Steamy drinks for the holidays

Photo credit: Urbanite

The Nina Simone, a warm drink served at midtown east lounge Haven (Phil S. Kropoth)

By Lauren Epstein

An icy cold beer just doesn’t have the same effect during the end of November as it does in July. Luckily, bars have created delectable, hot alcoholic drinks to keep you motivated to leave your apartment — even on the chilliest of nights.

Haven

244 E. 51st St., btwn. Second and Third aves., 212-906-9066

This new Upper East Side restaurant and lounge transports you to an era of sultry jazz, with its early 20th century décor and warm vibe. General Manager Steve Remminy’s description of Haven as “cigar bar meets bordello” makes this venue a unique treat for Midtown East neighborhood patrons. Furthering Haven as a hot-spot: The steaming — and delicious — drink aptly named The Nina Simone ($14). Holding true to the flavor and sizzle of its namesake, The Nina Simone is a tasty blend of cognac, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, ginger and black pepper. The ingredients are strained and steamed, then topped off with maple syrup.Bar Martignetti

406 Broome St. at Cleveland Pl., 212-680-5600

This Soho bistro attracts NYU students and 30-somethings alike with its indie music, funky tin roof and worn-in furniture. Also luring in the crowds is Bar Martignetti’s steamy Stonewall Jackson ($12). Named after the Confederate general, this drink gives a little Southern heat with apple cider, bourbon, clover and orange.

Apotheke

9 Doyers St., btwn. Bowery and Pell St., 212-406-0400

Have an ailment? Apotheke has a remedy. Known for its expert mixologists and made-to-perfection cocktails, Apotheke offers winter drinks that won’t fail to impress. Try the Persimmon Cider ($15), a combination of Persimmon-infused Montecristo dark rum, pureed fresh persimmon and aromatic herbal infusion; or the Autumn Harvest ($15), made of Saigon cinnamon, bourbon and Long Island unfermented cider.

Pegu Club

77 W. Houston St., btwn. West Broadway and Wooster St.

212-473-7348

Climb the long, dimly lit staircase of this Soho restaurant and lounge known for its unique drinks. Making a comeback to the winter menu this season is Pegu Club’s famous Tom & Jerry ($12). Made with warm milk, eggs, rum, cognac, bitters and Christmas spices, this concoction is a spiced-up version of the classic eggnog.

Quarter Bar

676 Fifth Ave. at 20th St., Deep Slope, Brooklyn

718-788-0989

Quarter’s version of a Hot Buttered Rum ($9) is a true treat, made of Captain Morgan’s spiced rum, Gosling’s Black Seal rum, honey, cinnamon, cloves, hot water and butter. The carefully selected jukebox ranging from indie rock to funk and soul only adds to Quarter’s cozy charm.

Rise

2 West St. at Battery Pl.

212-344-0800

Found on the 14th floor of the Battery Park Ritz-Carlton, this modern lounge not only has a spectacular view of the Verrazano Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, but also specializes in a multitude of winter beverages. Our favorite is The Italian Job ($18), made up of Frangelico, Bailey’s, coffee and fresh whipped cream. These days, The Italian Job is a much-needed cocktail after a long day on nearby Wall Street.

• Twitter
• Facebook
• Delicious
• Digg
• Stumble Upon