The Thanksgiving holiday is upon us, meaning it's time to find your stretchy pants and to think about what you're thankful for this year.
Whether you'll be feasting with family and friends or doing something unrelated to overeating, we've got a roundup of Thanksgiving-themed things to do (and get) in preparation for the big day. From beer and wine shops to bakeries, Hoodline crunched the numbers to find Alexandria's top go-tos for the holiday, using both Yelp data and our own methodology to produce a curated list of where to head.
As friends and family prepare to gather this Thanksgiving, head to one of Alexandria's best grocery stores to stock up on supplies before it's too late.
1. Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's, situated in Old Town North at 612 N. St. Asaph St., is a top choice. It could meet any number of Thanksgiving food needs, from basics like squash and Brussels sprouts to seasonal specialties like pumpkin and cranberry crackers and a fig goat cheese log. But you might also turn to a cut flower arrangement to help create a festive atmosphere. With four stars out of 187 reviews on Yelp, the grocery store has proven to be a local favorite.
Responsible for dessert, but haven't got the time (or energy) to cook? Head to one of Alexandria's top bakeries, which are cranking out autumnal-inspired baked goods and sweet treats perfect for Thanksgiving.
1. Lavender Moon Cupcakery
Topping this list is Lavender Moon Cupcakery. It offers organic cupcakes baked daily using seasonal ingredients. Flavors change frequently, but may include the likes of Mexican chocolate pudding, vanilla bean with lemon curd, or peach and basil. Located in row house at 116 S. Royal St. in Old Town, it is the highest rated bakery in Alexandria, boasting four stars out of 519 reviews on Yelp.
2. Mediterranean Bakery & Cafe
You could also try Landmark-Van Dom's Mediterranean Bakery & Cafe, located at 352 S. Pickett St. The bakery turns out treats like cannoli, baklava and cream puffs, as well as fresh pita bread. It's also a cafe, serving Greek and Lebanese dishes, and a supermarket. Yelpers give it four stars out of 209 reviews.
Not everyone can pull off the perfect home-cooked side dish. What you can do — so long as you're 21 or older — is come prepared with a six-pack of quality beer or a fitting bottle of wine for your forthcoming celebrations.
To help you get the goods, here are a couple of Alexandria's top beer and wine shops.
1. Wine Gallery 108
Topping the competition is Wine Gallery 108. It's a small shop, with a carefully curated selection of wines from round the world, plus a few high-end beers. Located at 108 N. Patrick St. in Old Town, it is the highest rated such spot in Alexandria, boasting five stars out of 41 reviews on Yelp. Take note for after Thanksgiving: wine tastings are held on Fridays and Saturdays.
2. Unwined Gourmet Wine and Cigars
Fairlington's Unwined Gourmet Wine and Cigars, located at the Bradlee Shopping Center (3690-J King St.), is another top choice, with Yelpers giving it 4.5 stars out of 37 reviews. You'll find hundreds of wine choices, including many produced right here in Virginia. It also hosts multiple tastings each week, and shipping is available to many out-of-town locations. There are also some gourmet specialty foods, like Maryland cheeses and organic cuts of meat.
