Austin may be known for its warm weather, but when the cooler months roll in, there's nothing quite like curling up with a rich cup of hot chocolate. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the city has fantastic spots to satisfy your cocoa cravings. From classic favorites to creative twists, we’ve rounded up the best places to enjoy a warm cup of cocoa in ATX. Here’s where to find the city’s most delicious hot chocolate!
Freddo ATX
Austin’s newest destination for exceptional coffee, fine wine, local beers, and homemade Greek pastries. Located in the historic Victorian-style Walter Tips House on South Congress, Freddo serves Greece’s famous Freddo Cappuccino, along with delicious treats like Spanakopita, Tiropita, and Bougatsa. They also offer a rich, comforting hot cocoa, perfect for warming up. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating, plus a dog-friendly atmosphere, Freddo is the ideal place to relax and enjoy great food, drinks, and ambiance.
Monkey Nest Coffee
This beloved North Austin institution is all about "Keeping Austin Weird" with its locally-owned and operated vibe. While they’re known for their organic coffee sourced from seven unique origins, their hot chocolate is a cozy favorite for those not in the mood for coffee. This rich, creamy treat pairs perfectly with the bakery items and lunch options on the menu. On some nights, you can even enjoy live music, adding to the warm, friendly atmosphere that makes Monkey Nest the perfect place to relax, sip, and nest.
Cosmic Coffee & Beer
Indulge in a rich, creamy hot chocolate made with locally-sourced Texan milk and smooth Ghanaian chocolate at Cosmic Coffee. Topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, it’s the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth. And with Austin’s mild winters, you can enjoy this cozy treat while lounging on one of the café’s expansive outdoor patios, no matter the season.
Churro Co. Dessert Shop & Bakery
Churro Co. is a standout in North Austin, known for its vibrant neon pink décor that makes it impossible to miss. As the newest addition to Gabriela's Restaurant Group, a proudly Latino-owned business, this charming spot offers more than just their signature churros. In the winter months, they serve a rich and delicious Mexican Iced Chocolate, transformed into a warm, cozy hot cocoa—perfect for pairing with a freshly made churro.
Halcyon
Halcyon Coffee ‘til Cocktails is a go-to spot for hot drink lovers, and their hot chocolate is a standout. With a variety of rich, delicious options to choose from, Halcyon takes hot cocoa to the next level—offering the unique twist of spiking your drink with your favorite liquor for an extra warm kick. Halcyon has something for every occasion with tableside s’mores and a menu of tasty bites, it’s the perfect spot to savor your hot chocolate and make the most of your day.
Epoch Coffee
Epoch Coffee in Austin is a cozy, local favorite known for its relaxed atmosphere and high-quality coffee. Whether you're there to work, relax, or catch up with friends, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy expertly brewed coffee, specialty lattes, and indulgent hot chocolate. Their rich, creamy hot cocoa is a standout, making it a great choice for anyone looking to warm up in a laid-back setting.
SanGines
Chocolateria San Gines, a beloved Madrid institution for over 125 years, is renowned for its mouthwatering churros and rich, velvety hot chocolate. Using traditional techniques and unique flavors, they have earned worldwide recognition for their dedication to quality and flavor. They’re excited to bring this iconic Spanish experience to the US. Visit them and indulge in a taste of history, where every sip of hot chocolate and every bite of churro is a moment of pure delight.
Medici Coffee Roasters
Medici Coffee Roasters, with locations throughout Austin, is a favorite for coffee lovers and those craving something extra special. Known for their excellent espresso, Medici also serves high-grade, spicy hot chocolate at all locations—perfect for warming up with a rich, flavorful treat.
Comadre Panadería
Talked about in Texas Monthly and the New York Times, Comadre Panadería is a charming Mexican-American bakery that brings community, tradition, and delicious treats together. In addition to their baked goods, they offer fantastic small-batch Mexican drinking chocolates from Austin-based Hijita, perfect for a cozy, indulgent experience. With a name that means “trusted friend” in Spanish, Comadre is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community through food, culture, and care.
Houndstooth Coffee
Houndstooth Coffee in Austin is a locally-owned gem known for its expertly brewed coffee and warm, inviting atmosphere. While the focus is on high-quality coffee, all locations also serve up rich, comforting hot chocolates. What began as a passion for coffee and café culture has grown into a mission to share quality beverages with the community, weaving an integral social thread into Austin’s vibrant fabric.
Quack’s Bakery
Craving something sweet? Quack’s Bakery is an Austin favorite for delicious desserts, offering everything from pastries to cookies and cakes. And if you're in the mood for a cozy cup of hot cocoa to pair with your treat, Quack’s has you covered for that too.
Bennu Coffee
This local mom-and-pop shop in Austin was founded by a couple who shared a passion for community service and coffee which led them to open their first 24-hour café. With all three locations open 24/7, you can enjoy more than just great coffee—whether it's a traditional or Mexican hot chocolate, Bennu ensures you never have to settle for less, no matter the time of day.
Merit Coffee Co.
Merit Coffee Co. is a must-visit for coffee lovers, known for its expertly crafted beverages and commitment to quality. Beyond their signature coffee blends, Merit offers delightful seasonal treats like rich hot cocoa and the festive Candy Cane Mocha—perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Beyond the amazing drinks, Merit has you covered with stylish mugs, cozy apparel, and accessories that let you take a little piece of the coffee shop home with you.
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Austin’s hot chocolate scene is the perfect way to warm up this winter. So grab a cup and enjoy all the cozy spots the city has to offer!
