Given the rainy days and early sunsets, late fall is the perfect time to imbibe in a cozy seasonal beverage. I’m not just referring to hot toddies and pumpkin spice lattes: From seasonal lattes to warming nightcaps, bars, Bellingham’s cafes and bars offer a plethora of weather-appropriate drinks. Here are just a few favorites — all of which taste best when the weather is extra gloomy.
Seasonal latte: Eggnog latte (Makeworth Coffee Roasters)
In the realm of seasonal coffee, one drink flies criminally under the radar: the eggnog latte. Rich, creamy and endlessly comforting, eggnog lattes don’t need three different syrups to taste indulgent. And even though eggnog is associated with Christmas, the folks at Makeworth think it’s appropriate for any occasion (as long as the weather’s cold enough).
Owner Corey Silversmith brought the eggnog latte back extra early this year to help folks stave off impending winter gloom. Makeworth’s version is made with Darigold milk and warming spices, plus bold espresso to cut the richness of the eggnog. The result is a warming, slightly nostalgic pick-me-up that’s not too heavy to pair with a pastry.
Espresso alternative: Practical Magic (11th Hour Coffee and Tea Bar)
Lavender lattes have been trendy for some time now, to the point that even Starbucks has jumped on the bandwagon. But lavender tea lattes feel novel — and 11th Hour’s version, the Practical Magic, puts a floral spin on the classic London Fog.
The Practical Magic begins with a lavender earl gray blend, then sweetened with vanilla and a dash more lavender syrup. It’s then finished with steamed milk and lavender buds for good measure. Earl Grey also contains far less caffeine than espresso, making this a good alternative to a third cup of coffee.
Afternoon sugar fix: Apple cider (Hammerhead Coffee Roasters)
If you (like me) find yourself craving something sweet around 2 p.m., Hammerhead’s apple cider should hit the spot. They make their version with Bellewood Farms cider, which you could theoretically buy yourself — but what makes their version special is the whipped cream, which Hammerhead makes in-house. To further sweeten the deal, it comes with a generous swirl of caramel.
The sugar in this drink should power you through the day — but if it’s caffeine you need, my second pick would be Hammerhead’s s’mores latte. This decadent latte is made with vegan, house-made dark chocolate/toasted marshmallow syrup and topped with mini marshmallows for added charm.
Cocktail served hot: Chai Me a River (Galloway’s Cocktail Bar)
During the COVID-19 “streatery” era, Galloway’s manager Allison Sutherland said demand for hot drinks skyrocketed — so much so that they devoted an entire menu section to hot cocktails like Chai Me a River. While all remain popular, Sutherland said this drink is a favorite amongst customers and staff alike.
Galloway’s is best for both its Prohibition-era drinks and original concoctions; Chai Me a River falls firmly in the latter category. It’s made with a base of brandy and Amaro Nonino, an herbal Italian digestif made from grappa. Cream and creme de cacao (a chocolate liqueur) adds a touch of sweetness, and the chai lends complexity and a vaguely spicy aftertaste. The result is akin to grown-up hot chocolate —albeit with a bite.
After-dinner nightcap: The Alley Cat (Redlight Kitchen and Bar)
The new Redlight Kitchen and Bar stays open till midnight seven days a week — so if you’re looking for a nightcap or late-night bite, you know where to look. You can’t go wrong with anything on their seasonal menu, but Bartender Tera Richardson recommends the Alley Cat as a bold, “baking spice-forward” nightcap.
Fun fact: The Alley Cat was the first cocktail Richardson came up with after joining the Redlight team. It’s a cozy riff on the classic Lion’s Tail cocktail, except with fig simple syrup and cinnamon and nutmeg-infused bourbon replacing the allspice dram. The drink’s warmer notes are balanced out by a dash of bitters, sherry and a hint of lemon.
Cocoa Laney is CDN’s lifestyle editor; reach her at cocoalaney@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 128.
