It’s winter, and that means it’s windy and cold and depressing: all you want to do is stay inside and do nothing.
But that’s not achievable. Eventually something comes up and you’ve got to get out and brave the bitterness. To help you get through the day, here’s a handy list of some of the best hot chocolates around.
If there’s something we love at Forte, it’s extras. And at Webster’s Market and Cafe, the hot chocolate has plenty of it. Pictured above, the Jaffa hot chocolate also has a side of orange caramel and a toasted house made orange blossom marshmallow to enjoy. Bliss!
Ideally situated in the CBD is the relaxed, sort-of-hipster cafe, The Unicorn. With a selection of vinyls playing in the background, some cluttered chairs and couches, and the smell of coffee, The Unicorn is a cosy spot to pause. Marshmallows come free with the hot chocolates here, which is always a nice touch. Be sure to try out the deconstructed hot chocolate with chocolate ganache pictured above. The Unicorn locally source many of their products, including the milk for your hot chocolate or coffee fix.
In the heart of Castlemaine you will find Cafe rePUBLIC, a rustic nook that has been converted from an old fire station into a trendy cafe with an adjoining restaurant. Stop in for a quick hot chocolate to warm you up, or grab one to go if you’re in a rush, and if you’re in the mood for food you can hop across to the restaurant for a meal in the old fire station. Cafe rePUBLIC is upcycling at its best!
Indulge Fine Belgian Chocolates Bendigo
At Indulge Fine Belgian Chocolates, as you might guess, chocolate is their game. So if you’re in Bendigo, this shop is well worth a visit. They offer not only classic Belgian hot chocolate, but also white, dark, and chili chocolates. And if that’s not chocolate-y enough for you, you can go for a chocolate shot. And, of course, they have handmade chocolates, as well as a selection of cakes available.
Just across from the movie theatre, Java Lounge is always humming with people. The cafe has a relaxed, warm vibe even on the coldest of Ballarat mornings, and as you near the counter be prepared to have to choose between a range of delectable cakes and desserts you know you’ll want at least one. Bring a friend, and between you, the hot chocolate, and the sugar rush, you’ll warm up in no time.
Also called Das Kaffeehaus, this cafe features an Austrian theme. The Teutonic decor, complete with a looming portrait of Elizabeth of Austria, creates a distinctly European feel. Here you can get your basic hot chocolate, but why leave it there? If you’re feeling adventurous, try Opa’s Amaretto Schokolade a hot chocolate with Amaretto, cream, and a maraschino cherry to top it off.
Credit: Deb Parfey
For Geelong West locals, Box Office is the place to be. And while it may be a bit chillier with its outdoor nature, there are plenty of heaters, cozy knitted blankets and ganache hot chocolates to get stuck into. Plus, you can always get takeaway.
We don’t know what it is about Cafe Moby’s hot chocolate, but boy is it something special. For those who can handle soy milk, it really brings out the flavour of the chocolate. Opt for the mug as chances are this one won’t last long.
Written by Madeline Browney
