The winter months can be long and cold, but we’ve compiled this list of NYC favorites to get you through these frigid months with a smile. Every handpicked location is easily accessible via our landings, so hop on your nearest ferry and sit on the top deck if you dare!
Decadent Hot Chocolate
Brooklyn Farmacy
? 16 mins from Pier 6
Housed in a 1920s apothecary store, walking through the doors of Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain is guaranteed to take you back in time. They offer all the classics like milkshakes and ice cream floats but it’s their hot chocolate that’s gonna warm you up this winter. Stick with the original topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, or branch out with their salty caramel or butterbeer selections.
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Brooklyn Farmacy – 513 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Daily Provisions
? 20 mins from Stuyvesant Cove
This all day cafe provides casual dining without sacrificing quality. Their menu includes something for everyone from sweet to savory. Stop into their Union Square location and warm up with a hot chocolate made from chocolate ganache with Vesta chocolates.
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Daily Provisions – 103 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003
Snowdays
? 17 mins from Bay Ridge
Snowdays originated in East Village but has since branched out to other locations such as Bay Ridge. They’re best known for their shaved cream which is an asian inspired dessert which is a hybrid between ice cream and shaved ice. However, they have since begun getting recognition for their hot chocolate as well. Aside from their classic hot chocolate with oversized marshmallows, they also offer matcha, peanut butter, and vegan varieties.
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Snowdays – 7025 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
Delicious Soup
Mee Sum Cafe
? 22 mins from Pier 11
Located in Chinatown, Mee Sum Cafe is a little restaurant that has lasted the test of time. For over 54 years, they’ve had a steady stream of customers drawn in by nostalgic tastes and great prices. They have a small wooden menu on the wall written in only Chinese and customers recommend the wonton soup and dumplings to warm up on a cold day.
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Mee Sum Cafe – 26 Pell St, New York, NY 10013
Brodo
? 17 min from Stuyvesant Cove
Brodo was born in 2014 from the tiny takeout window at Hearth overlooking First Avenue. Chef Marco Canora improved his health by drinking bone broth daily and was excited to offer his fellow New Yorkers a more nutritious, if not equally addictive, alternative to coffee. Drinking bone broth daily is said to improve digestion and immunity, flush out toxins, and more!
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Brodo – 200 1st Ave, New York, NY 10009
Peasant Stock
? 21 mins from Corlears Hook
Mother and Daughter duo Christine and Emma are serving up soup at Essex Market all winter long to keep you warm and toasty. They have a rotating selection of their homemade soups daily including vegetarian and vegan options. While you’re there don’t forget to grab some of Christine’s famous homemade cornbread!
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Peasant Stock – 120 Essex St, New York, NY 10002
Savory Ramen
Kogane
? 11 mins from DUMBO
Kogane in Brooklyn Heights makes their noodles fresh daily, offering both Tokyo-style or Hakata-style ramen. They have a variety of meats and toppings (including vegetarian options) to perfect your bowl.
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Kogane – 76 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Zen Ramen
? 25 mins from Midtown West
In the middle of the bustling Herald Square you’ll find Zen Ramen & Sushi, your jackpot sushi and ramen spot. They have more than 20 sushi and ramen options, guaranteed to fulfill any Asian cuisine lover’s desire. They have a full bar, a rustic Japanese atmosphere, and friendly service.
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Zen Ramen – 150 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018
Takumen
? 11 mins from LIC
Takumen is a delicious Long Island City gem serving up quality ramen and more 7 days a week. The space is minimal, yet cozy, and they have an excellent beer and sake list to pair with your meal.
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Takumen – 5-50 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
Comforting Hot Drinks
Sweet Afton
? 20 mins from Astoria
Sweet Afton is a charming spot with a glam flare in Astoria. Their hot mulled apple cider is served with your choice of bourbon, spiced rum, or apple jack brandy. You can keep cozy inside or in their picturesque outdoor area equipped with string lights and heaters.
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Sweet Afton – 30-09 34th St, Queens, NY 11103
Dead Rabbit
? 7 mins from Pier 11
Dead Rabbit is an Irish pub with a twist located in Lower Manhattan. The space has your typical pub decor, however they are famous for their cocktail creation and having one of the best Irish coffees you’ll ever drink with aromatic coffee, sugar, fresh whipped cream, and blended Irish whiskey.
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