The true highlight of D.C. winters is seeing what wild and deliciously cozy concoctions our local bartenders come up with. A hot cocktail is never bad, in my opinion, but these ones stand out among the rest.
La Manzana at Mercy Me El Chalet Pop-Up
Dupont
The indoor and outdoor fireplaces at this holiday pop-up might be skewing my tastebuds, but this hot toddy is one of the best I’ve had. Polish “grass” vodka and a fruity herbal liqueur are completed with flavors of apple, ginger, and pineapple.
The Macallan Hot Chocolate at Bourbon Steak
Georgetown
Sometimes it is all about looks. This boozy hot cocoa includes a whimsical chocolate tree, edible gold leaf, and marshmallow “twigs.” It’s decadent, comforting, and the perfect way to end the evening.
Dabnog to go at The Dabney. (Courtesy of the Dabney)
Dabnog at The Dabney
Blagden Alley
Ok so technically this isn’t hot, but it’s so cozy and festive that I had to include it. Bar Director Dan Todd brought back The Dabney's signature “Dabnog” this year, made with bourbon, rye, madeira, rum, egg, cream, sorghum, and nutmeg. It tastes amazing but will also put you under the table. Drinkers beware.
Build-Your-Own Hot Toddy at Show of Hands
Hill East
All winter this cute bar in The Roost is crafting personalized hot toddies for $14 each. Choose a base spirit, a sweetener like pumpkin maple syrup or brandied fig and vanilla, and any flavorful add-ons, then let the bartender do the rest. Cheers!
Seven! Seven! Seven! At The Betsy
Eastern Market
Mulled wine can be very hit or miss for me, often veering into sticky sweet headache territory, but this one at The Betsy is *chef’s kiss.* Hot red wine, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, star anise hold down the fort while a pinch of citrus and rosemary elevate it into something more balanced and endlessly drinkable. Drink it on their heated rooftop with a blanket.
S’more Decks at The Doyle. (Courtesy of The Doyle)
S’more Decks at The Doyle
Dupont
The new Den of Cards menu at the Doyle is filled with festive winter cocktails but the S’more Decks is the crown jewel (IMHO). It’s an adult ode to childhood holiday traditions with boozy vanilla chia hot chocolate and house-made Maker’s Mark marshmallows that has me going “ahhh,” every sip.
Grandma Got Run Over By a Coyote at Lulu’s Winegaden
U Street Corridor
Lemon, hot water, and honey — this one really is like something your grandma would sip at bedtime (Until you add the shots of Grand Mariner, that is.) It’s simple, but done well, and made even cozier with the impeccable holiday decor, heaters, and blankets in Lulu’s patio.
Quentão At Cana
Adams Morgan
Hidden under this record bar’s extensive Caipirinha menu is a gem of a hot toddy. Cognac and Ruby Port are mixed with vanilla butter, cinnamon, cacao, lemon, and pineapple for a cocktail that is unctuous but not too heavy. My current winter neighborhood go-to.
