Fall? Autumn?
No matter what you call it, 'tis the season to embrace all things pumpkin, apple, spice, and everything nice.
The weather's getting cooler and there's only one way to warm us up: sipping on some spicy autumnal flavors.
Lean into fall and get those chilly hands nice 'n toasty with these new faves:
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1. Pumpkin Spice Latte and Salted Caramel Mocha at Starbucks (locations literally everywhere)
The one, the only, the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte is back and ready to dominate your life— and credit card bills. Let those pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove flavors hit all the right notes and welcome you into Fall in the sweetest way possible. Hey, it's iconic for a reason. For a lighter take, try the new Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte.
PSL too basic for your refined tastes? There's also the Salted Caramel Mocha Latte, which combines mocha, toffee, and caramel flavors, with toasted nutty goodness.
Plus, stay tuned for other favorites like Caramel Brulee, Chestnut Praline, and Gingerbread Lattes.
2. Seasonal Beers at The Brooklyn Brewery (79 North 11th Street)
If anyone can compete with the Pumpkin Spice Latte beer, it's this classic microbrewery institution. Grab a pint or bottle of the latest seasonal beers — it's made in-house so you know you're getting the good stuff.
Kick off this year's festival at the source with the Brooklyn Oktoberfest, a full-bodied malty and bitter lager. There's also the colonial style Post Road Pumpkin Ale — which calls for hundreds of the orange gourds mashed into every batch — to get that warm pumpkin aroma and crisp finish.
For something different, snag a Black Chocolate Ale, a Russian stout which pairs perfectly with a fireplace and dessert.
3. Classic Hot Cider and Hot Toddy at Fraunces Tavern (54 Pearl Street)
An apple a day keeps the doctor away and our favorite version of this autumnal fruit is the fermented kind.
Kick off Cider Week in one of Manhattan's most historic — and incredibly cozy — buildings. Reward yourself for navigating the complicated streets of FiDi by sipping these classics — Hot Cider for the traditional, and Hot Toddy for the ones who crave a little kick .
For the PSL lovers, there's also the Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini made with liquor and Irish Cream.
4. Freshly Brewed Coffee at Blue Bottle (15th Street and High Line)
It's time to start giving up those iced drinks, folks, and there's no better place to bite the bullet.
Sip on the seasonal Alma Viva coffee and inhale those toasted marshmallow and butterscotch undertones while taking in the amazing views of Manhattan and the river. Or try Giant Steps, a viscous and fudgy chocolate coffee that will keep you warm all night.
Then, get the Bella Donavon brew to go, and enjoy the red berry and chocolate flavors as you stroll down the High Line.
5. Sleep Bowmore Punch at McKittrick Hotel Gallow Green (542 West 27th Street)
The home of the hit interactive show Sleep No More also has a overgrown rooftop garden bar and cafe.
Take in the dreamy setting with a bowl of their signature Sleep Bowmore Punch, created with single-malt scotch, Madeira wine and orange shrub and sweetened with dememara sugar. It's made tableside in a copper bowl and lavishly flavored with lemon slices and freshly ground nutmeg.
Are we dreaming? Because this is literally autumn in a bowl.
6. French Creek Fizz and "Two Guns" Miller at Pouring Ribbons (225 Avenue B and 14th Street)
Want a twist on the classics? Head to Alphabet City's adventurous cocktail lounge for beverages that are equally creative and comforting.
For the nostalgic, the French Creek Fizz combines apple brandy and apple cider with maple syrup, but it's the splash of root beer that kicks it up a notch. Maple syrup sweetens the deal while lemon and bitters enhance the apple-y crispness.
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Or sip the "Two Guns" Miller — a bold experiment in cinnamon-infused tequila, vermouth, cane syrup and bitters. Wondering what the guns are? Two cinnamon sticks, served in glass, lit to gently waft smoke. Put 'em up, cowboy.
7. Wicked Hot Chocolate at Jacques Torres (various locations)
Sure, you know the chocolatier Jacques Torres for having the world's best hot chocolate. It's thick, creamy and literally feels like you're sipping melted chocolate bars. But have you seen them at their fall spiciest?
This daring take on a cold-weather classic is not for the faint of heart. The Wicked special features notes of familiar fall favorites like allspice and cinnamon. But then it's kicked up about ten notches with ground smoked ancho and chipotle chili peppers!
[Feature Image Courtesy Creative Commons]