Violinist Mia Asano on Rocking the Classical Music World

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February 2, 2026

Mia Asano in a black dress with her red flying v violin over her shoulder.

Throw everything you knew about classic music and violin out the window because Mia Asano is here to change it all. A skillful, classically trained artist, Mia uses the violin in ways you would never expect or really be able to imagine. With the use of an electric style violin, she shreds as if it’s a mini guitar, transforming music in other genres with the touch of her bow. Think Metallica hits with a wailing, melodic but nearly gritty violin over top. Better yet, see her for yourself at Crafthouse Stage & Grill in Pittsburgh on March 13.

We sat down with Mia ahead of the performance to get the inside scoop on what killer songs could be in store and what exactly to expect when she and her violin hit the stage.

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Talking Pittsburgh, Classical Music, and More with Violinist Mia Asano

TABLE Magazine: How would you describe your genre?

Mia Asano: This is a great question, because what I do really spans a lot of genres. The best way I can describe it is classical crossover meets symphonic metal. You could also call it violin rock—there are a bunch of ways to describe it—but classical crossover makes the most sense to me. I’ve actually charted on the Billboard Classical Crossover charts. I’m taking a very traditional instrument and turning it into something you’ve probably never heard before, so that’s what I’d call my genre.

TM: What makes the violin so special to you?

MA: Like I mentioned before, the violin isn’t just a traditional instrument. It’s capable of so much more. With electric violin, I can make it sound like almost any instrument, especially an electric guitar. It’s incredibly diverse—I can play so many styles of music, whether it’s something beautiful and symphonic or heavy rock and metal. That versatility is what I love most, because it lets me express my very diverse music taste through one instrument.

Mia in a black dress on stage playing her violin.

TM: How do you blend modern and traditional playing styles to create your own sound?

MA: When I was young, I was a huge fan of rock music—alternative rock, metal, all of it. I realized early on that I could play my favorite songs on the violin. I started by learning the vocal melodies, but pretty quickly I figured out I could play guitar parts, synth lines, even bass parts. With my seven-string violin, I basically try to learn every single part of the song I’m covering.

Now that I’m writing my own original music, I’ve taken everything I’ve learned from all these different styles and put it into one record. It’s a mix of symphonic music, metal, electronic, pop—basically all my favorite genres—and I’m really excited about it.

TM: What’s one word you’d use to describe your tour?

MA: Electrifying. It’s going to be so exciting and very rock-focused. You’ve never seen anything like this with a violin. I’ll be headbanging, dancing around, shredding—I have an amazing band. There’s really no better word for it.

TM: What are you most excited about playing in Pittsburgh? Have you been there before?

MA: Yes, I’ve been to Pittsburgh a few times. I’ve played at City Winery before, and I love the city. I used to live on the East Coast—I went to music school in Boston—so I spent a lot of time bouncing around different East Coast states.

I’m especially excited because I’ve never played a solo headline show in Pittsburgh before. It’ll be my first time at Crafthouse. It’s going to be a huge party, and I’m so excited.

Mia Asano on stage in front of a large crowd.

TM: What do you hope audiences take away from your show?

MA: I hope people walk away realizing that the violin isn’t just a classical instrument—it’s capable of so much more. I also hope they enjoy hearing my unreleased original music, because I’ll be debuting it live at these shows for the first time.

It’s going to be a big party. I’ll also be playing a lot of fan-favorite covers that have gone viral online, so there’s something for everyone. It’s a show you can bring your grandma to, or take your friends to—there’s a little bit of everything.

I’m also excited because my good friend Billy Wilkins will be opening for me—he plays guitar with DragonForce—and my bass player, Alicia, is actually also the bass player for DragonForce. It’s going to be a super fun show, and I can’t wait to play in Pittsburgh!

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photos Courtesy of Mia Asano

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Celebrate the 2026 Grammy Awards with Nominee-Inspired Cocktails

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Kylie Thomas

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January 31, 2026

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Two glasses hold a hot toddy orange liquid with lemon slices inside and a smoking cinnamon stick on top to represent Teddy Swims in a cocktail.

Every music lover’s favorite time of year is here: it’s Grammy Awards season! The 2026 Grammy Awards take you through the best of the best in 2025. The list of nominees spans through generations of artists in a number of different genres and mediums. This year when you plan your Grammy Awards watch party, be sure to include a couple of these cocktails. Whether you’re cheering for Chappell Roan, Lady Gaga, or even Bad Bunny, we have a cocktail to celebrate when your favorite wins! All you have to do is turn on the telly.

Grammy Awards Nominee-Inspired Cocktails for Your Watch Party

Naked in Manhattan Cocktail for Chappell Roan

A cocktail in am amber color sits in a tall glass on a table in the evening light.

Our pop queen Chappell Roan is up for Record of the Year for her heartbreaking ballad The Subway. She also recieves a nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance thanks to the same song which features her strong vocals and emotional bellows.

A Sabrina Carpenter Cocktail, The Short ‘n Sweet

A limoncello spritzer cocktail on a white background

Even though we made this cocktail in honor of Sabrina’s last album, Short ‘n Sweet, we think the fun and playful vibes still apply. This little pop star comes up with some big nominations including Record of the Year for her song Manchild, Album of the Year for Man’s Best Friend, Song of the Year for Manchild, Best Pop Solo Performance for Manchild, Best Pop Vocal Album for Man’s Best Friend, and Best Music Video for Manchild.

Hot Bunny Rum Smash (A Bad Bunny Cocktail)

A Hot Bunny Smash in a yellow color sits in a cocktail glass with a tajin rim, lime slice, and hot pepper garnish.

Finally surpassing Taylor Swift as most popular streaming artist globally is Bad Bunny. Hailing from Puerto Rico, this rapper uses his Latin influences to create trap music that’s addictive to every listener. For the 2026 Grammy Awards he receives nominations in Record Of The Year for his song DtMF, Album of the Year for DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, Song of the Year for DtMF, Best Música Urbana Album for DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, Best Global Music Performance for EoO, and Best Album Cover for DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS.

A Track by Track Wine Pairing List for Lady Gaga’s MAYHEM

Lady Gaga sits beside several glasses of wine in a photoshoot for Dom Perignon. — Photo by Mark Seliger

Rather than a cocktail, wine seems better suited for the mature pop sophistication of Lady Gaga’s latest album, MAYHEM. It’s no surprise this album saw plenty of love from the Recording Academy with its unique approach to today’s hits. She gains nominations in Record of the Year for Abracadabra, Album of the Year for MAYHEM, Song of the Year for Abracadabra, Best Pop Solo Performance for Disease, Best Pop Vocal Album for MAYHEM, Best Dance Pop Recording for Abracadabra, and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for Harlequin.

Teddy Swims Cocktail: Smokin’ Hot Teddy

The gritty tone of Teddy Swims is back and wow-ing the Recording Academy. There’s no mistaking Teddy’s vocals so we’ve made a hot toddy to match his sultry touch. For the 2026 Grammy Awards he earns a nomination in Best Pop Vocal Album for his release of I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy — Part 2.

Defying Gravity, A Wicked Cocktail

In a coupe glass sits a Defying Gravity Wicked cocktail white in color while the glass is tangled in a vine.

While the Grammy Awards normally call out creations outside of movies (there’s a whole category for that anyways) there are times a musical or movie song makes it into the mix. It’s no shock that Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s rendition of Defying Gravity takes a nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with their mystifying vocals and undeniably compatible tone. Not to mention, the Wicked soundtrack also gets its own nomination for Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media and Erivo herself gets a nomination in Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella for her song Be Okay.

The Boss Cocktail for Springsteen

A rocks glass with The Boss rum cocktail in it with a salt and sugar rim. It sits on a blue surface beside a chile pepper.

We love seeing classic rock artists like Bruce Springsteen hitting the Grammy Awards list again after so many years. You may have missed Springsteen’s release of his compilation album Tracks II: The Lost Albums last year but we promise it’s worth a revisit, after all it is up for Best Recording Package. The box set as a whole takes listneers through previously unreleased songs from between 1983 and 2018 as a follow-up to his 1998 box set Tracks.

Rio Cocktail, Inspired by Duran Duran

Two identical cocktails in iridescent wine glasses garnished with dragon fruit pinwheels and mango rolls made to look like roses.

Another artist who released a special collector’s edition last year is Duran Duran. Their update to their 2023 album Danse Macabre: De Luxe includes three new songs, including an instrumental of Masque of the Pink Death. There is also a cover of Evil Woman by Electric Light Orchestra. Don’t sleep on the rare B-side, Secret Oktober 31st, as well as vintage séance photos that member Nick Rhodes found at an auction. It receives a nomination for Best Recording Package.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Aphrodisiac Foods for Love

By

Keith Recker

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January 31, 2026

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An overhead photo of aphrodisiac foods like cherries, chocolate, asparagus, walnuts, honey, strawberries, chilies, saffron, and pomegranate in small bowls and on little dishes on a textured white surface with rose petals.

Ancient lore says that aphrodisiac ingredients put a tiger in our proverbial tank; there could be some scientific truth in the old beliefs surrounding aphrodisiac foods for love.

Aphrodisiac Foods for Love

Pomegranate

The juice of the pomegranate contains over 100 phytochemicals including polyphenol, the antioxidant that gives it a lovely red color. Antioxidants help decrease inflammation and remove plaque from your vascular system, which means the blood flows more freely everywhere…if you get the message. It is thought to be helpful in combatting heart disease and blood pressure, as well. Lastly, drinking pomegranate juice has been shown to increase testosterone production in both sexes, helping our sex drives to stay on the highway to happiness.

Use our Good Luck Sparkling Pomegranate Cosmo Cocktail as a welcoming cocktail to stir up your feelings and invite a bit of positivity into the evening.

Chocolate

The antioxidant flavonoids in dark chocolate, like those found in pomegranates and berries, help address inflammation, which is essential in fighting cancer and keeping the heart healthy. Paradoxically, antioxidants help with weight loss, which puts small doses of good, pure chocolate on many healthy food lists. The natural caffeine and phenylethylamine in chocolate give us a little extra energy and a sense of well-being, as well. Les bonbons sont si bons!

Why not prepare our Dutch Chocolate Cake with Fruit to share with your special someone?

Asparagus

Many aphrodisiac foods get their sexy reputation because they look like something sexy. Does a firm spear of asparagus work any magic on you? If not, perhaps its high levels of vitamin E and potassium will. Vitamin E helps direct blood and oxygen to erogenous zones, and potassium is linked to the production of sex hormones. Have a mouthful and see what happens?

Try our recipe for Pickled Asparagus.

Chilies

Grilled oysters displayed with a cilantro topping on a wooden table.

When capsaicin, the chemical that makes peppers red-hot, puts a stunner on your tastebuds, your body releases adrenaline, which in turn calls up an endorphin response. With those stimulating, sexy juices running through the body…it could be midnight at the oasis at any hour of the day.

To kick up the spice level, indulge in our Grilled Oysters with Green Chile that includes another popular aphrodisiac.

Saffron

Ancient Mediterraneans were fascinated by saffron. The crocuses that bloomed early in the spring signaled a return of the Earth’s fertile season, and their bright golden stamens were infused into milk, wine, honey, and other foods. The deep yellow results were beautiful to look at, delicious, and possibly, according to modern science, helpful with infertility in men. Certain chemicals in saffron could embolden neurotransmitters that stimulate libido, which could explain why Cleopatra is said to have bathed in saffron prior to a visit to the boudoir.

Try pastry chef Selina Progar’s recipe for Lemon Saffron Tort and see what happens?

Walnuts

A loaf of coffee cake with rhubarb, apple, and walnut lays sliced on a green picnic table.

Rich in vitamins B1, B2, A, E and F, walnuts pack a powerful nutritional punch. Their concentration of zinc is said to help regulate testosterone levels in men. Part of their allure may have something to do with their frequent appearance in ancient desserts…and we know what happens after dessert.

We think impressing your loved one with a fresh loaf of Rhubarb, Apple, and Walnut Coffee Cake is a dessert worth baking for.

Honey

Like figs, another legendary aphrodisiac, honey has high levels of boron, an element that helps women produce estrogen. It also increases levels of nitric oxide, a chemical that helps blood flow to the nether regions of both sexes. Ancient Greek medico Hippocrates may not have known about nitric oxide, but he did prescribe honey for a little extra vigor in the bedroom.

Honey, honey, keep the passion hot with a Hot Honey Hot Toddy that’s sure to warm you up both inside and out.

Coffee

Caffeine gets us going in the morning, and evidence suggests that, like chocolate, coffee increases stamina and can elevate dopamine levels. All of which means you might want to get your partner out on the dance floor and…dance?

Could we offer you Dirty Blondies with Chocolate, Hazelnut & Coffee that make it feel so good to be so bad?

Strawberries

When her handsome lover Adonis died in a hunting accident, Aphrodite’s tears mingled with his blood, and strawberries grew from the mixture. (Or was it anemones? Both versions are out there.) Does that story turn you on? Perhaps the vitamin C in strawberries will: it is essential in the production of sex hormones and libido-related chemical neurotransmitters. It also helps keep the immune system up to snuff…because no one is turned on by sniffling.

We couldn’t pick just one recipe, so have 20 strawberry recipes instead to create a feast as pretty as it is healthy.

Cherries

A Sour Cherry Crisp sits in a white dish with a crumble topping as a slice sits on a small white plate nearby.

The anthocyanins that make cherries red are also powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation to promote overall health. Their sweet, complex, musky scent may have a pheromone effect. Their vitamin C content can help brighten the skin and eyes, as well. Which can’t hurt one’s efforts in the wooing and courting department.

It’s oozing with gooey, warm filling… we’re talking about the Sour Cherry Crisp of course! Prepare it with a scoop of ice cream on top for the ultimate finish.

Still craving more? Indulge in an Aphrodisiac Board for Two that includes many of the foods listed above and plenty of other ingredients to get you hot and bothered before the main course even hits! Or, check out our Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day to make all your partner’s fantasies come true.

Story by Keith Recker
Styling by Brittany Spinelli
Photography by Dave Bryce

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15 Antidepressant Food Recipes to Keep You Smiling

By

Kylie Thomas

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January 30, 2026

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A stock pot with a variety of mushrooms and vegetables in a brown stock, with a wooden spoon in the upper left corner and some pepper and seasonings on a plate in the upper right corner.

We know the winter months can be rough on your mental health. The sun sets early every day, and the frigid temperatures and mounds of snow make you want to stay inside. The first few months of the year can feel like years in and of themselves.

But it doesn’t all have to be doom and gloom. In fact, you can bring a little happiness and light into your life right inside your kitchen. There are plenty of ingredients out there whose properties that can decrease the effects of depression and increase serotonin in the body. Take a moment to bring one of these ingredients into your life through one of our recipes below. Chances are you’ll find yourself smiling before you’ve even taken a bite from the pure joy that is cooking.

15 Antidepressant Food Recipes

Creamed Spinach Dippy Eggs

An aerial view of a dippy egg sitting on top of creamed spinach. a few pieces of sliced french bread sits off to the left of the plate.

Tryptophan, an essential amino acid in eggs and spinach, can exert an antidepressant effect by influencing the production of serotonin, making our Creamed Spinach Dippy Eggs a nutritious dish for any time of day. Plus, spinach contains folate, which produces dopamine, another calming and happy source of emotion, in your brain.

Green Eggs

Add a vivid start to the morning with these naturally bright delights thanks to the addition of spinach. Just like the recipe above, this dish is packed with tryptophan for a deliciously cheerful breakfast. Not to mention, studies show that the brighter and lighter the color, like our gorgeous Green Eggs, the happier and more optimistic it can make you feel.

Berry Cobbler with Banana Ice Cream

A delectable image of a berry cobbler dessert from Eighty Acres Kitchen.

Blueberries, rich in flavonoids, can help bring about an antidepressant-like effect. When combined with the tryptophan content of bananas, you have a superfood power duo. Our Berry Cobbler with Banana Ice Cream makes use of both these ingredients for a sweet, feel-good treat.

Anti-Inflammatory Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup

Two soup bowls filled with orange butternut squash soup topped with shredded leaf garnishes and a spoon.

Not only can this soup full of turmeric, fresh vegetables, ginger, and lentils help ease your inflammation issues, but, it could also help ease depression. Butternut squash is rich in Vitamin B6, the absence of which has been connected to depression. So, simmer a pot of our Anti-Inflammatory Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup the next time you’re feeling down.

Salmon Poke with Yuzu

Exquisite Salmon Poke Infused with Yuzu, Truffled Yuzu Kosho Sauce, Spicy Avocado Purée, and Crispy Rice Cracker

The omega-3s in salmon are known to be a wellness booster, but did you know they can be a mood booster, too? EPA and DHA are two types of omega-3s found in salmon which have been linked to lower levels of depression. Add cistrus yuzu to a Salmon Poke plate: it has a stress reducing effect…and it makes an utterly joyful flavor combination.

Pumpkin Soup

The coziness of this soup will warm your heart and add a little extra comfort to your day. Beyond just its warming effects, pumpkin has amino acids. Like many of the other recipes on this list, pumpkin has L-tryptophan, and it also it has antioxidants that can give you an extra boos.

Mushroom Stock

Simmer yourself up a steaming pot of umami goodness with this rich, earthy Mushroom Stock recipe. Mushrooms are full of potassium and ergothioneine, which could help prevent stress and regulate nerve signals. You’ll be ready to dig in after a sprinkle of cheese and green onion on top.

Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread

You’ve already heard the health benefits of bananas above, but have you ever heard about the antidepressant effects of peanut butter? The compound beta-sitosterol within peanut butter works to help reduce feelings of anxiety. Just slather some butter on a slice of this moist, decadent Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread for a little morning pick-me-up.

Grilled Zucchini with Tahini Yogurt Sauce and Corn Relish

A fun use of grilled zucchini that’ll help you break away from the mundane use of this versatile summer vegetable.

Incorporate the feel-good ingredient of yogurt into this filling family dinner. Gut health is an essential part of mental wellbeing and the probiotic lactobacillus in yogurt can improve both these elements. We turn yogurt into a special tahini sauce that compliments the Grilled Zucchini but still lets the Corn Relish shine.

Savory Cheesecake with Grapes

Flat-lay image of a savory cheesecake, roasted grapes on a weathered table.

This unique Savory Cheesecake with Grapes combines the richness of cream cheese and blue cheese, the crispy crunch of phyllo, and roasted grapes. Not only does a bite of this savory starter tingle your taste buds, but the blue cheese can be a preventative measure against depression. LH dipeptide, found in fermented foods such as blue cheese, can help suppress depression-related symptoms.

The Ultimate Grilled Cheese and Charcuterie Board for 4

a grilled cheese in the middle of a marble charcuterie board with red and purple olives and a variety of cured meats

It’s time to take everything you just learned about antidepressant foods and put it into one big Charcuterie Board using fresh produce from your local farmers. Start with a grilled cheese filled with tryptophan-laden cheeses like Abondance and Tomme de Savoie. Then, move on to completing the board with omega-3 rich salmon and whatever other serotonin fulfilling foods you enjoy.

Grilled Oysters with Roasted Green Chile

Oysters are often called a natural mood booster because they’re packed with nutrients that support brain chemistry and emotional balance. They’re one of the richest food sources of zinc, a mineral linked to lower rates of depression and better stress regulation. Oysters also provide omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and amino acids to help you feel as good as you can. The warming green chile here doesn’t hurt either!

Chicken Liver Paté and Honey-Fermented Figs

A tempting culinary composition: Millet Porridge Bread topped with luscious Chicken Liver Mousse and rehydrated figs, paired with a rich Amarone wine from Italy's countryside.

We know you may cringe a little at the thought of chicken livers but they’re actually powerful mood-supporting food thanks to their dense concentration of vitamin B12, folate, iron, and choline. These nutrients help the brain make serotonin and dopamine, support oxygen delivery to brain tissue, and reduce mental fatigue. Plus we promise the honey fermented figs and paté style preparation of the chicken livers make this dish delectable.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Balsamic Onion Galette

A Brussels sprout galette with red onion on it, cut into triangular slices.

You’ll get your fill of all the best veggies in a crispy galette form. Brussels sprouts support mental health with their supply of folate, vitamin C, and antioxidants. All of these are important for neurotransmitter production and for lowering inflammation linked to depression. These make Brussels sprouts especially great for the cooler months since that is when their harvest is most bountiful.

Spinach Soup with Cashew Cream

A bowl of spinach soup on a blue background.

We know leafy greens seem like an obvious antidepressant food but spinach specifically carries some pretty cool superpowers. It’s loaded with magnesium, folate, and iron which all help calm the nervous system, fuel the brain with oxygen, and keep mood-regulating chemicals firing smoothly. Spinach also delivers antioxidants that protect brain cells from stress and inflammation, while its folate supports serotonin production.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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6 Super Bowl LX Commercials to Watch For During the Big Game

By

Kylie Thomas

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January 30, 2026

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A clydesdale horse runs through a field with a bald eagle flying over top of it.

While the slate of advertisements rolled out during the Super Bowl is a cultural event unto itself, you can’t attentively watch them all: You have plates to refill, prop bets to place and blown calls to bemoan. Here’s a list of anticipated spots worth shushing your companions to watch.

We recommend that you mix up a cocktail perfect for the team of your choice. Seahawk fans should try our take on the Last Word. Patriot supports can shake up a Ward 8.

6 Super Bowl LX Commercials You Won’t Want to Miss

Rocket

If you saw the social-media buzz surrounding Lady Gaga’s rendition of the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood theme song, you may not have known you were seeing a preview for a Super Bowl spot. The pop idol’s cover of the classic (and Pittsburgh-penned) tune is part of a commercial by the real-estate company Rocket.

Budweiser

Horse lovers, take note: The famous Clydesdales frequently featured in Budweiser’s advertisements will be present this year. What’s more, teaser ads have promised that the horses will befriend a bald eagle. Know that there’s no shame in crying over animal friendship … even if that friendship exists to sell beer.

Squarespace and Grubhub

We don’t know exactly what will be in these company’s ads, but we know they’ll be well made — thanks to a big-name director. Both Squarespace and Grubhub announced that their spots will be helmed by Yorgos Lanthimos, director of Oscar winners Poor Things, The Favourite and current nominee Bugonia. Lanthimos’ favorite collaborator, actress Emma Stone, will make an appearance in at least one spot, having appeared in a teaser from Squarespace.

Hellmann’s

This one’s already out online: Andy Samberg plays “Meal Diamond” in a parody of Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline, dubbed Sweet Sandwich Time. Get ready to have either the original or the spoof in your head for a few days … and to crave a trip to the deli. Oscar nominee Elle Fanning also appears in the ad.

Manscaped

We don’t know if this counts as an ad to watch or one to avoid, but grooming company Manscaped has teased something … strange. In a commercial set to run before kickoff, the company will showcase a new (or at least one-night-only) mascot: An anthropomorphic hairball. Approach with caution, if not a bit of curiosity.

While you’re here, prepare for the Super Bowl with our complete guide taking you through the best recipes and party tips!

Story by Sean Collier
Photo Courtesy of Budweiser

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Rom-Com Cocktails and Movie Pairings for Spicing Up Your Valentine’s Day

By

Kylie Thomas

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January 29, 2026

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In a tall glass sits a red Sweet Home Alabama Slammer garnished with a heart formed orange peel and surrounded by pink roses on the table.

Love them or loathe them, romantic comedies (rom-coms) just about rule Valentine’s Day. These stories of blossoming love and up-and-down relationships whisk us away to a fantasy world where the girl always seems to get the boy. Whether it’s the dreaminess of finding true romance or the consistency in a happy ending that keeps you watching these films, we’re sure you’re ready to binge all your favorites for the holiday.

If you’re planning a night in with a rom-com, consider mixing up a cocktail that’s made to accompany your watch party. These recipes take inspiration from well-loved rom-coms that have been watched for generations. Invite your partner, bestie, or even your mom to join you, and then double the recipes for sharing. After all, the spirit of Valentine’s Day is spending time with and being grateful for the ones you love, regardless of if you’re dating or not.

Rom-Com Cocktails for Spicing Up Your Valentine’s Day

Kat’s Love Poem Cocktail from 10 Things I Hate About You

A short cocktail glass has an orange cocktail inspired by 10 Things I Hate About You with a cinnamon sugar rim and edible marigold inside. On the table around the cocktail lays marigold petals and red rose petals.

Ah, the famous love poem that Kat’s character writes about Patrick sticks in our head each and every day. Who could forget the tense moment of build up when you realize she has truly fallen for the most unlikely pairing. Our Kat’s Love Poem Cocktail from 10 Things I Hate About You packs all that passion in a drinkable form. The fire of her words are in the form of a whiskey and orange juice cocktail with a few dashes of bitters and a cinnamon-sugar rim.

Brooklyn Heights Cocktail Inspired by Moonstruck

A rocks glass with ice holds an orange Moonstruck cocktail with an orange slice garnish. The glass sits amongst rose petals on a cream table.

A variation on a Brooklyn Godfather seems just right for the dreamy Brooklyn Heights nights in the rom-com Moonstruck. Even if you’ve never had a Brooklyn Godfather before, take a leap much like Loretta and try this sweeter version with a hint of maraschino liqueur. With notes of amaretto, bourbon, and dry vermouth, you’ll taste the complexity of Loretta and Ronny’s relationship with every sip.

Sweet Home Alabama Slammer

When you’re going back to your roots such as Melanie Carmichael, it doesn’t hurt to have a beverage in tow. After all, it could help you deal with the extra stress and drama. This Alabama Slammer in honor of Sweet Home Alabama uses a homey blend of Southern Comfort, amaretto, sloe gin, and orange juice. It’s a cocktail that transports you to Melanie’s rural hometown and stirs a heat much like the one Jake stirs in her.

When Harry Met Sally Friends to Lovers Cocktail

A short glass holds a When Harry Met Sally inspired spritz with an orange peel and edible flower garnish as a champagne cork and rose petals scatter around the glass.

Friends to lovers: it’s a trope widely used in literature and movies alike for its tension and satisfaction when the two finally share a kiss. The rom-com When Harry Met Sally, is one of the finest examples of this pull between friendship and something more. To follow this unexpected progression of Harry and Sally, we’ve made a cocktail that combines Aperol, champagne-style cider, and bourbon to create a brand new elevated spritz.

Say Anything Boozy Orange Creamsicle Shake

An orange creamsicle shake with whipped cream, a cherry on top, and an orange wheel garnish from Say Anything on a white table with rose petals.

Who could forget the famous boombox scene from Say Anything? We sure can’t. Though, we happen to love the youthful romance between Diane and Lloyd as they meet in a 1950’s style dinner. In honor of this scene, we’ve made a shake that the two may share as adults returning to the diner. It’s sweet and creamy with an orange base plus a healthy dose of vodka and orange liqueur. Be sure to have two straws on deck to share with the one you love the most.

Pretty Woman Pomegranate Cosmo

A red pomegranate cosmo as a Pretty Woman inspired drink sits in a tall martini glass with an edible rose floating on top and pomegranate seeds and an orange twist laying on the white table below.

Sultry, sensual, and beautiful, this Pretty Woman Pomegranate Cosmo captures Vivian and Edward’s underlying feelings for one another. It’s a bright, fresh cocktail with pomegranate juice, lime, Cointreau, and vodka. The deep red finish also reminds us of Vivian’s stunning gown and vibrant attitude. Think sophistication meets familiarity, something that this pair’s relationship seems to know much about.

Heated Rivalry Hot Honey Hot Toddy

A show that’s this spicy deserves a cocktail to match! We couldn’t have a rom-com list without featuring one of favorite newcomers, Heated Rivalry. This hot, hot, hot show follows two hockey stars through a budding romance and plenty of uh… “heated” scenes. Just be sure to keep a towel nearby in case of any “spills” if you get our drift (*wink wink*).

People We Meet on Vacation Tropical Mango Smoothie

Two tall glasses with stems hold Tropical Mango Smoothie with strawberries on the rim with little cocktail umbrellas in the strawberries.

Perfect for anyone looking for a non-alcoholic beverage on Valentine’s Day, a Tropical Mango Smoothie takes us away to the beaches in People We Meet on Vacation. This rom-com and friends-to-lovers tale started as a book by Emily Henry but its 2026 movie adaptation has quickly won over hearts thanks to the connection between actors Tom Blyth and Emily Bader.

Wuthering Heights Dark and Handsome

Two Dark and Handsome Rum Moscow Mules sit in front of a painted brown background with Tajin rims and a lime and orange sitting next to the glasses.

Whether you read the book in English class and immediately fell for Heathcliff or heard Kate Bush’s inspired-song and started itching for more, Wuthering Heights earns a spot in everyone’s life. Now in 2026 we finally get a movie adaptation releasing February 13. This version by Emerald Fennell (director of Saltburn) stars Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie who perfectly convey the yearning of Catherine and Heathcliff’s tale. Plus its been said the two actors now cannot be without each other which gives us a pretty good sign we’ll be sobbing by the end of it.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Throw a Colorful Cocktail Watch Party for the Premiere of ‘Bridgerton’ Season Four

By

Kylie Thomas

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January 29, 2026

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Two champagne flutes of a dark purple Lord & Lady Bridgerton cocktail with a lemon peel twist garnish, butterfly pea flowers below, and a bottle of champagne pouring into the background glass. It's all set against a blue floral background.

The ton is abuzz once more, and the return of Bridgerton season four calls for a celebration as vibrant and dramatic as the show itself. What better way to mark the premiere than by gathering friends for a colorful cocktail watch party filled with stunning drinks and indulgent treats that feature a touch of Regency-inspired flair? We promise each recipe below has Lady Whistledown’s approval, which means that you can host an evening worthy of the Queen. After all, the most intense drama is best enjoyed in good company.

Colorful **Cocktail Recipes for a Bridgerton Season Four Watch Party**

Lord & Lady Bridgerton Cocktail

Our Lord & Lady Bridgerton Cocktail makes for a mix between afternoon tea and a party. Lord Bergamot Tea leads the way here steeped in dried butterfly pea flowers. Then we layer Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, lemon, and a topping of Perrier Jouet Champagne Grand Brut for a beverage high society just must gossip about.

Aloe & Apple White No-Groni

Skipping the alcohol? No problem! This mocktail version of a negroni features the coolness of aloe and tart shrub of apple. The herbal notes of the Seedlip Garden 108 gin replacement perfectly complement the various elements at play.

Aperol Sour

The beautiful sun that always seems shining in Bridgerton makes us crave a cocktail that’s meant for the summer. An Aperol Sour adds a splash of gin to your zesty Aperol and bright lemon for a beverage that glimmers. Plus it’s a way to make sure you’re wide awake for the steamy scenes bound to ensue.

Matcha Mule

We’re just saying, if Daphne, Francesca, Eloise, and the rest of the Bridgerton girls existed in 2026, they would definitely be in on the match craze. Using matcha powder in a classic Moscow mule adds a subtle umami profile that meshes with the heat of the ginger. Mix up our Matcha Banana Bread on the side and make it a true matcha feast!

The Fitzgerald Cocktail

Two pink Fitzgerald gin cocktails garnished with red currants and lemon slices on a white wooden surface.

Pretty in pink, this elegant gin drink that feels right at home in any Bridgerton-inspired soirée. Shaken with gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a few aromatic dashes of Angostura bitters, indulge in a bit of subtle spice and sophistication. Talk about the perfect way to set the mood for the regency-era.

All Hearts Cocktail

Glasses of a red cocktail garnished with a blood orange slice, surrounded by strawberries, oranges, and mandarin orange slices on a white surface.

We’re red with passion for this All Hearts Cocktail. A refreshing blend of vodka, strawberry puree, and lemon juice, meets bubbly Prosecco for a touch of effervescent romance. Smooth and fruit-forward, its ruby hue makes it an ideal celebratory drink when your favorite ship becomes canon.

Snowbirds, A Festive Coconut Cocktail

A champagne flute on a black background, topped off with coconut flakes and surrounded by festive decor

Like two Snowbirds nestled together, this cocktail brings a wave of comfort with nostalgic and familiar flavors. It’s a creamy, dreamy mix of coconut rum, cream of coconut, and fresh lime that’s shaken and served over ice for a smooth sip. Plus a bit of the tropical in the winter season is always a welcome reminder of the warmth to come.

Snacks to Accompany Your Watch Party

Bridgerton Teatime Pecan Balls

A green plate full of Pecan Balls stacked in a tower as some sit open with yellow cake on the table.

Don’t go through your watch party without a succulent snack to nibble on during the most nerve-wracking of moments. These Teatime Pecan Balls tossed in powdered sugar gift you a buttery bite every time. Not to mention the salty pecans the embed in this deliciously crumbly cookie.

Lady Whistledown’s Bridgerton Snickerdoodles

Cookies in green and pink sugars spread over a table and plate.

These warm and soft Snickerdoodles are made special with pastel sugars that dust on top of each golden round. Infused with bright orange zest and ginger even if you’re not serving these cookies at a cocktail party, we recommend at least having them with your favorite cuppa.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Lady Whistledown’s Bridgerton Snickerdoodles

By

Keith Recker

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January 28, 2026

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Prepare yourself, dear reader, for a biscuit most delicious. These Lady Whistledown’s Bridgerton Snickerdoodles put a Regency-era twist on this beloved cookie. We choose to blend warm spices with bright citrus for a cookie that feels both comforting and delightfully scandalous. Ginger and orange zest lend an elegance tot his treat, while the tinted sugar topping adds a subtle hint of drama—because even the simplest indulgences should arrive dressed for society. Perfect for an afternoon tea, a watch party of season four of Bridgerton coming out on January 29, or a moment of quiet gossip, these snickerdoodles are sure to earn the highest praise.

A downward angle of pink and green sugar snickerdoodle cookies on a plate and around a table.

**Who Does Season Four of Bridgerton Follow?**

Season four of Bridgerton, with part one dropping January 29 and part two dropping February 26, focuses on older brother Benedict Bridgerton. We’ve seen his story simmering for years but at last we’ll watch him fall for a mysterious woman who challenges him to see the world, and himself, differently. Of course we’ll still check in on all our lovely Bridgerton siblings and the fiery Penelope throughout the season, but plan to see plenty of Benedict as he contemplates his part in society.

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Lady Whistledown’s Bridgerton Snickerdoodles

Author: Keith Recker

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Description

Warm, citrusy, and just sweet enough for our romantic crew.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp of tartar
1 tsp baking soda
1 to 2 tbsp fresh orange zest
2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/3 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract (or almond, if you prefer)

For the topping:

1/2 cup sugar
1 or 2 drops gel food coloring of your choice
1 tsp ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with silicone baking mats or baking parchment.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, ginger, and salt.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the butter and sugar together until creamy.
Add eggs and vanilla (or almond) extract. Beat until well combined.
Scrape the bottom of the bowl with a spatula. Add the dry ingredients. Beat slowly until roughly combined. Scrape the bowl down and beat again for a minute.
Roll cookie dough into balls. Use just over a tablespoon for each cookie. Roll the dough balls in cinnamon-sugar topping. Sprinkle extra cinnamon-sugar on top if desired. Arrange 3 inches apart on the baking sheets.
Make the topping: In a Ziploc bag, massage together the granulated sugar and gel food dye until sugar is evenly colored. Add the spice of your choice and whisk together. At TABLE Studios, we prepared three different colors of sugar, and used a different spice in each bowl.
Roll cookie balls in colored sugar. If using more than one bowl of colored sugar, divide the balls evenly so that you have enough of each color.
Bake sugar-rolled cookies for 10-15 minutes. They will still be ball-shaped. Press down on them with a metal spatula to flatten. Try one for doneness. Return to oven if they are still a bit damp.
When cookies are done to your liking, remove from baking tray to a cool, dry countertop. Immediately take a generous pinch of colored sugar and rug it gently into the tops of the cookies for extra color and flavor.
Eat when cool with a glass of milk or a cup of tea! Store them for several days in a tightly covered container.

Wash down your snickerdoodles with our Lord & Lady Bridgerton Cocktail. It’s a refreshing spritzer where tea combines with sparkling water as well as your favorite white wine.

Recipe and Styling by Keith Recker
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Bridgerton Teatime Pecan Balls

By

Keith Recker

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January 28, 2026

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Dearest lady and gentleman (or anyone in between)! These dainty, cardamom-kissed confections are as elegant as Eloise’s sharp wit and as delightful as Daphne’s first dance. We roll these Bridgerton Teatime Pecan Balls in a snowy puff of powdered sugar to pull out the delicate and buttery bite. Each little sphere evokes the refined charm of a Bridgerton afternoon tea, where every smile might conceal a secret and every nibble invites a new suitor. Whether you pair them with Earl Grey or a flirtatious glance across the room, you’ll want to be sure you have a few dozen for snacking.

Pecan Balls sit on a plate and cut open around cups of tea.

Where Do Pecan Balls Come From?

We call them Pecan Balls! But you’ve probably heard these cookies called Mexican wedding cookies, Russian tea cakes, or snowball cookies. Each variation carries roots from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Ground nuts, butter, and powdered sugar are common in their celebratory sweets. As recipes traveled through Spain to the Americas, local ingredients replaced almonds or walnuts. In the southern United States, where pecans were plentiful, they make their way into may baked goods. Hence, the popularity of the Pecan ball in the United States.

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