It’s that time of year when the days get shorter, coats get longer and the lure of a warm, inviting dining room provides the perfect space to catch up with family and friends, or share a romantic meal. Whatever the occasion, the Erie region has several warm, comfy, cozy locales where guests can shake off outdoor chills and come inside for warmth that will fill both the soul and the stomach.  From softly lit lounges to hideaways that feel like well-kept secrets, Erie, Pennsylvania has you covered. Right this way.

The Bayfront Grille Igloos

For a truly unique cold weather outdoor dining experience, reserve a table inside an igloo at The Bayfront Grille at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel.  Each of the five igloos are kept at a comfy 70 degrees with heat insulated floors, and can seat up to eight guests.  Complete with twinkling lights, exceptional cuisine, and gorgeous views of Presque Isle Bay, it feels like being inside a beautiful snow globe! For added warmth and snuggling, blankets are available on request. The igloos are available November 15, 2022 through March 31, 2023, Sundays through Thursdays 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.  Reservations are strongly recommended. (Image from @erieactivities on Instagram.)

The Colony Pub & Grille

A long-standing fixture of Erie’s restaurant scene, The Colony Pub & Grille takes the meaning of cozy to the extreme with not one, but three fireplaces. The hottest seats in the house can be found in the lounge/bar area where a large, inviting fireplace is framed by a laidback atmosphere of close-knit tables and candlelight.  Casual conversations and comfort food classics such as meatloaf and mashed potatoes have been the norm at The Colony for decades. Stop by on Friday or Saturday nights for live soft jazz and acoustic performances. Reservations are accepted. The Colony Pub is open Mondays through Saturdays 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sundays 10:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.

The Clock Room at The Cork 1794

With whimsical, antique clock décor and large, lustrous globe lighting, the semi-private Clock Room at The Cork 1794 has a classic, French -inspired brasserie style, perfect for small gatherings of up to 20 people. Enjoy meaningful conversations over a robust glass or merlot and seasonally inspired cuisine such as pumpkin pie soup and chicken fried short ribs. Reservations are accepted.  The Cork 1794 is open Mondays through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Firebar

With an eye-pleasing display of backlit colored bottles, welcoming fireplace, craft cocktails and unique shareable bar bites, the Firebar at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is a popular location for romantic dinner dates and close gatherings of friends. Serving up plates of bacon deviled eggs and rounds of Double Black Diamond Martinis and Flannel Pajama coffees, Firebar’s mood is both casual and chic. All seating is first-come, first-served.  Firebirds is located at the Millcreek Mall near JCPenney and is open Mondays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

LBV Steakhouse at Presque Isle Downs & Casino

Tucked away in the heart of the high-energy Presque Isle Downs & Casino, LBV Steakhouse is its own quiet oasis with private booths, fireplace, soft lighting, and soundproofed walls.  Featuring sensational steaks, and decadent desserts, LBV Steakhouse is a culinary experience that takes privacy to a whole new level. Guests can take refuge in this tranquil space and dine on hand-cut filets, lobster, or triple chocolate fudge cake, uninterrupted from the hustle and bustle of the Casino floor.  Reservations are encouraged. LBV Steakhouse is open Thursdays through Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.