday, December 7th—and I’m already looking forward to an overflow crowd and the inevitable blast from our sensitive fire alarm as the frying pan oil and candle flames reach their peak. It’s going to be flawed and splendid.

Want to come over?

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Book A Variety of Events with National Charter Bus

Megan McGaha — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 20:17:53 +0000

Springtime brings bursting blooms, longer days, and the sun makes its long-awaited reappearance in the skies. Aside from the wealth of fresh air, the season also welcomes cheery events we all look forward to. Weddings, proms, and graduations are just around the bend. Whether celebrating starry-eyed nuptials or sending your daughter off in a dazzling dress for one last hurrah in high school, transporting party guests is always on the mind of planners.

National Charter Bus Baltimore caters to precisely those needs, adding to the ambiance with decked-out rides that allow for seamless, stress-free transportation to make those big moments even more enjoyable. A ride with National Charter Bus marks just the beginning of the night’s festivities. When renting a coach, expect affordable, private group transportation for any event or occasion.

Each ride can be tailored to the specifics of your event. Accommodate guests for corporate happenings, weddings, field trips, or travel needs like official government transportation and airport pick-ups and drop-offs. Each and every bus is designed for passenger comfort, packed with premium amenities like reclining seats, climate control, onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, power outlets, ADA-compliant features, and more.

This spring, hundreds of Baltimore brides are scrambling to add those final touches that make tying the knot so magical. Take some of the stress off your big day by letting National Charter Bus care for the transport for all your special guests. National Charter Bus relieves out-of-town wedding guests of navigating unfamiliar areas and assures the bride and groom that everyone will arrive together and on-time. Plus, it assures that location changes for the reception or to hotels run smoothly. There’s enough to perfect when planning your wedding. You worry about walking down the aisle and let National Charter Bus take the reins on transportation.

Looking forward to gathering coworkers for a corporate event? All bases are covered when transporting your employees to and from holiday parties, client meetings, dinners, and more when booking a bus with National Charter Bus. That way, employees get the chance to relax on their way and can save their energy for the mingling and networking bound to take place at their destination.

You can also book a bus to visit the treasures of the city. Create a customized bus tour and visit local landmarks for a peek into state history and culture like the Inner Harbor, American Visionary Art Museum, Fort McHenry, and Lexington Market. It’s as easy as hopping on a National Charter Bus ride and getting whisked along for a day of exploration.

The best part is, you’re not limited to Baltimore. National Charter Bus travels up and down the East Coast. Take a day trip to Annapolis or New York City with your best pals. You can even spring for Boston or head all the way down to Florida. Wherever you’re heading, National Charter Bus will get you there without the usual stress of coordinating and navigating your way to your destination.

Follow your favorite sports team or transport a child’s team to an out-of-state tournament. Parents can relax knowing a professional driver is delivering the team in one piece. Plus, there’s plenty of room for anything from soccer goals to lacrosse pads with premium spacious storage on each bus.

Imagine a road trip without the hassle of driving. Sit back and relax with friends and family. Get some much-needed sleep before and after your vacation or event. Catch up on reading, watch your favorite TV shows, or listen to that podcast you’ve been meaning to tune into. The luxury of National Charter Bus allows for much-needed me time usually lost to the road.

Call National Charter Bus at 1-844-755-0510 to speak with an experienced representative (available with 24/7 assistance) to secure your booking now. Or visit https://www.nationalbuscharter.com/ for more information.

For Maryland bookings visit https://www.nationalbuscharter.com/maryland-charter-bus-rental or https://www.nationalbuscharter.com/baltimore-charter-bus for Baltimore-centered experiences.

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How to Holiday

Lauren Cohen — Mon, 04 Nov 2019 16:00:00 +0000

By Rachel Hinch
Photography by Christopher Myers
Illustrations by Danielle Dernoga

Model and styling assistant: Diana Eusebio. Photography assistant: Heidi Bell. Dress from After Midnight

Home & Living

How to Holiday

Eat, drink, and be merry with these three concepts for your seasonal soiree.

By Rachel Hinch.
Photography by Christopher Myers. Illustrations by Danielle Dernoga. Model and styling assistant: Diana Eusebio. Photography assistant: Heidi Bell. Dress from After Midnight.

Modern

Graphic patterns and splashes of color enhance an everyday look

THE GOODS! Clockwise from left: Gold spoons ($30.99) at Trohv. White napkins ($49.95); charcoal napkins ($19.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Cutting board ($44); rocking whiskey glasses ($24); copper-finish mini spoon set ($20) at Trohv. Gold bowl from marble set ($42) at Becket Hitch. Aplico Reglisse plate ($32.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Gold flatware set ($39) at West Elm. Kate Spade accent plate ($10) at Becket Hitch. Aplico Zen dipping bowl, large ($26.95), small ($12.95), ramekin ($9.95); white tablecloth ($69.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Food provided by Orto. Florals provided by Floral Fêtes.

FULL SPREAD

Slate Cheeseboard: Indulge in small bites of brie, grapes, and cured meats between lively conversations. PRO TIP: A full, vibrant charcuterie plate can double as decoration!

Middle Wood Slate board set ($22) at Best Day Ever.

DECK THE HALLS

Enhance your place settings with creative décor, such as using garland as a centerpiece. Simple decoration adds a slight visual interest, creating a tasteful touch of holiday spirit. Neutral hues and gold tones pair well for a modern color palette.

Wool felt garland with gold/cream flat circles ($20) at Trohv.

Fruit-infused Sparkling Water
Flavored sparkling water can take your dinner to another level. Do it yourself by adding fresh seasonal fruits to your glass of plain carbonated water.

LAST CALL

There are a few essential mixers to have on hand when making your own craft cocktails: tonic, ginger beer, grapefruit juice, cranberry juice, and bitters.

Bar utensil set ($48) at Becket Hitch.

Go-to holiday drink: PINK G&T

Elevate your celebration with hand-crafted cocktails made from your own kitchen.

Ingredients

2 oz. dry gin
3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
6 oz. tonic water

Directions: Coat your glass in bitters, pouring out any excess. Add gin, ice, and your choice of tonic. Top off your cocktail with a garnish of lime or grapefruit.

SHORT CUTS

Cornbread Mix: Craving fresh-from-the-oven treats but strapped on time? For something quick, easy, and always tasty, opt for a mix!

Aunt Maggie’s cornbread mix ($9.95) at Becket Hitch.

CHARMING side plates

Celebrate the season with festive dishware.

Stoneware 3” bird dish ($3) at Trohv.

“TRY TO GET AS MUCH OF THE PREP as you can DONE THE DAY BEFORE SO YOU CAN ENJOY THE NIGHT!”

– Elan Kotz, Orto

Bohemian

Mix and match texture and tone for a fun-loving feast

THE GOODS! Clockwise from left: Reactive Glaze dinnerware plate ($10); stemless glass ($4.20); modern rose gold flatware ($39) at West Elm. Napkins ($18.50) at Trohv. Pink glass ($15) at Becket Hitch. Reactive Glaze salad plate ($8) at West Elm. Blue/white porcelain bowl ($7.99); Raashi bluestone mug ($15); ceramic reactive glaze teapot ($21) at Trohv. Voluspa Japonica mini candle ($10); mini Capri blue jar candle ($12) at Anthropologie. Speckled cement nesting bowls ($20); copper-finish mini spoon set ($20); locally made table ($525) at Trohv. Food provided by Rye Street Tavern.

MINT CONDITION

Every detail counts! Store your Sweet Stripes peppermints in a holiday tin, bringing your guests holiday cheer and an after-dinner refresh. Filled with goodies or even empty, a vintage-style tin also makes for a great hostess gift.

Metal Box with holiday greeting ($5.50) at Trohv.

THE CUP THAT CHEERS

Digestion Tea: Conclude your meal and ease your stomach with a warm mug of tea.

Digestion Tea ($13.99) at Trohv.

GRAB-N-GO

Feel Your Oats: Fill bowls with tasty snacks to stave off your guests’ hunger before the main attraction.

Wool felt garland with gold/cream flat circles ($20) at Trohv.

Go-to holiday snack: NO-BAKE GRANOLA

Ingredients

¾ cup honey
½ cup brown sugar
3 cups granola
¼ cup grapeseed oil

Directions: Stir boiled sugar, honey, and oil in a large bowl with granola. Refrigerate, cut, and serve! Sprinkle in dried fruit and seeds for added flavor and nutrition.

Warm Apple Compote
A compote can be a dessert or topping for pancakes and waffles. Place four peeled apple slices, a tablespoon of sugar, and the juice of one lemon into a saucepan. Cook with one vanilla bean over medium heat for 30 minutes.

Mix & Match

Mismatched dishes add subtle flair.

Limited edition Moroccan ceramic bowls x-small ($10), medium ($18) at Trohv.

GLAZED STONE MUG

Versatile for a morning brew or a holiday nog, mugs can bring a cozy detail to a table setting. A one-of-a-kind mug can be an easy table statement.

Stoneware reactive glaze mug ($12.99) at Trohv.

RAISE A GLASS

Colored Glass: Though more casual and relaxed, bohemian-style tinted glassware pairs well with modern metallic accents, adding unexpected and exciting style to any table setting.

Round glass ($3.75) at Trohv.

“Spicy Bloody Marys with an assortment of garnishes are a must!”

– Brian Plante, Rye Street Tavern

Classic

Achieve traditional elegance with simple white and silver pieces

THE GOODS! Clockwise from left: Round au gratin plate ($24.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Porcelain gravy boat ($5.99) at Target. Queen Anne salad plate ($26.95); Pillivuyt square baker ($54.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Promenade silver flatware ($19); stemless glass ($4.20) at West Elm. Aplico Zen dipping bowl ($12.95); oval au gratin plate ($29.95); modern geo napkin ring set ($6.95); white linen napkins ($49.95); Queen Anne dinner plates ($28.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Juliska glass ($29) at Becket Hitch.Florals provided by Floral Fêtes.

SHORT CUTS

Hot Chocolate: Sipping a hot cup of cocoa with friends and family is the ideal winter treat.

Semi-sweet hot chocolate ($19.95) at Williams-Sonoma.

SET THE STAGE

Entertaining Guide: Host the most with tips and tricks from a recipe book.

The Curated Table ($39.95) at Trohv.

GLOSSED OVER

Roasted Carrots: A go-to harvest veggie, glazed carrots are a simple side dish.

Go-to holiday sauce: HONEY GARLIC BUTTER GLAZE

Ingredients

¼ cup melted butter
¼ cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp parsley

Directions: Mix melted butter with remaining ingredients. Drizzle half of the glaze before roasting, using the rest to serve.

Centerpiece Conversation
Complement your dinner table with an arrangement of seasonal greenery or a bouquet of unique and colorful flowers.

STAR COOKIE CUTTER

Serve your pastries in festive shapes.

Star cookie cutter ($16.95) at Williams-Sonoma.

Level Set

When measuring dry ingredients, use a spoon to fill measuring cups to ensure accuracy.

Copper measuring cup set ($36) at Becket Hitch.

FALL INTO PLACE

Hosting a lavish dinner party? Take a note from the pros on how to set and style the most elegant of place settings.

How to Set a Table ($14) at Becket Hitch.

“Choose a statement container that will make even the simplest blooms pop.”

– Victoria Clausen, Floral Fêtes.

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Holiday Roundup

Mike Smith — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Holiday Roundup

Our guide to events, recipes, and more this holiday season.

Editors of Baltimore magazine - December 1, 2015

Venues Perfect for Hosting Holiday Parties

Lauren Cohen — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 17:30:00 +0000

Although we still have Thanksgiving to get through before the winter holidays officially kick in to gear, it’s time to start thinking about where to host your festive gathering once December rolls around. Whether you’re planning an office party for the masses or an intimate hang-out with friends, here are some of the best private dining options available this season.

Boathouse Canton 2809 Boston St., 410-773-9795
Space: Take in the killer waterfront views from one of the seven secluded indoor/outdoor spaces at this multi-level Canton spot. Options include a mezzanine level party room, a sunroom, an outdoor lounge, or a large event tent on the water.
Accommodates: 20-100 guests.
Eats and Drinks: Customized menus can be created based on the guest list with fare ranging from mini crab cakes with Dijon aioli to tomato mozzarella bruschetta. Open bar packages are also available.
Pricing: Range from $25-$45 per person based on the menu of your choosing.

The Charmery 410-814-0493
Service: For a sweet finish, allow The Charmery’s expert scoopers to cater the dessert at your seasonal soiree. The team will set up a full-blown ice cream social with all of the fixins’ at parties within 20 miles of its shop in Hampden.
Accomodates: A minimum of 50 guests.
Eats and Drinks: Hosts can choose two holiday-inspired flavors including Tell Tale Chip (dark chocolate), Old Bay Caramel, Candy Cane, Winter Wonderland (coconut tinsel and white chocolate chips), Cookies for Santa (milk base with Christmas cookie pieces mixed in), Rye Whiskey Eggnog, and Sufganiyot (a jelly donut flavor in celebration of Hanukkah.) Or, for an extra fee, co-owner/master creamer David Alima will create a custom flavor specifically for your event.
Pricing: The all-inclusive sundae bar is $7 per person. (Each guest is served two scoops.)

Ristorante Firenze 2 Hanover Road, Reisterstown, 410-394-5577
Space: This Reisterstown newbie boasts a large main dining room, an intimate dinner party space, and a cozy lounge complete with its own fireplace.
Accommodates: Anywhere from 24-60 guests.
Eats and Drinks: Hosts are able to mix and match Firenze’s Italian classics to create a signature prix-fixe menu, or they can opt for a buffet-style reception. Alcohol offerings, including the restaurant’s 100-bottle wine collection, are not included in the fixed menu prices.
Pricing: $12-14 per person depending on a sit-down or buffet-style party.

Heavy Seas Alehouse 1300 Bank St., 410-753-1403
Space: The private room inside this historical building is accented with mahogany tables and chairs and has its own bar. An adjacent beer garden is also available for small private gatherings.
Accommodates: Ranges from 10-150 people.
Eats and Drinks: A cocktail party menu is available for guests to indulge all-you-can-eat appetizers like mini Portobello sliders and antipasto platters. Three-course pre-fixe menus can be customized before the party, with entrees like roasted chicken or house-made ricotta cavatelli. Drink packages, including all of the classic Heavy Seas brews, are also available.
Pricing: The cocktail party menu is $20 per person; group dining ranges from $29-$49 per person.

Joe Squared 33 W. North Ave., 410-545-0444
Space: This neighborhood pizza joint is settling in its new home just in time for the holidays. Located one block east from the old Joe Squared space in Station North, the new building features an entire private basement section with plenty of room for live music.
Accommodates: A maximum of 50 guests.
Eats and Drinks: A special all-inclusive holiday package offers guests a full buffet complete with the eatery’s signature square pizza, risotto, salads, and appetizers plus a wide selection of wine and craft beer.
Pricing: The fixed price of $1500 includes venue rental, all food and drink, tax, and tip for 50 guests.

Liv2Eat 1444 Light St., 443-449-7129
Space: From intimate dinner parties in the small dining room to larger cocktail receptions in the front bar area, this elegant Federal Hill spot accommodates groups of any size. You can also ring in the holiday season by renting a heated tent overlooking the garden on Liv2Eat’s back patio.
Accommodates: Anywhere from 16-80 guests.
Eats and Drinks: A multi-course winter menu includes dishes such as butternut squash soup, roasted beet salad, grilled swordfish, and pork loin with potato puree. Hosts also have the option to simplify the menu by eliminating an appetizer, or to upgrade it by changing the entrees or adding Cava and Prosecco pairings.
Pricing: A minimum of $35 per person depending on the menu and day of the event.

The Oregon Grille 1201 Shawan Rd., Hunt Valley, 410-771-0505
Space: Located inside a 19th-century farmhouse, this Hunt Valley mainstay offers four unique spaces for guests to mingle. Amenities include a private wait staff, flickering fireplaces, outdoor decks, and a private bar.
Accommodates: 12-50 attendees.
Eats and Drinks: Based on the size of the guest list, hosts can choose 2-3 entrees from lengthy brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. Appetizers, salads, soups, desserts, and passed hors d’oeuvres can also be added for an additional price.
Pricing: Appetizers run from $11-18 per person; entrees range from $11-56 per person; desserts range from $5-11 per person.

Verde 641 South Montford Ave., 410-522-1000
Space: Decked out with modern hanging light fixtures and wooden furniture, this Canton spot boasts a private 14-seat dining space and a second floor party room perfect for invite-only functions. The entire restaurant can also be rented out for larger affairs.
Accommodates: Anywhere from 12-150 guests.
Eats and Drinks: Organizers can create their own menus with Verde’s award-winning pizzas, platters of house-made cheeses, and a variety of olives and salads. Bartenders will also work with you to create a special cocktail for the occasion.
Pricing: Prix-fixe menu options range from $20-40 per person. Open bar packages can be added starting at $16 per person.

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Seven Perfect Spaces for Holiday Parties

Jess Mayhugh — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Temperatures are dropping, holiday decorations are popping up everywhere, and there’s no way to avoid the classic Christmas tunes constantly invading radio airwaves. The holiday season is officially upon us, so get ready to pencil some parties into your calendar in the coming weeks. From intimate dining rooms to lavish lofts, here are some of the best places in town with private dining options, perfect for any holiday party.

Boathouse Canton 2809 Boston St., 410-773-9795
Space: Located along the waterfront at Tindeco Wharf, this multi-level Canton restaurant has seven private indoor/outdoor spaces including the mezzanine level, a sunroom, an outdoor lounge, or a large event tent on the water.
Accommodates: 20-100 guests.
Eats and Drinks: Customized menus can be created based on the guest list with fare ranging from tomato bruschetta to bayou shrimp. (We also have it on good authority that Boathouse’s lobster mac and cheese is to die for!) Open bar packages are also available.
Pricing: Range from $25-$45 per person based on the menu of your choosing.

The Brewer’s Art 1106 N. Charles St., 410-547-6925
Space: The cozy charm of this 19th-century mansion, famous for its house-made ales, makes it a great place to celebrate the holidays with a semi-private back dining room overlooking the brew house.
Accommodates: A maximum of 40 guests.
Food and Drinks: Hosts can customize a seated three-course, pre-fixe menu including soup or a salad, an entrée, and a dessert. The menu includes unlimited glasses of house brewed beer and wine by the glass.
Pricing: $65 per person.

Pazo 1425 Aliceanna St., 410-534-7296
Space: With a recently transformed menu, this trendy Harbor East restaurant features both The Avellino Room and The Villa Rosa room, and the entire restaurant can be rented out on select evenings.
Accommodates: The smaller private dining rooms can hold 32 guests, while the whole restaurant fits 350.
Food and Drinks: Hosts can choose from multiple pre-fixe options for both sit-down meals and cocktail receptions. Wine and cocktail pairings can also be added to the menu. Pazo’s signature catering delicacies includes everything from Escarole salad to hanger steak and oven-roasted chicken.
Price: Range from $39-$58 per person.

Red Star Bar & Grille 906 S. Wolfe St., 410-675-0212
Space: The exposed brick and cozy dim lighting of this historical building in Fells Point boasts a loft located on the second floor with exposed wooden beams, high ceilings, and a warm ambience.
Accommodates: Up to 200 people.
Food and Drinks: Platters include appetizers like Chesapeake crab dip, green lip mussels, and finger sandwiches. For a larger party, the restaurant provides buffet options with wraps, salads, and entrees like coriander chicken with smashed potatoes, and herb roasted salmon over creamy asparagus risotto.
Price: Platters are $40-$100 per 20 people; buffets are $15 -$22.

Langermann’s 2400 Boston St., #101A 410-534-3287
Space: This Canton restaurant features Carolina-style dishes and an entire mezzanine space that can be rented for private events.
Accommodates: A maximum of 70 people.
Eats and Drinks: Platters feature appetizers like catfish fingers and crab-stuffed mushroom caps, and highlights of the pre-fixe menus include Carolina shrimp and grits and grilled salmon. There are separate bar packages available.
Price: Pre-fixe menus range from $35-$55 per person; platters are $29-$100.

Heavy Seas Alehouse 1300 Bank St., 410-753-1403
Space: The private room located in this historical brick and mortar building is accented with mahogany tables and chairs and is equipped with its own bar. An adjacent beer garden is also available for small private gatherings.
Accommodates: Anywhere from 10-150 people.
Eats and Drinks: A cocktail party menu is available for guests to indulge in unlimited servings of appetizers like charcuterie and grilled flat iron steak. Three-course pre-fixe menus can be customized before the party, with entrees like braised lamb shoulder or house-made ricotta cavatelli. Drink packages (with a slant towards Heavy Seas products) are also available.
Price: The cocktail party menu is $20 per person; group dining ranges from $29-$49 per person.

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood 6526 Holabird Ave., 410-633-4040
Space: This hometown favorite, which was recently featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,has two private banquet rooms that can be used for both intimate gatherings and large affairs. Amenities include a surround sound system, HD television screens, and a projector.
Accommodates: 30-300 guests.
Eats and Drinks: Private dining options include either buffet style service or seated meals. Hosts can customize the menu for the party, choosing from entrees like shrimp and chicken creole, stuffed pork chops, and roast beef. Open bar options can also be added, with offerings ranging from draft beer to premium liquor.
Pricing: Packages range from $20.99 to $32.99 per person. (Open bar packages range from $14.99 to $20.99 extra.)

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