There are 10 days left in 2015…. I can’t believe this year has gone by so fast! Plenty of travels, a Kickstarter campaign, a new job, and the list goes on. When I think of what I would like for Christmas, nothing tangible comes to mind. More than anything, I want experiences and the time to share with those I care about. What better way to do that than to call an old friend, escape whatever madness you have going at your house, and meeting them for a cocktail. That being said, I’ve put together where you can have holiday cocktails in DC until New Year’s Eve:
Oval Room: Although The Oval Room is known for its award winning menu, their cocktails are a hidden gem. Their head bartender, Max is from the UK and has come up with a unique take of a hot toddy with rum, freshly brewed tea, and nutmeg. After your cocktail, go for a stroll by the White House to check out the National Christmas Tree.
Art & Soul: This is one of my favorite restaurants in DC. I must admit that I tend to go there more often in the warmer months because of their patio with a view of the Capitol. However, they have a mulled wine on the menu that will warm you up after a tour of the Capitol.
Bibiana: Bibiana has a 25 days of cocktails special in their menu which ends Christmas Eve but the cocktails will continue to flow after the 24th. One of my favorites is their take on the Negroni, the Nero Amargo (on their regular menu) with gin, Amaro Lucano, and Gran Classico. I like to pair it with their selection of salumi (Italian cured meats) handpicked by their executive chef, Jake Addeo who honed his craft in the Piedmonte region of Italy.
STK: Although I am not the rockstar I used to be, I love the rockstar feel of STK, even if I am just going there for drinks with friends and in bed by 11pm. STK’s holiday cocktail, “Naughty or Spice” is a mix of spiced Rum, lemon juice, Rekorderling Pear Cider and a pinch of ground cinnamon, perfect to indulge after a long day of catching up with family and friends.
Mio Restaurant & Cafe: Coquito is Puerto Rican eggnog made with coconut milk, eggs, spices, and rum. Every family on the island has a unique way of making it, and Mio is no exception. They will be serving plenty in the next few weeks along with other Puerto Rican classics such as roasted pork, pasteles, and arroz con gandules.
This holiday season I have been taking it easy: catching up with friends, making dinner, and Skype sessions with those across the pond. Instead of being stressed about gifts or holiday parties, I decided to focus on spending time with those I care about, over food and cocktails, of course! What are your favorite holiday cocktails in DC?
