As the winter chill settles in, there’s nothing quite like indulging in comforting eats and drinks to keep the cold at bay. This season is the perfect time to savor hearty stews, rich hot chocolates, and warming spiced beverages that soothe both body and soul. From savory dishes that satisfy your cravings to cozy drinks that melt the frost away, winter offers an array of culinary delights to keep you feeling warm and nourished. Whether braving snowy days or simply curling up by the fire, these seasonal treats provide the ultimate comfort for frosty weather.
Warm Up with These NYC Eats & Drinks
Located in the heart of FiDi/Seaport, Peck Slip Social invites guests to warm up with their signature drink, The Kings Toddy. Crafted with locally sourced Kings County Bourbon, this smooth option is enhanced by orange bitters and a housemade chamomile honey syrup, providing a refined twist on the classic hot toddy. Beyond the enticing drinks, the bar offers cozy amenities like a free pool table, board games, and comfortable seating. Pair your beverages with delicious Mediterranean-Asian-inspired bites, such as Shawarma in a pita with fries or Pulled Pork Bao Bun Sliders. Peck Slip Social has quickly become an ideal winter hangout spot.
Warm up this winter with a visit to Via Vai in Astoria, Queens, where chef and owner Antonio Morichini crafts an array of mouthwatering pasta dishes perfect for the season. The menu ranges from Roman classics like amatriciana and carbonara to fresh, handmade creations such as Pappardelle with lamb ragu or Chestnut Tagliolini with rabbit ragu. Other highlights include Tortellini in savory chicken broth, and tender beef meatballs simmered in tomato sauce. Uniquely, the restaurant only operates when Chef Antonio is in the kitchen, ensuring every dish meets his high standards.
Fomo Momo, a newly opened spot in the East Village at 85 1st Ave, offers Indian-fusion dumplings perfect for staying cozy. These momos, available steamed or fried, are packed with fillings like vegetables, paneer, or chicken. They come in bold preparations such as spicy Schezwan, tangy Manchurian, smoky Tandoori with garlic and ginger, or buttery Makhani chicken gravy. For those avoiding the chill, delivery is a great option, and the menu also includes crispy paneer or chicken sandwiches and rich butter chicken rice bowls.
For a comforting alternative to ramen on chilly days, head to Sanuki Udon at 31 West 4th Street in Greenwich Village. Known for its freshly made noodles, this spot serves up thick, chewy udon in a variety of broths and curries. Highlights include the savory Beef Udon with tender beef slices in a bonito broth, the creamy Tonkotsu Udon featuring pork and an egg, and the vegetarian-friendly Wakame Udon with kelp. With broths simmered for hours and noodles crafted daily from premium Japanese wheat flour, Sanuki Udon delivers a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Warm up this winter at Loreley Beer Garden’s cozy Winter Lodge pop-up, running from January 9 to March 2 at 7 Rivington St in the Lower East Side. The space transforms into a welcoming retreat, serving an enticing selection of hot drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—like the decadent Black & White Hot Chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows (optional bourbon available), the creamy Perfect Irish Coffee with whipped cream and whiskey, alongside classic hot toddies, cider, and their signature mulled wine. Pair these with comforting bites such as giant pretzels with beer-cheese dip or shareable skillets of cheesy Spätzle, with or without bacon. It’s the ultimate destination for a warm and satisfying escape from the cold.
Alta Calidad in Brooklyn offers a rich and nostalgic take on Mexican hot chocolate that’s perfect for chilly days. Chef Akhtar Nawab crafts this comforting drink by blending chocolate Abuelita bars with agave syrup, orange peel, and a touch of vanilla, creating a velvety beverage that feels like a warm hug steeped in tradition. The flavors are carefully balanced, with the sweetness of agave complementing the bittersweet chocolate and subtle citrusy notes from the orange peel. For those looking to elevate the experience, the hot chocolate can be spiked with mezcal for just $7, adding a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced undertones.
