Because nothing makes the cold months cosy like a cup of hot chocolate…
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!
1. Dark Sugars, Brick Lane
It’s the one thing you see people cradling around Brick Lane, 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.
141 Brick Lane, near Shoreditch High Street station, E1 6SB.
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 the bad boy pictured above: 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!
49-50 Camden Lock Place, near Camden Town station, NW1 8AF or 54 Greek Street, Soho, near Tottenham Court Road station, W1D 3DS.
3. Rococo Chocolates, various branches
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.
Find your nearest branch here.
4. Said, Soho
It’s not enough that this traditional Italian hot chocolate is the richest, silkiest thing you’re probably ever going to lay eyes on, oh no! Your hot chocolate comes served to you in a basic white mug that has the option to be swirled and laced with even more chocolate. Prepare your sweet tooth, people.
41 Broadwick Street, near Oxford Circus station, W1F 9QL.
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.
Midland Goods Shed, 3 Wharf Road, near King’s Cross St Pancras station, N1C 4BZ
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.
2-4 Bedale Street, near London Bridge station, SE1 9AL.
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!
33 Camden Passage, Islington, N1 8EA
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.
59 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill W11 2AA and 6 Clarendon Road, Holland Park, W11 3AA.
9. Café Godiva, Harrods
Ever seen a beverage that looks sort of like that dip-dye you tried to pull off in summer 2015, but much more professional and beautiful? We hadn’t until we discovered hot chocolate from Harrod’s. Inspired by the passion, boldness and generosity of Lady Godiva from the old English legend, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a divine hot chocolate with this ombré-d delight.
Inside Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL.
10. Copperhouse Chocolate, Angel
You’ll find the most delicious diversity of chocolate origins and flavours at Copperhouse Chocolate, London’s first vegan chocolate shop. Try a single-origin hot chocolate from sweet and caramelly Colombia, smooth and nutty Ecuador or light and fruity Madagascar. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, the ‘Chilli Con Choccy’ with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and chilli is sure to go down a treat. Or perhaps the ‘Masala Mojo’ with their nine-spice chai blend? Sweeter options include the ‘Raspberry Dream’ or ‘Orangeytang’ – but whatever you like, the team will find you the dream hot chocolate, as well as the perfect handmade dessert, treat or nut butter cup to go with it! Mini marshmallows are of course available, as well as whipped coconut cream! And psst, it’s chocolate happy hour every Friday 3pm–4pm, where you’ll get your hot chocolate with a slice of cake for just £1, or a cookie for free! You’re welcome.
1 Chapel Market, N1 9EZ
And if you love a good hot drink, check out these quirky London coffee shops, along with our guide to the very best coffee spots in town!