The temperatures finally dropped and that means one thing (at least in this article): hot chocolate season. We rounded up our favorite places to grab a cup, whether you want a simple classic, a marshmallow-topped masterpiece, or a holiday treat for the whole family.
Header photo: Quack’s Bakery Instagram
3825 Lake Austin Blvd.
A winter favorite thanks to their holiday lights on the patio. Kids can sip hot chocolate while taking in the show, and even after the lights come down, the lake view is always a treat.
1601 W. Koenig Lane
A cozy neighborhood café with a backyard playscape and a family room for little ones. Their house-made hot chocolate pairs perfectly with pastries, and vegan and gluten-free options make it easy for everyone to find something they like.
Lick Honest Ice Creams
Various Locations
Kids can pair their hot chocolate with a scoop of their favorite ice cream—because why not? Lick uses SRSLY Chocolate and natural ingredients, and they make vegan versions too. When temps dip below fifty degrees, hot chocolate is only five dollars, making it a fun after-school treat.
Various Locations
A perfect stop when your kids want a sweet treat and a delicious pastry to go with it. Grab hot chocolate alongside cookies, cupcakes, and more, so everyone can pick their favorite treat.
Various Locations
Open twenty-four hours, so if your late-night hot chocolate cravings hit after a game, movie night, or winter event, Bennu is ready. They offer traditional and Mexican hot chocolate, and plenty of cozy seats for board games or homework time.
via Coscmic Coffee & Bar Instagram
Cosmic Coffee & Beer
121 Pickle Rd
1300 E 4th St
Included on Cosmic Coffee’s plentiful menu is hot chocolate made with local Texan milk and Ghana chocolate. This hot chocolate is sweet, creamy and topped with whipped cream for those who want a little more sweetness. And since we all know winter in Austin is still usually temperate, you can enjoy your drink on either of Cosmic’s large outdoor patios.
5353 Burnet Rd
A relaxed neighborhood spot where kids can grab hot chocolate with pastries or sandwiches. Plenty of seating and a chill vibe for study breaks or post-practice warm-ups.
1906 S. 1st St
Hot chocolate + fresh churros = instant kid favorite. Their Mexican chocolate drink is served hot in winter and pairs perfectly with a cinnamon-sugar churro or two.
Various Locations
With several locations around town, you can count on Medici for a perfectly made cup of hot cocoa. Grab one of their awesome pastries as a side and you’ll really be set.
Patika Coffee
100 Congress Ave (Lobby)
Inspired by a San Fran coffee kiosk, the java masterminds behind this spot are all about delicious French-pressed coffee. And along with high-quality brew, the Patika people turn out baked goods like orange-rosemary scones, chipotle-corn muffins and lemon-lavender cookies—all of which, we hear, pair perfectly with their hot cocoa (warm or iced). Isn’t it great when life works out like that?
