Though Penn Quarter’s Poste has long been a favorite destination for classic cocktails and truffle frites, two new seasonally-inspired cocktail menus and a restyled outdoor courtyard have transformed the bar and restaurant into a romantic date spot for cold winter nights. The modern brasserie – named for its roots as a mail sorting room in the 1841 General Post Office Building – will unveil the remodeled outdoor seating area in the coming weeks. Beside glowing heat lamps, patrons can enjoy selections from a hot cocktail bar (think seasonal sips such as hot toddies, ciders and cocoa) or the new “Poste”-Prohibition libations, classics updated with modern touches and house-infused spirits by lead bartender Jason Wiles and sommelier Daniel Lobsenz. The cocktail changes come in in conjunction with the arrival of new executive chef Dennis Marron, who also reinvigorated the food menu with additions such as tender braised pork cheeks and saffron mussels.

Cozy up with warm blankets in the courtyard, where the wintry drinks can be paired with cheese or chocolate fondue and selections from the raw bar. With hot mulled apple cider and aged rum garnished with candied cranberries, The Mother’s Warmth is guaranteed to become an instant classic. This Little Piggy, by contrast, packs a savory-sweet punch and is destined to delight pork enthusiasts with its bacon-infused Bulleit bourbon mixing with milk, toasted marshmallow and spicy hot chocolate. Other hot options include a take on buttered rum (with notes of butterscotch and gingerbread), mulled wine and two versions of the toddy.

Inside, marvel at original 16-ft., cast-iron ceilings and fully restored skylights while getting into the historical spirit with Prohibition era tipples and other cold-weather selections. Wiles makes his own infusions (there are over a dozen peppered through the drink menu) and enjoys updating old-school drinks, such as those invented at the Savoy Hotel in London. A favorite touch? Light, citrusy elements, like the kumquat-infused Absolut in the Kumquat! Say What? cocktail. The winter offerings also include cold drinks with seasonal notes: The Flip You For Real is a creamy take on eggnog with Maker’s Mark, cranberry liqueur, caramel and apple cider, while the Coquito pairs Bacardi with coconut milk, clove and cinnamon. The hard part will be leaving room for food after you devour several rounds of drinks – it’s simply too difficult to choose just one.

Blankets? Fondue? Adult hot chocolate? Yes, please. This has tipsy date night written all over it.

555 8th St. NW;  202-783-6060

Photos courtesy of the restaurant