Wilmington bakeries, distilleries celebrating Shark Week
What started as a television win for the Discovery Channel has evolved into something more akin to a pop culture phenomenon. Local restaurants, and other businesses, have long added shark-themed events, drinks and specials to their own programming to coincide with the movies and documentaries that air annually, and this year is no exception.
Unfortunately, we have already missed the shark-themed trivia night held at Local’s Tavern in Leland on Tuesday, but there are still a few ways to celebrate before the week ends on Sunday. Here are some of them.
Baking at the beach
Shark Week isn’t typically something that One Belle Bakery, 1616 Shipyard Blvd in Wilmington, celebrates. Instead, they let the decorators be guided by their creativity. This week, they were inspired by sharks, said manager Sarah Sillings.
“Our bakers are finding every reason to be creative and give people something to smile about,“ Sillings said.
Customers have enjoyed the fin-topped cupcakes and homemade shark dog treats, so the theme may be one they revisit this time next year.
Cakes to order
Another local bakery, Pink Baking Co. at 4545 Fountain Drive, said sharks make popular cakes for birthdays, showers and for Shark Week. They do need a 48-hour notice for specialty cakes, so it may be difficult to schedule one for this year -- unless you plan to extend your shark week celebration.
Jaws-worthy giveaway
Locally based Blue Shark Vodka is offering a giveaway with a day at sea on the Cricket II, the boat used in the original Jaws movie, said Brooke Bloomquist, president. The restored boat is now docked in Morehead City. The prize includes a cruise for two, catered lunch, a professionally filmed video and, of course, some great vodka.
To be eligible to win, you can text “shark” to 888111. You can also go to their Facebook page for more information. The brand’s original bottle with the shark at the bottom are also back in stock and available at New Hanover County ABC stores.
Shark movies, and teeth
EOD Distillery, at 1815 Castle St. in Wilmington, is also getting in on the sharky action by screening appropriate movies, along with popcorn and food trucks. It started Wednesday with Jaws and continues today, Thursday, with The Meg. Watch at 2:30 or 4:30 p.m.
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On Friday, there is a shark teeth booth, ILM Rock Painting, the 2 Bros. Coastal Cuisine and cotton candy. On Saturday, Jaws screens again at 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. and the Vital Seen food truck will be on hand as well.
While you’re there, check out some specialty cocktails, like Blood in the Water (a twist on a watermelon cooler), The Big Meg or the Shipwreck.
