Where to Find the Best Mulled Wine and Hot Cocktails in NYC
When the temperature drops and New York City transforms into a winter wonderland, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a steaming mug of mulled wine, spiked cider, or a perfectly crafted hot buttered rum. These classic winter drinks bring comfort and cheer, making them a must for escaping the chill of the city streets. Whether you’re looking to cozy up in a charming speakeasy, enjoy rooftop views, or sip fireside, here’s where to find NYC’s best mulled wine and hot cocktails this season.
1. The Winter Village at Bryant Park
Drink to Try: Mulled Wine & Hot Spiked Cider
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is one of the city’s most festive spots, complete with twinkling lights, artisanal shops, and ice skating. Vendors throughout the park serve steaming cups of mulled wine and spiked cider infused with cinnamon and cloves—the perfect companion for strolling the holiday market or warming up after a skate. Pair your drink with a fresh pastry from one of the food stalls for the ultimate winter treat.
Insider Tip: Grab your drink and settle into one of the park’s cozy heated nooks to enjoy the holiday ambiance.
2. The Dead Rabbit (Financial District)
Drink to Try: Hot Buttered Rum
Housed in a historic 19th-century building, The Dead Rabbit is famed for its exceptional cocktails and cozy Irish pub vibe. During the winter months, their Hot Buttered Rum is a standout—a luscious mix of dark rum, butter, spiced brown sugar, and hot water that’s indulgent and warming. Served in a steaming mug, this drink feels like a hug in a glass.
Why Visit: The Dead Rabbit offers a festive, intimate escape from the downtown hustle with a menu filled with classic and seasonal cocktails.
3. Baar Baar (East Village)
Drink to Try: Mulled Wine with an Indian Twist
Baar Baar, a modern Indian gastropub, offers a creative take on mulled wine with warm, aromatic spices like cardamom and star anise. Their version takes this winter classic to new heights by adding subtle layers of flavor that pair beautifully with the restaurant’s elevated Indian small plates.
What to Order: Enjoy a steaming glass of their mulled wine alongside signature dishes like the paneer tikka or Kashmiri lamb ribs.
4. The Lodge at STK Rooftop (Meatpacking District)
Drink to Try: Spiked Hot Chocolate
STK Rooftop transforms into a cozy, après-ski-inspired winter lodge every year, complete with fur throws, festive decor, and panoramic views of the city. Their Spiked Hot Chocolate is a winter favorite, featuring rich cocoa spiked with your choice of Baileys, bourbon, or peppermint schnapps.
Why Visit: If you’re craving a festive atmosphere with skyline views, The Lodge at STK Rooftop offers a perfect mix of coziness and luxury.
5. Rolf’s (Gramercy Park)
Drink to Try: Warm Brandy Eggnog
Famous for its over-the-top holiday decorations, Rolf’s is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in NYC’s Christmas spirit. While the decor is the main attraction, their Warm Brandy Eggnog and other festive hot cocktails are equally delightful. Creamy, spiced, and served piping hot, this drink perfectly complements the restaurant’s cozy, nostalgic atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Go early or be prepared for a wait—Rolf’s is a holiday favorite for locals and tourists alike.
6. Sunday in Brooklyn (Williamsburg)
Drink to Try: Hot Toddy
Known for its seasonal, ingredient-driven menu, Sunday in Brooklyn serves one of the best Hot Toddies in the city. Made with whiskey, honey, fresh lemon, and aromatic spices, it’s a simple yet perfectly balanced drink that will chase away the winter chill. Pair it with their hearty comfort food like the wood-roasted chicken or their famous pancakes for a memorable winter meal.
Why Visit: The rustic, laid-back vibe of this Brooklyn gem makes it a perfect spot to unwind during the holidays.
7. The Bar Room at The Beekman (Lower Manhattan)
Drink to Try: Mulled Wine & Warm Spiced Cider
For those seeking an upscale yet cozy retreat, The Bar Room at The Beekman Hotel offers a luxurious ambiance complete with plush seating and dim lighting. Their Mulled Wine and Warm Spiced Cider are infused with classic holiday spices and served with a sophisticated flair.
Why Visit: Perfect for a romantic evening or a refined night out, The Beekman offers a truly special escape from the winter cold.
8. Sweetbriar Mixology class: Art of the COcktail
Drink to Try: Seasonal Tequila Hot Chocolate
For a more interactive experience, why not craft your own warming cocktail? Art of the Cocktail hosts immersive mixology classes, where you can learn to make creative seasonal drinks, such as a Tequila Hot Chocolate—a decadent twist on traditional cocoa infused with rich tequila, cinnamon, and a touch of spice.
Why Visit: This hands-on experience is perfect for date nights, gatherings with friends, or anyone looking to elevate their winter cocktail game.
Warm Up This Winter with NYC’s Best Hot Cocktails
From cozy classics like mulled wine and hot toddies to luxurious spiked hot chocolates, NYC’s cocktail scene offers the perfect antidote to the winter chill. Whether you’re sipping on a warm brandy eggnog at Rolf’s or crafting your own seasonal cocktail at Art of the Cocktail, these drinks promise to warm both body and spirit.
Bundle up, head out, and toast to the season with a steaming glass of something special.
