5 FIREPLACE RESTAURANTS
where you must have been
Suddenly it feels more like Antarctica, you brave snowstorms and suffer from chronic sniffling. And by suddenly, I also mean ‘suddenly’. Today we still enjoy the sun, the fresh but nice breeze, and everything else that comes with spring in New York. Tomorrow it could be over. Like a bolt from the blue. That's how it always goes here with the seasonal changes. From cold to warm is every year again like a surprise party. But the other way around is less joyful. So I still enjoy that sun and everything else that comes with today. Because maybe when I wake up later, I’ll need to put my gloves on again.
Although I (and probably many like me) thrive better in warmer atmospheres, I must also admit that winter in New York really belongs. Because when it’s not snowing, the sky is bright blue, the streets are icy cold, but the city is more beautiful than ever. Moreover, with winter it always applies: the icier it is outside, the cozier it is inside. You know, those evenings with red wine and dishes with cranberry sauces hanging by the fireplace. Ah, still nice, that winter then.
If you don’t have a fireplace yourself, you can come here. Coziness, warmth, and delicious dishes. With or without cranberry sauce, but never without red wine.
Il Buco
This restaurant somewhere in Soho is the epitome of delicious, cozy, and romantic dining. The fireplace flickers, there is candlelight on the table, and for a moment you feel like you’re in an artistic Mediterranean fairy tale. A combination of Italian and Spanish cuisine is served. And it tastes delightful at Il Buco. Yes, this spot is the epitome of what you want on a wintry snow day.
The NoMad Hotel
The soft chairs are upholstered in red velvet. They are so soft that you sink completely into them. The curtains are always closed. With all that fabric, the acoustics are like a blessing in this city. It’s just a murmur that can be heard. What a pleasure. Furthermore, it resembles a scene from The Great Gatsby. The tables, the fireplaces, the different rooms… And then that menu. Please order the chicken for two. That is the signature dish of The NoMad and I completely agree with that (after tasting it twice).
Alta
In a 19th-century mansion in Chelsea, you will find Alta. My favorite place for tapas. The fireplace, wooden awnings, and high ceilings complete the picture. So yes, nothing more to add.
The Spotted Pig
There’s all sorts of things on the walls: antlers, quirky paintings… The benches are covered with a Scottish tartan. Sometimes you end up on a wobbly stool. But that doesn’t matter. I’d rather wobble in front of a fireplace than stand in line in the snow. Because there’s almost always a line out the door here. And for years. But I understand that, because The Spotted Pig is a given in New York. Also for the coziness, but certainly for the meat. From burgers to steaks, they have the very best. Oh, and did I mention how cozy it is here? Especially in winter.
TINY’S
The name is no coincidence. Tiny’s is ‘tiny’, but super cozy. Of course with a fireplace and a range of typical American dishes with a touch of France. The walls are decorated with antique wallpaper and the ceiling is made of tin. Just as it should be in this restaurant located in a building from 1810. And not only inside, but with a very small light pink facade, Tiny’s is also so cozy from the outside.
