Backgammon & Cribbage: New Games for Game Day?

Are you a fan of strategy and friendly competition? We’re exploring the idea of adding Backgammon and Cribbage to Ha’Penny Beach Club’s Game Day lineup, and we’d love your input!

Backgammon is a classic game of strategy and luck, combining quick decisions with careful planning. Meanwhile, Cribbage offers a unique mix of card play and scoring, perfect for those who enjoy a fast-paced, brain-teasing challenge. Both games are easy to learn and endlessly entertaining for players of all levels.

If you’d be interested in playing Backgammon or Cribbage on Game Day, please reach out to Tom Rusling at tgrusling@gmail.com. Your feedback will help us determine if these games become part of our regular lineup.

Let’s make Game Day even more fun! Whether you’re a seasoned player or curious to learn, we hope to see you at the club.

A Delicious Evening at Ha’Penny Beach Club: Steak Night Recap

On Tuesday, January 14th, members and guests of Ha’Penny Beach Club gathered for a much-anticipated Steak Night—an evening of fine dining, lively conversation, and exceptional service. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, setting the perfect stage for a memorable culinary experience.

Appetizer

The meal began with a refreshing Citrus Marinated Shrimp Cocktail, a light yet flavorful starter that paired tender shrimp with the bright tang of citrus. It was the ideal way to awaken the palate and set the tone for the courses to come.

Main Course

The highlight of the evening was the Grilled Filet Mignon, perfectly cooked to each guest’s preference. It was accompanied by Duchess Potatoes, delicately piped and baked to golden perfection, and a side of rich, velvety Creamed Spinach. The meal was elevated by the addition of Buerre Rouge, a red wine butter sauce that added a luxurious touch to every bite.

For those who preferred a non-steak option, a substitute was thoughtfully prepared for guests who made requests at the time of reservation. This attention to individual preferences underscored the club’s commitment to providing an inclusive dining experience for all.

Dessert

The meal concluded on a sweet note with a decadent Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding. Each bite was a harmonious balance of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and a comforting bread pudding base, leaving diners both satisfied and delighted.

The January 14th Steak Night was more than just a meal—it was a celebration of community and culinary artistry. Members left the evening with full bellies and happy hearts, already looking forward to the next special dining event at Ha’Penny Beach Club.

If you missed this delightful evening, make sure to keep an eye on the upcoming events calendar so you can join us for the next unforgettable gathering!

How to Play Bocci: A Simple Guide

Bocci (also spelled bocce) is a fun, relaxing game that combines strategy, precision, and a touch of friendly competition. Rooted in Italian tradition, this timeless pastime is easy to learn and perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re playing at Ha’Penny Beach Club or in your backyard, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy a game of bocci.

What You’ll Need

  1. Bocci Set
    A set typically includes:
    • 8 bocci balls (4 of one color, 4 of another)
    • 1 pallino (the smaller target ball)
  2. Playing Area
    • A flat, smooth surface is ideal, such as grass, sand, or a bocci court.
    • A regulation bocci court measures 60 feet by 12 feet, but you can adjust the size to suit your space.

Objective of the Game

The goal is simple: toss your bocci balls closer to the pallino than your opponent’s balls. Points are scored based on proximity to the pallino at the end of each round (called a frame).

Game Setup

  1. Divide Into Teams
    Bocci can be played as singles (1v1) or doubles (2v2). Each player or team gets four bocci balls.
  2. Determine First Player
    Flip a coin or play rock-paper-scissors to decide who throws the pallino first.
  3. Toss the Pallino
    The first player throws the pallino into the playing area. It must land at least halfway down the court.

How to Play

  1. First Toss
    The player who threw the pallino also throws the first bocci ball, aiming to get it as close to the pallino as possible.
  2. Alternate Turns
    • The opposing team throws next, attempting to land their ball closer to the pallino than the first ball.
    • Play alternates between teams until all balls have been thrown.
    • A team continues throwing until they place a ball closer to the pallino than the opponent’s closest ball.
  3. Strategy
    • You can aim to get your ball close to the pallino or knock your opponent’s balls farther away.
    • Precision and placement are key to earning points.

Scoring

  1. Determine Points
    • At the end of the frame, the team with the closest ball to the pallino scores points.
    • One point is awarded for each ball closer to the pallino than the opponent’s closest ball.
  2. Winning the Game
    • Games typically go to 12 points, but you can set a different target based on your preferences.

Tips for Playing Bocci

  • Master Your Grip: Hold the bocci ball comfortably with your palm facing up for better control.
  • Use Your Surroundings: Adjust your throw based on the terrain—roll gently on smooth surfaces or toss higher on uneven ground.
  • Practice Patience: It’s not always about power. A well-placed toss often beats a forceful one.

Why Bocci is Great

Bocci is more than just a game—it’s a way to unwind, connect with friends, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re playing casually or in a spirited match, bocci offers something for everyone.

So grab your bocci set, find a flat surface, and let the games begin. You might discover your new favorite pastime!

Ha Penny’s New Wine List and Upgraded Bar Experience

At Ha Penny, we believe that happy hour should be more than just a routine—it should be an indulgent experience. That’s why we are excited to announce the arrival of Ha Penny’s upgraded wine list and enhancements to our Bar Counter experience!

New Wines by the Glass

We’ve curated a premium selection of wines now available by the glass at the Bar Counter for $19. This carefully chosen list includes a variety of whites, reds, and sparkling wines, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate. For a more casual option, our Bar Cart Wines offer great quality at just $12 per glass, making it easier than ever to enjoy a fantastic pour.

Bar Cart Upgrades

We’ve also elevated the bar cart experience with enhanced spirits served with garnishes like twists, olives, and more, adding an elegant touch to your favorite cocktails. These thoughtful details ensure your drinks are as beautiful as they are delicious.

More Exciting Updates Coming Soon

As we continue to improve your experience, we’re introducing eco-friendly straws and cocktail napkins in the near future. These small additions reflect our commitment to quality, creating an environment where every detail matters.

We invite you to visit the Bar Counter and enjoy these exciting upgrades. Whether you’re sipping a $19 glass of wine or exploring the upgraded Bar Cart spirits, Ha Penny’s happy hour is now more indulgent than ever.

Cheers to great times and even better drinks—see you soon!

Culinary Creativity with Chef Ralph Motta

This morning members of Ha’Penny Beach Club gathered for an unforgettable cooking class with the talented Chef Ralph Motta. The focus? Dips that are as delicious as they are entertaining-friendly. Attendees left inspired and equipped with recipes sure to impress at any gathering.

Chef Ralph guided members through a series of delectable creations:

  • Artichoke Leek Dip: A savory blend of creamy goodness and subtle sweetness from leeks.
  • Creamy White Bean Dip: Smooth, hearty, and a versatile favorite.
  • Whipped Feta with Carrots Dip: A perfect combination of tangy feta and natural sweetness.
  • Hot Crab Dip: Rich, indulgent, and a crowd-pleaser.

Participants enjoyed sampling each dip while picking up tips on presentation and pairing. Thank you, Chef Ralph, for sharing your expertise and creativity! Stay tuned for more culinary adventures at Ha’Penny Beach Club.

A Delightful Evening: Jan 7th at Ha’Penny

This past Tuesday, January 7th, Ha’Penny Beach Club hosted a memorable evening of fine dining, setting a high bar for the new year. Members and guests gathered for a delightful meal that showcased fresh, seasonal ingredients and impeccable culinary craftsmanship. Here’s a recap of the exquisite menu and the warm camaraderie shared that night.

The Culinary Journey

Appetizer
The evening began with a beautifully plated starter of Art Farm greens, paired with roasted strawberries and dressed in a delicate champagne vinaigrette. The fresh, crisp greens and the sweetness of the strawberries set a refreshing tone, perfectly balanced by the light tang of the vinaigrette.

Main Course
Guests chose between two exceptional main dishes:

  • Scallop Grenobloise
    A masterful dish featuring seared scallops atop a silky celeriac purée, accompanied by vibrant seasonal vegetables, pickled Asian pear, and delicate microgreens. The combination of textures and flavors made every bite a delightful surprise.
  • Cold Smoked Duck Breast
    For those seeking a richer option, the cold smoked duck breast did not disappoint. Served with crispy roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a luxurious apple brandy caramel sauce, this dish was both hearty and elegant, with the micros adding a touch of freshness.

Dessert
The meal concluded with a dessert that was as visually stunning as it was delicious. Poached pears rested atop a bed of mascarpone cream, accented with a fragrant cardamom crumble and finished with a delicate tuile. The balance of sweetness and spice made it the perfect ending to the evening.

A Night to Remember

We thank everyone who joined us for this extraordinary evening and look forward to many more shared meals and memories throughout the year.

Mark your calendars for our upcoming events this January—there’s plenty more to look forward to!