As you are running around town getting all the things you need for this holiday season, you will surely find yourself hitting all the majestic department stores lining Fifth Avenue. Don’t wear yourself down before the season even begins! Always know where you can take a cocktail break.

Plop yourself down on one of the roomy arm chairs at Tavern on 51 in the newly-renovated New York Palace hotel. The setting is stately yet cozy. It has the feel of one of the Ivy League clubs. If you are in a classic mood, you can choose from an Aviation, a Vesper or a Side Car. But, should you be in a more adventurous mood, you might fancy something like the mezcal-based Serpente cocktail made with Sombra mezcal, Nonino amaro, Clément Créole Shrubb orange liqueur, fresh lime and simple syrup. The drink comes with the warning “Its sting is as good as its bite.”

*All cocktails are $19.