WHAT’S THE BEST HOT COCOA NYC HAS TO OFFER?

When the temperatures drop, it’s time to set out for something warm and toasty. No matter how old you are, a cup of hot cocoa somehow always makes puts a smile on your face. In New York City, several places stand out for the popular winter drink. Here are some other contenders.

Blue Stripes Urban Cacao Shop. This wellness-driven café in Union Square lets you choose your chocolate—milk, dark, darker, and even Nutella—for its delicious, fluffy Hot Chocolate & Mocha, the perfect treat on a chilly winter day.

Dominique Ansel Bakery. There is more to this SoHo spot than the legendary Cronut. Order the Blossoming Hot Chocolate, a viral sensation which first became big in Japan before debuting stateside. The clever creation features a beautiful marshmallow flower that opens in the cup of the homemade Chef’s hot chocolate to reveal a surprise inside.

MarieBelle New York. At the cocoa bar at this elegant, European-style café in SoHo, there are four assorted flavors to try: Milk Hazelnut, Spiced Chocolate, White Chocolate, and Aztec Hot Chocolate, which happens to be one of “Oprah’s Favorite Things.”

Max Brenner. At this Union Square chocolate haven, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to hot cocoa, from The Original Hot Chocolate to the Mexican Spicy Hot Chocolate, Salted Caramel, and so much more.

The Chocolate Room. There are many tempting possibilities at this café in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Indulge in the Classic Hot Chocolate, featuring a 38 percent blend of milk chocolate infused with Madagascar Vanilla and topped with whipped cream, or the Dark Hot Chocolate, made with bittersweet Belgian chocolate, Valrhona cocoa powder, and whole milk and topped with whipped cream.