If you’re planning a winter visit to the Washington, D.C. region to explore museums, monuments and other attractions, set aside time to enjoy seasonal cocktails and cuisine at these inventive, ski‑lodge–inspired pop-ups. Each offers a cozy escape that evokes the atmosphere of St. Moritz or Aspen while staying close to the capital.
Winter Chalet at Dirty Habit
Dirty Habit, the globally influenced New American restaurant at Hotel Kimpton Monaco, has transformed its courtyard into a winter chalet. Tables are outfitted with plush blankets and the courtyard features heaters, fire pits and even a snow cannon to complete the alpine vibe. Chef Anthony Jones serves an international menu that includes truffled chicken‑gravy poutine; calamari skewers with miso and chili‑garlic butter; and inverted s’mores with roasted dulce chocolate, spiced cookie and toasted meringue. Beverage director JR Rena pairs these dishes with inventive cocktails such as The Ski’s Limited — Ford’s Gin blended with St. Germain and cranberry molasses, finished with sparkling rosé — and For Whom the Bean Tolls, an espresso‑martini riff with Patrón Reposado, Frangelico, espresso and Champagne cream. The Winter Chalet runs through Feb. 28; reservations are available on OpenTable.
© NOM Digital
The Macallan Chalets at Bourbon Steak DC
At Bourbon Steak DC, Michael Mina’s upscale steakhouse in the Four Seasons Georgetown, the patio has been reimagined as a Speyside‑inspired winter retreat in collaboration with The Macallan. Three custom chalets feature warm wood tones and intimate seating for parties of up to four, six or ten. Lead bartender Engidawork Alebachew and pastry chef Ashish Thalakkat created a decadent hot chocolate using The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Years Old and Valrhona chocolate, topped with Macallan milk foam, marshmallows, cinnamon dust, a chocolate tree and edible gold leaf. New menu items complement the whiskies: Maine lobster pot pie with baby leeks, black trumpets and lobster dumplings pairs with the vanilla and sherry notes of The Macallan Double Cask 15 Years Old, while fontina‑filled gnudi in white truffle butter and toasted potato broth highlights the citrus and ginger of The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old. Chalets are available for rental with a $25 per person booking fee and a $500 food‑and‑beverage minimum; reservations can be made through the restaurant’s booking platform.
Ski Gondolas at Stone Tower Winery
Just outside the District, Stone Tower Winery in Leesburg, Virginia, has installed three ski gondolas on its patio for a playful winter experience. The red, two‑person gondolas are enclosed but not heated, so dress warmly. Each two‑hour reservation includes a flight of three wines and the winery’s signature butter board with house‑made ciabatta, apple‑cider butter, garlic kale butter and pepitas—ideal for sharing and for photographing. Guests can add dishes such as truffle fries, mussels in white wine and garlic, or a Margherita pizza. Recommended pours from the winery and partner labels include sparkling Blanc de Blancs, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc Reserve and a bright Nebbiolo. The experience is priced at $30 per person, available to guests 21 and over, and runs through mid‑March; reservations are handled via the winery’s booking page.
These seasonal pop‑ups combine creative food, thoughtful beverage pairings and immersive settings, making them perfect stops for visitors seeking memorable winter dining and drinking experiences in the Washington, D.C. area.