As the holidays approach, D.C.’s cafes and coffee shops are embracing the festive spirit with their seasonal drink menus. From comforting classics to creative new concoctions, these drinks aim to capture the essence and joy of the season, in every sip. I ventured out to try a few of these holiday specials, exploring how well they deliver flavor, presentation, and festive charm.
Starbucks’ Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte
The moment I took a sip of Starbucks’ Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte, the cozy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg hit me. The frothy top, delicately dusted with nutmeg, looked almost too perfect to disturb. It’s sweet, but not as sugary as I expected—more milky actually, with a creamy texture that reminded me of carrot cake frosting. The subtle tea flavor and perfectly blended spices reminded me of the amazing chai Freh makes. While not quite as bold as hers, this drink has a festive warmth that feels like a softer, holiday-inspired version of the classic chai.
Overall: 8.5/10
Tryst’s Mexican Hot Chocolate
Switching from the cool spice of chai to something a bit richer, I tried the Mexican hot chocolate at Tryst. A wonderfully light yet comforting treat, it’s perfect for upcoming chilly days. The drink offers a warmth that lingers long after the last sip. Its strong, spice-rich aroma, filled with hints of cayenne, nutmeg and cinnamon with a simple, yet elegant, presentation is very inviting. The flavor has a balance, not overly sweet, yet I wish the drink fully mirrored the boldness of the aroma and contained more cocoa. The texture was thinner than expected, but the drink was very satisfying, especially for those who enjoy a more delicate take on this classic.
Overall: 8/10
Tatte’s Ginger Date Oat Milk Latte
Next on the list was Tatte’s Ginger Date Oat Milk Latte, a drink that had a few nice touches but did not meet my expectations. Surprisingly, the latte doesn’t come with espresso unless you pay an additional $2—an unexpected twist for a drink that should center around coffee. Yet, the smooth, creamy texture was lovely, and the ginger offered just the right subtle kick. However, the overall flavor felt a bit muddled and hard to pinpoint. Its plain appearance didn’t do anything to elevate the experience, though it did offer a comforting warmth that felt nice for a chilly day.
Overall: 3/10
Open City’s Apple Cider
Finally, I rounded off my holiday drink tour with a classic at Open City. When they ran out of the tea base for their Mulled Apple Cider, I opted for the Regular Apple Cider instead—and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The drink arrived warm, just the right temperature to feel cozy without being too hot. Its inviting aroma smelled like your typical apple cider, or like any baked apple dessert. The drink was crisp and sweet, though slightly on the sugary side. It was very light and refreshing, and it warmed me without leaving an unusual aftertaste like some other ciders do. They’ve nearly perfected a classic cider, and it’s a wonderfully satisfying winter drink. I’ll happily return for another cup this season.
Overall: 9/10
By Kiran Singh
