We've all got a lot to be thankful for: The recession is over (supposedly), the world is still spinning, and Glenn Beck's communist appendix finally escaped its dank cell. Hollywood eatery Lola's on Harrison has a pretty good list too: Michael Wagner and company are going into their third season in H-town with a bunch of renovations under their belt, and the place seems to be as popular as ever. To celebrate, Lola's is throwing Lolapalooza, a night-long thanks-giving to its loyal supporters. Starting at 8 p.m. November 20 (7 p.m. for VIP guests), Lola's will offer a spread of all-you-can-scarf comestibles along with live music, spirits, and a live cooking demo from Wagner. You'll get to taste the food that's made Lola's such a hit and mingle with the staff that puts it together. Perry Farrell, eat your heart out. Tickets cost $30 at the door ($25 if you preregister online); bring a canned good for the Thanksgiving food drive and you'll get entered into a raffle as well.
Never have a couple of cans of food or an unopened toy earned you access to a cooler party than the one going down at J.D.'s Bar and Lounge in Coral Springs this Saturday night at 8. The holiday drive is collecting Toys for Tots and canned goods for the Daily Bread Food Bank and will feature entertainment, food, and lots of booze. Saints and Sinners classic cars will be there; so will local burlesque queen Morgan La Rue in full regalia. You can dance to live rockabilly (preferably with one of the Marines in attendance) and grub on artisan barbecue from the nomadic Swanky's Low and Slow BBQ. Find J.D.'s at 10311 W. Sample Road in Coral Springs.
Thanksgiving is approaching fast -- do you know where your holiday meal is? If not, check out the special four-course Turkey Day menu at Palm d'Or in Coral Gables' landmark Biltmore Hotel. Chef Philippe Ruiz is planning a classic French dinner with wine pairings for $80 a head. If you'd rather cook it yourself, sign up for the Biltmore's Thanksgiving dinner cooking class on November 19 at 6:30 p.m. The class will be taught by Biltmore executive chef Roly Cruz-Taura. Call 305-445-1926 for more info or reservations.
