Mmm, hot chocolate! Warm, tasty and chocolaty, what’s not to love? This winter staple is well-known to bring smiles to adults, children and elders alike. So, where are the best places to enjoy this “hug-in-a-cup” in our great city? I took it upon myself to investigate (aka have an excuse to splurge on my favourite drink) this very serious issue and here are my findings!
Enjoy!
1) Best On-the-Go Hot Chocolate: Second Cup
I think it’s safe to say that most uOttawa students love Second Cup. Whether it’s due to its convenient locations or its creative Canadian drinks, the lineup is always long as soon as class breaks out. But when you finally get to the front of the line, you can experience the deliciousness of their hot chocolate. I tried their Candy Cane, White and Classic Hot Chocolates, and the Classic was by far my favourite. The other two were also great, but a little too sweet. Based on the feedback I got from fellow Second Cuppers, they agreed that you gotta stick to the original.
I’m also a fan of Tim Hortons Hot Chocolate, but it can be a hit or miss, with you either receiving a tasty brew or some brown water.
2) Best Luxurious Hot Chocolate: Cacao 70
Cacao 70 is such a treat. The atmosphere is great, the servers are nice, and (almost) everyone is in a good mood. I mean, who wouldn’t be in a good mood after eating rich, tasty chocolate. When I went with some friends recently, we each ordered a different hot choc. Based on the feedback of my trusty friends, they agreed that the American Hot Chocolate was the best, with the Vintage Hot Chocolate being a close second.
A reason why I call Cacao 70’s Hot Chocolate “luxurious” is because you gotta be rich to enjoy the richness of the chocolate (pun intended). What I mean is that the prices are a little steep, but the chocolate is sooo rich and you probably couldn’t go there everyday without breaking the bank/your sweet tooth. However, the chocolate is such high quality and it would make a great date spot (wink, wink).
3) Best Secret Hot Chocolate: Fleur Tea
Located right at Russell and Somerset, many students probably walk past this little gem every day. However, it’s well worth your time going in. The whole cafe is beautiful and it reminds me of something you’d see in a movie. Anyway, the hot chocolate is super delicious. It’s made with Organic cocoa and is made daily with a fresh pound of cocoa. It’s smooth, creamy, and just the perfect temperature.
Here’s what some of my fellow writers had to say when I asked where their favourite place to get hot chocolate was!
“Beavertail stand. It’s the perfect combo, especially after a day of canal skating” -Kristen
“Planet Coffee. Order a chocolate chip cookie with it” -Jessica
“The Lindt store in Lansdowne Park. So chocolaty and rich!” -Meaghan
“Truffle Treasures in Westboro. The Orange Dark Chocolate or Mayan Hot Chocolate are delish.” -Ariel
“I love the alcoholic hot chocolate at Highlander Pub in the Market!” -Caitlin
Comment what your favourite hot choc spots are around Ottawa!
Â
Special thanks to everyone who helped me conduct my “research”
Â
Picture Credits
Cover Picture, 1, 2, 3