Five Festive Forks Sips

While it may be freezing outside, we have several Greater Grand Forks establishments waiting to thaw you out!

Whether one prefers to sip on straight up hot chocolate or perhaps likes a little Captain in their cocoa, here are my Top 5 drinks to enjoy in our two Forks.

Ely’s Ivy

22 South 3rd Street, Grand Forks // 701-757-0243 // ElysIvy.com

In addition to Ely’s creative cuisine, their expert mixologists have come up with an assortment of festive cocktails. Since it’s hard to pick just one, I like to alternate between the cool Pear Sparkler (Grey Goose La Poire, citrus, sparkling wine) and Hot Buttered Apple Cider (house-made holiday spiced butter, Bacardi Reserva Ocha, fresh apple cider). Food Pairing: Tempura Fried Cauliflower featuring gluten-free and curry seasoned harissa with roasted garlic aioli.

Wired Bean

210 Gateway Drive, East Grand Forks // 218-693-2070 // WiredBeanMN.com

This popular Eastside coffeehouse is brewing up lots of tasty seasonal drinks like the Gingerbread Man Latte, Roasted Chestnut Latte and Winter Berry Frappe. My new go-to, though, is the Jack Frost Latte. It’s made with white chocolate, toasted marshmallow and a splash of peppermint. Food Pairing: Bacon on Naan Breakfast Sandwich topped with smoked applewood bacon, Swiss cheese and a fried egg.

The Toasted Frog

124 North 3rd Street, Grand Forks // 701-772-3764 // ToastedFrog.com

If you’re a fellow Cosmo fan, The Frog’s seasonal version will make you forget all about the OG. Their Mulled Cranberry Cosmopolitan is made with Cointreau, orange liquor, vodka, fresh lime juice and a house-made mulled cranberry cordial. Food Pairing: Fried Cheesy Pickles with Sriracha Ranch (aka Sriancha) dipping sauce.

Brick & Barley

9 North 3rd Street, Grand Forks // 701-757-4012 // BrickandBarleyGF.com

Back by popular demand, the merry and bright bartenders at Bricks are ready to make you one of their special Spiked Hot Chocolates guaranteed to make anyone’s mood cheerier. Take it from me, both the Peppermint and Captain pack a flavorful punch! Food Pairing: Lip-smacking good Mac & Cheese Bites.

Urban Stampede

324 Kittson Avenue, Grand Forks // 701-757-0932 // TheUrbanStampede.com

Take a break from your holiday shopping at the Urban. Strolling throughout our Downtown may cause cold hands but a freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate will warm any heart! Right now, I’m totally addicted to Nana’s Goodies: a delicious latte made with white chocolate and cookie butter syrup. Food Pairing: Freshly baked Christmas bagel with cream cheese shmear.

For a complete listing of all our amazing eateries, as well as awesome spots to shop, stay and play, go to VisitGrandForks.com. We also invite you to follow Visit Greater Grand Forks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Photo credits: Ely's Ivy, Wired Bean, Brick & Barley, Urban Stampede and Toasted Frog.