Fire-side Hot Drinks Perfect Remedy for the Winter Chill

The winter chill in the air doesn't have to mean staying indoors. There's something magical about bundling up just enough to step out onto UNION Bar & Soda Fountain's expansive patio in Old Town Fort Collins, claiming a spot near the firepit, and cradling a steaming hot drink while the flames dance and crackle.

UNION's patio is one of those award-winning outdoor spaces that feels like an extension of the restaurant's retro-modern vibe—spacious, fenced for a cozy feel, with plenty of seating, heaters strategically placed, and that centerpiece firepit drawing people in like moths to a flame (but way more inviting). Even on brisk February evenings or crisp fall nights, the setup keeps things comfortably warm without sacrificing the fresh air or the views of the bustling Old Town scene nearby.

Picture this: You arrive as the sun dips low, the sky turning that perfect shade of dusky blue. The patio is alive but not overwhelming—friends laughing at nearby tables. You snag one of the seats circling the firepit, close enough that the heat radiates gently onto your face and hands. The fire's glow casts a golden flicker across everything, turning an ordinary evening into something special.

In your hands? A hot drink that's the perfect counterpoint to the cold. While UNION is famous for its craft cocktails, house-made sodas, and boozy milkshakes, they also serve up solid hot options to warm you from the inside out. A rich drip coffee hits the spot—simple, strong, and steaming—or go for a nitro cold brew if you're feeling adventurous (though on a chilly night, hot is king). Hot tea brings its own comforting ritual, maybe with a splash of something extra if you're in the mood. For those leaning boozy, a spiked hot chocolate or a warm seasonal elixir from their creative menu feels downright indulgent, pairing perfectly with the fire's ambiance.

As you sip slowly, the conversation flows easier. The firepit's warmth seeps into your bones, melting away the day's stress. Flames leap and pop, sending little sparks upward like tiny fireworks. It's the kind of simple pleasure that makes you forget about scrolling on your phone— you're fully present, wrapped in warmth, good company, and the subtle scent of wood smoke mingling with whatever delicious aromas are drifting from the kitchen (burgers? Fresh pretzel bites? Yes, please).

UNION's patio isn't just about surviving cooler weather; it's about embracing it. The heaters and firepit turn what could be an off-season limitation into a highlight. Whether you're catching up with old friends, on a low-key date, or just treating yourself to some solo people-watching with a hot drink in hand, this spot delivers that rare combination of nostalgia and modern comfort.

Next time the temperature drops but you crave connection and a bit of outdoor magic, head to UNION. Grab a seat by the firepit, order something hot, and let the evening unfold. In a world that moves fast, these slow, warm moments around the fire feel like a small rebellion—and an utterly delicious one.

Example Hot Drinks

TIA's TODDY: mezcal, ancho reyes, oj, cinnamon, chamomile

BARREL & BEAN: spiced rum, amaretto, espresso, cold cream

HARVEST MOON HOT CIDER: vodka, cranberry, cinnamon, hot cider

(Pro tip: Check their current menu for seasonal hot specials and arrive early on weekends—the firepit seats go quick when the vibes are this good!)

FOOD & DRINK