In the winter, one of my favorite things to do is to sit by a warm, roaring fire and cozy up with a glass of red wine. Whether we’re dining out in Boston or are relaxing in the comfort of our own home after building a blaze log by log (and by “we,” I mean my very handy husband), on chilly nights, a fireside meal or cocktail is an absolute must. Lucky for me, some of Boston’s best restaurants have their own fireplaces! Snowy days are sure to be in the forecast soon, so I’ve rounded up a few of the best places to enjoy a perfect winter night, fireside.
The A-Lyst for Boston Restaurants with Cozy Fireplaces
I may be a little biased about the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel because we got married in the ballroom there on 9-10-11, but the double-sided fireplace at OAK Long Bar + Kitchen is pretty hard to beat. On one side, you can enjoy the restaurant’s stately dining room, which boasts high ceilings, glistening chandeliers, and a bustling bar scene, and on the other, you’ll find a quieter and more lounge-like experience with comfy leather couches, bright red walls, and glass walls exposing the restaurant’s impressive wine collection. Depending on my mood, I love both fireplace experiences. Pair this with a glass of vino or a cocktail, flatbread, and some bone marrow (yes, bone marrow) and you will have a solid Friday night. 138 Saint James Street, Boston, MA 02116
The first floor tavern area of Post 390 is home to an amazing fireplace as well as a delicious menu of familiar favorites, including an awesome burger (Post 390 burger, I’m talking about you!). I love how the fireplace at Post 390 warms up the entire room, and trust me, if you have to pass by the wind tunnel near the John Hancock Tower (a.k.a the tall glass building now known as 200 Clarendon) to get to the restaurant, you will definitely need an immediate burst of heat! This is one of my top picks for an easy night out; your husband/boyfriend will be happy with the TVs and you’ll love the fire. It’s a win-win! 406 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
While you’re probably familiar with the South End Buttery’s wonderful selection of coffee, sandwiches, and baked goods, what you may not have known is its downstairs features a super cozy dining room with a toasty fireplace! Serving up a menu of comfort food staples like mac ‘n cheese and roasted chicken, the Buttery is a great pick for a low-key winter night because the fireplace makes the space feel oh-so-romantic and the menu doesn’t break the bank. Request a table closest to the fire and don’t skip dessert! 314 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
Whenever I am meeting friends in Cambridge for cocktails, Catalyst in Kendall Square is at the top of my list, and that’s partially because of its gorgeous fireplace. The restaurant’s sleek, minimalistic decor translates through to its two-way fireplace, which is just as chic as it is warm! This is an excellent place to enjoy after work fireside drinks and bites with friends, or if you want something a bit more hearty, the restaurant’s menu is full of delicious dishes that are comprised of fresh, innovative ingredients. 300 Technology Square, Cambridge, MA 02139
Want to feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy alpine ski lodge while sitting in the middle of Boston? Head downstairs to the appropriately named “chalet” room at Fort Point’s Bastille Kitchen, where you’ll be greeted by a roaring fireplace, plush leather couches, and wood-paneled walls. On a weekend night, this lounge is a fantastic place to enjoy tasty libations and bask in that coveted après ski glow (…minus the sore muscles from numerous runs down a mountain). Take a seat by the fire and order a dozen oysters and my personal favorite, the Paris Saint-Germain Martini. There’s no better way to kick back and relax! 49 Melcher Street, Boston, MA 02210
As one of the sexiest restaurants in Boston, Yvonne’s hosts diners in several areas, one of which is designed to resemble a dignified library, dimly lit by the glow of a blazing fireplace. Come with a group of adventurous eaters who have big appetites, order a few social plates followed by a large format “feast”, and relish in the warmth of the fire. With a killer soundtrack blasting, creative cocktails, and a mouthwatering menu to boot, I could literally spend all night here, especially if I score a fireside table. A word to the wise – make a reservation well in advance! 2 Winter Place, Boston, MA 02108
If you’re in the mood for a red sauce and red wine kind of night, this Southie spot is sure to do the trick. Since CAPO is very large, yet still always bustling, if you want to score a coveted table near the fireplace, make a request with your reservation. As you enjoy the glow of the fire, I recommend ordering Chef Tony Susi’s house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas, which are the perfect antidote for a cold winter night in Boston. Skip the lines at Loco Taqueria and Lincoln Tavern, and instead, indulge in some hearty Italian fare by the fire. 443 West Broadway, South Boston, MA 02127
And if you prefer the hotel lounge scene, don’t miss the fireplaces at…
The Bristol Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Boston
Avery Bar, The Ritz-Carlton, Boston
The Lobby Lounge, Mandarin Oriental, Boston
Outfit Details:
Top: J.Crew Tippi Sweater in Black
Blazer: Club Monaco Bedford Blazer in Black
Jeans: PAIGE Transcend Verdugo Ankle Ultra Skinny Jeans
Boots: CHANEL Over-the-Knee Black Leather Boots (similar here and here)
Necklace: CHANEL Black Bead and Rhinestone Necklace (similar here)
Nail Polish: OPI Malaga Wine
Photos by @KateSW