Think outside the packet on cocoa

What makes the perfect hot chocolate? Is it the amount of froth on top, the exotic cocoa powders used? What qualities set hot chocolate apart from hot water and a packet of Swiss Miss? 

Head chocolate taster for DC Metro Chocolate Tours Bonnie Sigwalt says it’s all about the viscosity when it comes to a perfect cup of hot chocolate. 

“When you take that first sip, it’s all about feeling that familiar warmth and happiness,” said Sigwalt. “European-style hot chocolate is becoming more popular, people are starting to like the thick, rich-flavored chocolate texture.”

So with that in mind and the weather getting colder, The Hill decided leave the halls of Congress for a spell and embark on a taste-test of sorts around town to find out where to duck into for a hot chocolate escape this holiday season. And we weren’t disappointed.

The best Classic hot chocolate goes to Baked & Wired in Georgetown (1052 Thomas Jefferson St. NW). Located right off M Street, this cozy coffee shop appeals to a trendy local crowd and is famous for its “Hippie Crack” trail mix. However, its hot chocolate is enough cause for notoriety. This drink evokes an audible sigh after the first sip — you won’t be disappointed. The hot chocolate speaks for itself with a pure milk chocolate taste and a hint of dark chocolate to balance out the sweetness. For $3.75, you can relax in a plush leather chair and enjoy not only the hot chocolate, but also the generous amount of homemade whipped cream they put on top.

If you’re looking for a deviation from the norm, head over to Oyamel (401 7th St. NW) in Penn Quarter. This traditional Mexican restaurant, owned by famous chef José Andrés, gives a unique spin on this chocolatey drink, and that’s why Oyamel gets the Most Exotic hot chocolate in our taste test. It’s made with Oaxacan hot chocolate, cinnamon, cloves and steamed milk, and has a spicy flavor to it. The service at Oyamel is attentive and personable, and that, combined with this delicious beverage, makes it well worth $4. ¡Qué delicioso! 

For the chocolate obsessed, head to Pitango Gelato, also on 7th Street (413 7th St. NW). Known for its gelato, this shop prides itself on only using the best-quality ingredients. Here, you can order either a Sipping Chocolate or a Choco-Latte, which is an Italian sipping chocolate with steamed milk added in for around $4. For the full experience (and if you’re on an empty stomach) go right for the sipping chocolate, but if you’re already full or have to walk more than three blocks, stick with the Choco-Latte. This sipping chocolate is intensely rich in flavor and has a distinct authentic taste and texture to it.

If you’re in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, stop in to Pound The Hill (621 Pennsylvania Ave. SE), a quaint coffee shop that moonlights as a wine bar and restaurant after 5 p.m. Pound’s hot chocolate is simple, stylish and timeless. Each cup is made to order by one of their skilled baristas, served in an oversized coffee mug and saucer and personalized with details in the froth on top — well worth the $3 it costs. Enjoy the savory milk chocolate taste and wear your froth mustache with pride.

Joseph Casey, assistant manager at Pound and a specialist in coffee and cocoa beans, said, “A good cup of hot chocolate, like coffee should have a balance of sweetness, richness, and perfect milk. High quality cocoa is imperative, but the texture, froth, and even temperature all play an important part in a good cup of hot cocoa.”

For an out-of-the-box hot chocolate, head to Serendipity 3 in Georgetown (3150 M St. NW). Their hot chocolate is as adorable as the quaint restaurant itself, and is piled high with shaved chocolate. 

The frozen hot chocolate is a registered Serendipity trademark, and it’s one of their most ordered items on the menu. It is absolutely delectable, and depending on whether you order hot or frozen, its hot chocolate will cost you $5 to $7. Even on a cold day, the frozen hot chocolate can satisfy a hot chocolate lovers’ fix. Served in a tall sundae dish, it can be ordered for one or for multiple people to share. Serendipity 3 is a perfect spot to rest while doing your holiday shopping in Georgetown this season.

And finally, we tip our hat to Firehook Bakery, a local Washington chain. For a less of a hit on your wallet ($2.50), Firehook has a tasty take on hot chocolate, boldly embracing the rich flavor of dark chocolate and complementing it with a sweet hint of milk chocolate. Firehook is the perfect place for hot chocolate at the just the right temperature when you’re on the go.

There is nothing better than a steaming cup of hot chocolate to put you in the holiday mood. Whether it’s a moment of self-indulgence on your way to work, or a surprise for a friend, don’t settle for Swiss Miss — take advantage of all the yummy treats Washington has to offer.