It goes without saying that it’s bloody freezing right now! Whether it’s your first winter in New York or you’re a hardened local, with temps threatening to plunge into the minus degrees fahrenheit, it’s cold by anyone’s standards.
And while we very much endorse staying inside your apartment, binging on Netflix under the doona with Seamless on the way, there are going to be times when you have to leave the house.
If you’re wondering how to stay warm this winter, here are a few of our top picks for cosy New York venues: bars and restaurants in New York City that offer a warm vibe. Spoiler alert: they all have fireplaces.
Alta | 64 West 10th Street
This Mediterranean restaurant is one of my favourite places to get tapas in New York no matter what time of year (their brussel sprouts served with apple is what changed my mind on those little green cabbages). But in winter, Alta also offers a deliciously warm place to dine with not one, but two fireplaces! Complete with exposed wood beams and twinkling candles a plenty, you’ll forget the outside temps in a jiffy.
Top of the Standard | Standard Hotel, 848 Washington St
A tried and tested out-of-towner go-to, Top of the Standard offers a complete package: superior cocktails, sweeping downtown Manhattan views, people watching and (often) some live jazz music. At this time of year you can add to that list…yep…a fireplace. The owners have gone to great lengths to ensure every last details of this bar is in sync with their 1970 décor and the fireplace is no exception. Hot toddy!
Art Bar | 52 8th Avenue
Art Bar offers two things that you’re going to like this winter: a working fireplace and a cracking happy hour. This mainstay of the West Village offers a lounge room vibe in their cosy back room and every night from 4pm – 7pm beer, hour wines and basic drinks are half price. Warmth and savings? Yes please!
Tavern on the Green | Central Park West at 67th Street
I used to think Tavern on the Green was just a big, sticky tourist trap. I only ever went there to use their bathrooms when nature called during a Central Park picnic. Turns out, it’s actually kinda decent. And if you don’t feel like forking out for a meal, then grab a drink and some snacks at the bar and warm your cockles by their impressive open fireplace on a comfy couch.
What are you waiting for? Now you know how to stay warm this winter with our guide to cosy New York venues.
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 