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6 Must-Have Items From 2026 Spring Fashion Trends

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A woman in a long green trench coat with pants and top to match.

As 2026 spring fashion trends favor thoughtful silhouettes and elevated everyday dressing, a few key pieces are emerging that are true closet essentials. From sculpted tops and fluid trench coats to comfy footwear and relaxed tailoring, these six must-have items capture the season’s focus on balance, versatility, and ease. Each selection reflects how spring style always evolves. We’re seeing a move where classic foundations meet modern proportions for looks that feel both current and enduring.

A woman in a brown pattern shirt.
Photo Courtesy of Àpres Boutique

Àpres Boutique — MUNTHE Brown Top

The MUNTHE brown top from Àpres Boutique offers a structured yet feminine silhouette, making it a standout piece for spring. Subtle sequin details add quiet interest, while lightly puffed short sleeves, a classic round neckline, and peplum hem create shape and balance. The warm brown tone feels fresh for the season and pairs effortlessly with flowy denim or relaxed dress pants, reflecting spring’s focus on structure that softens with movement.

A woman in a long green trench coat with pants and top to match.
Photo Courtesy of Sol Collective

Sol Collective — Melissa Woman Trench (Earthy Olive)

The Melissa Woman trench from Sol Collective is an effortless spring layer with appeal that lasts forever. Crafted from a lightweight, textured fabric, the long silhouette features a relaxed drape, classic collar, oversized patch pockets, as well as a fluid fit that moves perfect with the body. Flowy fabrics are essential this season, and this trench works equally well layered over tailored suiting or styled with sporty separates, instantly elevating any look.

A woman in a pale green shirt and orange shorts.
Photo Courtesy of Le Muse

Le Muse — The Harper Shirt

The Harper Shirt from Le Muse is a refined spring essential designed for effortless layering. Made from a lightweight, slightly sheer woven fabric, the button-down silhouette features a classic collar and long sleeves that feel both timeless and modern. Whether layered under a sweater or vest or styled with a structured jacket or fluid suit, it captures spring’s emphasis on unique basics that transition seamlessly between polished and relaxed dressing.

A pale grey trench coat with the belt tied.
Photo Courtesy of COS

COS — Modular Trench Coat

Trench coats remain a key piece this spring across both women’s and men’s fashion, especially for cooler transitional days. The COS 2-in-1 Water Repellent Trench Coat offers a modern take on the classic, crafted from water repellent cotton-blend twill with a detachable padded vest for added warmth and versatility. Its clean silhouette — complete with a belted waist and relaxed fit — makes it easy to style, whether layered over tailored pieces or paired with sporty pieces, showing the season’s focus on functional yet refined outerwear.

Cream colored loafers on a white background.
Photo Courtesy of Reformation

Reformation — Loafers (Kaylee Loafer & Ani Ruched Loafer)

Loafers are a favorite footwear choice this spring, offering a polished yet effortless alternative to tennis shoes and heels. Styles in suede or sleek leather — especially in classic brown or black — pair beautifully with socks and work seamlessly with denim, tailored pants, skirts, and dresses. Reformation’s Kaylee Loafer delivers a timeless slip-on silhouette crafted in leather with a refined finish, while the Ani Ruched Loafer offers a contemporary update with ruched detailing that adds subtle texture. Together, they prove that these loafers are both versatile and refined — perfect for bringing everything together from casual denim to tailored spring suiting.

A woman wearing a striped shirt and blue trousers.
Photo Courtesy of Everlane

Everlane — The Everywhere Barrel-Leg Pant

Barrel-leg pants continue to hold their place this season, offering a relaxed silhouette that feels both modern and comfortable. Everlane’s Everywhere Barrel-Leg Pant delivers an easy, wearable shape that styles with ease thanks to a light spring jacket or a classic loafer for a timeless look. Available in a range of colors, the agave green stands out as a fresh update for spring, adding subtle color while remaining versatile for everyday wear.

Story by Dominika Bronner
Featured Photo Courtesy of
Sol Collective

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The Ultimate Guide to Super Bowl Party Planning

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Three people cheers three glasses of beer in the center of a spead of foods like pizza, burgers, chips.

Make yourself a plate, grab a drink, and grab a seat with a good view! It’s time for Super Bowl Sunday! Whether you watch it for the game, the commercials, or the half-time performance, according to the NFL, about 60% of the United States population will be watching kick off. Make the most of your Super Bowl this year with planning tips that’ll take your party from a couple of friends and a six-pack to an extravaganza of delicious foods, drinks, and plenty of fun. You’ll feel so prepared that you can plan on actually watching the game this year instead of tending to the party itself. 

The Ultimate Guide to Super Bowl Party Planning

A martini glass with a red color cocktail and a mint garnish.

Mix Up a Ward 8 for the True New England Patriots Fans

Celebrate your New England spirit with this Patriots-ready Ward 8 cocktail. This is a Boston-born classic that blends rye whiskey with citrus and grenadine for a bold, balanced sip honoring its historic roots in the city’s Eighth Ward. It’s perfect for toasting Super Bowl LX as well as honoring the New England Patriots. Try the recipe here!

A green last word cocktail in a coupe glass with a lime wedge garnish.

Shake Up a Cocktail for Seattle Seahawks Fans

The modern legend of the Last Word cocktail was forged in Seattle when bartender Murray Stenson resurrected the then-forgotten recipe. Raise a glass to the Seahawks with this spirited twist on this city staple. A balanced blend of herbal gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino, and fresh lime combine into something bright and tangy that’s perfect for Seattle’s Super Bowl LX journey. Shake one up here!

An overhead view of The best Wendy's Copycat chili in a bowl with grated cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream in a white bowl, with small bowls of sour cream, grated cheddar, and pepper, a couple saltine crackers, parsley sprigs and a gold spoon on a wooden surface.

Prepare What You Can Ahead of Time

Rushing around the morning of the Super Bowl to make all the preparations you need for the evening can be stressful. Simplify things by making what you can ahead of time. Chili is a great dish to prepare in advance that’s easy to make in big quantities for plenty of guests. Try our crowd pleasing Wendy’s Copycat Chili… just make sure you double or triple the recipe depending on your headcount. Then, you can ask your guests to bring crackers, cheese, chopped onion, or other accompaniments for a potluck style garnish situation.

Five homemade Empanadas sit on green wax paper. the Empanada in the middle has half of it eaten. homemade Empanadas recipe

Create the Perfect Menu of Bite and Cocktail Pairings

Don’t leave your guests overwhelmed by sweet, spicy, or salty flavors. Create a menu that balances bold food flavors with a cocktail counterpart. In our Bites and Cocktail Pairing article, we give you a variety of perfectly paired bites and cocktails resulting in flavor profiles that are just right. You’ll look like a culinary expert in front of all your friends!

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

Prep a Cocktail for Halftime

But, if you want something specific to Super Bowl LX, we’ve created a Hot Bunny Rum Smash cocktail in honor of Bad Bunny’s halftime performance. This recipe uses a Puerto Rican white rum along with orange juice, lime juice, habanero pepper slices, hot honey, as well as Tajín around the rim. Talk about a spicy way to heat up your excitement for the show!

A flat-lay image of an Edamame and Kale hummus dish with carrots, cucumbers, and radishes surrounding the plate.

Make Sure You Have Dietary Options

As much fun as the fried food on a Super Bowl night is, not everyone has the same dietary rules. By having some healthy plant-based, meat-free options, you can make sure that all your guests have something to enjoy. Check out our Healthy Game Day Recipes for a variety of dishes that are as delicious as they are good for you. Maybe you’ll make Fennel and Coriander Cashews for a quick snack or Edamame and Kale Hummus for a bigger bite.

Lowball glass with a pickleback mocktail inside topped with pickle spears and kosher salt on the rim as it sits on a grey table.

Batch a Cocktail but Be Mocktail Inclusive

While many consider making a batch cocktail (like our Sparkling Pomegranate Cosmo) available at their Super Bowl party, mocktail inclusions for those who abstain from alcohol are all the rage. Don’t let your friends feel left out when toasting touchdowns throughout the evening. The best part is that many mocktails use the same core ingredients as popular cocktails so you won’t have to add much to your shopping list. Get started with our tasty Mocktail Recipes and then let your creativity fly. You can even create your own kid-friendly “mocktail” so the little ones can have a special drink too. 

dessert bars

Don’t Forget About Dessert

Whenever you’re focusing on main dishes and drinks, it’s easy to forget about one of the most important preparations, dessert. But, you also don’t want your dessert dishes to take up all your cooking time and end up with a table of sweets and nothing else. Make things a little simpler this year with our Dessert Bar Recipes that can be made ahead of time and are the perfect handheld treat. We even have a recipe for Gluten-Free, Vegan Jammy Blueberry Bars so you can have an option for those with dietary restrictions.

A copper mug with a cocktail garnished with fresh mint next to a bottle of Dubliner Steelers Select Irish Whiskey on a brown wood surface.

For the Die Hard Steelers Fan

While we all know the Steelers won’t be in this year’s Super Bowl, we still can’t help but cheer them on. Bring a bit of your favorite team into your celebration with this Steelers game day menu made specifically for supporting the black and gold. Here you’ll find small bites like our Best Sloppy Joe Hand Pies and on-theme cocktails such as the Armchair Quarterback Cocktail. Needless to say, it’s a selection that even TJ Watt would love.

Set Yourself Up for Easy Cleanup 

Using your regular dinnerware is fine for a small gathering, but, let’s be honest, most people will be paying attention to the game, not your plates. Cleanup is easier with paper plates that are compostable, biodegradable, and eco-friendly. When the time comes to clean up, just scoop any extra compostable food and the plates into your compost bin and let nature do its work. You can also ask guests to bring their own take-home container to take home leftovers.

Still itching for more Super Bowl recipes? Check out our Super Bowl Spread for more ideas.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo courtesy of Elevate

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Real New England Patriots Celebrate Super Bowl LX with a Ward 8 Cocktail

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A martini glass with a red color cocktail and a mint garnish.

True New England Patriots fans! Gear up for Super Bowl LX with a Blood Orange Ward 8 Cocktail that runs red through your patriotic veins. All eyes will be on Drake May as he enters his first Super Bowl as the starting quarterback. With a 14-3 record, they match the same stats as their opponents, the Seattle Seahawks. But, it’s also Sam Darnold’s first time actually playing in a Super Bowl so it’s about as fair a match-up as you could get. As you get your spread ready, we encourage you to try a true taste of New England territory with a tangy, blood orange twist on this classic Boston cocktail. What better way is there to showcase some hometown spirit?

What is the History of the Ward 8 Cocktail?

The Ward 8 cocktail is older than Prohibition, dating back to late-19th-century Boston and closely tied to the city’s political history. It was even reportedly created to celebrate the election of Martin Lomasney, a powerful political figure in Boston’s Eighth Ward. Built on rye whiskey with citrus juices and grenadine, the drink reflects the era’s preference for softer drinks that favor fruit and sweetness. First appearing in print in the early 1900s, the Ward 8 became a regional classic, embodying Boston’s civic pride. Today, it endures as a symbol of American cocktail history, ironic given we’re also celebrating 250 years of America.

Are you more of a Seahawks fan? If so, head over to our delicious take on the classic Last Word. We developed this teal-toned tribute to the Seahawks for your Super Bowl LX viewing pleasure.

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A martini glass with a red color cocktail and a mint garnish.

Blood Orange Ward 8 Cocktail


  • Author: TABLE Magazine Staff

Description

A bright, blood-orange cocktail that brings Patriots red to the glass.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz rye whiskey
  • ¾ oz fresh blood orange juice
  • ½ oz fresh lemon juice
  • ½ oz fresh orange juice
  • ¼ oz grenadine
  • Mint for garnish


Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
  4. Garnish with mint.

Prepare the rest of your Super Bowl Sunday with our ultimate guide that includes recipes, tips, and so much more!

Recipe by TABLE Magazine Staff
Photo Courtesy of Clovis Wood

Subscribe to TABLE Magazine‘s print edition.

A Seattle Seahawks Cocktail for Celebrating Super Bowl LX

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A green last word cocktail in a coupe glass with a lime wedge garnish.

For the first time since 2014, the Seattle Seahawks are back on the field for Super Bowl LX. Facing the New England Patriots, the Seattle Seahawks go into the game with a 14-3 record mainly thanks to quarterback, Sam Darnold. This will be Darnold’s first time actually starting in a Super Bowl as his 2023 appearance as a backup quarterback earned him no playing time. Now, we’re ready to cheer on the whole team as they battle for the title of Super Bowl LX Champions. Get in the spirit with our Seattle Seahawks Cocktail that’s a take on the Last Word cocktail.

The Last Word Cocktail and Its Seattle Roots

The Last Word cocktail actually came about during Prohibition at the Detroit Athletic Club and then later was recorded in Ted Saucier’s 1951 book Bottoms Up!. The simplest recipe for this cocktail uses equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. It’s an unlikely balance of herbal, sweet, and tart. But, oddly enough, it wasn’t until 2005 that this cocktail actually garnered a reputation. Over at Zig Zag Café in Seattle, Murray Stenson came across Saucier’s book and the rest is history! By adding the cocktail to their menu, Zig Zag helped bring about the revival of pre-Prohibition cocktails, cementing the Last Word as a modern classic.

Our recipe below adjusts the proportions a bit to emphasize the herbal and tart notes over the sweetness. The tang keeps you on edge of your seat, which makes it perfect for Super Bowl viewing.

If you’re on the edge of your seat rooting for the Patriots, you might prefer our bright red take on the Ward 8 cocktail.

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A green last word cocktail in a coupe glass with a lime wedge garnish.

A Seattle Seahawks Cocktail


  • Author: TABLE Magazine Staff

Description

The Seattle Seahawks will be having the Last Word on the field!


Ingredients

Scale


Instructions

  1. Place a coupe glass in the freezer to frost the glass.
  2. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
  3. Shake hard until well mixed.
  4. Strain into the chilled coupe.

Prepare the rest of your Super Bowl Sunday with our ultimate guide that includes recipes, tips, and so much more!

Recipe by TABLE Magazine Staff

Subscribe to TABLE Magazine‘s print edition.

Violinist Mia Asano on Rocking the Classical Music World

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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. 

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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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

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.

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

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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

A fancy bottle with a deep red Good Luck Sparkling Pomegranate Cosmo on a tray with 2 cocktail glasses, orange slices, an open pomegranate, and lemon slices in front of a blurred Christmas tree.

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

An overhead photo of a chocolate cut cut into wedges with berries, on a blue wooden surface.

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

An overhead photo of an oval dish with pickled asparagus spears, a glove of garlic, and a bay leaf, on a black surface with sprinkled salt.

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

An overhead photo of a Lemon Saffron Tort in the upper left corner, three cream colored plates with slices of the tort with berries, and chocolate tarts at the bottom of the photo.

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

A clear mug with a Hot Honey Hot Toddy inside featuring a metal spoon, cinnamon stick, and lemon round.

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

Dirty Blondies with Chocolate, Hazelnut & Coffee - Decadent and chewy blondies loaded with chocolate chunks and toasted hazelnuts

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

Two tall glasses hold strawberry daiquiris, frozen and topped with strawberries and lime slices as more strawberry and lime slices lay on the table below.

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

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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

Green eggs adorned with flowers sit on three different plates.

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

A bowl of pumpkin soup garnished with sesame seeds on a dark blue ceramic plate

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

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.

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

A partially sliced loaf of peanut butter cup banana bread on a brown and white floral plate with a small bowl of whipped butter and a little dish of wrapped Reese's peanut butter cups.

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

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

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

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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

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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

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.

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 clear mug with a Hot Honey Hot Toddy inside featuring a metal spoon, cinnamon stick, and lemon round.

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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