Now that the weather is turning colder, it’s time to start thinking all things cozy. Luckily, the ultimate comfort drink, hot chocolate, is abundant in the Northern Virginia area. We put together five of our favorite shops to grab a delectable cup of hot cocoa. Happy sipping!
Cameron’s Coffee & Chocolates
Last year, Cameron’s joined the hot cocoa bomb craze. They offer milk, dark, or white chocolate varieties. The shop has perfected the melting process, as some cocoa bombs don’t melt fast enough or correctly to make good hot chocolate. Top it with some whipped cream and you’ve got a festive treat. Best of all, the shop is a nonprofit that provides employment for adults with intellectual disabilities. Fairfax Center: 9639 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax
River-Sea Chocolates
River-Sea Chocolates has a chocolate factory and a liquid chocolate café open to the public daily. The liquid chocolate café is everything you dreamed of and more—there’s classic hot chocolate for the traditionalists and designer cocoas for those looking to branch out to something trendier. The designer cocoas are made from melting down chocolate bars in flavors like rum caramel, fire chocolate, and vanilla white chocolate. Yum! You can schedule a tour of the chocolate factory through the website to learn about how River-Sea Chocolates are made from farm to bar. 4520 Daly Dr., Ste. 100, Chantilly
De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches
De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches is a hidden gem when it comes to their hot chocolate. Their cups are warm and comforting and available in children’s sizes for the young ones in your family (or adults who don’t want a large cup!). Pair a cup with one of De Clieu’s bakery goods like a scone, muffin, cinnamon roll, or croissant. Note: more seating is available now at De Clieu, but social distancing is encouraged. Masks are required unless actively eating or drinking and the condiment and milk bar are not available at this time. 10389 Main St., Ste. B, Fairfax
Mom & Pop by Dolcezza
Mom & Pop is a small, cozy cafe by the team behind Dolcezza gelato shops in the area. It is currently open in the Mosaic District Park. Their hot chocolate is divine—there are two varieties, a barista cup or an Askinosie hot chocolate. For those intrigued, Askinosie Chocolate is a small batch, bean-to-bar chocolate manufacturer whose founder spent 20 years as a criminal defense attorney before switching to chocolate maker. If you’re hungry, Mom & Pop also sells pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and snack boards. 2909 District Ave., Fairfax
29th Parallel Coffee
29th Parallel Coffee is a cozy little spot in the heart of Fairfax Station. They offer all the typical coffee beverages like lattes, macchiatos, and more, but their hot chocolate is truly the best. It’s not too hot, not too cold, and just sweet enough. Cakes and pastries are great to grab to-go to enjoy as you sip your chocolatey goodness. 5616 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station
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