Winter Storm Hernando didn’t just dust Rhode Island. It buried it. Sidewalks vanished. Driveways became CrossFit. And somewhere between the third shovel scrape and the fourth cup of lukewarm coffee, most Rhode Islanders had the same thought: there has to be a better way to warm up.
Lucky for us, there is. It involves hanging up the parka, supporting local, and wrapping both hands around something hot and spirited. Here’s where to thaw out, because after a storm like that, we all deserve a little structure.
Aiden’s Pub
This local favorite leans all the way into comfort. The traditional Irish coffee blends Jameson Black Barrel with demerara syrup and hot coffee, crowned with homemade whipped cream. The Myrish layers Jameson Cold Brew, Kahlúa, Baileys, Frangelico, and Irish Mist with a playful splash of green crème de menthe. Feeling festive? The spiced chocolate pumpkin pairs pumpkin and chocolate liqueurs with your choice of hot chocolate or coffee. It’s dessert and a nightcap in one mug. Newport
Malt on Broadway
With eight winter warmers, Malt doesn’t mess around. Classics like hot toddies and Irish coffees share space with the Hot Whitman, a cozy mix of bourbon, maple syrup, black walnut bitters, and cherry liqueur. The Spicy Cinnamon Rum Cider kicks things up with orange bitters, agave, rum, cinnamon, and Jack Fire. For maple lovers, the Orange Maple Bourbon Apple Cider feels like Rhode Island in liquid form. Newport
O’Brien & Brough Distillery
Small-batch spirits shine in the Caramel Apple, a buttery blend of bourbon, rye, apple cider, caramel syrup, lemon, and butter. It’s the drink equivalent of standing by the stove while something good simmers. Bristol
Opa
Sometimes simple wins. Opa’s Apple Hot Toddy gives the classic a confident twist with Proper 12 Irish whiskey. Sweet, citrusy, and no-nonsense. Providence
Perks & Corks
Coffee lovers, this is your lane. Dave’s Coffee anchors inventive options like the Carrot Cake with Irish cream and Buttershots, the French Kiss with cognac and Grand Marnier, and the Mexican Coffee with tequila blanco and Kahlúa. Even the Monk’s Retreat, hot chocolate with green Chartreuse and cognac, feels quietly rebellious. Westerly
Riffraff Bookstore & Bar
Books and bourbon. Enough said. The Lavender Hot Toddy blends Earl Grey, bourbon, and lavender syrup. The Chamomile Scotch Toddy softens the edges with lemon and honey. Or try the Rum Chaider, a chai tea and apple cider hybrid that tastes like a snow day done right. Providence
Thirsty Beaver
The Cozy Cabin Cocoa mixes Skrewball peanut butter whiskey with hot cocoa and whipped cream. The Pear Caramel Cider leans sweet and spiced. And the Proper Maple Hot Toddy adds a New England touch with maple syrup. Smithfield
Track 15
Bar Romolo’s Mulled Hot Apple Cider features Minard Farms cider and winter spices with dark rum. The Cinnamon Hot Cocoa folds in organic vodka and whipped cream. The Hot Toddy keeps it classic with Irish whiskey, tea, honey, and lemon. Providence
The snow will melt. The sore muscles will fade. But winter in Rhode Island isn’t going anywhere. Good thing these spots are ready to warm you up, one local pour at a time.
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