Altstadt's Grand Opening, Cookies, Cupcakes & More!

BELLTOWN— Now that Movember is good and over, perhaps you're ready for a (wait for it) Beard? James Beard Award winner (Best Food Blog 2013) Hank Shaw will be at Local 360 on Monday, December 9 to host a 3-course dinner with a tasting menu "for the birds." The menu includes a goose liver vin-dressed salad, a confit of goose with pasta, and a duck egg cake. $75 gets you the tasting menu for two and an autographed copy of Hank's new cookbook, Duck, Duck, Goose. E-mail reservations@local360.org for reservations. [EaterWire]

SEATTLE— If cupcakes are more your thing, you can head to any Cupcake Royale on December 9 to celebrate the company's 10 year anniversary. They'll be giving free "Dancy Party" Babycakes all day, and slinging merch at sweet prices. The Madrona flagship will have an actual dance party from 6 to 9 pm that night, with apps and bubbles to complement your sugar high. [EaterWire]

PIONEER SQUARE— It's time! It's time! It's time for brats! Altstadt has been quietly serving food to Pioneer Square for the last couple weeks, but on December 5, they'll be celebrating their official grand opening. The beer and bratwurst hall is Hitchcock Chef/Owner Brendan McGill's latest project, and will be open daily from 11 am to midnight. [EaterWire]

WEST SEATTLE— Salty's on Alki wants to celebrate the tradition of eating cookies when it's cold out, with a holiday cookie decorating tutorial. Pastry chef Jena Sorbera will be teaching families how to decorate cookies tonight, December 4, from 6 to 7 pm. For $30, families get a dozen cookies to decorate, snacks, cookie recipes, and cookie cutters. Space is limited. Call (206) 937-1600 to reserve your spot. [West Seattle Blog]