Winter at Queenstown Harbor, in the heart of Queenstown, Maryland, brings a quieter pace, cozy moments, and plenty of reasons to gather around good food and great drinks. Whether you’re stopping by The Tavern at Queenstown Harbor after a crisp round of golf or enjoying a relaxed evening at home, these are the flavors we find ourselves reaching for this time of year.
From refreshing cocktails to shareable Tavern bites, we’re sharing a few Queenstown Harbor favorites you can recreate at home – along with a reminder that there’s nothing quite like enjoying them fireside with us. Consider these suggestions from QH, inspired by the comfort, conversation, and easygoing hospitality that make winter at Queenstown Harbor something special.
Top Drinks & Dishes to Kick Off the New Year
Sparkling Citrus Punch, QH Style
Light, bright, and perfect for winter gatherings or a simple toast at home.
You’ll need:
- Sparkling wine or soda water (for a Dry January option)
- Fresh orange slices
- Lemon slices
- Fresh mint
How to make it:
Fill a pitcher with ice, add citrus slices and mint, then top with sparkling wine or soda water. Stir gently and serve chilled.
QH note: This is a favorite when guests want something refreshing without feeling heavy.
Pomegranate Ginger Spritz
A little tang, a little kick, and all celebration.
You’ll need:
- Pomegranate juice
- Ginger beer or ginger soda
- Sparkling wine or soda water
How to make it:
Fill a glass with ice, add pomegranate juice and ginger beer in equal parts, then top with sparkling wine or soda water. Stir lightly and garnish if you’re feeling festive.
QH note: It’s one of those drinks that feels just as right après-golf as it does by the fire.
Classic French 75 (Tavern Favorite)
Crisp, elegant, and always celebration-ready.
You’ll need:
- Gin (try Empress Gin for a fun color twist)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Champagne
How to make it:
Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice. Strain into a flute and top with champagne. Finish with a lemon twist.
QH note: When in doubt, this is the one we recommend for any celebration!
QH Tavern Bites to Recreate at Home
Soft Pretzel with Beer Cheese or Crab Dip
Easy at-home version:
- Warm soft pretzels
- Beer cheese or crab dip, gently warmed
QH tip: Serve both dips to your out of town guests – because choosing is overrated.
Loaded Tavern Potato Wedges
Comfort food done right.
You’ll need:
- Potato wedges
- Olive oil, salt, pepper
- Cheese, bacon, green onions, sour cream (and any other toppings that suit your fancy)
How to make it:
Roast wedges at 425°F until crispy. Top with cheese and return to the oven until melted. Finish with your favorite toppings.
Flatbread Night, Inspired by The Tavern
Perfect for sharing, just like at The Tavern at Queenstown Harbor.
Start with:
- Store-bought flatbreads or naan
Topping ideas:
- BBQ Chicken: BBQ sauce, cooked chicken, mozzarella
- Buffalo Chicken: Buffalo sauce, chicken, cheese, drizzle ranch after baking
- Margherita: Olive oil, fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil
Bake at 425°F until bubbly and lightly crisped.
A Local Favorite Near Kent Island & Centreville
The Tavern at Queenstown Harbor is more than just a restaurant. It’s a place where locals from Kent Island, Centreville, and across the Eastern Shore of Maryland come together for great food, handcrafted drinks, and an atmosphere that feels like home.
Whether you’re kicking off the New Year, planning a casual night out, or looking for your new favorite happy hour spot, The Tavern delivers comfort, flavor, and a welcoming vibe all season long.