The countdown has already begun — only a few days left for holiday shopping! The only thing better than checking names off a list and taking a break from mall madness is doing so with a cold adult beverage in-hand. So whether you say “hoppy holidays”, “fizz the season” or dream of a white (wine) Christmas, here’s twelve different spots across the US that are close to 5-star shopping and where sips are about to go down!
The Most Wonderful Time For A Beer:
Big Lug Canteen: Indianapolis, IN
Just outside of The Fashion Mall, Big Lug is the perfect choice for a quick break away without going too far. They specialize in craft beers and also have a full menu so you can carb up for all the shopping. Yelpers rave about their hot chicken sandwich and house brews.
Tap 415: San Francisco, CA
This ain’t your average food court experience! Beyond ample seating and casual elegant ambiance, suds seekers can find 10+ local beers on tap at any time inside Westfield’s San Francisco Center. If you get hungry, Chef Matthew Dolan makes a mean Bavarian pretzel nugget and Tap Burger. They also take reservations on Yelp!
JB Quimby’s Public House: Rochester, NY
Nothing says take comfort like homemade soups and loaded tater tots with a fresh pint of IPA. Find refuge from the box store shopping and Black Friday insanity at JB Quimby’s. Yelp insider tip: Special beer battered fish sandwiches are available on Fridays.
Burgeon Beer Co: Carlsbad, CA
North County San Diego is known for great shopping and even better beers. Burgeon is located near the outlet mall and has had Yelpers buzzing all year long. From the Moo Moo Farm Milk Stout to the extensive list of Pale Ale’s and IPA’s, there’s not a bad beer in the bunch.
Time To Wine Down?
Whispering Vine Wine: Reno, NV
Locally owned and loved, South Creek Center is home to several shops with a wide array of fantastic gifts made in Reno and thoughtfully sourced like chocolates, olive oil, and jewelry. Order your vino by the full glass or flight at Whispering Vine. If you like what you try, you can buy a bottle as a gift (for someone else or yourself). Side note: there’s also a beer bar next door!
Grapperia: Pittsburgh, PA
Lawrenceville is chock full of restaurants and bars. Owned and operated by Piccolo Forno, Grapperia is next door and serves a wide variety of Italian wines, Grappa infused cocktails and “several other spirits with interesting little twists” according to Kristy A.
Napa: Mount Pleasant, SC
With a large, welcoming bar and a focus on Napa valley wines, Napa is the only establishment located in Towne Centre that is not a chain restaurant! Did we also mention wine on tap and #showmeyourcharcuterie specials?
Vintage Wine Bar: San Jose, CA
Everyone in Silicon Valley knows that Santana Row is *the* upscale place to shop and dine year-round. But the holidays is where Vintage Wine Bar shines bright like an outdoor diamond. Settle in on the patio with heat lamps and enjoy the light displays along with people watching. Cheersies!
Making Spirits Bright!
Matsuhisa: Denver, CO
If you want to see and be seen around the Denver metro area, head on over to Cherry Creek. They have some of the finest shopping in the state of Colorado and a fancy Japanese restaurant/cocktail bar to boot! Yelpers recommend miso black cod, shrimp tempura washed down with a Buffalo Trace sour or a Matsutini.
Condado Tacos: Columbus, OH
In a sea of chain restaurants around Easton Shopping Center, Condado found a way to break the mold! Not only do they offer delicious tacos, but they have a full tequila bar and seasonal margaritas that won’t break the bank.
Little Trouble: Atlanta, GA
With a Bladerunner/ underground New York theme, Little Trouble is tucked away between two shops inside Westside Provisions District. Can’t decide between white wine and sake? Order the Two First Names cocktail — made with both!
Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails: Jacksonville, FL
Everyone and their mother shops at the St. John’s Town Center. The one thing that makes Moxie stand out above their competitors is that they are one of the only truly local businesses in the surrounding area. Outdoor views, handcrafted cocktails and contemporary dining all at once, can’t ask for more than that after a long day at the mall.
But wait, there’s more! Check out this Bookmarks Collection of bars and restaurants across the country, located near shopping hot spots. Whether you’re in Honolulu, Chicago or Miami, there’s somewhere to escape that Yelpers approve. Please remember to drink responsibly this holiday season and ensure a safe ride home.
