Would you like to enter the secret hot chocolate paradise in LA, where every sip melts even the coldest hearts? From lavender-infused Belgian-style elixirs to traditional Oaxacan chocolate that would make your abuela proud, these seven spots prove that LA's hot chocolate scene is fire.
Warm Up Your Winter
(Yes, Even in LA's 75-Degrees)
1. Churros Calientes
☕ Rich Cup of Hot Chocolate
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰💰
Golden churros meet organic cacao magic, as their hot chocolate is a love letter to Spanish café culture—rich, decadent, and begging to be paired with a crispy churro. This spot is absolutely one of the best for hot chocolate in Los Angeles.
🪄 Insider Tip: Try their churros with a side of dulce de leche for an authentic Spanish experience.
2. Demitasse
☕ Liquid Lavender Hot Chocolate
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰
The Lavender Hot Chocolate here isn't just a drink—it's an experience. Imagine a velvety chocolate infused with delicate lavender, topped with a marshmallow torched to golden perfection. Each sip is like a warm hug for your taste buds.
🪄 Insider Tip: Pair your hot chocolate with one of their signature pastries for the ultimate comfort treat.
3. ChocoVivo
☕ Creamy Dark Hot Chocolate
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰💰
LA's first bean-to-bar chocolate factory is absolute chocolate magic. Their hot chocolate isn't just a drink but a journey through ancient stone-ground chocolate-making techniques. Crafted using natural, vegan methods, ChocoVivo offers a hot chocolate experience that's as educational as it is delicious.
🪄 Insider Tip: They offer chocolate factory tours where you can dive into the world of artisanal chocolate making.
4. Amara Cafe
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰💰
This charming Pasadena cafe where Venezuelan chocolate traditions meet modern craftsmanship are famous for their award-winning hot chocolate, made with 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate. It delivers a perfectly balanced richness that chocolate connoisseurs dream about.
🪄 Insider Tip: Visit during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) to snag one of their cozy window seats
5. Lady Chocolatt
☕ Extra Dark Hot Chocolate
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰
Direct from Belgium's finest chocolate ateliers, this spot offers hot chocolate customization that'll make your inner chocolate snob weep with joy. Extra dark? Sugar-free? White chocolate? They've got you covered.
🪄 Insider Tip: This is a great "coffee-date" spot.
6. Lavender & Honey
☕ Frozen Hot Chocolate
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰
This charming Pasadena café puts a delightful twist on the classic hot chocolate with their Frozen Hot Chocolate, a perfectly blended treat that captures all the richness of traditional hot chocolate in a refreshing frozen form. Made with premium chocolate and topped with fresh whipped cream, it's the perfect remedy for those warm LA afternoons.
🪄 Insider Tip: Check out their full list of flavors online to plan your perfect hot chocolate experience.
7. Guelaguetza
☕ Chocolate de Agua
🌐 WEBSITE | 📍 DIRECTIONS | 💰💰
James Beard Award winners serving Chocolate de Agua that's basically liquid gold. Pair it with their Mexican sweet bread, and you've got a culinary experience that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
🪄 Insider Tip: While you're there, pick up some Mole to take home for an authentic Oaxacan meal.
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