Creamy, Dreamy Hot Chocolate in Delco

When the weather outside turns frightful — whether it’s freezing rain, chilling winds or plummeting temperatures — nothing soothes the soul quite like a steamy mug of hot chocolate. This warm, comforting drink might bring up nostalgic memories of coming home after playing in the snow, or it may be part of new traditions you’ve created with your family. The simple combination of milk, chocolate and marshmallows and whipped cream (if you’re lucky!) is as timeless as it is delicious.

 

When you’re out and about in Delco, running errands or heading to a friend’s house for the game, dial up the winter cheer with a tasty hot chocolate from a local cafe, coffee shop or diner. It’s the perfect way to shake off the cold and indulge in a little sweet treat! 

 

The hottest new coffee spot in Havertown is The Bookery Coffeehouse, a cafe/bookshop next door to Plant Roots, a gift and plant shop that stocks the cutest things. The vibes and decor in The Bookery are immaculate; snuggle up in the banquet along the front window with a Dirty Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow Whipped Cream from the season specials menu. This rich hot chocolate is spiked with espresso and topped with sweet marshmallow whip for a nod to fireside s’mores.

19 Brookline Blvd., Havertown.

 

Part diner, part local landmark, Llanerch Diner brings all the greasy-spoon charm and smalltown atmosphere you could hope for from a 24/7 diner. In operation since 1968, and made famous by the movie “Silver Linings Playbook,” this Upper Darby institution is a must-stop on your way up or down West Chester Pike. The mile-long menu has everything, but don’t skip the hot chocolate, served piping hot in a heavy mug with a cloud of whipped cream and generous drizzle of chocolate sauce on top. Sure, the whipped cream might come from a can, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

95 E. Township Line Rd., Upper Darby Township; (610) 789-6057.

 

You might expect a spot that takes brunch super-seriously to serve a mean hot chocolate, and Tank & Libby’s certainly delivers. Sweet tooths will delight in pairing one of its French toast or hot cake dishes (may we suggest the lighter-than-air soufflé pancakes with honey butter and blueberry compote?) with the Ghirardelli hot chocolate with whipped cream. Pro tip: This is a great spot to bring the kids!

1011 Pontiac Rd., Drexel Hill, (484) 455-7527.

 

Chi Cafe is a comfy, family-run cafe that serves up no-fuss, homestyle breakfast and lunch favorites. You can keep it simple with a bagel and cream cheese, or go all out with ice cream-topped waffles or the Chi Breakfast Deluxe (eggs, breakfast meat and pancakes, waffles or toast). Or, stop in for one of their amazing desserts, like apple crisp or tres leches cake. Either way, be sure to try a hot chocolate — nothing fancy, just a sweet, chocolate-y, creamy classic. 

3378 Chichester Ave., Boothwyn; (484) 480-5399.

 

The Vanilla Bean came onto the scene in Wayne earlier this year. Its specialty is chocolate or vanilla soft-serve base with toppings mixed in for a customized experience. It also has a great coffee menu, with drip coffee, espresso drinks, cold brew and tea. The hot chocolate is extra-rich with swirls of whipped cream on top. If you’re feeling extra, try yours with a pump of vanilla, caramel or hazelnut syrup. 

102 E. Lancaster Ave., Wayne.  

 

Afaf Coffee is a brand-new cafe that just opened in Ridley Park, and it’s already getting rave reviews from the locals! In addition to smoothies, pastries and sandwiches, there is an extensive coffee menu made with Afaf’s house-roasted beans. If you’re not in the mood for caffeine, the hot chocolate is a solid choice, made with beautifully steamed milk and high-quality chocolate. Non-dairy milks are also available.

632 E. Chester Pike, Ridley Park; (610) 707-2780.

 

If you’ve never had a slice of pie from Apple Walnut Cafe, it’s time to check that off your Delco foodie bucket list! The famous “Pie that built a cafe!” consists of a cheesecake-esque creamy filling studded with apples and topped with cinnamon and English black walnuts coated in brown sugar. There are also apple walnut pancakes, French toast and crepes, as well as dozens of crave-worthy savory items. Round out your meal with a frothy cup of hot chocolate, topped with plenty of whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

 2924 West Chester Pike, Broomall; (610) 353-1384.

 

While the frozen malted chocolate at Burlap & Bean isn’t technically a hot chocolate, it’s too good not to include! One of the most popular drinks on this hip cafe’s menu (even in winter!), this fun drink tastes like a creamy malted milk ball. What makes it so delectable? Burlap & Beans makes the chocolate sauce and the whipped cream for its drinks in-house, from scratch.  Too frigid for a cold drink? Try the peppermint hot chocolate, a hit around the holidays. 

455 W. Baltimore Ave., Media; (484) 444-2533.

 

Bonus: Spiked hot chocolate is a truly special treat! At the Towne House and neighboring Irish pub, The Shebeen, the limited-time Christmas menu features Holly’s Hot Chocolate, a warm cocktail crafted with vanilla vodka, irish cream, hot cocoa mix and marshmallows. It’s the ideal way to unwind after shopping small in “Everybody’s Hometown” or a fancy nightcap after dinner.

117 Veterans Sq., Media; (484) 445-2041.

 

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA. They say we’re A LOT…and they’re right! Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email or online.

– Emily Kovach

 

Featured photo: Pexels