Here in Western New York, where winter arrives with an early sunset and the promise of several months of cold, cozy has become something of a local art form. The holiday season only heightens the appeal of a warm corner, a well-made cocktail and great conversation under twinkling lights.
From a pub that feels like a private library to a restaurant with a ceiling flooded with Christmas decorations, these WNY spots each offer their own take on holiday comfort.
Mulberry Italian Ristorante
64 Jackson Ave., Lackawanna
Already a tradition amongst many families (and a few Bills players), Mulberry’s is a Buffalo institution made even more spectacular during the holidays. During the Christmas season, thousands of ornaments hang overhead, transforming the ceiling of the old-school Italian restaurant into a glittering canopy, echoing the likes of Rolf’s in New York City. It’s a maximalist approach to holiday spirit that works particularly well alongside Mulberry’s famously hearty Italian fare, from its giant meatball to its house-made lasagna and gnocchi.
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Nowhere Lounge
Nowhere Lounge
3115 Delaware Ave., Buffalo
At the Nowhere Lounge, the holiday feeling comes with a decidedly retro and intentionally kitschy twist. Inspired by the 1970s, this cocktail bar pairs vintage furnishings with thoughtful details, channeling a basement rec-room from days of yore. That nostalgic feeling is further amplified during this time of year, with old-school holiday ornaments and tinsel adorning the ceiling and drinks served in retro glassware. It’s the kind of place that rewards a closer look, whether you’re admiring the decor or discovering one of the lounge’s modernized classic cocktails.
Cole’s
Cole's
1104 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo
Some places feel cozy because they’re decorated for the season; Cole’s feels cozy because it has years of stories built into it. The longtime Elmwood Village institution’s wooden beam ceiling, subway tile and vintage pennants give it a comfortably worn-in feel, amplified by the string lights and seasonal decor this time of year. With a wide beer selection and classic pub fare, Cole’s is the sort of place where a winter drink can easily become an entire evening.
The Byrd House
The Byrd House
4190 N. Buffalo St., Orchard Park
At The Byrd House, holiday comfort is rooted in the neighborhood-pub tradition. With nearly 20 craft beers, burgers, wings and other familiar pub favorites, the separate bar and restaurant areas make room for both a livelier night out and a quieter meal. Whether you’re starting or finishing your holiday shopping in the Orchard Park village, don’t miss their bar decked out in twinkling lights and ornaments hung by the Hayburner with care.
The Foxglove Pub
The Foxglove Pub
20 S. Buffalo St., Hamburg
At The Foxglove Pub, cozy is built into the walls. This quaint literary-themed pub feels like a cross between an old European tavern and an eccentric private library, with book-lined walls, vintage treasures and a small upstairs mezzanine overlooking the bar. The owners drew inspiration from travels through Ireland, England, Iceland and Spain, creating an intimate setting made complete with one of their classic cocktails or Irish whiskies. Settle into the cozy surroundings with a drink as you watch the snowfall over the Village of Hamburg.
