Bar Pendry © Liz Clayman
In the nation’s capital, ‘tis the season for a hot beverage in-hand.
As the weather cools down, the drinks at DC restaurants and cafes warm up. Get your fix of fall and winter vibes with this array of seasonal cocktails, specialty coffees and other steamy beverages that can be found across the city.
01
Bar Pendry
Elegance with a touch of mischief – that's what you'll get at the Pendry's boozy Saturday afternoon tea service. The waterfront hotel's cozy lobby bar reveals a refined menu with combinations like warm apple cider with black tea and gin-spiked green tea with spiced honey. Seasonal takes on sweet and savory high tea tarts are brought out on tiered cake stands for a full, modern experience. Be sure to check their site for the most current sampler menu and specialty tea events.
More Info
355 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
02
Elfegne
Elfegne
DC is known for its stellar Ethiopian food, but have you tried Ethiopian tea or coffee? If you've never had the chance to experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, let us assure you: it is the perfect way to warm up from the inside out when the weather gets cool. Ethiopian specialties at Elfegne in Adams Morgan include not only smooth and fruity brews but also spiced black tea and a revised take on Irish coffee.
More Info
2420 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
03
Bitty & Beau's
Pumpkin spiced frappe. Brown butter chai latte. Maple cream cold brew. If any of those mouthwatering drinks piqued your interest, run don't walk to Bitty & Beau's. The "human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop" offers an all-around warm experience thanks to not just its seasonal beverages but its focus on fostering community through radical inclusivity.
More Info
3207 M Street, NW Washington, DC 20007
04
Dog Tag Bakery
Escape the hustle and bustle of Georgetown's main avenues and duck into Dog Tag, a non-profit bakery and cafe on quaint Grace Street. Inside, you'll find locals sipping coffee, reading the paper or ogling the pastry counter. Pick up a snack and sample the crown jewel of the sweater-season menu: the caramel apple latte.
More Info
3206 Grace Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
05
Dirty Habit
The courtyard of Dirty Habit, situated within the Kimpton Hotel Monaco, transforms into a ski chalet wonderland. The patio has been flipped for winter with fire pits, heaters, festive décor and seasonal libations. You'll have no trouble staying warm with drinks like the Grape Reverie, a cabernet sauvignon mulled with cognac, cranberries, masala chai and honey. Treat your sweet tooth to a Naughty & Nice – salted dark hot chocolate with rum and toasted marshmallow.
More Info
555 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
06
Old Ebbitt Grill
Equal parts DC landmark and operational restaurant, Old Ebbitt Grill has impressed diners in the heart of the District for decades. While the institution is known for its classic American fare, we recommend you indulge in a hot, seasonal cocktail. The Baltimore Caffe combines Peloton de la Muerte Mezcal, Giffard Crème de Cacao, Giffard Crème de Pampelmousse Rosé and lemon. One sip will leave you feeling toasty and warm inside.
More Info
675 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
07
Urban Roast
This hot spot goes all out for the holiday season. Sit around the outdoor fire pits to indulge in six varieties of s'mores or snag a seat inside with three rooms decorated floor-to-ceiling in festive adornments. Featured cocktails include an apple pie White Russian, four flavors of espresso martinis and a Bailey's hot chocolate flight.
More Info
916 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
08
Hi-Lawn
Head to the roof of Union Market to enjoy the backyard atmosphere of Hi-Lawn. Take in gorgeous views of the city while enjoying seasonal dishes and drinks like tasty hot cider, Irish coffee or toddy. Fire pits and s'mores kits add an extra layer of coziness during the fall and winter.
More Info
1309 5th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
09
The Midlands Beer Garden
When the weather gets brisk, this Georgia Avenue space is equipped with fire pits, heaters and a selection of hot drinks including a boozy peanut butter whiskey hot chocolate. Hello, decadence! Another seasonal option is the house mulled cider with either rum or whiskey.
More Info
3333 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010
10
Le Diplomate
Styled after classic French cafes, Le Diplomate offers a uniquely European experience in the heart of DC. As the holidays approach, accompany your onion soup gratinée, steak frites or bouillabaisse with a selection from le robust cocktail list such as the Cidre Epice, a warm spiced cider drink equipped with spiced rum.
More Info
1601 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
11
Toast to the Season
Every year, hot spots deck the halls for folks across the District to eat, drink and be merry. Businesses and bars like Death Punch, Penn Social, Wunder Garten, Duke’s Grocery, Colada Shop and Westin City Center are known for making spirits bright with festive beverages like hot buttered rum, mulled wine, hot chocolate and more.
Ready for more? Explore the District's top hot chocolate spots and coffee shops.