The Best Hot Chocolate in NYC: A Cozy Guide to 13 *Must-Try* Sips for Chocoholics ☕

As the temperatures drop, it seems like social media feeds are awash in viral hot chocolate spots –  notably, impossibly rich Parisian hot chocolate and lattices of Swiss chocolate placed over the mouth of a cup and melted into the waiting mug with a pour of perfectly steamed milk. But NYC isn’t just famous for its pizza – the Big Apple has plenty of rave-worthy spots to grab a cup of decadent hot chocolate on a blustery fall or winter day, too.

Whether you’re looking for classic European-style hot chocolate that will transport your tastebuds across the Atlantic or creative holiday concoctions that will trigger tons of festive nostalgia, over-the-top creations piled high with whipped cream or boozy chocolate creations that offer a more adult take on the classic cocoa, there are cafes and chocolate shops across New York serving up exactly what you’re looking for.

So without further ado, here’s your must-try list of the best hot chocolate in NYC… we hope you enjoy every indulgent sip! 🍫

PS – Text a digital gift card to your Favorite New Yorker (or NYC visitor) so the chocolatey little pick-me-up is on you! The GiftYa catalog carries thousands of local and national brands, which they can redeem or exchange with just a few clicks on the website or app. 💝

1. Caffé Panna

77 Irving Pl | Gramercy | caffepanna.com

Panna is the Italian word for “cream,” and Caffé Panna is known around the Flatiron district for serving up all sorts of creamy creations. In the summer, you can stop by to see what’s new on the cafe’s ever-changing menu of ice-cream (churned in house) and sundaes, crafted with a combo of locally sourced ingredients and specialty ones imported from Italy. But as the leaves start to turn colors in Central Park, there’s only one thing on our minds: Caffé Panna’s just-sweet-enough hot cocoa.

The cafe’s seasonal hot chocolate is rich and dark, but the bitterness is tamped down with a pinch of salt and, of course, a dollop of silky sweet house whipped panna. Yum.

“My taste buds are happy - my wallet is not. Everything tasted divine. The hot chocolate is probably my new favorite in the city - so rich and that Panna on top is delicious. But there is always a line so be prepared for that!” – Yelp Review

2. Glace by noglu

1266 Madison Ave | Upper East Side | glaceny.com

We can’t talk about hot chocolate in NYC without talking about Glace (pronounced “gloss”) by noglu. You may have seen this one on your TikTok or Instagram feed, or even on YouTube with celebrity chefs like Josh Weissman stopping by to see if the iconic S’mores Hot Chocolate is worth the hype.

The good news: yes, yes it is. Turns out piping a marshmallow fluff halo around the rim of your cup and torching it adds some *chefs kiss* amazing flavor.

The bad news: like many of the more well-known hot chocolate spots on this list, you’re pretty likely to encounter a wait 😪 But at least you’ll walk away with a hot chocolate so rich and delicious it warms your hands and your heart on a dark winter night.

“Rich chocolate, toasted marshmallow vibes, and somehow gluten-free - but I'm not asking questions. One sip and I went from 'tough guy' to 'man contemplating his life choices' real quick. Staff was awesome, flavors were on point, and yes, I'd fight a bear to get another one.” – Yelp Review

3. Max Brenner

841 Broadway | Union Square | maxbrenner.com

Max Brenner is a whimsical, chocolate-focused cafe that makes drinking hot chocolate feel like an experience. Known for their creative menu, they offer a variety of hot chocolate options, including milk, dark, and white chocolate varieties, as well as extravagant toppings like marshmallow fluff, chocolate curls, and even chocolate-dipped spoons.

The Union Square location has a lively, playful atmosphere, making it perfect for enjoying a cup with friends or family. Max Brenner’s hot chocolate isn’t just a drink—it’s a full sensory experience, combining flavor, aroma, and visual delight in every cup.

“Love that they're open really late! The dessert menu reads like a kids' dream. Just had a hot chocolate and it was great. Too rich for one person to drink on their own, best shared!!” – Yelp Review

4. MarieBelle

484 Broome St | SoHo | mariebelle.com

MarieBelle is a SoHo gem that takes hot chocolate to an entirely new level of luxury. Their signature drink, the Aztec Hot Chocolate, is made from pure, high-quality cacao and has a rich, almost pudding-like texture. You can choose between classic, spicy, or even white chocolate varieties, each prepared with precision and care. The result is an intensely flavorful and decadent cup that feels like liquid chocolate.

The café itself is elegant and inviting, with a boutique chocolate shop in front and a charming cacao bar in the back. Sipping hot chocolate at MarieBelle feels like a true escape from the bustle of the city. It’s the perfect destination if you’re looking for an indulgent, sit-down chocolate experience—or a beautiful gift to bring home.

“I stopped by MarieBelle as a part of my hot chocolate exploration journey in NYC and had a pretty good time! Unfortunately I didn't make reservations at the Cacao Room and try their more elaborate hot chocolates / desserts. Nevertheless I still got to try their hot chocolates, which were more decadent than other places. The texture was more thick and felt like a dessert, more than an actual drink.” – Yelp Review

5. Dominique Ansel Bakery

189 Spring St | SoHo | dominiqueansel.com

Best known for creating the world-famous Cronut, Dominique Ansel Bakery also serves one of the most unique hot chocolates in New York. Their version is smooth and velvety, but what really makes it stand out is the signature “blooming marshmallow.” When placed in the hot chocolate, the flower-shaped marshmallow opens up like a blossom, creating a whimsical and Instagram-worthy moment.

The bakery’s SoHo location is cozy yet bustling, with a reputation for innovation and creativity. Beyond the hot chocolate, you’ll find inventive pastries and desserts that are constantly changing. Dominique Ansel’s hot chocolate isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience that captures the playful, artistic spirit of NYC’s food scene.

“Amazing pastry, the best hot cocoa I've ever had. Everything is just delicious! I would highly recommend their nutella croissant.” – Yelp Review

6. Jacques Torres Chocolate

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66 Water St | DUMBO | mrchocolate.com

Known affectionately as “Mr. Chocolate,” Jacques Torres serves some of the richest and most decadent hot chocolate in the city. Their drinks are made with high-quality chocolate sourced from around the world, ensuring a smooth, luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. The shop also offers a variety of toppings and mix-ins, like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Visiting the Brooklyn location feels like stepping into a chocolate lover’s paradise. Beyond the hot chocolate, Jacques Torres offers chocolates, truffles, and other confections, making it a perfect stop for gifting or indulging. Their hot chocolate is thick, comforting, and perfect for warming up on a cold NYC day.

“Best hot chocolate hard down. Just my luck, Jacques himself served me hot chocolate! Amazing! I was as struck! I see him on TV all the time! Love this place! Great service!” – Yelp Review

7. Lady M

1178 Broadway | Flatiron | ladym.com

Lady M is famous for its delicate, beautifully layered cakes, but their hot chocolate is a must-try for chocolate enthusiasts. Made with premium chocolate and creamy milk, it’s smooth, rich, and luxuriously indulgent. Their presentation is elegant, reflecting the cafe’s upscale, refined aesthetic.

The Flatiron location is perfect for warming up during a busy day of sightseeing or shopping. Lady M’s hot chocolate pairs beautifully with a slice of their signature cake, making it a treat for both the eyes and the palate. It’s the kind of drink that makes you slow down and savor the moment—a true New York indulgence.

“The best desert in town. Whenever I feel like I want some cake, this is the place to go. I always order the strawberry, green tea, sometimes with rose latte or hot chocolate.” – Yelp Review

8. Ralph’s Coffee

711 5th Ave | Midtown | ralphlauren.com/ralphs-coffee

Ralph’s Coffee, tucked inside the Ralph Lauren flagship store, offers a cozy and stylish spot for a luxurious hot chocolate. Their drink is smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet, made with quality cocoa and steamed milk. While the setting feels upscale, the hot chocolate itself is approachable and comforting—a perfect indulgence while exploring Fifth Avenue.

The café has a warm, inviting atmosphere with chic décor, making it a great place to relax and recharge. Many visitors enjoy their hot chocolate alongside a sweet pastry or cookie, creating a moment of calm amid the city hustle. Ralph’s Coffee is ideal for anyone who appreciates classic flavor and an elegant NYC setting.

“Ordered the peppermint hot chocolate and it was delicious!” – Yelp Review

9. La Maison du Chocolat

1018 Madison Ave | Upper East Side | lamaisonduchocolat.com

La Maison du Chocolat brings a touch of Parisian luxury to New York City. Their hot chocolate is rich, velvety, and made with premium French chocolate that delivers deep, complex flavor. Unlike overly sweet versions, this drink strikes the perfect balance of bitterness and creaminess, ideal for chocolate purists.

Many visitors pair their hot chocolate with a delicate pastry, like a chocolate éclair or tart, creating a sophisticated and indulgent experience. La Maison du Chocolat is perfect for anyone seeking a high-end, European-style hot chocolate in NYC.

“The hot chocolate here is really really really thick, like they melted a bar of really good chocolate into the cup. Remember that chili commercial where they stick a fork in the chili and the fork stands in the chili? You could do that with this cup of hot chocolate.” – Yelp Review

10. Serendipity 3

225 E 60th St | Upper East Side | serendipity3.com

Serendipity 3 is an iconic NYC dessert destination known for its whimsical, over-the-top treats. Their hot chocolate is no exception, served thick, rich, and topped with a mountain of whipped cream, sprinkles, and chocolate shavings. This decadent drink is almost a dessert in itself, perfect for those who want to indulge in a truly over-the-top chocolate experience.

The Upper East Side location has a playful, eclectic vibe, making it a fun destination for both tourists and locals. Many visitors pair their hot chocolate with one of the famous frozen hot chocolates or a slice of cake, creating a full indulgent experience. Serendipity 3 is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy classic New York decadence with a touch of theatrical flair.

“Serendipity, you are a NY icon, a classic of the Upper East Side. You hold so many memories for me, all sweet. As a child my parents took me here often for lunch which always ended in the ultimate frozen hot chocolate. I had birthday parties here and again, lovely memories.” – Yelp Review

11. Bluestone Lane

417 Amsterdam Ave | Upper West Side | bluestonelane.com

Bluestone Lane is an Australian-inspired cafe that has made a name in NYC for its quality coffee and hot chocolate. Their hot chocolate is creamy, slightly sweet, and made with rich cocoa that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for sipping while enjoying the city around you.

Not to mention, you can try one of their bone broth-infused creation – including the Hearth Hot Chocolate – if you want something that’s still sweet but has a slightly more balanced nutrient profile than your traditional decadent cup of cocoa!

“What a wonderful coffee shop! Friendly staff and amazing food. The barista created beautiful latte art on our cappuccinos AND hot chocolate. Not to mention the excellent flavor and consistency of the drinks. The environment is also beautiful!! NOTE: their croissants are ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE; YUM!” – Yelp Review

There are plenty of amazing sweet treats in the Big Apple, but if you’re a chocoholic, you should def check out these spots to find the best hot chocolate in NYC.

New York City offers some of the most diverse and indulgent hot chocolate experiences in the world. From classic European-style richness at Jacques Torres to playful extravagance at Max Brenner, and from neighborhood gems like City Swirl to elegant options at Lady M, there’s a cup to suit every taste and mood. So next time you need a warm, comforting pick-me-up, grab a cup at one of these NYC favorites and savor the city one sip at a time.

And don’t forget, we’re big fans of the Big Apple here at GiftYa – from fun NYC restaurants that will *actually* impress your picky teen to a local-approved guide to New York’s coolest movie theaters to your ultimate guide to impressing your sweetie with romantic things to do in New York City, we have you covered on the blog and the catalog a like. Hope to see you soon! 🗽