A Guide to NYC’s Best Hot Chocolate

As the winter wind whips through the concrete canyons, New Yorkers crave a comforting cup of warmth. What better way to soothe the soul than with a rich, decadent hot chocolate? But with countless cafes and chocolatiers in the city, choosing the perfect cup can be overwhelming. Fear not, fellow cocoa connoisseurs! This guide will lead you to some of the hottest (pun intended) hot chocolate destinations in the Big Apple:

For the Classic Connoisseur:

MarieBelle: This elegant SoHo shop uses top-quality Belgian chocolate, crafting a dark hot chocolate so intense it feels like melted heaven. Don’t miss their Aztec hot chocolate for a spicy kick.
L.A. Burdick: Indulge in old-fashioned luxury at this historic chocolatier. Their hot chocolate is smooth and creamy, made with the finest single-origin chocolate. Pro tip: pair it with a house-made macaron for an extra treat.
Martha’s Country Bakery: Multiple locations across the city offer this comforting classic. Their hot chocolate is rich, not overly sweet, and hits the spot every time. Bonus points for the cozy bakery atmosphere.

For the Adventurous Palate:

Max Brenner: This chocolate haven offers a playful twist on the classic. Think white chocolate with chili flakes, Nutella hot chocolate, or even a chocolate fondue fountain experience!
Jacques Torres: The renowned “Chocolate Magician” creates a decadent hot chocolate with thick Belgian chocolate and a hint of orange zest. Feeling fancy? Go for the “Spiked Hot Chocolate” with a shot of your favorite liqueur.
Dominique Ansel Bakery: The Cronut creator doesn’t disappoint with hot chocolate either. Their signature “Frozen Hot Chocolate” is a must-try – a rich, frozen blend topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

For the Off-the-Beaten-Path Explorer:

Blue Stripes Cacao Shop: This Williamsburg gem sources ethically sourced cacao beans and grinds them in-house for a truly unique and flavorful hot chocolate. They offer various origins and brewing methods, making it a chocolate education in a cup.
The Chocolate Room: Nestled in Park Slope, this charming shop boasts a variety of house-made hot chocolates, from classic dark to lavender-infused and Mexican spiced. Pair it with a homemade chocolate chip cookie for an extra indulgence.
Bar Pisellino: This West Village spot offers a thick and luxurious “cioccolato caldo” made with Valrhona chocolate. Sip it al fresco and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

For Social Media Trending Finds:

Glace by Noglu: This one has been gaining tons of attention thanks to viral social media posts. Their hot chocolate is topped with marshmallow meringue and comes in different flavors. Check out their Instagram here for delectable reels and photos.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget the toppings! Whipped cream, marshmallows, shaved chocolate, and even a drizzle of caramel can elevate your hot chocolate experience to new heights.

Remember, the “best” hot chocolate is subjective and depends on your personal preferences. So grab your scarf, bundle up, and embark on your own hot chocolate adventure in the city that never sleeps!

I hope this blog post helps you find your perfect cup of NYC cocoa bliss! Do you have any favorite hot chocolate spots in the city? Have one or any of these selections? Share them in the comments below!