Shop Georgetown: Mayfair and Pine

Patch is talking to small businesses in Georgetown this week as we gear up for Small Business Saturday. 

We received these answers from Mayfair and Pine's Chef Emily Spressler.

What's your biggest selling holiday item? 

So far we are selling our Beef Wellington Nibbles by the boat load. Since the weather got cold our Filet of Beef and Shepherd’s Pie are flying out the door.

Any crazy prep (more wine? extra champagne?)?

Funny about the champagne! We are hosting a Champagne dinner at Mayfair & Pine with Thibaut-Janisson Winery on Friday, December 7th (Tickets available through CityEats - https://secure.cityeats.com/dc/restaurants/mayfair-and-pine-dc/restaurant_offers/63), so yes we are ordering more!  In terms of crazy prep we have daily orders for take out mini pies.  The sales have been a bit a crazy, so I’ve had to take them off the regular menu just to keep up with the catering demand. The leek and onion tart has stayed on the menu.  So if you can’t find me I’m rolling puff pastry for chicken pot pies and sausage apple pies! 

Do you have special holiday hours?

As right now, no.  With the inauguration in January and all those early bookings we have our hands full!

What's your favorite part of the holiday season?

Wrapping the Christmas presents.  I don’t know why but I love settling in after all have gone to bed and getting all the paper, ribbons, and tags organized.  Then choosing which pattern paper fits the person.  Also, you can’t beat 24 hours of “A Christmas Story”.

What's the one item you recommend?

I do love the calamari and always will.  But I always recommend the Scallops.  I change the components from season to season, but I love to cook Scallops.

What's the most overlooked item?

The Pork with Apple and Plum Gastrique

Where are you going to holiday shop/dine locally?

I will be doing the bulk of my shopping at Kinder Haus Toys and Barstons Child’s Play. For the grown-ups I’ll stop by Wide World of Wines and the Macaron Bee for some lovely treats. I usually hit up the Mom’s Organic Markets around the holidays since most of the farmer’s markets are closed for provisions.  Also I will hit up the Lush store on M St for some pampering supplies.  As for dining, it’ll be the family meal at Mayfair & Pine until 2013. Gotta love the holidays!

Are you optimistic or pessimistic about sales?

You know, if I happen upon something I actually need and it’s on sale great!