This Weekend’s Five Best Food and Drink Events – 2/13/2015

For some, there will be meals inspired by love. For others, the fun reminder over drinks that single rhymes with mingle. And for everyone undecided, here are five food and drink events to guide your weekend decisions.

New Brunch, Galli, 98 Rivington Street, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.

The Lower East Side location of this Italian comfort food abode recently launched a new weekend brunch, with decadent dishes such as a breakfast bucatini and a hangover platter highlighted by rice balls and mozzarella chips. There’s also standard fare such as waffles and egg frittatas. Cocktails include a kale and vodka combination along with an arrabbiata sauce–flavored bloody mary.

One Night Stand, Birreria, 200 Fifth Avenue, Saturday, noon

Starting at noon, Eataly’s rooftop biergarten will offer free entrance along with $3 beer and food tickets for people who are purposely avoiding Cupid’s arrow. The offer will run until midnight and include brews from Birreria brewmaster Fred Avila, with eighteen different breweries represented. Food pairings — think sausage and more — are also available.

All-Star 2015 40 oz & Waffles #NYC Edition, 404, 404 Tenth Avenue, Saturday, 1 p.m.

Before sitting down to watch the NBA All-Star Game — which takes place in NYC this year — consider feasting on red velvet waffles topped with cognac syrup or alcohol-infused doughnuts. Activities outside of eating include an indoor hoops shooting contest, photo booths, and live music. Beer and specialty cocktails will also be on hand; reserve your ticket for $65.

Winter Hot Dog Championship, Jimmy’s No. 43, 43 East 7th Street, Sunday, 1 p.m.

Since the ballpark is closed, those needing a hot dog fix should head to the warm confines of Jimmy’s. For $20, guests can sample three gourmet hot dogs until 4 p.m. before declaring a winner. The fabulous franks come with toppings such as Sriracha ketchup and deviled egg cream. There will also be Danish-style dogs courtesy of Revolving Dansk, and drinks will be available to purchase. Purchase your ticket in advance.

Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball, The Lion, 62 West 9th Street, Sunday, 7:30 p.m.

Even the Phantom of the Opera can’t resist a masquerade ball in preparation for Fat Tuesday. For $50, guests receive an assortment of hors d’oeuvres in addition to live entertainment; there’s also an open bar offer, which adds New Orleans–style cocktails and wine for $90. Black-tie attire is suggested and masks are mandatory. Secure your ticket.