Wintertime sometimes demands a salve of the familiar, comfort for the cold. It may require stupefaction to feel alive during days of boundless snow and chill. These restaurants are a mixture of classic and new, with a touch of live fire to keep you warm and entranced.
Canlis, Seattle
Canlis has been in existence for more than 70 years, an icon on a hill. Go big with the tasting menu, or snag a seat at the bar for a comparatively casual experience. The service is legendary; the wine list iconic.
Cielo Rojo, Phoenix
Regional Mexican cuisine is becoming more known across the U.S. At Cielo Rojo , a newish restaurant, some of the menu’s focus is on the dishes of the central Mexican state of Guanajuato. One fine example is the largas de salvatierra, thick, oversized tortillas stuffed with your choice of bistec ranchero, slivers of nopal (cactus paddle) or stewed pork cracklings in salsa rojo.
City House, Nashville
Italy meets the American South at this Nashville institution. The pizzas at City House are legends. In one example, country sausage meets charred collard greens and Calabrian crema. In another, roasted winter squash tango with buttermilk cheddar. The space is an industrial warren of rooms where the vibes are as invigorating as the cooking.