The World’s Best Hotel Hot Chocolates
(According to Me, a Hot Chocolate Snob)
There are wine snobs, espresso fanatics, and cocktail connoisseurs, but hot chocolate? That’s my thing. Specifically, hotel hot chocolate. And not the powdered stuff either—I'm talking about the real deal: rich, creamy, maybe slightly bitter, ideally served in a cozy lounge with a fireplace or a sea view. I’ve basically made it my personal mission to track down the best ones in the world, and this list is the result of a lot of sipping. You're welcome…
These are all places I’ve actually visited and hot chocolates I’ve actually ordered—sometimes multiple times, just to be sure.
The Chelsea Townhouse – London, UK
Such a sweet spot in Chelsea. It feels more like staying in a beautiful old townhouse than a hotel—and in the best way. Lots of floral prints, soft lighting, quiet lounges, and the kind of staff that make you feel like a regular even if it’s your first time.
The hot chocolate is simple but perfect. Rich, creamy, no weird aftertaste, served in proper china, and best enjoyed while you’re curled up in one of their sitting rooms during a London drizzle.
Hotel Mont-Blanc – Megève, France
This is the kind of place that makes you feel like you're in a vintage ski postcard. It’s tucked right in the middle of Megève, with wood beams, flickering candles, and all the French alpine charm you could possibly want.
Their hot chocolate is insanely good—thick, rich, and borderline dessert. I had it post-ski (fine, après-walk) in the lounge and immediately decided I didn’t need to leave. Ever. If you’re in the Alps and looking for something cozy but still stylish, this hotel nails it.
Southern Ocean Lodge – Kangaroo Island, Australia
I didn’t go to the edge of the earth expecting to find a world-class hot chocolate, but here we are. Southern Ocean Lodge is next-level—floor-to-ceiling windows facing dramatic cliffs, ridiculously good food, and that magic combination of wild and luxurious.
Their hot chocolate was a total surprise. Made with local Australian chocolate and milk, it was smooth, deep, and slightly earthy. I drank it wrapped in a blanket after a long walk along the coast and genuinely considered asking for a second.
Four Seasons Vail – Vail, Colorado
Four Seasons knows what it’s doing, and their Vail property is one of my favorite ski resorts in the U.S.—beautiful rooms, easy access to the slopes, and that perfect mix of laid-back and luxurious.
The hot chocolate here is decadent in the best way—lots of whipped cream, optional marshmallows, and a fireplace nearby. It’s a proper après-ski treat, even if you spent most of your day in the spa.
Other Standouts Worth Mentioning:
Le Sirenuse – Positano
Their hot chocolate is lighter, more milk-forward, and served with that Positano view. Everything tastes better with bougainvillea and the Amalfi Coast in the background.The Connaught – London
If you’re in Mayfair and want something fancy, head to Jean-Georges at The Connaught. The hot chocolate is super luxe and served in a silver pot. You’ll feel very put together.Gstaad Palace – Switzerland
Classic, over-the-top, and totally worth it. The hot chocolate is rich and very Swiss. Have it by the piano in the lounge and pretend you live there.Badrutt’s Palace – St. Moritz
Everything here is a little extra (in a good way), including the hot chocolate. There’s a sense of occasion to it—and the lake view doesn’t hurt.
So if you, too, judge a hotel by the quality of its hot chocolate... same. These are the places I keep thinking about, long after I’ve left. And if you know of a hotel hot chocolate I need to try next, let me know. I take this kind of thing seriously.