There are lots of exciting things to do during winter in Austin. But when the winter weather hits and you're looking to get extra cozy, try out one of these winter warmers around town. From local restaurants with fireplaces and fire pits to dark and cozy wine bars, here are some of the best Austin restaurants to while away the hours in this season.

Bars & Restaurants

Snuggle up over holiday-themed drinks at one of W Austin’s two Living Room fireplaces. For something extra vibey, ask about the Secret Bar, hidden on the first floor of the hotel.

Looking to impress a date or just relax with friends? The upscale atmosphere at Jeffrey’s always delivers. For a super-cozy gathering, head to the bar area to recline in one of the velvety chairs by the fireplace and order a soul-warming concoction, like the Death & Taxes — a scotch and gin cocktail that is both perfectly balanced and totally boozy.

Even though the fireplace at Volstead Lounge is faux, the gilded wallpaper and intimate quarters provide a perfectly cozy spot for gathering with friends and sipping high-octane cocktails.

Located at the Hotel Van Zandt, Geraldine's features shareable plates in a warm setting. Hang out in the swanky dining room or grab a cocktail by the outdoor fire place while you gaze at the dazzling city skyline. 

If backyard patios are more your style, the laid-back vibe at Moontower Saloon is the way to go. Grab a local beer at the bar and venture outdoors for some homemade grub from one of the food trailers. Stay warm in one of the Adirondack chairs by the fire pit, and let the live music on the outdoor stage provide the soundtrack.

Ring in the New Year in swanky style at The Driskill Bar. Try their selection of specialty winter cocktails while warming up by the fireplace in this elegant and iconic Texas hotel bar. 

What Halcyon lacks in a fireplace, it makes up for in scrumptious s'mores. Part café, part lounge, this grown-up version of a coffeehouse offers table-side s'more service and tasty cocktails (as well as a menu of coffee drinks), so you can roast marshmallows while sipping on a signature chocolate espresso martini, as live acoustic music provides the soundtrack.

Wine Bars

Looking for a quaint, unpretentious spot to crack open a bottle? House Wine is located in an old house in South Austin, just off Barton Springs Road and Lamar Boulevard. A great wine selection, simple food menu, live music and local beer makes this a perfect hang out spot when it's too chilly to brave the outdoors.

East Austin's LoLo Wine is a trendy bottle shop and bar offering only natural wines. Hang under heaters on their back patio while the DJ spins and sip on a bottle from their extensive collection of wines from around the world. 

Nothing says cozy like books and wine. Get the best of both worlds at Vintage, a locally owned independent bookstore and wine bar 

Family-run counter service restaurant and wine bar Birdie's is committed to preserving the history of its location and serving seasonal fare & wine. Snack on elevated American dishes while sipping on your glass of red.

Coffee Shops

The Carpenter Coffee Bar at the Carpenter Hotel gives small-town coffee shop vibes. Order from the vintage counter and sip on a warm latte in their lounge. Pair your drink with their salted chocolate chip cookie (do we really need to convince you?). Keep in mind that the coffee bar turns cocktail bar after 3 pm with specialty cocktails, wine and beer. 

Bring a jacket and hang under the string lights at Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden's spacious outdoor yard. Order a classic coffee, or choose something from their seasonal menu. Insider tip: you can spike your drink, hot or cold, for just $5 more. 

Downtown's The Hideout double-times as coffee shop and improv theater. Grab a toasty coffee drink and opt to stay inside for a hilarious improv set by some of Austin's funniest local talent.

Located in the historic Walter Tips House, Freddo ATX serves up Greek style coffee and treats in a Victorian style home. Snag a couch seat, or grab a table by one of the many windows in the home. 

Where do you go to keep warm in Austin? Share with us on Twitter and Instagram using #TrueAustin!