The last few weeks of 2019 are packed with opportunities to eat, shop, and drink local at holiday markets, cocktail classes, and brunches. This week’s calendar also includes the arrival of another bar arcade option and an opportunity to drink for a good cause. 

Cafe Bonaparte gets a rebrand

A new name, menu, and chef are in store for Georgetown’s Cafe Bonaparte. The cozy bistro will reopen this Thursday as Lutèce by Bonaparte, promising French food with a “Parisian flair.” Chef Martin Senoville comes to D.C. from the French capital with classic, rich dishes like seared foie gras and lobster French toast, alongside lighter options like a vegetable grain bowl. (1522 Wisconsin Ave., opens 11 a.m. on Thursday)

Brews at Zoolights

The annual Brewlights event returns to the Smithsonian National Zoo this Thursday evening. Admission grants access to nine beer pavilions, a s’mores station, DJs, carol singers, and a souvenir cup. Participating breweries include Atlas Brew Works, Anxo Cidery, Hellbender Brewing, Union Craft Brewing, Troegs Independent Brewing, and many others from D.C. and across the U.S. Advanced tickets are for sale online. (3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Thursday, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., $65 or $55 for FONZ members)

Peak clementine season

A pop of citrus from a sweet clementine orange is one sure way to brighten up these dreary winter days. Area locations of Jaleo are giving the fruit a Spanish twist this month, featuring them in savory dishes, desserts, and cocktails. Try them paired with pork belly confit and butternut squash puree, seared with goat cheese, or drink them with gin, sparkling wine, and lime. (All area Jaleo locations, through December 22, $9-$16, a la carte). 

Georgetown gets another arcade bar

Church Hall is adding another dimension of entertainment to its extensive craft beer list and sports bar vibe. Drop by this Friday night for its arcade launch party, featuring 12 new games like NBA Jam, Mortal Kombat, Dance Dance Revolution, and other favorites. On Friday, 50 arcade credits will be included with bar tabs of $20 or more, and balances can be used at sister bars Penn Social, Boardwalk, and Astro Beer Hall. Group buyouts are available as well. (1070 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Friday from 9 p.m. to close, a la carte or included with a $20 bar tab)

Brunch gets rolling at Nina May

In a groove after opening last month, Shaw’s Nina May has added a weekend brunch to its lineup. The kitchen draws inspiration from New American classics sourced from within 150 miles of D.C. Dishes include buckwheat pancakes with braised apples, pork belly and sweet potato hash, a Maryland oyster bowl, vegetable-forward sides and more. While you’re at it, sip on a bloody Mary, a seasonal pear mimosa, and other brunch-focused cocktails. (1337 11th St. NW, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., a la carte)

Test your holiday knowledge over brunch

Swing over to City Tap House in Penn Quarter this Saturday for a holiday-themed brunch and trivia game. Stuff yourself with gingerbread pancakes, eggnog French toast and other seasonal treats including a make-your-own hot chocolate bar. Port City Brewery will be on hand along with Santa Claus himself. The winning team will get passes to the Enchant exhibit at Nationals Park. (901 9th St. NW, Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., a la carte)

How to make a coquito

Spanish for “little coconut,” the coquito is a traditional Christmas drink from Puerto Rico that’s creamy and spiced, like eggnog. Forthcoming Puerto Rican restaurant La Famosa will walk through how to make the seasonal cocktail during a class this Sunday afternoon. The event will be held at Cotton and Reed rum distillery and include three variations on the drink, each made with a Cotton and Reed rum. Tickets are available online. (1330 5th St. NE, Sunday, 2 p.m., $66)

A royal holiday party

Holiday-inspired cocktails and Mexican snacks will fill The Royal this Monday night. Sit back and enjoy movies on the projector screen while sipping on drinks, including creations from guest bartender Ian Fletcher (Calico, Tiger Fork, Fainting Goat). A few boozy presents may make the rounds as well. (501 Florida Ave. NW, Monday at 8 p.m., $8 special cocktails and a la carte snacks)

The Midlands gets into the spirit

Tuesday night marks the second annual holiday market at The Midlands in Park View. The dog-friendly event overlaps with happy hour and goes into the night with hot mulled cider and spiced rum, Irish coffee, and beer to pair with a couple of food vendors (pizza and Jamaican bites are the current plan). After you drink and eat, browse the more than 20 local vendors scheduled to attend. (3333 Georgia Ave. NW, Tuesday, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. free entry)

An evening of mezcal and Mexican cooking

Fans of small batch mezcal and elevated Mexican cuisine should plan now for next Wednesday’s pairing dinner at Poca Madre. Fidencio Mezcal founder Arik Torren will lead the tasting alongside the restaurant’s beverage director, Amin Seddiq. Expect a welcome cocktail followed by five courses of food from chef Victor Albisu, plated both individually and family-style. (777 I St. NW, Wednesday December 18, 7 p.m., $115 all-inclusive)

This post has been updated to clarify the arcade credit at Church Hall.