If you’re after the ultimate winter treat in London, I’ve got you covered. From thick, artisan mugs of cocoa to festive atmospheres that scream “curl‑up‑and‑sip”, digging into the best hot chocolate in London is one of the cosiest things you can do this season.
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I’m Hazel – your slightly chocolate‑obsessed travel blogger – and here are my top picks for the best hot chocolate in London.
1. Knoops (Multiple Locations) 🍫
If you’re truly serious about your hot chocolate, Knoops is the place.
You can pick your percentage of cocoa (from creamy 28% white to intense 100%), add extras like sea salt or cardamom, and expect a seriously thoughtful drink.
Their Covent Garden and Kensington cafés are great for solo sipping. Grab a comfy seat and savour the moment – this is hot chocolate for connoisseurs.
2. Chin Chin Labs (Soho or Camden) 🔥
This is marshmallow theatre. Chin Chin’s rich hot chocolate comes crowned with a giant marshmallow, blowtorched to gooey, golden perfection while you wait.
The interior leans into mad-scientist vibes, with liquid nitrogen ice cream bubbling away in the background. In fact, Chin Chin made its name with nitro-frozen scoops and Insta-famous sundaes – so if you fancy pairing your cocoa with a slab of brownie or scoop of cookie dough ice cream, you’re in the right place.
Seating is limited, so plan your marshmallow moment wisely.
3. Dark Sugars (Greenwich) 🍫
If you like your hot chocolate bold, thick, and unapologetically chocolatey, Dark Sugars is a must. Their signature style? A swirl of rich cocoa topped with mountains of shaved chocolate curls – choose from milk, dark, or spicy varieties.
Huge chocolate curls, big flavour, and that satisfying “I’m treating myself” moment.
The Brick Lane branch is centrally located and perfect for a sweet detour while exploring Shoreditch. And if you’re near Greenwich, their riverside shop adds an extra festive feel to your cocoa crawl.
4. Italian Bear Chocolate (Soho/Fitzrovia) 🐻
For the thickest, most indulgent, spoon-it-like-pudding hot chocolate you’ll find.
Italian Bear’s triple-chocolate blend is rich, luxurious, and basically a dessert in a cup. Granted it’s expensive, but lovely for a special treat.
Go here when you’re ready to fully commit to chocolate. And since you’re committed now, you might as well have an extra decadent slice of chocolate cake while you’re at it.
5. Melt Chocolates (Notting Hill) 🍬
This artisan chocolatier knows exactly what they’re doing. Melt’s boutique shop in Notting Hill is sleek and stylish, with high-end cocoa and a warm welcome.
Melt Chocolates are known for their excellent chocolate-making experiences, but not everyone knows they serve hot chocolate, too.
It’s rich, elegant, and seriously satisfying – a hidden gem for solo sippers and sweet tooths alike.
6. The Nook (Hampstead) 🌰
Hampstead’s cosiest corner might just be The Nook.
This small but mighty café is all about luxury hot chocolate, made with melted Belgian chocolate and steamed milk for a velvety finish.
You can choose from six different chocolate strengths, from creamy 28% white to an intense 80% dark. It’s a proper build-your-own cocoa bar – and perfect if you like your chocolate just so.
Add in friendly service and a quiet, leafy location, and it’s hard to beat on a chilly afternoon.
7. Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser Café (Multiple Locations) ☕
Calling all chocolate purists. The Velvetiser Café is all about luxe, silky hot chocolate – made with Hotel Chocolat’s signature flakes in your choice of dark, milk, or white chocolate.
They also roll out festive specials like white peppermint or mince pie flavour.
It’s cosy, indulgent, and seriously satisfying – with locations across London, including Covent Garden (4 Monmouth St) and Canary Wharf. Just check in advance, as not every branch offers full café service.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hot Chocolate in London 🍫
London has no shortage of winter warmers. Whether you’re after rich and indulgent, quirky and fun, or elegant and refined, the best hot chocolate in London is out there waiting. Grab a mug, pick a spot, curl up, and let the city’s cold air melt away.
And yes – doing this solo? More than okay. It’s one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city on your own terms.
FAQs About Hot Chocolate in London 💡
A few quick answers to help you plan your chocolatey adventure.
Do I need to book somewhere for hot chocolate?
Usually not. Cafés tend to allow walk-ins, though very popular spots may have queues at peak times. You can book tables at Italian Bear Chocolate.
Are vegan or dairy-free options available?
Yes, many places now offer oat, almond, or other dairy-free milk alternatives.
Expect somewhere between £4 and £7 for the really good stuff – plus extras if you pile on toppings.
Is it okay to sit alone?
Absolutely. London cafés are solo-traveller friendly, and you can linger, people-watch, or read while you sip.
Related Posts You’ll Love 🎄
Looking for more London winter magic? These posts will help you wrap up warm and explore the festive city in style.
🎀 The Best Christmas Window Displays in London.
💂🏼♂️ 5 Icons of London (and How to Experience Them Like a Local).
✨ Best 5 Star Hotels in London for a Luxurious Stay.
🎄 A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Christmas in London.
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