Freeze Navidad
Sleigh Shed at the Trainshed at Union Station (201 S. 18th)
*Reservations are not required.
This tequila-based cocktail is a complex, fruity riff on the classic margarita. Expect floral hints with fresh citrus, as well as melon and pomegranate for a refreshing yet seasonal beverage.
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Spritz
Up on the Roof Top at 360 Downtown St. Louis (1 S. Broadway)
*Reservations are not accepted for small parties.
The base spirit in this cocktail is a blanc vermouth, which lends more floral and citrus notes. It’s paired with apple, lemon, and a bit of allspice and finished with sparkling wine. Expect a refreshing, baking spice-like take on the classic French 75.
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Jingle Bells Nog
Miracle at Small Change (2800 Indiana)
Reservations are $10 and donated to Santa’s Helpers. Reservations can be made here.
With cognac, cream sherry, almond milk, cream, vanilla, nutmeg, and, of course, eggs, this riff on the classic nog brings all of the holiday nostalgia right to the forefront. Expect heavy baking spice notes, as well as hints of nuts and vanilla, with a silky mouthfeel.
Coco Ho Ho Ho
Sippin’ Santa at Planter’s House* (1000 Mississippi Ave)
Reservations are $10, which is donated to the St. Louis Community Foundation. Reservations can be made here.
This cocktail is as close to tiki on a beach during the holidays as one can get. It’s made with Jamaican rum, lime, coconut, pineapple, pandan syrup, and banana liqueur. Expect creamy tropical notes, as well as hints of nuttiness and umami, for a balanced drink.
Black Diamond
Avalanche at Work and Leisure* (3051 Locust)
Tickets are $12 (+tax) and can be purchased here.
1220’s Encrypted Vodka anchors this holiday-inspired espresso martini. Fresh espresso with a chai-spiced honey syrup, coffee liqueur, and a house-made chili tincture make for a complex libation. Expect the chai-spiced honey syrup and chili tincture to complement the espresso and coffee notes.
Stolen Christmas
Public School House (5546 Chestnut, Cottleville)
Reservations are required and can be made here.
This twist on the classic Gin & Tonic utilizes 1220’s Origin Gin, Sfumato Amaro (a rich herbal and slightly smoky bitter amaro with strong berry hints), strawberry, tonic, and a matcha foam. Expect the berry-forward drink to have delicate floral notes, effervescence, and a light earthy note to cap it all off.
Chalet Hot Cocoa
Bormio (5105 Westwood, Suite A, St. Peters)
Swiss Chocolate and Ovaltine round out the base of this Alpine take on the classic winter beverage. With the addition of nutmeg, cinnamon, kirsch (cherry brandy), and pine schnapps, expect a silky mouthfeel and deep creamy cocoa complement, with hints of cherry and alpine earthiness.
Down the Chimney
Santa’s Speakeasy At Hidden Gem (3118 Locust)
Tickets are $6 (+tax) and can be purchased here.
This mezcal-based margarita riff incorporates red currant liqueur, peach juice, lime juice, and a clove simple syrup. Expect a delicate smokiness that complements the richness of the red currant and clove simple syrup. The tartness of the citrus and peach juice balance it all out.
Hear about more holiday cocktails and pop-up bars on the Arch Eats podcast.