Top 7 Must-Try: Hot Chocolate Spots in Philadelphia

When the temperatures drop, Philadelphia's culinary scene heats up with incredible hot chocolate options. Moving far beyond the powdered mix, these cafés, confectioneries, and specialty shops are serving up rich, complex, and decadent drinking experiences. Whether you prefer European-style sipping chocolate or a spicy Mexican blend, this list has your ultimate winter warm-up covered.

Here are the seven best hot chocolate spots in the City of Brotherly Love.

1. RIM Café (Italian Market)

The undisputed champion of Philadelphia hot chocolate, RIM Café offers an experience as theatrical as it is delicious. Owner Rene Kobeitri, a real person, makes every drink a spectacle. The atmosphere is eccentrically adorned, and the drinks are pure decadence.

• Why it's #1: The Volcano Hot Chocolate. This ultra-rich, nearly mousse-like drink is poured high, often topped with caramelized marshmallows (S'mores Brulee) or exotic combinations like white chocolate peanut butter, with shaved chocolate, fruit, and nuts piled high in front of you. It's a sweet, memorable destination.

  
  
  

• Location Spotlight: South Philadelphia, right off the Italian Market.

2. Shane Confectionery (Old City)

As America's oldest continuously operating candy shop (since 1863), Shane Confectionery draws on its deep history and bean-to-bar expertise to create authentic, meticulously crafted drinking chocolate.

• Must-Try: The drinking chocolate, which is essentially melted fine chocolate served hot. You can choose from their ethically sourced signature blend or a Dark Spicy version (with chili and cinnamon), made to order on the stove at their beautiful, throwback Chocolate Café.

3. Café y Chocolate (South Philadelphia)

This cozy, neighborhood favorite brings the robust, comforting flavors of Mexico to South Philly, specializing in traditional Mexican dishes and beverages.

• Must-Try: The Mexican Hot Chocolate or the Café con Chocolate. This is not a watery cocoa—it's a rich, cinnamon-laced blend often made with chocolate Oaxaca, offering a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying.

4. Gran Caffe L’Aquila (Rittenhouse Square)

This multifaceted Italian establishment prides itself on authenticity, flying in ingredients, baristas, and even a gelato maker from Italy. Their hot chocolate is no exception to their high standards.

• Must-Try: The traditional Italian Drinking Chocolate. It's famously thick—so thick you might need a spoon—made fresh daily with high-quality Italian fair-trade chocolate and organic sugar.

5. Sazon Restaurant & Café (Northern Liberties)

A Venezuelan-focused spot, Sazon features the expertise of Robert F. Campbell Jr., known as the "Chocolate Alchemist," who brings serious craft to his beverages.

• Must-Try: The Clasico Hot Chocolate, made from a blend of four types of cacao beans, hazelnuts, and maple sugar, offering a rich, gourmet experience. They also offer over 20 unique varieties.

6. Anthony's Italian Coffee & Chocolate House (Italian Market)

A pillar of the Italian Market, Anthony's is a family-run business that excels in both strong Italian coffee and rich chocolate goods.

• Must-Try: Their classic Italian-style Thick Hot Chocolate. It's the perfect accompaniment to one of their house-made cannolis or pastries, providing traditional European richness.

7. Aurora Grace (Queen Village)

Founded by pastry chef Aurora Wold, who gained Michelin-star experience in New York, this café and sweets shop focuses on high-end, artisan confections and polished presentation.

• Must-Try: The house-made hot chocolate. Given the shop's reputation for exquisite chocolates, truffles, and sweets, their drinking chocolate is crafted with the highest-quality ingredients for a smooth, refined taste.

Beyond the Cups:

This list is a starting point for exploring Philadelphia's vibrant hot chocolate scene. From cozy cafés and independent chocolate shops to upscale restaurants and bakeries, the city offers many options for those seeking a warm and comforting beverage. So, venture out, explore the city's diverse offerings, and discover your new favorite spot to indulge in chocolatey bliss.

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Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff

Philadelphia Best Of Series is a round-up of the best places in Philly for great food, entertainment, and more.

Best Philadelphia Hot Chocolate