As the temperatures start to drop and snow suddenly falls, many of us will be in search of cozy environments to have a meal, grab a drink or just relax. Here a few comfortable places that will give you a heated patio or frothy warm drink to beat the rapidly approaching winter cold. 

Baileys’ Chocolate Bar: A restaurant dedicated to desserts? Sign us up! With a dark, romantic interior, walking in feels like being wrapped in a warm hug of chocolaty goodness. Some of the best items on the menu to warm you up on a cold night would be the brownie, served hot and fudgy with a scoop of house-made ice cream, and the specialty hot chocolate, batched in house. For those over the age of 21, the Milk Chocolate cocktail is basically boozy chocolate milk and offers the perfect excuse to drink a warm martini. 

Narwhals Crafted: Just a few steps off of SLU, this unique bar offers a heated patio to continue enjoying your crafted ice and other cocktails. And for those interested in a little challenge, Narwhals hosts trivia every Tuesday starting at 8 p.m. Favorite seasonal menu item currently? Poached Pear Sangria crafted ice. 

Vicia: If you’re looking for a cozy place to celebrate or enjoy a really nice meal, Vicia is the place for you. At a higher price point, Vicia offers a vegetable-forward menu with constantly changing dishes that are sure to get every foodie in a frenzy. With options for sitting both inside and out, their outdoor patio is closed in with large windows during the winter and heat lamps are turned on full force. And in all honesty, there’s not a bad item on the menu.

MoKeBe’s Coffeehouse: Don’t want to break the bank but want a cozy spot to study? MoKaBe’s may be the place for you. This inclusive, queer-owned coffee shop offers a plethora of interesting and warm coffees that just taste better when there’s a chill in the air. It’s a great place to study and grab a delicious comfort meal. MoKaBe’s also houses one of my favorite brunches in the city on Sundays, chock-full of vegetarian and vegan options, buffet style. A great place full of cozy coffeehouse vibes.