Maybe you’re throwing a holiday party this weekend. Maybe you’re having some friends over for the Army-Navy game and they’ll be hungry. Or maybe a quiet “fireside chat” for four has become a festivity for 14. Regardless, Alexandria eateries have you covered. Check out these ideas for a no-muss, no-fuss menu and get back to mingling with your guests.
District Taco, 701 S. Washington St.
Give your fiesta a Mexican flair with some food from District Taco. Whether you’re hosting a dozen guests or 40, the local taco franchise comes packed with all the fixings. Choose between a straight-up taco bar, which comes complete with a choice of proteins as well as tortillas and a slew of toppings, or go with a premade approach, where tacos arrive already piled high with protein and with toppings on the side.
Another perk of District Taco’s menu: Its wide array of proteins for a plethora of palates. From carnivore-friendly barbacoa and carne asasa to vegetarian-accessible black beans and the company’s new veggie protein, Itza, the menu meets a growing list of standards for guests.
Sugar Shack, 804 N. Henry St.
Who says one cannot live on doughnuts alone? With Sugar Shack providing the sweets, it’s time to try. And the doughnut purveyor makes it easy — some might argue a little too easy — to bring dozens of confections to the comfort of your home with little advance notice. From family favorites such as salted caramel and maple bacon to holiday specials such as peppermint and red-and-green sprinkles, there’s a flavor for all palates.
Ordering fewer than 100 doughnuts? That can be accommodated online, scheduled in advance and delivered to your party via UberEats. Order more and you’ll need to call Sugar Shack’s catering services (703-577-9023) to set something up.
The Italian Place, 621 Wythe St.
When it comes to entertaining a large group, sandwiches are the name of the game. The Italian Place makes it easy to feed a crowd. With nearly two dozen sandwiches to choose from, plus paninis and salads, all your guests can have a taste of the Italian life. Select individual sandwiches for a smaller group. The Giorgio comes in hot with prosciutto, soppressata, salami, provolone and a slew of vegetables to top things off. The Godfather is the eatery’s take on an eggplant parmesan sub, garnished with marinara and provolone.
The Italian Place also offers a more traditional catering experience with its party samplers. Dubbed “super foot-long subs,” the five options are sliced into 22 mini-sandwiches that make for easy eating.
Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at hope@kitchenrecessionista.com.