Eat in an igloo at Solstice restaurant in Newtown

When the weather turns colder and we want to dine out without risking exposure to COVID-19, what better place than in an igloo?
Especially since the igloos currently erected at Solstice restaurant in Newtown are made of plastic instead of ice and have heaters.
The upscale restaurant first introduced the igloos last year so that diners could feel safe from exposure to Covid 19. Seating up to six, they were an immediate hit, and continue to draw interest from diners around the region, said Rick Darby, who owns the restaurant with his parents Anna and Terry Darby.
The igloos will remain in place through February, Darby said, and possibly longer, depending on the weather. When the temperature starts to turn warm, and customers want to return to outside dining, the igloos will be removed from the patio.
A recent visit to Solstice provided an opportunity to dine in one of the igloos, which are lit at night and have zippered windows for those who want fresh air.
Darby said they ask for a minimum of four diners for each igloo, although they can seat six. Cozy and intimate, overhead heaters keep the interior warm.
Those who choose to dine in an igloo are offered the same menu as those in the main dining room.

Solstice is currently serving its winter menu, which debuted on the winter solstice Dec. 21. Menus change with the arrival of the seasons.
This menu features hearty fare including butternut squash in several dishes, rutabaga fettuccine, Wagyu beef, roast chicken with Swiss chard, filet burgers, roasted salmon, halibut bouillabaisse with mussels and lobster sauce, and Cape May scallops. Salads include red wine-poached pear caprese and an apple Waldorf.
Brunch is served on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Solstice has a fully stocked bar and extensive wine list, but last year introduced its Zero-Proof Un-Cocktail beverage program for nondrinkers. The lineup includes “un-cocktails” such as the “un-gin,” with aloe juice, grapefruit juice, mango nectar and lime juice. Also the “un-rum” cocktail with aloe juice, strawberry puree, cashew milk, masala mix and pistachio powder.
In November Solstice debuted its happy hour menu which is served Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the bar and in the lounge.
Reservations are required for dining in the igloos. They can be made by calling 267-755-8994.

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