The Homestyle Hostel in Ludlow was created by Justin Hyjek and Eliza Greene. When Justin of Ludlow and Eliza  of Chester set out to explore the world, deep in their heart they knew they’d return to the Green Mountains. While traveling in South America, they came up with this idea of opening a hostel in Ludlow. “We like hostels’ concept of communal spaces,” Justin explains. “Guests can even use the kitchen to cook up their own breakfasts.” Homestyle Hostel of- fers dorm-style bunk rooms, custom built by a friend, as well as pri- vate accommodations. Located on Main Street a mile from Okemo Mountain, the inn and café draw a lively mix of locals and outdoor enthusiasts. While Eliza focuses on the front-of-the-house activities, Justin and chef Alyssa Prouty (a Weston girl herself ) keep fresh, local ingredients at the center of their bar and meal menus, such as this warming cocktail. 

Makes 1 cocktail

2 ounces Bulleit Rye
.25 ounce Sugar Bob’s Finest Kind Smoked Maple Syrup .5 ounce fresh-squeezed lemon juice
.5 ounce ginger simple syrup (see recipe below)
2 dashes of Fee Brothers Bitters
Hot water
Lemon peel garnish

Mix first 5 ingredients together in a coffee mug. Top mug with hot water, add a lemon peel for garnish. Serve hot.

Ginger Simple Syrup

2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups water
3-4 ounces peeled and chopped fresh ginger

Combine sugar and water in medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir in fresh ginger. Keep on heat until sugar has fully dissolved. Pour contents into nonreactive container, i.e., glass Mason jar. Let cool to room temperature. Strain out the ginger, and voilà—sweet syrup with a ginger kick!