Four NYC bars to warm your spirits

The weather in New York can be unforgiving this time of year–windy, chilly, and downright bitter. One of the best ways to escape the cold streets is to pop into a cozy bar, preferably with a roaring fireplace, and settle into an intimate nook with a warming cocktail. Here are a few suggestions:

Lobby Bar at The Bowery Hotel: Although the ornate, charming lounge inside Bowery Hotel’s main entrance is preferred seating for hotel guests, the Lobby Bar in the rear is open to the public. Past the antique fireplace is an intimate zinc-topped bar lined with plush velvet stools. In the winter, this dimly-lit retreat serves hot mulled wine featuring Cabernet, brandy, orange peel, and spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. There’s also a full cocktail menu and a variety of scotches. 335 Bowery

Hudson Hotel Library Bar: Featuring one of the most impressive, oversized fireplaces in the city, the Library Bar at Hudson Hotel is an urban oasis featuring plump leather sofas and chairs, high walls lined with books, chess tables, and a billiards table. This is the place to sip a martini and enjoy the good life. 356 W. 58th St.

Raines Law Room: Just Northwest of Union Square, ring the doorbell at this speakeasy-style cocktail lounge and enter a tin-ceilinged retreat. Settle into your own velvet booth hidden by gauzy curtains and enjoy never having to get up and order at the bar–cocktail servers bring drinks from a separate bar in the rear, beckoned when you ring an old-fashioned buzzer. 48 W. 17th St.

Beekman Bar & Books: One of three Bar & Books in the city, and just couple blocks from the Pod Hotel, this Midtown East location offers a cozy fireplace area reminiscent of an Ivy League lounge. Civilized and yet friendly, this whiskey-focused bar offers a separate parlor for smoking cigars, so non-smokers won’t leave smelling of smoke. Note that jackets are preferred for men, and jeans and sneakers are not allowed. 889 1st Ave.

– Selena Ricks of The Dizzy Fizz