Whether you prefer a cream-topped, marshmallow-laden masterpiece, or just a classic cup of cocoa, you will find plenty of places to enjoy a hot chocolate in Lincoln.

During the colder months, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming mug of hot choc. Before you get ready to hunker down and hibernate, check out some of our favourite spots to indulge in this classic seasonal drink.

1) Café Gelato

During summer, Café Gelato has a queue outside the door, but don’t dismiss this top gelato joint as a seasonal venue. Serving up a menu of hot drinks (and delicious homemade cakes), Café Gelato is a year-round hit. The hot chocolates here are packed with texture and taste, and can be ordered with or without frills.

Visit in the run-up to Christmas and your hot chocolate will be served in an epic Santa mug, piled high with whipped cream, assorted marshmallows, and lashings of Belgian chocolate sauce.
 

2) Stokes

You may know them for their coffee and tea, but Stokes also dabble in the hot chocolate industry. This family-run company produce their own hot chocolate powder, which can be enjoyed in one of their many cafes, or purchased to try at home. For the ultimate chocolate-drinking experience, head to Stokes' historic High Bridge Café and grab a seat by the fire.

Deliciously rich and silky smooth, Stokes’ hot chocolate takes some beating. Designed to bring a touch of cosy comfort to your day, you can choose from a classic chocolate option or sample for one of their seasonal specials. This year, winter options include the ‘Marshmallow Madness’, a creamy hot choc topped with syrup, whipped cream and oodles of marshmallows; or the Cherry Bakewell – a luxurious cherry and almond flavoured drink, also piled high with toppings.

3) Caffe Portico

It's safe to say no one does hot chocolate quite like the Italians. For a taste of Italy, right here in Lincoln, head to Caffe Portico. Situated on Grantham Street in the city centre, this cafe and restaurant is renowned for their authentic Italian cuisine. As well as serving up pizza, pasta and the most decadent desserts, Caffe Portico are famed for their strong coffee and rich hot chocolates.

You can order a pretty traditional hot chocolate here, but we recommend going for an Italian classic instead. The Cioccolata Calda at Caffe Portico is the thickest, creamiest hot chocolate you can imagine (Sidenote: If you've ever read Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this is what we imagine the chocolate river would taste like). Served with a traditional amaretti biscuit, you could almost be fooled into thinking you're in Rome... 

 

4) Rising Café

One of our favourite spots for a hot chocolate in Lincoln has to be Rising Café on Newland. This not-for-profit cafe is part of Betel, a charity which provides life-transforming help to people with drug and alcohol addictions. Every penny earned at the café goes directly towards helping restore once-broken lives, so the hot chocolates here are not just great – they’re also supporting a great cause!

Depending on your level of chocolate expertise, there are three different options to choose from. If you like a classic hot choc, we recommend going for the 58% cacao option; if you’re a dark chocolate fan, the 70% cacao is sure to get your tastebuds tingling.

If you prefer something super sweet, the s’mores hot chocolate is a no-brainer. Served with a large toasted marshmallow, a generous dollop of cream and a biscuit, this has to be one of the most indulgent – and delicious - hot chocolates in Lincoln.
 

5) Bells Teashop

If you prefer a historic tearoom to a modern cafe, Bells is the perfect spot to indulge in a hot chocolate. Situated within a listed building on Steep Hill, this characterful café boasts wonky floors, wooden beams and plenty of cosy corners.  Offering a great view of the bustling Cathedral Quarter, you can hunker down with a hot choccy, and simply watch the world go by.

Don’t be fooled by the traditional décor, Bells are a step ahead when it comes to hot chocolate. There is a plethora of flavours to choose from, ranging from orange and mint, to hazelnut and bakewell. Keep it simple, or add cream and marshmallows for a little touch of luxury.
 

6) The T-Lounge

Situated on Burton Road, The T-Lounge specialise in sweet treats. From Easter bakes to Christmas cakes, there is always something new to try.

The hot chocolate here doesn’t disappoint either. Made using Stokes luxury powder, the results are rich, smooth and flavoursome.  It is tasty enough to have it plain, but The T-Lounge do offer a luxury option, if you want to upgrade. Cream, marshmallows and chocolate shavings – who can resist!

Not to go off topic, but if you fancy something a bit different, the white chocolate mocha here is also worth a try! A little cup of indulgence, this delicious drink is made by melting white chocolate chips under a double shot of espresso.

7) Naked Marshmallow

If you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, Naked Marshmallow is a must-visit. The hot chocolates here are not messing around. There are lots of decisions to be made, so brace yourself.

 First up, you have to choose a flavour for your hot chocolate; options include white, ruby, milk, dark or caramel.  Your choice will then be layered with a flavoured marshmallow fluff; take your pick from a selection of sweeter than sweet flavours and watch as the fluff is toasted infront of you, topping off your drink like a delicious little marshmallow hat.

And that’s not all! Despite what the name suggests, you can’t leave your marshmallow naked. More toppings are included, and you can add anything from cookie dough to Turkish delight to complete your creation.

 

8) Madame Waffle

Very few places look more inviting than Madame Waffle on a chilly day. Tucked away in the heart of the city centre, this hidden gem is warm, welcoming and full of cosy corners.

Don’t be put off by the name, this popular independent café has much more to offer than just waffles (although they are delicious). The coffee here is exquisite, and so are the hot chocolates.

Served in a big ol’ mug, you can choose from classic, orange or mint - cream and marshmallows are optional, but recommended. If you’re feeling festive, you can even add a dash of Baileys, pure luxury!