When the temperatures drop, there is nothing like a soothing, warming cup of hot chocolate. We’ve rounded up our favourites:
Melt: a shot of cocoa paste, double cream, a drop of peppermint oil and a blend of dark and white chocolate, this is the ultimate chocolate fix. You can’t stay and linger at the shop so this is really for those who want a quick, de-thawing stopover before you carry on Christmas shopping in W11. (Don’t forget to buy a delicious chocolate-covered marshmallow christmas tree on your way out).
Paul A Young: dairy free, made with 70% dark chocolate, cocoa powder and light muscovado sugar, you can choose from a selection of spices (chilli with black cardamom is the most popular) to add an extra punch. Again, there’s nowhere to sit so it is take-away only but well worth the visit.
La Fromagerie: a mixture of Valhrona chocolate flakes and cocoa powder, this has a slightly bitter taste. Take your time to enjoy the setting – white branches, twinkling lights and flickering candles whilst you rest your weary bottom on the wooden benches.
Hotel Chocolat: Visit the High Street Kensington branch for their liquid chocolate, made with 72% dark chocolate and skimmed milk, it has less sugar than most traditional hot chocolates whilst losing none of the rich chocolate taste. The café is in the middle of the shop which isn’t the most relaxing of places but there is plenty of assorted chocolates around you for distraction.
The Pantry: made with Green & Black’s Fairtrade Cocoa Powder and organic semi-skimmed milk, yes you could make this at home but then you’d miss out on the delicious cakes and friendly staff at this local Wandsworth café.
