Photos: Eataly’s cozy rooftop ski lodge Baita is the next best thing to being in the Alps

Snow may still be a distant promise, but you can at least have apres in an Alpine lodge with the return of Baita.

The winterizedrooftop bar at Eataly’s Flatiron location is back for a second year,enclosed in glass and decked outwith evergreen garlands, classic travel posters, faux fur throws and snow. If you’re longing for winter, it’s actually helpful to sit up there with your hands wrapped around awarm drink – the coziness makes the weather outside seem colder.

The menu of hearty northern Italian fare includes apolenta bar with options like the rare Long Island cheese pumpkin and seared anchovy, raclettethree ways, nibbles like antipasti of warm mushrooms and mains likeseared Arctic charand a braised veal shoulder stew. Or bring the whole crew (up to 10) and nestle into the wooden cabin for a family-style spread of beef shanks with three sides.

The drink menu includes 12 cocktails like the Tiramisu (Amaro Averna, Varnelli coffee,heavy cream, cocoa dust), housemade mulled wine and a list of 120 wines.

Baita opens Nov. 3 through April, from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Menu items range from $8-$35.