Your Daily Dose of Food News, Events and Must-Read Miscellany

1. Manuel “Manu” Alfau is on schedule to launch La Bodega, his brick and mortar Dominican spot, in Pioneer Square this Thursday. Check Facebook for opening day updates. Also, La Bodega is preparing pasteles en hoja (Dominican tamales made with plantains) for holiday parties for $75 a dozen or $7 each. E-mail info@labodegaseattle to place an order.

2. Roosevelt’s Thrive celebrates its 5th birthday today. In addition to releasing an updated menu, the gluten-free vegetarian restaurant is presenting lectures, free samples and a sale at its on-site store from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Check out the schedule and more details here.

3. Also today, Watson Kennedy in downtown Seattle hosts a release party for Jennifer Shea’s highly giftable Trophy Cupcakes & Parties! The 5:00 to 6:30 pm free event includes bubbly, sparkling cider, and, yep, cupcakes. Space is limited, email rsvp@trophycupcakes.com before you go.

4. Kedai Makan will serve a limited menu on Christmas Eve that includes biryani, an Indian rice dish that’s popular in Malaysia. The tiny Capitol Hill eatery will be closed from January 14 until February 6 while owners Kevin Burzell, Alysson Wilson and crew jet over to Malaysia for a holiday and some culinary inspiration.