Boozy Cupcakes at Cupcake Royale; Dinner at Volunteer Park Cafe

CUPCAKE WIRE -- In case you needed another excuse to eat cupcakes, Cupcake Royale has created a line of boozy cakelets to celebrate fall. They've partnered with the likes of Elysian, Hilliard's, 2 Beers, Seattle Cider Co., and Finnriver Cider on four new cupcakes: Caramel Brandied Pear, Pumpkin Ale, Tipsy Apple, and German Chocolate Stout. They're available now through October 31. [EaterWire]

CAPITOL HILL -- Chef Ericka Burke is rolling out a new dinner menu format at Volunteer Park Cafe.The menu's specials will change each week to reflect items available at local markets, and menu favorites like braised beef brisket with creamy polenta will make appearances, too. Reservations are recommended for the Tuesday through Saturday service. [EaterWire]

WOODINVILLE -- In much less upbeat news, revered food and wine guru John Sarich passed away Sunday after battling thyroid cancer. The Seattle Times called Sarich "Washington’s first and most prolific wine-and-food ambassador" and Seattle Met described him as "a quiet culinary force." Among his many accomplishments, Sarich most recently held the position of culinary director at Chateau Ste. Michelle and is credited with elevating the status of regional wine and its relationship to cuisine. [EaterWire]