Discovering the Best Hot Chocolate in London: A Comprehensive Guide
When winter’s chill settles over the cobblestone streets of London or even during the mild breezes of spring, few comforts match the indulgence of a well-crafted hot chocolate. A classic beverage with timeless appeal, hot chocolate in London has evolved far beyond the standard cocoa powder and milk combination. Today, the city boasts a rich tapestry of chocolatiers, cafes, and artisanal establishments serving the most decadent, innovative, and heartwarming versions of this beloved drink.
In this guide, we explore where to find the best hot chocolate in London, offering an insider’s look into iconic spots, hidden gems, and creative takes on a traditional favourite. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, prepare to embark on a chocolate-filled journey through the UK’s capital.
The Rise of Artisanal Best Hot Chocolate in London
The hot chocolate trend has seen a surge in London over the past decade. No longer confined to children’s menus or instant sachets, hot chocolate is now celebrated for its rich flavours, handcrafted techniques, and premium ingredients.
As consumer palates have become more discerning, London’s cafes have responded with thick, creamy, and complex cups of hot chocolate—often made with single-origin chocolate, oat or almond milk, and gourmet toppings.
What Makes a Great Hot Chocolate?
Before diving into our curated list, it’s important to understand what distinguishes a truly great hot chocolate. According to expert chocolatiers and baristas, the best cups often share the following traits:
- High-Quality Chocolate: Whether it’s 70% dark or a silky milk blend, quality chocolate is essential.
- Proper Technique: Chocolate should be melted—not just mixed with powder—and combined with warm milk for smoothness.
- Texture: A thick, velvety texture is often considered ideal. Some opt for Italian-style cioccolata calda, known for its pudding-like consistency.
- Balance: The drink must strike a balance between richness and drinkability, sweetness and depth.
- Presentation: Toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings should enhance—not overpower—the flavour.
The Top Places for Hot Chocolate in London
1. Said Dal 1923 – Soho
A Roman export that has taken London by storm, SAID is perhaps best known for its indulgent “triple-chocolate” experience. Their hot chocolate is thick, almost fondue-like, and served with three types of melted chocolate dripping down the side of the cup. It’s Instagram-worthy and sinfully rich.
Why It’s Special: The use of artisan chocolate combined with a dramatic presentation makes it a must-visit for chocolate lovers.
Address: 41 Broadwick Street, Soho, London W1F 9QL
2. Paul A. Young Fine Chocolates – Camden Passage
Renowned British chocolatier Paul A. Young doesn’t just make award-winning truffles—his Camden shop serves an exceptional hot chocolate. Made using Valrhona chocolate, it’s aromatic, slightly spiced, and completely luxurious.
Why It’s Special: A bespoke blend of chocolate, often paired with unusual flavours like cinnamon or chilli.
Address: 33 Camden Passage, Islington, London N1 8EA
3. Chin Chin Ice Cream – Soho & Camden
Known primarily for its liquid nitrogen ice cream, Chin Chin also serves a “Hot Chocolate with Torched Marshmallow” that’s become a cult favourite. The hot chocolate is dense and served with a cloud of toasted marshmallow fluff.
Why It’s Special: Dessert theatre meets drinkable chocolate; unforgettable texture and taste.
Address: 49-50 Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF
4. Dark Sugars – Brick Lane
Dark Sugars is a celebration of African cocoa and traditional chocolate-making. Their hot chocolate is rich, authentic, and topped with dramatic shavings of dark, milk, and white chocolate right before your eyes.
Why It’s Special: Cultural roots and handcrafted elegance combine for a deep, authentic taste.
Address: 141 Brick Lane, London E1 6SB
5. Hotel Chocolat – Rabot 1745, Borough Market
More than just a chocolatier, Rabot 1745 by Hotel Chocolat is a full-fledged restaurant and café that offers a refined hot chocolate made with their own cocoa beans from Saint Lucia. Choose from different cocoa percentages to match your taste.
Why It’s Special: Ethically sourced, bean-to-bar chocolate with deep flavour profiles.
Address: 2-4 Bedale Street, Borough Market, London SE1 9AL
6. Knoops – Richmond, Chelsea & More
Knoops is a newer entry that focuses exclusively on chocolate drinks. They offer over 20 different percentages of cocoa—from creamy 28% to intense 100%—and a variety of milk alternatives and flavour infusions.
Why It’s Special: Bespoke, customisable experience tailored to your personal chocolate preference.
Address: Multiple Locations – Richmond, Chelsea, Kensington
7. Rococo Chocolates – Belgravia
A beloved British chocolate institution, Rococo serves a more classic style of hot chocolate in its charming Belgravia café. Rich and creamy, it’s elegantly served in fine china with an optional truffle on the side.
Why It’s Special: Quintessentially British charm meets chocolate sophistication.
Address: 5 Motcomb Street, Belgravia, London SW1X 8JU
Vegan and Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Options
London has increasingly embraced plant-based dining, and hot chocolate is no exception. Many establishments now offer dairy-free alternatives using oat, almond, or coconut milk. Knoops, Dark Sugars, and Chin Chin are especially popular among vegan visitors. Additionally, independent coffee shops across Hackney, Shoreditch, and Notting Hill offer creative vegan versions of hot chocolate, often topped with coconut cream or vegan marshmallows.
Best Seasonal Hot Chocolate in London
During the winter holidays, hot chocolate in London takes on a festive twist. Christmas markets, such as Southbank Winter Market or Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, serve spiced versions featuring orange zest, nutmeg, and even a splash of brandy.
Luxury hotels such as Claridge’s and The Connaught also roll out their seasonal hot chocolate menus, often accompanied by petit fours or gingerbread.
Hidden Gems and Local Favourites
While the aforementioned names dominate the hot chocolate scene, there are also hidden gems that deserve mention:
- Mamasons Dirty Ice Cream (Chinatown & Kentish Town): Known for Filipino flavours, they serve a rich hot chocolate with a twist.
- Milk Train (Covent Garden): Aesthetic, cloud-like hot chocolates with candy floss for the ultimate sweet tooth.
- Prufrock Coffee (Leather Lane): Minimalist in style but big on flavour, their hot chocolate is a coffee-shop classic.
Pairing Hot Chocolate with London’s Atmosphere
Enjoying hot chocolate in London is as much about setting as it is about flavour. Imagine sipping a warm cup while overlooking the Thames, tucked away in a bookshop café, or enjoying it on a drizzly afternoon stroll through Hyde Park. The experience can be peaceful, romantic, or indulgent—depending on where you are and whom you’re with.
Tips for Finding the Best Hot Chocolate Near You
- Use Food Apps: Applications like Time Out London, Google Reviews, and HappyCow can help you find hot chocolate spots based on location and dietary needs.
- Explore Markets: Borough Market, Camden Market, and Greenwich Market often have pop-ups and local vendors offering exceptional drinks.
- Follow Local Influencers: Many food bloggers and TikTok creators based in London share hot chocolate guides with visuals and honest reviews.
- Check for Limited Editions: Follow your favourite cafes on social media for seasonal specials.
Final Thoughts
From thick, indulgent Italian-style chocolate to lighter, spiced or dairy-free options, London has established itself as one of the best cities in the world to enjoy hot chocolate. The city’s offerings are diverse, creative, and of exceptional quality—satisfying everyone from casual drinkers to connoisseurs.
Whether you’re sipping in a centuries-old townhouse café or indulging in a chocolate bar’s flagship lounge, the capital offers countless opportunities to discover your next favourite cup.
