Celebrating Hanukkah in Boston

Hanukkah has begun.  And while some may observe the holiday with a traditional family get together each of the 8 nights of Hanukkah – not everyone can engage in the same type of celebration they grew up knowing. So how can you take part in the Festival of Lights without spending your days making potato latkes and homemade applesauce on your own?  We have two great local options for celebrating Hanukkah out on the town or for bringing the fixings home for a more private observance of the holiday.

If heading out to celebrate with others is more your style, Upstairs on the Square in Harvard Square has the venue and menu to delight even the most critical of guests. Every evening beginning Thursday, December 2^nd and continuing through Wednesday, December 8^th, join the ladies of the square at their Soirée Dining Room for a Hanukkah extension of their everyday menu offerings.  Chef Steven Brand’s Hanukkah menu includes a beef brisket more tender and wonderful than you ever imagined it could be.  The menu is $52 per person and includes crispy potato latkes, matzo ball soup, a choice of entrée and ends with spiced jelly donut holes. What could be better? In fact, returning night after night may not be such a bad option at all. Reservations are recommended.

Location: 91 Winthrop St., Harvard Square, Cambridge 617.864.1933 upstairsonthesquare.com

If you would prefer to observe the holiday at home with family and friends but just don’t have the time, patience or will to  create all the traditional foods for the celebration, Whole Foods Markets in Boston is now offering a Hanukkah menu at their Symphony location. Offerings include traditional sides, soups, a la carte entrees, and sweet treats.  Some great options to try include their carrots tzimmes, brown gravy, Harira Moroccan bean & vegetable soup, herb roasted turkey breast, shredded brussel sprouts & apple slaw and their chocolate ganache cake. Order can be made online or instore.

Location: 15 Westland Ave., behind Symphony Hall, Boston 617.375.1010 wholefoodsmarket.com

If a kosher meal is of importance to you and your guests, check out kashrut.com for a list of spots offering kosher services in the Boston.