The days are getting shorter and snow has already begun to fall, so the time has come to ease into the holiday spirit. There is no better time to start embracing the brisk weather and warm up with a hot drink, or even spruce up your chilly morning with an even chillier beverage. Let’s begin this winter season with a few holiday themed drinks from some great spots in Moscow.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate – Red Star
Where else to start than with a quintessential holiday drink than with peppermint hot chocolate. This isn’t just any regular peppermint hot chocolate, as it comes straight from one of our local coffee shops: Red Star Coffee Co. There is something about their hot chocolate which completely outshines anything else and the addition of a holiday flavor staple makes it even better. Throw some whipped cream on this drink and you have the perfect beverage for a snowy November day.
- Chestnut Praline Latte — Starbucks
This drink comes from none other than the coffee empire Starbucks. With subtle notes of warm, chestnut-y goodness, caramelized and sweetened to perfection and a deep roast on a blend of coffee, this latte is the perfect way to start any cold winter day. The chestnut flavor is not too overpowering and it isn’t too sweet either, making it one of my personal favorites on this list.
- White Chocolate Mocha – Silos and Social
The white chocolate mocha is simple yet delicious and Silos and Social do it best here in town. If you’re feeling adventurous, spice up this drink with the addition of some peppermint, sprinkles and whip cream. But the base, white mocha, is always a delight and I highly encourage everyone to visit this newly opened local coffee shop.
- Toasted Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew – Starbucks
While hot drinks are great, there will always be those who enjoy a cold drink no matter the weather. Starbucks’ cold brew is perfect for these folks and the addition of a holiday twist makes it all the better. This drink contains a few pumps of toasted vanilla syrup, pumpkin flavored cold foam, cream, cold brew and pumpkin spice to top off this loaded drink. It may seem like overdoing it, but this is the perfect blend of pumpkin delight for all those iced drink lovers. And where would any holiday list be without pumpkin spice?
- London Fog – One World Café
Finally, a nice hot cup of Earl Grey tea with some honey and cream has never done wrong by anyone. This is one of my all-time comforts in life. It never ceases to warm the soul as much as it does the body. Stop into this pleasant café in downtown Moscow to order one for yourself and maybe even stick around to soak in the atmosphere or order some delicious pub food.
Aiden Veselits can be reached at [email protected]