When it was a working Meat Market, the Meatpacking District used to be known for its “coolers” and refrigerated warehouses, in which cuts of meat, poultry and fish were stored until purchased by wholesalers and restaurants. Today, only a dozen or so old-style coolers remain as most of the meatpackers have relocated to Hunts Point and elsewhere. This past weekend, however, a new kind of chill hit the once-gritty enclave as The Standard Hotel softly opened the Meatpacking District’s first-ever ice skating rink. Located in front of the hotel, on the former spot of a seating area, the 3,000-square-foot skating rink is open to the public seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to midnight. The ice scene will be chilling all winter long and features three types of skates to rent, as well as an “après skate” menu, featuring hot chocolate with marshmallows, apple cider and cheese fondue. Tickets are $12, and skate rentals are $3. The Standard Hotel is located at 848 Washington St. at 13th St. For more information, visit standardculture.com .
