By Molly Given
When the Philly cold front hits, nothing thaws the chill quite like a decadent cup of hot chocolate—and the city has no shortage of sweet spots to sip and savor.
Termini Bros. at The Concourse at Comcast Center
A Philly classic, Termini Bros. Bakery serves ultra-creamy, deeply classic hot chocolate. The best part? Locals can pair it with one of their popular ricotta-filled cannolis, or opt for a hot chocolate and cookie bag for around $10.
1701 John F Kennedy Blvd, termini.com
Vernick Coffee Bar
Another classic on the list, Vernick Coffee Bar serves a café-style hot chocolate, perfect to pair with any of their other treats — which spans picks like brown butter chocolate cookies, cinnamon streusel coffee cake, carrot cake pie and more.
1800 Arch St., vernickcoffeebar.com
Levain Bakery
There’s a new sipper available at Philly’ Levain Bakery location. Their Toffee Hot Chocolate is made with notes of buttery toffee, a hint of vanilla and velvety hot chocolate and it’s whisked until smooth and golden. The treat is topped with fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate toffee crunchies.
1518 Walnut St., levainbakery.com
The Buttery
The Buttery’s hot chocolate is a winter essential, available at both its Malvern and Ardmore cafés. Made with house-made chocolate syrup from The Buttery’s Bakehouse, the treat can be enhanced with a seasonal peppermint twist. For sipping at home, locals can also grab their retail hot cocoa mix, complete with tiny meringues for an extra cozy touch.
Various locations, thebutterycafe.com
Aqimero
This is one to mark your calendars for — throughout Valentine’s Week, Aqimero will offer a festive Pink Hot Chocolate, available either boozy or non-alcoholic, paired with homemade churros. As the venue says, this playful seasonal sip is perfect for date nights, Galentine’s meetups, or a cozy moment at the bar.
10 Avenue of the Arts., aqimero.com
RIM Cafe
Located in the heart of the Italian Market, there are a few different versions to try while here, including a classic ganache, salted caramel, and a “dirty” espresso‑spiked version.
1172 S. 9th St., facebook.com/rimcafephilly
Anthony’s Italian Coffee & Chocolate House
Another Italian Market hotspot, this old-school favorite hot cocoa pairs beautifully with a cannoli or other classic Italian pastry.
903 S. 9th St., italiancoffeehouse.com
Jack’s Firehouse
For grown-ups looking to warm up with a little extra kick, Jack’s Firehouse offers spiked hot chocolate that blends rich cocoa with carefully crafted spirits. Think velvety chocolate with a swirl of bourbon, rum, or peppermint liqueur.
2130 Fairmount Ave., jacksfirehouse.com