This is a vital question when traveling to Paris in February! Great hot chocolate (“chocolat” or “chocolat chaud”) is plentiful in Paris. Just about anywhere you sit, you will enjoy a rich, amazing cup of steaming hot chocolate that will make you forget all about the watery, weak concoctions we are sometimes served at home.

But who makes the best? Of course, that is a question of taste. Here are a few addresses that won’t leave you disappointed:

Angélina
226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001
Metro: Tuileries or Concorde

This is the perfect stop after a visit to the Louvre or the Tuileries gardens. Their world- famous hot chocolate is served with a bowl of hand whipped cream. The chocolate (“à l’Africaine”) is so thick and rich you can stand your spoon in it. Although there is sometimes a line and the service can be a bit harried bordering on cold, it’s worth it if you love chocolate. I would say it’s definitely a “must do” while in Paris, at least once.
Open every day from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

La Charlotte de l’Isle
24 rue St. Louis en L’ile, 75004
(Ile St. Louis)
Metro: Pont Marie

Coming into this salon de thé is like entering the home of an eccentric relative. The walls and tables are covered with a collection of dolls, art, and other items belonging to the owner. And the hot chocolate is just perfect. Many have claimed this is the best hot chocolate in the city.

Ladurée
75 Ave. des Champs-Elysées, 75008
(also: Place de la Madeleine)
Metro: Franklin D. Roosevelt (or Madeleine)

Not only is the setting like stepping back in time, the macaroons (made with almond paste, not with coconut) are to die for, and the hot chocolate is rich and flavorful and just what you need to keep yourself energized while shopping the “Champs”.
Open every day, 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.

1728
8, rue d’Anjou, 75008
Metro: Concorde or Madeleine

This is a terrific and exquisite 18th century salon de thé and restaurant near the Place de la Concorde and the Place de la Madeleine. During the day, it serves excellent hot chocolate as well as pastries by Paris’ most famous pâtissier: Pierre Hermé.
Salon de thé opens at 2:30 p.m. and serves until 7:30 p.m.