The chill in the air might be enough to encourage anyone to stay home and cozy up on the couch, drink in hand. But if you would rather enjoy your drinks and cushy warmth in the company of friends, finding the perfect place is key.
Lucky for us, New York City has a lot of options that offer the serene comfort and roasting fireplace temperatures, while also serving some of the best cocktails in town.
Few know how to do warm and snugly better than the Scots. But you don’t have to travel to the Highlands to experience it. Shoolbred’s, in the East Village, provides a taste of Scotland, both with its made-to-look-antique environment and plush leather seating throughout, as well as with its selection of 12-year-old Scotch, single malts, and seasonal cocktail choices, such as the popular hot toddy. Go on a special occasion and you might even get a glimpse of a few bartenders in kilts.
The Ninth Ward is located right next door and also has a nice fireplace to enjoy. A visit here is like taking a trip straight to NOLA, with drink inspirations and celebrations full of flavors that would make the bayou proud.
Lantern’s Keep is a salon located in the Iroquois Hotel, which gives guests a sense of having stepped back into time with its dark walls, blue velvet chairs, impressionist art and marble tables. This retro gem is a haven for libation aficionados and home to some of the tastiest mixed drinks in the city, such as the Iroquois #2 and Honeymoon, prepped and served by one of the most buzzed about bartenders, Theo Lieberman.
The Art Bar not only provides the delight of a toasty fire and a soft couch to sink into, but it also surrounds guests with the works of various artists, which are frequently exhibited in the in-house gallery in the back room, to where most patrons seeking a more quiet experience tend to retreat. The crowd includes lovers of art, ‘80s music and martinis, and the scene is typical West Village.
If you’d like to dine and wine, The Place located on West 4thStreet in the West Village, provides a relaxing atmosphere. The seats near the two fireplaces are highly coveted and hard to come by, but the ambiance anywhere you sit is warm and romantic. The sustainable, organic menu is one diners often rave about. Must tries are the Pan Roasted Polenta Dusted Atlantic Cod ($25), as well as the Loaded Seafood and Winter Squash Chowder ($26). Feel free to indulge, as 10 percent of the profits go to help local environmental and children’s charities. Weekend brunch is known to be a popular time to visit for those dining with the family.
Photo Courtesy of Shoolbred’s
