We raise a glass to seven establishments supplying our favorite festive sippers, each promising to get you into the holiday spirit.
Coffee Cottage
When the weather outside is frightful, make tracks to Coffee Cottage in Mahtomedi where hot seasonal beverages abound. As you enter this quaint little café, stomp the snow off of your boots and listen to the hiss of an espresso machine as baristas pull shots of java and steam milk for rich, frothy lattes. This time of year, you’ll want to order the peppermint white mocha ($4.25), made with a generous dose of minty-sweet syrup, Ghirardelli’s luscious white chocolate and bold espresso. Another favorite is the applejack ($3.75), a spicy-tart blend of gingerbread syrup, cranberry juice and local cider from Pine Tree Apple Orchard. 88 Mahtomedi Ave. Willernie; 651.407.0942
Manitou Station
Looking to reward yourself for all those hours you spent shopping for presents for loved ones? Look no further than Manitou Station. This elegant establishment, with its warm tones and polished wood, offers holiday cocktails designed to pamper your taste buds. Have a seat at the bar where savvy bartenders will mix you a special concoction. We recommend the hot Peppermint Patty ($7), a decadent treat made with peppermint schnapps, Godiva dark chocolate liqueur and hot chocolate—all topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of refreshing crème de menthe. Another crowd pleaser is the egg nog martini ($6.50), a creamy blend of Tuaca Italian vanilla liqueur, Bailey’s Irish Cream and a dash of regular cream. Shaken over ice and poured into a frosty martini glass, this beautiful beverage is garnished with a delicate grating of nutmeg. 2171 Fourth St., White Bear Lake; 651.426.2300
C. G. Hooks Eatery
Let’s face it: During the holidays it’s impossible to not to give in to sweet-tooth tendencies. This season, C.G. Hooks Eatery helps you indulge with its ice-creamy creations. Get comfortable inside this no-frills BBQ hangout and order the candy cane mint float ($4.45): hot chocolate with a scoop of Chocolate Shoppe mint avalanche ice cream plopped into it, garnished with whipped cream and crushed candy canes. Your taste buds won’t know what hit them. Another decadent winner is the chocolate blitzen shake ($4.45): Chocolate Shoppe zanzibar and peppermint stick ice cream are blended and served with chocolate sprinkles clinging to the rim of the chilled glass. 4441 Lake Ave. S., White Bear Lake; 651.493.6763
Jethro’s Char-House & Pub
Want to know where the locals go to warm up when the temperature plummets? Many congregate in a laid-back den called Jethro’s tucked away in Mahtomedi. Grab a table or belly up to the bar, where the bartender will make sure there’s a classic holiday drink in your hand faster than you can say “Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer.” We advise starting with a tried-and-true Tom & Jerry ($5.75), a blend of rum, brandy, hot water, and Tom & Jerry batter served in a warm mug with a sprinkle of nutmeg. By the time you finish that traditional treat, you’ll already be immersed a conversation with your neighbors and you’ll want to order a brandy old fashioned ($5.75) next. Prepared with muddled cherries and oranges, and mixed with aromatic bitters, simple syrup and club soda, the brandy is a gentle warmer-upper guaranteed to ward off frostbite and Grinchy attitudes. 3140 Century Ave., Mahtomedi; 651.770.2443
Café Cravings
When you’re miles away from the nearest roasted chestnut, and Jack Frost is mercilessly nipping at your nose, know that there’s a cute, cozy respite for you called Café Cravings. Waltzing inside the snug-as-a-bug space, you’ll find cheerful baristas whose mission is to serve you steamy beverages to sip on as you gaze outside at that blanket of white. A staff favorite is the chai nog latte ($4), steamed egg nog and chai tea that’s topped with a feather-light puff of whipped cream. Another must-taste is the candy cane latte ($3.75), made with white chocolate, peppermint syrup, espresso and steamed milk—all swirled together harmoniously and capped with whipped cream. 1600 E. County Road E, White Bear Lake; 651.482.7742
Ingredients Cafe
Take your mind off the stress of piling snowdrifts and holiday preparations, and dedicate an evening to good friends, conversation and cocktails at Ingredients in White Bear Lake. With its classy, avant-garde atmosphere and its upbeat, informed service, you’ll be inclined to stay until the bar closes. This restaurant is known for its unparalleled martinis—so fabulous that they have their own special following (Martini Club happens every Thursday). With that, we recommend trying the sparkle-tini ($10.95), a combination of effervescent Prosecco, St. Germaine elderberry liqueur, and sauvignon blanc, garnished with an orange slice. We also love the holiday ice breaker ($8.95), made with Prosecco and crème de violette served over ice and a whole clove in a lowball glass, garnished with a twist of orange. 4725 Highway 61 N., White Bear Lake; 651.426.6611
Washington Square Bar and Grill
With an atmosphere as warm and cheerful as yuletide carols being sung by a choir, Washington Square Bar and Grill is the perfect locale for those looking for a holiday libation. The ruddy brick walls and rustic wood interior say “Relax and take a load off,” as your smiling server recommends a few festive specialty cocktails. We took a shine to the cranberry mojito ($8) with its rum, simple syrup and club soda over muddled mint, lime and jewel-like cranberries. Try the unique apple tart ($6) as well: a cocktail made with house-made infused apple-cinnamon vodka, Tuaca Italian liqueur, and homemade sweet-and-sour mix. 4736 Washington Square, White Bear Lake; 651.407.7162
