Off the Record, always on point

 
  Phoenix rising: Sushi Rock’s signature drink

P.O.V. at the W
Cozy up with friends under a faux-fur blanket while enjoying one of the best views of the city from the roof terrace here. But for a true taste of winter, finish this scene off with a house-made, hot apple butter rum cocktail, made with white or dark rum and mixed with homemade apple butter and touches of cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with an apple slice garnish. 515 15th St. NW, 202-661-2478; pointofviewdc.com

Jackson 20
Fulfill your chocolate craving with Jackson 20’s popular Bourbon Hot Chocolate. A signature holiday drink made with Godiva dark chocolate liqueur, this cup of cocoa comes coupled with rustic ambience for a warm retreat away from home. 480 King St., Alexandria, 703-842-2790

One Lounge
A nod to a holiday classic, this cocktail bar’s hot apple cider is brimming with festive flavor. The Spiked Hot Cinnamon Cider is a spirited blend of Apple Jack brandy, cloves, nutmeg, and orange rinds, garnished with a cinnamon stick. 1606 20th St. NW, 202-299- 0909; oneloungedc.com

Estadio
If you like espresso and brandy, why not combine them? A fantastic pick-me-up after a sating dinner, the Quatrofiasco is the best cold-weather tipple at this exotic 14th Street Spanish eatery. Bar manager Adam Bernbach takes a Spanish brandy infused with orange and adds almond extract, espresso, and milk to make the delicious concoction. 1520 14th St. NW, 202-319-1404; estadio-dc.com

Bibiana
At this osteria and enoteca, beverage director Francesco Amodeo prepares a mean Vin Cotto: saba, red wine, dry fruits, nuts, and concerto—a homemade digestive made of 27 spices, coffee, and barley. There is no resisting this ruby-colored cocktail to toast after a fine Italian dinner. 1100 New York Ave., 202-216-9550; bibianadc.com

Buzz Bakery
For those in need of something ultra sweet, we suggest you sip—yes, sip—a Hot Apple Pie. The drink is a combination of steamed cider, caramel, whipped cream, and cinnamon and is possessed of flavor every bit worthy of its namesake. We won’t blame you if you want seconds. 818 N. Quincy St., Arlington, 703-650-9676; buzzbakery.com

Sushi Rock
Hot sake gets even hotter with this sushi bar’s creative twists on the classic Japanese drink. The Phoenix, a fruity version of the rice-based liquor, is paired with honey lemon peel and dragon fruit. Fancy something sweet with a kick? Try the Brown Sugar sake, made with rock sugar and cinnamon and rimmed with brown sugar. 1900 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, 571-312-8027; sushirockdc.com

Peregrine Espresso
This cozy coffeehouse is anything but traditional. Look forward to your morning commute with a little help from the Mulled Cascara, a tea-like beverage infused with an array of spices like clove, cardamom, star anise, and hibiscus and mixed with the dried fruit of the coffee cherry. 1718 14th St. NW, 202-525-5127; 660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, 202-629-4381; peregrineespresso.com

Off the Record at The Hay-Adams
For an elegant evening indoors, the historic Hay-Adams is at the top of the list for a warm cocktail. Named for the wife of John Hay, the Chloe’s Toddy is a shot of Calvados, honey, cinnamon stick, lemon wedges, and a slice of red apple mixed with hot water. 800 16th St. NW, 202-638-6600

Teaism
This earthy and quaint tea shop in the heart of Dupont Circle offers an abundant variety of hot teas, ranging from chai organic to imported quality teas from China. 2009 R St. NW, 202-667-3827; teaism.com