September arrived and fall's just around the corner. Soon temperatures will drop and everywhere you turn, you'll see turtleneck sweaters, knee high boots and pullover hoodies.

Football will reign on bar televisions and the heat lamps will pour out onto decks and patios. In anticipation of evenings spent on a cool patio or next to a blazing fire inside, here are some predictions for this fall's warm and cozy hot spots.

Whiskey Bar
788 N. Jackson St., (414) 312-8566
www.whiskeybarmilwaukee.com
Fall appeal: This is the newest hot spot in town, drawing quite the buzz and packing a full house every weekend. What about it is particularly fall worthy? Well, you've got the warming aspects of whiskey coupled with a decent sized patio covered in heat lamps. The classic, dark ambience of the interior bar is the perfect place to grab a seat and guzzle.

Branded
500 W. Florida St., (414) 374-4766
www.theironhorsehotel.com
Fall appeal: Year round, the essence of fall seems wrapped up in the hickory leather smell lingering in the Iron Horse's lobby bar. An ideal combination for both the boys and the girls, Branded has two flat screen televisions for the games but situates secluded lounge seating in the grand entry-way.

Bomb Shelter
1517 S. 2nd St., (414) 384-2662
www.bombshelterbar.com
Fall appeal: The allure of the Bomb Shelter is simple: daily specials, one of the city's longest beer lists and unrivaled Brewer and Packers pride. They supply homemade snacks during every Packers game and treat customers like family -- the perfect Packers party combination.

Balzac
1716 N. Arlington Pl., (414) 755-0099
www.balzacwinebar.com
Fall appeal: Plenty of people frequent Balzac in the summer months; opting for white over red and soaking in rays on the outdoor patio and sidewalk seating. But, to me, Balzac is truly a wine bar harboring Milwaukeeans from the crisp fall breeze. Step inside, order a large glass of red wine and munch on one of their decadent cheese plates.

Stack'd
170 S. 1st St., (414) 273-7800
www.stackedbar.com
Fall appeal: The filling comfort of a juicy burger either just like or completely different from the one mom used to make. Yes, the classic beef burger is an option but to mom's surprise (and delight,) you can opt for bison, turkey or veggie on a host of different rolls, served with fried pickles or a spool of onion rings. Sounds like football fodder to me.