The 8 Best Aprés Ski Joints in … NYC?

We call them “urban chalets”

December 14, 2017 9:00 am

Put another log on the fire.

Whether it’s the in-laws or the inclement weather you’re hiding from, we’ve got just the place to kick your feet up and get away from it all.

Eight of ‘em, actually.

Herewithin, our guide to NYC’s best aprés ski-style pop-up bars, from Santa’s surf shack to a cozy rooftop chalet.

Expect fondue, spiked cocoa and no broken bones.  

Camp Porchlight
Danny Meyer’s winter lodge is ringing in the New Year with fur, firs and flannel. For $175 a pop, you’re in for a dozen ski-saluting cocktails, like decadent eggnog and hot holiday punch, as well as fireside fare, live bluegrass and snow-capped tree branches that conjure a cozy après-ski retreat.

The Roof’s Winter Wonderland 
Expect snowy white branches climbing the walls, large seasonal floral arrangements, lounge areas outfitted with fuzzy blankets and pillows. To boot, the pop-up menu brings some deliciously warm cocktails to the mix, as well as a selection of lodge-style dishes like fondue and Belvedere-spiked hot chocolate. A perfect affair for Midtown explorers looking to feel the holiday cheer, but far away from (or above) all the puffy-coated tourists.

The Lodge by STK 
The patio boasts heated lounging areas and an outdoor canopy bed, bringing a glamping feel to the city. Inside, it’s all cabin-inspired décor and hearty food and cocktails. Open for dinner and drinks Thursday-Saturday evenings. Don’t miss the Tater Tot Poutine and homemade Ginger Toddies.

The Lodge at Gallow Green 
The Gallow Green’s dramatic seasonal transformation is back. You’re in for a rooftop ski chalet set among pine and flannel, with large-format punches like a Dickensian holiday tipple made with Ruby Port, red wine, CioCiaro Amaro, honey liqueur, ginger and allspice. Plus: drool-worthy pizzas.

The Holiday Cocktail at Nylo Hotel’s LOCL Bar
Things are bound to get weird here. The LOCL is currently dressed up with giant candy canes, mushroom seats and cocktails poured from a gumball machine. It’s Willy Wonka meets FAO Schwarz meets club life.

Sippin’ Santas at Boilermaker
A North Pole-style surf shack, the Boilermaker has morphed into a tubular tiki haven for the season.

Sleyenda at Leyenda
There are Day of the Dead nutcrackers, for starters. It’s a hip hop-meets-Christmas affair playing hits like Mexican hot chocolate spiked with Mezcal, a classic coquito (to show Brooklynites how Puerto Ricans interpret eggnog) and other festive libations served in holiday ornaments and decorative mugs.

Miracle on Mace
Back for its fourth year, the spice-forward speakeasy’s annual holiday bar serves bevvies like the Bad Santa (mulled red wine, port, orange liqueur and golden raisins) or the Jingle Ball Nog (cognac, amontillado sherry, peanut butter, almond milk, pandan nougat syrup, egg and nutmeg).

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