The cold weather is here, but these events can heat up even the chilliest of days this winter in Philly.
East Passyunk’s Hot Chocolate Crawl
Happening this Saturday, Dec. 9, the 2nd Annual Hot Chocolate Crawl will provide Philadelphians hot cocoa and boozy-alternative chocolate creations from numerous local restaurants, bars, and cafés. Participating spots include B2, Creme Brulee, Milk Jawn, Flannel, Pub on East Passyunk, Pistolas Del Sur, Townsend and more (a full list is available online.)
The event is pay-as-you-go from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Souvenir Hot Cocoa Crawl cups running for $12, allowing guests to access discounted prices and exclusive cocoas priced at $3 for classic and artisanal cocoas, $6 for boozy beverages and $8 for cocoas with ice cream.
Alpine Heights at Assembly Rooftop Lounge
Located in The Logan Hotel, this rooftop hotspot is offering Philadelphians a fire-side escape from the cold weather with their annual Alpine Heights activation. The modern ski lodge-inspired pop-up features hot cocktails, comfort food, themed décor, cozy blankets, blazing fire pits and heaters, and will be open until Feb. 29 of next year.
While at Alpine Heights, Philadelphians can indulge in boozy hot chocolate, fondue, short rib rosti, a Bavarian smash burger, gruyere & onion dip, and a variety of other cocktails.
As a release states, for those looking to get extra cozy, the cocktail menu will also feature hot libations, including the firepit staple Liquid Love ($18), made with Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, ganache hot chocolate and Chantilly cream; Alpine Floral Toddy ($16), with Evan Williams Bourbon and fall spiced mulled apple cider; and Spiced Mulled Wassail ($16), built with Cruzan Aged Dark Rum, Maggie’s Farm Falernum, lemon, hibiscus tea and simple syrup. Assembly’s Alpine Heights will also feature a happy hour between 4 and 5 p.m. for discounted cocktails and bites.
1840 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, assemblyrooftop.com
Yule Whiskey Lodge at Butcher Bar
It’s time to get cozy with some good food and hot drinks. Butcher Bar’s Yule Whiskey Lodge is open and in full swing, and will feature celebratory cocktails, festive fare, and even a shotski. Mimicking the vibe of a decorated lodge during Christmas complete with wrapped gifts, rocking chairs by a mantle christened with stockings, and a selfie-friendly mirror complete with reindeer antlers, this particular activation will be serving Philadelphians every day, with a happy hour every Monday through Friday.
Highlights include winter warmers like an original recipe for mulled wine that was passed down from Chef John Strain’s grandfather, a bevy of holiday cocktails and bites including Bone Marrow Whiskey Luges, bourbon and cheese pairings, and those Shotskis, made using sweet Shanky’s Whip Liqueur and Bailey’s.
2034 Chestnut St., butcherbarphilly.com
Walnut Wonderland
It’s nice to spend some time outdoors in the winter—especially when you throw a heated tent, tasty treats and a slew of Christmas trees. Walnut Garden has set up an insulated and heated dining area tent for its Wonderland, serving up a variety of cookies (think triple chocolate, salted caramel, sugar and smores) for $5, or, Philadelphians can indulge in some of the venue’s seasonal dishes or drinks.
Highlights include fried cheese curds, a chorizo and kimchi hot dog, Autumn arugula salad, and the venue’s ode to an elevated cheesesteak — the smoked brisket cheesesteak with crispy onions, cooper sharp cheese and marinated long hots. Additionally, fans of Christmas Village’s raclette sandwich can also try the Walnut’s mushroom chopped cheese, which boasts cooper sharp, fried onions, long hot mayo, shaved lettuce, and pepper jam to mimic the seasonal treat. The pop-up lot will also feature a variety of Christmas trees available for purchase.
1708 Walnut St., walnutphl.com
