Anniversaries at The Hightower and Backspace

Class previews at the Sustainable Food Center, volunteer opportunities at Somms Under Fire, and more afternoon bites.

Much like Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky, Shawn Cirkiel’s backspace is having a 5th anniversary this year. To celebrate, they are offering half off pizza during lunch beginning Monday, Jan. 11 and complimentary glasses of Prosecco to every dinner guest between Jan. 11-31. That's almost as generous as Clinton’s special correspondent gig. #topical

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In other birthday news, The Hightower is turning 2 on January 17, but much like George W. Bush aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, the restaurant is celebrating early. (Zing!) Starting Monday, Jan. 11, chef Chad Dolezal and Victor Farnsworth’s restaurant will offer a special including a select entrée, appetizer, and libation for $22 per person. On the actual big day, they will celebrate with brunch and an all-night happy hour.

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Also on Jan 11, Hops & Grain Brewery are teaming up with the 1886 Cafe & Bakery at the Driskill for a four-course pairing dinner. So maybe take it easy on Sunday brunch, OK? You'll have lots to do on Monday. Tickets here.

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Jacoby’s is running an extended happy hour through January including a $7 Melvin Mule, $6 select wine, $10 burger and fries, and $5 Salisbury meatballs inspired by the Salisbury steak from the original Jacoby’s Cafe in Melvin. Tuesday-Saturday, 5-7 p.m.

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The Wine and Food Foundation of Texas is seeking a few good volunteers to help out with the Keeper Collection’s annual Somms Under Fire competition. Apply for registration or tear down opportunities here.

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We know that learning something new is one of your New Year’s resolutions because we might have stumbled upon your diary while trying to borrow your velvet scrunchie. So why not see what the Sustainable Food Center has to offer on their class preview night. The event is free with registration, and you’ll even get a 15-20% discount on classes that you sign up for for that night.