Warming Winter Drinks in Delco

With winter coming and the holidays right around the corner, anytime is the right time for a cozy, convivial beverage from one of Delco’s many great bars, restaurants and cafes. Nothing says “make the season bright” like a warming cocktail or creamy coffee drink, especially when enjoyed with friends or family, tucked into a comfortable booth, or at a bustling bar.

The next time you need a cup of cheer—perhaps while taking a break from shopping for gifts at your favorite neighborhood spots, or showing friends who are here from out of a town a good time in Delco—try out one of these seasonal sippers, crafted with care, and full of festive flavors:

 

Cocktails

 

 

The drinks at Rosalie, the chic Italian soul food restaurant in the historic Wayne Hotel, are always creative, like the Notorious F.I.G. with fig-infused gin, or the non-alcoholic Zenzero di Sera, a heady concoction of turmeric, ginger, citrus and an egg white. But, to beat back the winter blues, our top pick is the Fireside Chat, a grown-up take on the Saturday morning cartoon breakfast. A blend of Cinnamon Toast Crunch milk-washed bourbon, lemon, apple cider, cinnamon and black walnut is as beguiling as it is comfortingly familiar. Enjoy on one of Rosalie’s plush banquettes, on the intimate couches, or in the heated outdoor portico. 

139 E. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 977-0600.

 

If you only consider tequila for summer drinks, like margaritas and palomas, give the Bobbin for Anejos cocktail at Two Fourteen a spin. Like all of this cocktail bar’s creations, this delightful drink is crafted with house-made syrups, small-batch ingredients and fresh-squeezed juices. First, the glass is given a quick rinse with smoky mezcal, then filled with an expertly balanced mix of mellow anjeo (aged) tequila, Lucky Falernum (a liqueur flavored with ginger, lime, pineapple and nutmeg that’s often used in tiki and tropical cocktails), apple pie bitters, apple cider simple syrup and a splash of lemon juice. 

214 W. State St., Media; (724) 904-9139.

 

Espresso martinis are the cocktail trend that just won’t quit—and we’re not complaining! After a long day (or, to kick things off at brunch), these tasty drinks make an amazing pick-me-up. Thanks to their popularity, espresso martinis are rather ubiquitous in bars these days, but they’re not all the same. While some are made with coffee-flavored spirits, Jen’s Espresso Martini at Village Vine in Swarthmore is made with real cold brew, along with vanilla vodka and a touch of simple syrup, for a properly caffeinated lift. Pair one with a chocolate pot de creme for an incredible end to your meal. 

6 Park Ave., Swarthmore; (484) 471-3997.

 

 

Pretty much anything you can order from Rosemary’s beverage list is sure to be a stunner. This finer-dining establishment, which the Philadelphia Inquirer said “brings a stylish vibe to little Ridley Park” has built its reputation on beautiful food and carefully considered cocktails. While you certainly can’t go wrong with a tequila-and-blood-orange Rosemary cocktail on tap, or a glass of Lambrusco, we suggest leaning into the cold weather with a Rye Negroni. This clever take on the classic cocktail swaps spicy George Dickel Rye Whiskey for the usual gin, stirred up with a Spanish rosé vermouth and Italian bitter liqueur. It’s smooth but strong, just right for a chilly evening.

25 E. Hinckley Ave., Ridley Park; (610) 671-3770.

 

 

Not all winter flavors have to be dark and decadent. A lovely fruit that comes into season this time of year is the pomegranate, with a flavor akin to cranberry, that’s sweet and bold, with just a hint of tartness. The Pomegranate Martini at Mercato captures these flavors perfectly in the glass with a blend of vodka, triple sec, pomegranate juice and fresh lemon juice. It’s the prettiest ruby hue, with a juicy, friendly flavor that’s easy to love. Try one during happy hour (Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.), paired with buck-a-shuck fresh oysters.  

4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square; (610) 723-6589.

 

Coffee & Cafe Drinks

 

 

Need a hot drink on the go? Swing through YO! Coffee, Delco’s only independently owned coffee drive-through that’s built out of an old Swiss Farms store on Providence Road in Media. The coffee and espresso drinks selection is extensive here; you can go as traditional as a plain cup of joe, or as new-school as an oat milk matcha latte. Or, hit that sweet spot right in the middle with a salted caramel cappuccino, a frothy, milky creation that makes a nice little treat in the midst of a hectic day.

938 N. Providence Rd., Media; (484) 424-7794.

 

Havertown’s newest hot spot is The Bookery Coffeehouse, a charming combination cafe and book shop, right next door to Plant Roots Local (and owned/operated by the same folks). Stepping inside the elegant space, complete with plenty of greenergy, design-forward tables and chairs and locally-made wares, is instant coziness. Don’t leave without trying the house special, the Bookery Latte, a creamy, gently sweet blend of espresso, milk, honey and cinnamon.

19 Brookline Blvd., Havertown; (484) 455-7694.

 

 

Terrain at Styer’s, which always goes hard for the holidays, is transformed into a winter wonderland during this time of year. Whether you’re there to browse wreaths and home decor, pick up a few gifts, or just enjoy the ambiance, it’s a great idea to pop into Terrain Garden Cafe for a coffee drink to refuel. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the Toasted Marshmallow Mocha—espresso, chocolate sauce, steamed milk are topped with a charred marshmallow for a delicacy that lands somewhere between a drink and dessert. Sip one sitting nearby one of the outdoor firepits for maximum vibes. 

 914 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills; (610) 459-6030.

 

 

Prefer to snuggle up with a warm drink from the comfort of your own couch? Pick up a package of Hot Chocolate on a Stick from Chill Out Chocolate Therapy. These pre-portioned cubes of authentic Swiss chocolate are topped with yummy add-ons, like crushed candy canes and mini marshmallows; simply stir one into a mug of hot milk until it dissolves for a scrumptious cup of cocoa. They also make adorable stocking stuffers!

19 E. Hinckley Ave., Ridley Park; (484) 497-5589.

 

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.

— Emily Kovach 

 

Feature photo courtesy of Pexels