On a wintery day in Colorado there’s almost nothing better than a piping cup of hot cocoa and a good book; although I think I could drink hot cocoa any time of the year, or day, for the matter. Considering my obsession with this magnificent drink, it quickly became a priority for me to taste, critique and rank my favorite hot chocolate spots in Denver.

  1. Azucar Bakery – This adorable pink bakery is known for their cakes and Peruvian inspired pastries, but also has great hot chocolate. I am a traditionalist when it comes to my favorite drink, but I’ve tried the spicy hot chocolate here too and it’s pretty darn amazing.
  1. The Inventing Room – For a fun and whimsical atmosphere with warm cocoa and exploding whipped cream, this place gets the prize for being the most unique.
  1. Dietrich’s Chocolate and Espresso – Just next door to Kaladi’s coffee shop on Evans Avenue, Dietrich’s is a chocolatier shop with wicked good hot cocoa. The premier quality of chocolate used makes a huge difference. Plus, the whipped cream topping adds to the decadence.
  1. Lucile’s Creole Café – Brunch and hot chocolate might be one of the best combinations. Lucile’s has the best New Orleans style beignets in Colorado and when combined with rich, creamy hot cocoa, it’s already almost a whole meal!
  1. The Market at Larimer Square – This is a specialty grocery store with a coffee bar in front, but if you make it all the way to the back, you can get a slice of decadent cake too. A great spot for a downtown get together with friends and a great cup of cocoa.
  1. Kaladi’s Coffee Roasters – For a hot chocolate to–go or if you’re looking for a place to sit and work for a few hours, this is the spot! The hot chocolate is the best of any local coffee shop and the atmosphere is lively with the nicest employees.
  1. D Bar – This is the place to go for the most delicious hot chocolate you can find in Denver. It’s a cup of rich, sweet chocolate with a toasted marshmallow, chantilly cream and chocolate pearls. It’s a dessert all by itself, but don’t let it be the only one you get. Dbar has some of the best desserts in the city – hands down.

Think there’s a place we missed? Add your favorite hot chocolate in Denver in the comments below! I’d love to try them!

XOXO,

Lauren