Updated December 29, 2022. The weather has turned frigid, and 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
In 2020, Cameron’s joined the hot cocoa bomb craze. The shop offers milk, dark, or white chocolate varieties. Cameron’s 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. 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 its hot chocolate. The 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 it with one of De Clieu’s bakery goods like a scone, muffin, cinnamon roll, or croissant. Note: Wearing a mask in the building is still encouraged. 10389 Main St., Ste. B, Fairfax
Mom & Pop by Dolcezza
Mom & Pop is a small, cozy café in the Mosaic District Park from the team behind the Dolcezza gelato shops in the area. The hot chocolate is divine. There are two varieties: a barista cup or a seasonal hot chocolate. 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. It offers all the typical coffee beverages like lattes, macchiatos, and more, but the 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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