My top pick of the most indulgent hot chocolates to warm yourself up on a chilly day in Newcastle and around the North East.
Hot chocolate season has arrived at last! These rich, cocoa-infused drinks make the perfect treat when the temperatures start to drop outside. And with so many tempting flavours and toppings available, there’s a hot chocolate for everyone.
As a girl who doesn’t drink tea regularly, or coffee at all – hot chocs are the only hot drinks I have, so you could say I’m something of an expert when it comes to finding the best cups of velvety, chocolatey goodness locally!
Here are four of my favourites certain to satisfy every type of hot chocolate lover.
Proven
Proven is known locally for its scrumptious selection of freshly-made doughnuts. However, a visit to its bakery in Hoults Yard wouldn’t be complete without ordering a hot chocolate topped with toasted, whipped marshmallow fluff and chocolate shavings. There’s nothing else quite like it in Newcastle. And for something extra special, try the Funfetti Fluff dipped in rainbow sprinkles.
The Landing
When you’re prepared to drive over 40 miles just for a hot chocolate, you know it must be good! The Landing is a beach cafe at the beautiful Beadnell Bay in Northumberland, and its deluxe hot chocs are divine. They’re ultra smooth and silky in texture, and the staff are always generous with the cream and marshmallow toppings. A little shortbread biscuit on the side to dunk into your drink is also a lovely touch.
Woods
Woods is a snug independent cafe in the heart of Tynemouth, and it’s the perfect retreat after a windswept walk along the beach. Its Burnt Mallow Hot Chocolate is the definition of moreish – it comes sprinkled with chocolate flakes, Biscoff crumb and a large toasted mallow that’s made for one thing only: dunking.
Gosforth Traders
This cosy neighbourhood cafe on Salters Road in Gosforth serves regular and large-sized hot chocolates, with or without marshmallows and cream. A mint flavoured hot choc is also available – think an After Eight in a cup. If you do go all-out, the huge dollop of cream on top makes this one of the most indulgent hot choc experiences.
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*Please check current menus with each cafe, as these are subject to change.
