October 24, 2018 | Food & Drink
Frosty days are becoming more frequent. Stop by these 7 local spots for a big cup of winters signature drink: decadent hot chocolate.
Situated in the lobby of the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, Aqimero will serve up an ample mug of rich hot chocolate starting November 23. Topped with toasted marshmallows and accompanied by a side of fresh-baked cookies, the delicious drink is also offered in a spiked version. Who doesn't love hot cocoa with a kick? 10 Ave of the Arts, 215.523.8200, aqimero.com
This French-Italian café is guaranteed to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth. With a menu of over a dozen hot chocolate varities, you can't go wrong. On your next visit, opt for the “Volcano,” and award-winning version created by owner and head barista, René Kobeitri. The elaborate drink is bedecked with massive marshmallows and shavings of caramel chocolate, coconut chocolate, coffee bean chocolate, and more. 1172 S 9th St., 215.465.3515, rimcafe.net
With homemade bean-to-bar chocolate, Shane Confectionery is committed to giving you the perfect cheat-day. The historic shop does everything in house including roasting the cacao beans. Take your pick among an array of drinking chocolates, from the classic sweet Thomas Jefferson, or the savory Tuscan Jasmine Cioccolato, featuring jasmine petals and orange zest. 110 Market St., 215.922.1048, shanecandies.com
This Spring Garden restaurant and café invites you to experience eclectic Venezuelan versions of the winter favorite. Fashioned by co-owner Robert Campbell (also known as The Chocolate Alchemist) the drinks are both healthy and heavenly, La Cuaima Vegan offers notes of chili pepper, cinnamon, and dark chocolate. If thats not your style, the Bebe Kong is topped with Mascarpone cream and queso fresco. 941 Spring Garden St., 215.763.2500, sazonphilly.com
Get a taste of France at this Washington Square West bakery. The airy, open atmosphere and heated outdoor seating area is the perfect setting to indulge a creamy cup of French-style hot chocolate. Pair your hot cocoa with one of thier housemade croissants or crêpes for the ultimate indulgance. 212 S 12th St., 267.928.3172, jaimefrenchbakery.com
If their traditional hot chocolate is to boring for you, mix it up with the Aztec at this South Street West café. With a flair of spice, the Mexican-inspired drink features all the components of their sugary original, but with a spicy kick. 1500 South St., 267.587.6559, littlespooncafe.com
Known for their artisanal pies, Magpie is certainly no stranger to sweets. Offered both traditional style or topped with homemade marshmallows, the Ghirardelli Hot Chocolate is unsurprisingly delicious. Since you’re there already, why not grab a slice of pumpkin or caramel apple pie to go. We promise you won't regret it. 1622 South St., 267.519.2904, iluvmagpie.com
