Comfort Booze

It's been so cold in New York and it doesn't seem like there's much of a reprieve coming soon. One amazing way of coping with the bitter cold is by indulging in a nice hot toddy. The taste is really similar to the European gluhwein (especially the white wine-based ones). But the best part is that a hot toddy can actually help soothe a sore throat and is really comforting if you're down with a cold. It's also just really nice if you want a nice warm drink.

We had amazing hot toddies at Angel's Share, this cozy hidden bar by Village Yokocho. I love that place. It's very cozy and everyone is very well mannered. I apologize to the patrons and bartenders because I was quite tipsy and not on my best behavior the last time I was there. I took this picture with flash, and was given a gentle reminder by the bartender to please turn of the flash. Sorry! But hey, at least you get an idea of what their bartenders look like. They're all very well-groomed and chic Japanese men with a ridiculous talent for mixing cocktails. We ordered a seasonal drink called Twilight Glow ($13), which is really basically a hot toddy. Angel's Share's recipe consists of New York apple-flavored whisky, honey, hot water, ground ginger, cloves, a slice of lemon and a cinnamon stick. It's the perfect nightcap as you'll be wanting to crawl under your duvet after the last gulp.

If you'd like to try making your own hot toddy without parting ways with your duvet, here are some good recipes from Epicurious and Chow.com.