The Best Hot Chocolate in Chicago
As the Chicago days grow chilly, the best way to celebrate the turn of seasons is with a large, creamy mug of hot chocolate. Luckily, Chicago is home to some of the best hot chocolate in the Midwest. Here are the spots you have to try if you’re craving a warm, chocolatey drink.
The Wormhole Coffee
Come to Wicker Park to discover The Wormhole Coffee; not only is their decor wonderfully kitschy, their hot chocolate is some of the creamiest around. Sit beneath a life-size model of the DeLorean from Back to the Future or play a round of Super Mario Bros on a console from the eighties while you enjoy a hot chocolate that tastes like the first sip every time. The flavor and texture is so smooth, you may find yourself finishing your drink before you even realize how much you’ve had.
Cocoa + Co
Cocoa + Co is an upscale hot chocolate paradise located in Old Town. Considered to be one of the best hot chocolate venues in America according to the Food Network, Cocoa + Co offers dozens of hot chocolate options including a Moroccan mix with thirteen spices, the classic Dark Hot Chocolate which is described as “American cocoa on steroids” and The Fix, so chocolatey and rich, it’s an off-menu item.
Cookies and Carnitas
Cookies and Carnitas is a long-time staple at the Green City Market, and the Mexican Hot Chocolate offered at their Rogers Park storefront is an absolute treat. Using Nestle Abuelita and oat milk, the Mexican Hot Chocolate is inspired by the Rogers Park community that has supported the establishment for years. You don’t want to miss out on it!
Back of the Yards Coffeehouse
For those who love a strong dose of caffeine, Back of the Yards Coffeehouse, located in the old Union Stockyards building on the city’s south side, has the hot chocolate for you. “Xocolatte,” their take on hot chocolate includes creamy espresso, house made chocolate ganache, cinnamon, and chile ancho. It’s sweet, warm, chocolatey, tangy, spicy, and caffeinated. In other words, this hot chocolate has everything you need to get through a chilly morning.
Emeche Cakery & Cafe
Emeche Cakery & Cafe, a Bronzeville bakery, serves scrumptious baked goods and fantastic hot chocolate. With a house hot cocoa, as well as a s’mores blend, and whipped coffee for those who prefer a kick of caffeine, there are plenty of drink options to choose from. Add a warm pastry, and Emeche is perfect for a cold day.
