5 things to eat and drink in Boston right now

Wondering what to eat and drink in Boston this weekend? The Dish is a weekly guide to five things in the local restaurant and bar scene that are on my radar right now. Email me at [email protected] to let me know what other food and drink I should check out.

Slowly but surely the Charles River Racing Circuit more and more of its suppliers are opening their doors. This includes its latest newcomer, Tipping Cow Creamery, which debuted in Brighton last weekend (the creamery already has a location in Somerville). Ice cream parlors always need a little more love in the winter, so consider this a great reason to order a scoop or two, in flavors like cannoli, mint sprinkles, figs and goat cheese, bourbon caramel and eggnog.

You might have seen this quiet opening last week, but in early December, The Garrison House debuted in the former Magnolia Smokehouse space. Now that it’s accepting limited reservations (and plenty of dates), why not head to the Brookline meeting place for a few bites and a beer? The comfort food focused menu is stacked with things like wagyu beef meatballs served with wild mushroom polenta and crispy candied chicken wings with a mixed berry barbecue and herb ranch sauce. Haus pretzel bites can be dipped in a cheese sauce and maple mustard – or, if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, go for the chop with mashed sweet potatoes. Garrison House also has a Mug Club – all you have to do to become a member is drink your way through 30 beers. Over time, of course.

Any day that I can start with tacos is a good day. If you feel the same, head to Còsmica on Saturday, where you will find the restaurant’s first Feliz Navidad Holiday family brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The South End Mexican restaurant will feature roasted beef brisket tacos with chili, huevos rancheros and baked French toast, plus churros served with Mexican hot chocolate. Take your kids with you? They will likely enjoy Little Groove’s live music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If you’re planning on having a martini in the week leading up to Christmas, it might as well be inspired by candy cane. Cassie Stockbridge of the lobby bar at the Godfrey Hotel Boston has created just what it takes: a chocolate-coated candy cane martini, made with candy cane infused vodka, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and chocolate schnapps. peppermint. It’s sweet, it’s boozy and it’s definitely perfect for the holidays.

There is a catch, of course, but it’s fun. On Sunday, Southie Local 149 will be hosting an Ugly Sweater / Boy’s Group Brunch, offering free mac and cheese donuts to anyone wearing an ugly sweater. The ugliest sweater dinner (what an honor!) Boy band music will be playing in the background, making me wonder if there is a perfect NSYNC ugly sweater.