By Ariana Carpentieri, Athena Palmer, and Jennifer McClelland-Smith
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to cozy up with some good books while you’re feeling fervently festive. If you’re looking for some inspo to throw your own little bookish soirée this holiday season, then look no further! Team Forge has you covered. Read below to see the food & drinks we think would make the perfect pairings with some of our 2022 books so that you can forge your own holiday party!
What to Eat: This poignant book is centered around love and family, so we think a food that’s shareable with your loved ones would be a great fit. A delicious pull-apart crescent Christmas tree is going to warm you up inside and have anyone you choose to share it with feeling extra cheery.
Oh, and we can’t forget about your canine companions! They certainly deserve some doggy-safe rolls of their own so they can take part in the festive fun!
What to Drink: A classic Christmas tale such as this one simply must be paired with a staple Christmas beverage! And nothing screams ‘Christmas’ more than a good ole cup of eggnog does. Feel free to make yourself a spiked eggnog if you’re looking to spice things up a little!
And of course you can also brew up a cup of cheer for your sweet puppy pal by making them this dog friendly version of eggnog.
What to Eat: This book is set in the upscale DC private school scene, so we think a fancier food that’s popular in the DC area would be the way to go. One of the most iconic dishes in our nation’s capital is a delicious lobster French toast. A comforting breakfast meets a decadent beach cookout, this French toast is bedecked with lobster galore, diced cucumber, Asian pear, and an alluring sesame mousse. Furthermore, this is definitely a perfect pick because All the Dirty Secrets has some deadly beach party scene secrets!
What to Drink: Chapter one starts off with the mention of a whiskey sour—a drink that will pack the perfect punch for such a strong read like this one. Want to make it festive? Then you can try this delicious-sounding gingerbread version! But if you’d rather sip on something a little less potent, then a whiskey sour mocktail would work just as well.
What to Eat: Nothing would pair better with this book than a warm, traditional Gullah Geechee meal. Whether you’re within driving distance of a Gullah restaurant or your everyday grocery store, Gullah Red Rice is hot, easy, and delicious.
What to Drink: Your iced tea of choice.
What to Eat: Her Perfect Life is set in Boston, so we recommend going with the classic Boston combo of fresh seafood followed by a rich dessert from a family run Italian bakery. Clam Chowder and Cannolis might not sound like a natural pairing, but trust us, it works.
What to Drink: Depending on what time of day you’re reading, either a hot black coffee from Dunkin Donuts or a glass of wine.
What to Eat: Matt Goldman brings Beaufort, South Carolina to life in this atmospheric book club read. Celebrate coastal living and Southern flavors with a classic like Shrimp & Grits. Top it off with a Lady Baltimore Cake for dessert.
What to Drink: Famous throughout South Carolina, enjoy an old-fashioned Blenheim’s Ginger Ale. It packs a powerful gingery punch. Looking for a boozy option? Top your ginger ale off with your favorite whiskey!
What to Eat: Set in Laguna Beach, you can practically feel the Pacific waves tickle your toes throughout T. Jefferson Parker’s throwback to the 60s. Capture the best of SoCal cuisine with shrimp tacos. Enjoy some of the best berries in the country with Strawberry Shortcake for dessert.
What to Drink: A margarita on the rocks with fresh lime juice is in order for a trip to Laguna Beach. A fresh juice featuring citrus, pomegranate or berries will also do the trick.
