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If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to bust out your faux-fur hat, shearling coat or anything that screams “I’ve skied Highland Bowl,” you’re in luck. Public Hotel’s beloved winter igloos are back on the rooftop starting this Saturday, November 22, bringing peak après-ski vibes to the middle of downtown, no lift ticket required.
The annual pop-up is co-hosted this year by Aspen’s Buckhorn Social Club, complete with glowing domes, sweeping skyline views and a cozy winter atmosphere—you'll forget that you’re steps from the Bowery. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best mountain-wear, which can mean anything from a puffer that could double as a sleeping bag or a statement knit that suggests you’ve at least considered learning how to ski.
The menu inside the igloos leans into cold-weather comfort. Last year’s fan-favorite fondues are back, joined by newcomers like pan-seared branzino, braised lamb shank and a bruleed cheesecake that's worthy of its own holiday card. The bite-sized lineup is tailor-made for lingering as long as possible, wrapped in a blanket and pretending you see snowflakes in the forecast.
Drinks are equally committed to the wintry theme. The holiday cocktail menu is back with spiced espresso martinis, apple cider spritzes and plenty of bubbles for those who prefer celebratory winter beverages. And because no après scene is complete without hot chocolate, Maury Rubin, the creator of City Bakery’s iconic cup, will once again be ladling out both boozy and non-boozy versions; it's the same hot chocolate you may recognize from Sex and the City.
Between the views, the drinks and the Instagram-friendly domes, this is the rare New York winter moment that embraces the season instead of fighting it. The igloos are walk-in-friendly, but they tend to fill up faster than a ski lodge on a snow day, so consider planning ahead. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick spritz or settling in for a full feast, the Public Hotel’s rooftop igloos are ready to deliver holiday sparkle, sans frostbite.