If you’re looking for the best hot chocolate in Edinburgh this festive season, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re fresh from the Christmas market or just thawing out after a windswept walk through Princes Street Gardens, this city knows how to do cosy, chocolatey comfort.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel writer who’s spent more chilly Decembers than I can count taste-testing hot chocolate across the capital (tough job, I know).
From local gems to fancy flakers, here are my top picks for festive cocoa lovers visiting Edinburgh.
1. Uplands Roast at the Meadows ☕
This unassuming coffee stand near The Meadows serves some of the best hot chocolate in town – thick, rich, and made with real melted chocolate.
On crisp winter mornings, it’s hard to beat sipping one of these while watching the mist roll over Arthur’s Seat. There’s no indoor seating, but the cups come well-insulated and topped with a generous swirl of cream and marshmallows.
2. The Marshmallow Lady (Rodney Street) 🍬
The Marshmallow Lady is a small-batch marshmallow shop that also serves wildly indulgent hot chocolate, complete with toasted gourmet marshmallows bobbing on top.
The shop itself is full of quirky charm, with shelves of marshmallow treats and cute giftable goodies. Flavours rotate regularly (think raspberry ripple or chocolate chilli), and each cup is a sweet little masterpiece.
3. The Milkman (Cockburn Street & Canongate) 🍫
Small, stylish, and absolutely beloved by locals, The Milkman is primarily a coffee shop, but their hot chocolate is seriously worth a detour. It’s velvety-smooth, not too sweet, and tastes even better when you’re tucked into one of their tiny window seats with the fairy lights glowing.
They also serve a dreamy white hot chocolate that fans rave about. Two locations, both ridiculously photogenic.
4. Mary’s Milk Bar (Grassmarket) 🍦
OK, it’s technically a gelato shop, but trust me: their hot chocolate is a winter must.
Mary makes her chocolate from scratch and you can top it with a scoop of her homemade gelato if you’re feeling wild.
The Grassmarket location gives you views of Edinburgh Castle while you sip.
Bonus: the retro 1930s pink and green interior is as cute as it gets.
5. Hotel Chocolat’s Velvetiser Café (Frederick Street) 🍮
Calling all chocolate purists. This sleek little café is all about luxe, silky hot chocolate – made using Hotel Chocolat’s signature flakes in your choice of dark, milk, or white chocolate.
You can level it up with festive extras like cinnamon, mint, or a cheeky shot of salted caramel. Their seasonal menu even includes a mince pie-flavoured hot chocolate!
Think plush seating, cosy corners, and pure cocoa indulgence.
6. Mimi’s Bakehouse (Leith & Old Town) 🧁
Mimi’s Bakehouse is all about the sweet life – and their hot chocolates are no exception.
Expect decadent flavours, generous toppings, and the option to make it a little extra with Baileys or rum.
Grab a slice of cake while you’re at it (because why not), and soak in the twinkly vibe. Their Old Town branch is perfect if you’re exploring the Royal Mile.
7. Lovecrumbs (West Port) 🍰
This quirky little café near the Grassmarket has proper indie charm. It draws a loyal crowd of art students, locals, and cake devotees – and it’s easy to see why.
Their hot chocolate is dark, grown-up, and often laced with unexpected flavours like cardamom or chilli.
Pair it with one of their signature layer cakes or gooey brownies (baked fresh at their sister bakery down the road), and you’ve got yourself a dreamy afternoon treat.
Bonus points for the candlelit corners, creative homewares, and ultra-friendly vibes.
8. Söderberg (Multiple Locations) 🇸🇪
Scandi style meets Scottish winter in this minimalist bakery and café chain.
Their hot chocolate is simple, creamy, and comforting – and pairs beautifully with a cardamom bun.
There are Söderberg locations in Stockbridge and the Quartermile – perfect for a mid‑shopping pick‑me‑up.
Final Thoughts on Festive Hot Chocolate in Edinburgh 🍫
Edinburgh in winter is pure magic, and nothing pairs better with frosty fingers and fairy lights than a big mug of chocolatey comfort.
Whether you like yours spiked, spiced, or piled with marshmallows, there’s a cosy corner in this city with your name on it.
FAQs About Hot Chocolate in Edinburgh 💡
Planning your cocoa crawl? Here are some quick answers to common questions:
Do I need to book cafés in advance?
Most spots are walk-in only, but places like Mimi’s Bakehouse get busy at weekends. It’s worth reserving a table if you’re visiting during peak festive hours.
What’s the best place for vegan hot chocolate?
The Milkman, Lovecrumbs, and Söderberg all offer plant-based hot chocolates that are just as rich and satisfying as the dairy ones.
Where can I find hot chocolate near the Christmas Market?
The Milkman on Cockburn Street is a short walk, or head to Hotel Chocolat’s Velvetiser Café near St Andrew Square for a luxe option.
Are there any late-night spots for hot chocolate?
Most cafés close by 6pm, but a few, like Söderberg (some locations), stay open later. Always check opening hours before you go.
Which place has the most over-the-top hot chocolate?
Mimi’s Bakehouse wins for wild toppings, while The Marshmallow Lady is all about custom marshmallow magic.
Related Reading for Cosy Winter Days in Edinburgh 📚
🏨 Best Cosy Hotels & Festive Stays in Edinburgh (With Fairy Lights & Fireplaces)
🎄 Edinburgh Christmas Itinerary: 3 Magical Days in Scotland’s Festive Capital.
🍽️ Food of Scotland: 18 Traditional Dishes & Local Drinks You Have to Try.
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