There’s festive, and then there’s Santa Baby.
The holiday pop-up at The Junto Hotel has returned to Franklinton for another season, and after stopping in for a visit, I can confirm that this place understands the assignment. The decor is impeccable, the cocktails are worth lingering over, and the whole space feels like stepping into a very glamorous, slightly mischievous Christmas party.
Santa Baby is tucked inside The Junto Hotel at 77 Belle St., with an entrance marked by a giant red bow. Inside, the holiday takeover is unapologetically bold. Think rich reds, dramatic holiday decorations, and cozy lounge seating that makes you want to settle in for a while. Every detail feels intentional, and it’s easily one of the more impressive holiday transformations I’ve seen around Columbus.
The cocktails are a big part of the appeal, too.
I had the chance to try a few different drinks during my visit, but my absolute favorite was the Fireside Old Fashioned. Made with rye whiskey, cinnamon-cardamom syrup, orange liqueur, and spicy bitters, it brings a little holiday warmth to a classic cocktail without losing what makes an Old Fashioned so good in the first place.
There are several other seasonal drinks on the menu, including the Sugar Plum Fairy, made with vodka, cranberry, and plum bitters; Sleigh Bells, which combines English breakfast tea, amaretto, allspice dram, and walnut bitters; and Naughty or Nice, a coffee-forward cocktail with vanilla vodka, cold brew, and Licor 43 foam.
And you don’t have to make this a drinks-only outing.
Santa Baby also has a small-plates menu called Mrs. Claus’ Cures, with options like bison meatballs with smoked ricotta and house-made marinara, brie and fig jam tarts, bacon-wrapped dates with blue cheese, and a cheese platter. There’s even a s’mores cronut for anyone who wants to end the evening on a sweeter note.
The atmosphere is what really ties everything together. Santa Baby has a fun, lively energy that is over the top and extra and perfect. It’s a great spot for a date night, a holiday get-together with friends, or an excuse to dress up a little and enjoy a cocktail somewhere that feels special.
Santa Baby is open through December 26, 2026. November hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 5–10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m.–midnight. December hours and reservation availability are being updated by the hotel.
For more info, head over to thejuntohotel.com.
