While fall brought the DC debuts of notable chefs Eric Ripert and Wolfgang Puck, winter brings an assortment of neighborhood eateries perfect for cozying up on cool nights.

Wine lovers find a new place to unwind with Vinoteca, which serves up more than 60 wines by the glass along with an assortment of cheeses and charcuterie. A new addition to U Street's growing dining and nightlife scene, the cozy eatery is designed to appeal to wine-savvy locals and visitors with its knowledgeable staff, excellent service, and mellow atmosphere. (1940 11th St. NW; 202-332-9463).

For a taste of the UK without the daunting exchange rate, try Kemble Park Tavern, a tavern-style eatery in the Palisades neighborhood that captures the spirit of 18th and 19th century English countryside. Sample comfort fare like short ribs sliders, grits & sausage, bread pudding and more in a book-lined dining room. (5125 MacArthur Blvd, NW; 202-966-5125).

In the Shaw neighborhood near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Chatman's D'Vine Bakery & Café serves up tasty southern cakes and pies, along with cookies, cupcakes and other tempting creations. (1239 9th St., NW; 202-249-3258).

Chocolate lovers will find themselves right at home at The Cocoa Gallery (1529 14th St. NW, 202-387-2626), a decadent new edition to the 14th Street corridor serving tasty truffles, cakes, cookies, coffees and more. It’s the latest venture for chocolatier Robert Kingsbury and Damion Jackson, whose Alexandria, Va.-based Kingsbury Chocolates has amassed a strong local following since opening its doors in 2002.

Coming in early 2008 to Dupont Circle, Black Fox Lounge bills itself as an "Executive Lounge," catering to upscale professionals living in or visiting DC. The opulent Black Fox Lounge will serve up a selection of classic cocktails, premium wines and delectable hors d'oeuvres in an elegant setting. (1723 Connecticut Ave., NW; 202-265-0030).

A similarly-named restaurant and bar will soon open its doors in the Adams Morgan neighborhood. Black Squirrel is planning a January 2008 opening at 2427 18th St. NW with a focus on comfort food classics like macaroni & cheese and ribs, prepared with modern French accents. Chef and co-owner Gene Sohn most recently served as chef at Marcel’s, a Foggy Bottom fine dining favorite. The restaurant takes its name from 18 legendary Canadian black squirrels, which were released into the nearby National Zoo during the Theodore Roosevelt presidency.

Diners searching for a taste of the Caribbean can feast on small, shareable plates at Café Trope in Dupont Circle. Slated to open in December, the charming eatery will also offer private dining space and an enticing outdoor patio in season. (2100 P St., NW)

Another welcome addition for dessert lovers, Locolat Café is expected to open its doors this month. It's the newest venture for Niel Piferoen, who formerly served as pastry chef at Michel Richard Citronelle, Restaurant Eve and Belgium's Michelin 3-star recipient Karmeliet. Diners with a sweet tooth can sample Belgium waffles, truffles, European cakes, chocolate drinks, espresso and coffee, served during breakfast, lunch and early dinner hours. (1724 Florida Avenue, NW).

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