Ah Winter in London – think Christmas markets, Christmas lights and cosy pubs. Oh, and steaming hot chocolate too. From sophisticated mugs of rich, chocolatey heaven, to goblets of milky goodness with gooey marshmallows and cream, we’ve found the best places to grab a hug in a mug – yes, it can only be hot chocolate. Here’s your guide to London’s dreamiest hot chocolates. Just what the doctor ordered! Here’s a rundown of ten of the best places for hot chocolate in London:
1. Dark Sugars, Brick Lane and Greenwich
It’s the one thing you see people cradling around Brick Lane and in Greenwich Market, no matter what day it is. The ultimate hot chocolate drink that can come flavoured (think Hazelnut Praline or Hot Chilli) and topped with as many chocolate shavings as you could possibly want.
You’ll find Dark Sugars at 141 Brick Lane, E1 6SB and 9 Nelson Road, SE10 9JB. Nearest stations are Shoreditch High Street and Greenwich.
2. Chin Chin Labs, Camden and Soho
Hot chocolate and torched marshmallow? Life is bound to get a whole lot better on a bad day with this molten marvel. Their super rich signature hot chocolate is also popular, or why not try the vegan version with notes of raspberry and apricot? Specials include an intense hot chocolate and charred gooey marshmallow fluff with a fudgy brownie cookie stuffed inside for extra indulgence. Get ready, things are about to get messy!
You’ll find Chin Chin Labs at 49-50 Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF and 54 Greek Street, Soho, W1D 3DS. Nearest stations are Camden Town and Tottenham Court Road.
3. Rococo Chocolates, various locations
You’d think a place offering up handmade chocolates and luxury gifts would know a thing or two about a good hot chocolate, right? Well, you’d be right. This drink comes to you thick and rich – and it’s even available to take away so you can make it for yourself at home.
You’ll find Rococo Chocolates at various different locations in London. You can find out more here.
4. Pump Street Chocolate, Shoreditch
This December, Pump Street Chocolate, will be returning to London for a pop-up chocolate shop in the run up to Christmas. The award-winning bakers and chocolate makers will be returning to Shoreditch’s Calvert Avenue for one week only. From Thursday 15th
You’ll find Pump Street Chocolate at Calvert Avenue, Shoreditch, E2 7JP for one week only. Nearest station is Shoreditch High Street.
5. Ruby Violet, King’s Cross
If you’re looking for the ultimate chocolate hit, order the ‘short and intense’ hot chocolate from this cute ice cream parlour nestled away in King’s Cross. Not your average stuff out of a tin, this small gold cup is served alongside almond brittle for the sweetest of treats and there are other desserts rustled up here too.
You’ll find Ruby Violet at Midland Goods Shed, 3 Wharf Road, N1C 4BZ. Nearest station is King’s Cross St. Pancras.
6. Rabot 1745, Borough Market
Created by the founders of Hotel Chocolat (they do a damn good hot choc as well!), varieties include white chocolate with nutmeg, and a boozy version spiked with a cheeky shot of Saint Lucian rum. For the warmer months, an iced chocolate with whipped cream awaits at this Borough Market establishment.
You’ll find Rabot 1745 at 2-4 Bedale Street, SE1 9AL. Nearest station is London Bridge.
7. Paul A. Young Fine Chocolates, Islington
“Come with me and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination…” no but seriously, if you’re looking for a real life Wonka paradise then we’ve found your shop. Offering up all types of chocolate treats, one of the main highlights is their award-winning Aztec hot chocolate, optionally infused with ginger spice, cardamom and nutmeg. Just be sure to check your chocolate-stained teeth afterwards!
You’ll find Paul A. Young Fine Chocolates at 33 Camden Passage, Islington, N1 8EA. Nearest station is Angel.
8. Melt Chocolates, Notting Hill or Holland Park
Wander into the heart of Notting Hill or Holland Park and slide into Melts for a deliciously rich hot chocolate – milk or dark. Treat yourself to some of their stunning handmade fresh chocolates to go with your beverage, and watch your chocolate being made in the kitchen right in front of you. A sophisticated, sipping experience that won’t leave you disappointed.
You’ll find Melt Chocolates at 59 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AA and 6 Clarendon Road, Holland Park, W11 3AA. Nearest stations are Notting Hill and Holland Park.
9. DeRosier Chocolates, Wimbledon
This award-winning chocolatier – which has gained multiple Academy of Chocolate and Great Taste Awards – is world famous for its chocolates and eyecatching packaging too. Run by husband and wife Leona and Andrew, they also have some absolutely delicious hot chocolate, and this one certainly belongs on this roundup of the best hot chocolate in London.
You’ll find DeRosier Chocolates at 81 Revelstoke Road, SW18 5NL. Nearest stations are Wimbledon Park and Southfields.
10. Venchi Chocolate and Gelato, various locations
Long established since all the way back in 1878, Venchi Chocolate and Gelato whips up some of the best hot chocolate in the whole of London Town. They’ve got an incredible array of different chocolate assortments on the bill here, as well as some lip-smackingly good hot chocolate. There’s also gluten-free options on the bill here too, as well vegan varieties too.
You’ll find Venchi Chocolate and Gelato at various locations in London. You can find out more here.
11. Knoops, various locations
Rounding off this list of the best hot chocolate in London is Knoops – a charming cafe which has various different branches dotted across London. The speciality here is based around a carefully-curated percentage menu which offers chocolates to suit every taste and mood. From 70% variety to 28%, there’s something for everyone here!
You’ll find Knoops at various different locations in London. You can find out more here.
So there you have it – a roundup of some of the best places to get your fill of hot chocolate in London. From King’s Cross to Wimbledon, we’ve got you covered if you’re looking to warm yourself up this Winter!