Rules of Winter:
- Take a trip to a nearby ice rink.
- Attend at least one of Fairfax County's magnificent light shows.
- Embrace hot chocolate as the ultimate seasonal beverage.
Winter nights call for chocolate delights! There’s nothing quite like a steaming cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream or fluffy marshmallows to beat those chilly days. Luckily, Fairfax County is home to many talented chocolatiers who have the gift of perfecting the tastiest chocolate bars EVER.
Explore these local cafés to discover the best hot cocoa in town!
River-Sea Chocolates Factory & Liquid Chocolate Cafe
Courtesy of River-Sea Chocolates Factory's Facebook
Fairfax County's very own chocolate factory, River-Sea Chocolates, has award-winning chocolate, so you can trust that their hot chocolate is nothing short of exceptional. Taking craft hot chocolate to a whole new level with its own dedicated menu for unique hot cocoa creations, you won't go wrong with pours such as the Smoked Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate made with pecan wood-smoked salt or the Mint Marshmallow drink. Whatever you choose, you’ll be coming back for more!
Bonus: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with their special Raspberry Rose Hot Chocolate, a drink so irresistible that it might just steal the spotlight from your date!
Cameron's Coffee & Chocolates
Courtesy of Cameron's Coffee & Chocolates' Facebook
Do you know what's the bomb dot com? The hot cocoa bombs from Cameron’s Coffee & Chocolates! Crafted with rich Belgian chocolate, these delightful treats feature a chocolate shell filled with cocoa mix and mini marshmallows. For an extra kick, try their boozy cocoa bombs made with Bailey’s Irish Cream, Chambord Raspberry Liqueur, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Bourbon, and of course, a dash of sprinkles! These will be the grand splash of the holiday season.
Venchi
Courtesy of Venchi's Facebook
If you’ve ever had European hot chocolate, you know it’s a magical experience. Creamy and deliciously thick hot chocolate pairs perfectly with a freshly baked croissant. No need to hop on a plane to satisfy your craving when Venchi serves authentic Italian-style hot cocoa at Tysons Corner Center. The Italian Chocolate and Gelato boutique is bringing Italian flair through its chocolate AND hot cocoa and the best part? It is all crafted with Italian mastery and includes only the best ingredients.
Lily’s Chocolate & Coffee
Courtesy of Lily's Chocolate & Coffee's Facebook
Lily’s Chocolates & Coffee in Vienna is famous for its irresistible desserts and picture-perfect setting, but you can also find scrumptious hot chocolate here. Highly recommend ordering chocolate Lockmas to go with your decedent hot chocolate beverage because you only live once! While you’re there, decide which is your favorite: the creamy white chocolate or the classic Belgian hot chocolate.
Chateau de Chantilly Cafe
Courtesy of Chateau de Chantilly Cafe's Facebook
If you are looking for a cozy cafe to enjoy your favorite book while sipping on some hot cocoa, stop your hunt and head to Chateau de Chantilly Cafe. Feeling extra jolly? The Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the drink for you, but the Real Dark Chocolate is the real star here. Chocolate heated with milk and topped with whipped cream to make you say "Best. Hot. Chocolate. Ever."
Simply Social Coffee
Courtesy of Simply Social Coffee's Facebook
Simply Social Coffee offers freshly brewed coffees, espresso drinks, and the star of this blog: HOT CHOCOLATE! Steamed with hot milk and made with European dark chocolate sauce topped with homemade whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce will leave you speechless. With locations in Fairfax and Vienna, you have no excuse not to try this masterpiece this winter season.
Winter is coming, but at least you will have these warm, chocolate-y pleasures by your side! If we missed any of your favorite spots, let us know in the comments below and make sure to share your favorite beverage with us using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax.
