Need to warm up? As the chill of winter descends upon NYC’s bustling streets, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hot cocoa treat. But did you know that NYC has so many unique options? From a cafe with a gigantic chocolate waterfall to a hot chocolate treat that blooms at your seat – there are several fun ways to indulge in chocolaty goodness in NYC. Read on for our list of fun hot chocolate spots in NYC.
Sit within a Chocolate Waterfall – Venchi
Did you know that a giant chocolate waterfall flows in Union Square? Venchi, an Italian chocolate shop, has a fully immersive 45-foot-long, 10-foot-high chocolate waterfall within the store’s lounge – allowing you to sit within the chocolatey fluid while sipping on a cup of their yummy hot chocolate. There’s also a wall of wrapped chocolates, several sweet cakes and pastries, and a massive counter of gelato treats. 861 Broadway, Manhattan.
A Blooming Surprise – Dominique Ansel Bakery
The famed Dominique Ansel Bakery in Soho has a special chocolaty treat – a hot chocolate that blooms for you right at your seat. How does it work? A specialty flower-shaped marshmallow is placed inside the hot cocoa and opens (blooms) as the temperature of the marshmallow starts to rise. Inside the flower- a sweet chocolatey pearl surprise. Yum. 189 Spring St, Manhattan.
S’mores Inside a Cup – S’mores N’more
Best way to enjoy a hot chocolate? Add a torched marshmallow to it! Head over to the S’mores N’More counter in Bryant Park to try their famous hot chocolate s’more treats. First, choose your marshmallow from classic flavors or unique twists, like salted caramel, peanut butter, or funfetti variations) and then watch as the staff torches the marshmallow to perfection by hand. Ooey, gooey, and delicious – it’s the perfect complement to a thick cup of hot chocolate. Seasonal. Located in Bryant Park, 42 Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenue.
A Hug in a Cup – Max Brenner
Tubular lines pump chocolate through the factory-styled restaurant and into chocolate lovers’ hearts at Max Brenner. Inside, you’ll find a full restaurant, gift store, and decadent dessert palace – it’s a larger-than-life dream world for sweets fans of all ages! From chocolate fondue, chocolate waffles, and even chocolate pizza (yes, chocolate pizza!), everything here is about the gooey, decadent delight. Be sure to order a hot chocolate, which is served in the ergonomically shaped (and appropriately named) Hug Mug. 841 Broadway, Manhattan.
The OG – Jacques Torres
Visit the place where it all started! Jacques Torres is now a household name for chocolate treats, but his first-ever shop location was right here on Water Street. This European-style shop features its namesake chef’s chocolates and sweets and his signature hot chocolate drink. Choose between their classic hot chocolate, seasonal flavors, Wicked Hot Chocolate (made with fiery spices), or even a vegan hot chocolate option. Cookie fan? The chocolate chip cookies here are said to be the best in NYC. Jacques Torres was featured in our DUMBO guide, read more HERE. 66 Water St, DUMBO, Brooklyn
Viral NYC Craze – Glace by Noglu
Glace by Noglu is an Upper East Side spot where the Hot Chocolate is HOT. It’s become a viral craze on social media, and locals and visitors cannot get enough. What makes this hot cocoa so unique? It’s all in the famous fluff! Visitors go crazy for the pillowy marshmallow perfectly piped around the rim, made from egg whites, brown sugar, honey, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon. Next, it is hand-roasted with a torch, giving it the flavor of a delectable s’more. The homemade cocoa is equally a star – 56% cacao and semi-sweet and topped off with a heaping scoop of whipped cream. It’s worth the wait. Our video HERE. 1266 Madison Ave, Manhattan.
