Best Hot Chocolate Places in Durham Ontario

Dec 28, 20248 min read

As the winter chill sets in, there's nothing quite like a warm cup of hot chocolate to lift your spirits and keep you cozy. In Durham Region, Ontario, a variety of cafes and eateries offer unique and delicious hot chocolate options that cater to every taste. From classic recipes to innovative flavors, these spots are perfect for indulging in a sweet treat while enjoying the local atmosphere. Here’s a look at some of the best places to find hot chocolate in the region.

Best Hot Chocolate Places in Durham Ontario

1. Deadly Grounds Cafe and Curiosities

Location: 1413 Durham Highway 2 Unit #6, Courtice, ON

Website: https://www.coffincreekcoffee.com/

Located in Courtice, Deadly Grounds Cafe and Curiosities is a must-visit for horror fans and hot chocolate lovers alike. This themed cafe offers a unique experience with its spooky decor, featuring horror memorabilia and an eerie ambiance that sets it apart from typical coffee shops. Their signature hot chocolate, the Goremet Rot Chocolate, is a standout, providing a rich milk chocolate flavor with a caffeine kick, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a little extra energy with their treat. During the holiday season, they also serve a festive candy cane hot chocolate, adding a seasonal twist to their menu.

The atmosphere at Deadly Grounds is cozy yet thrilling, with dim lighting and quirky decor that creates a fun and immersive experience. Visitors can also browse through a selection of horror-themed merchandise, including coffee beans, t-shirts, and unique curiosities. The friendly staff enhances the experience with their enthusiasm for both coffee and horror culture, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a warm drink.

2. Nexus Coffee Company

Location: 263 Queen St, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B9

Website: https://nexuscoffee.ca/

Nexus Coffee Company, located inside Vince’s Market in Uxbridge, is known for its commitment to quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. This cafe prides itself on serving hot chocolate made with premium Ghirardelli cocoa, ensuring a rich and satisfying flavor that chocolate lovers will appreciate. The cozy environment, complete with comfortable seating and friendly staff, makes it an ideal spot to warm up on a cold day. Nexus also offers a selection of baked goods and light snacks, allowing customers to pair their hot chocolate with a delicious treat.

In addition to its delicious hot chocolate, Nexus Coffee Company is a community hub where locals gather to enjoy good coffee and conversation. The cafe often features seasonal specials and events, making it a lively place to visit throughout the year. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or settling in for a leisurely afternoon, Nexus provides a delightful experience that keeps customers coming back.

3. Cork and Bean

Location: 8 Simcoe St N, Oshawa, ON

Website: https://corkandbean.ca/oshawa/

Cork and Bean in Oshawa offers a rustic charm that complements its delicious hot chocolate offerings. This cafe features a variety of flavors, including peppermint, hazelnut, and gingerbread, allowing customers to customize their drinks to their liking. For those looking to indulge a bit more, Cork and Bean also offers the option to add Baileys to their hot chocolate, making it a perfect adult treat. The cozy atmosphere, complete with warm lighting and comfortable seating, invites patrons to relax and enjoy their beverages at a leisurely pace.

The cafe's commitment to quality extends beyond just hot chocolate; they also serve a range of coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. The friendly staff is known for their excellent customer service, ensuring that every visit is enjoyable. Whether you're stopping in for a quick drink or planning to spend some time catching up with friends, Cork and Bean provides a welcoming environment that enhances the hot chocolate experience.

4. Coffee Culture Cafe and Eatery

Locations:

60 Salem Road, Ajax ON
555 Rossland Road E, Oshawa ON

Website: https://coffeeculturecafe.com/

Coffee Culture Cafe and Eatery is a popular chain with locations throughout Durham Region, known for its inviting ambiance and extensive menu. Their hot chocolate is a favorite among regulars, especially during the winter months. The cafe features seasonal offerings, such as a ginger spiced hot cocoa, which adds a festive twist to the classic drink. With comfortable seating and a welcoming vibe, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a warm drink while catching up with friends or getting some work done.

In addition to their delicious hot chocolate, Coffee Culture offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and other beverages, making it a great place for breakfast or lunch as well. The cafe's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in both their food and service. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or a cozy place to unwind, Coffee Culture Cafe and Eatery is sure to satisfy your cravings.

5. Open Studio Art Cafe

Location: 617 Liverpool Rd, Pickering, ON

Website: https://www.openstudioartcafe.com/

Open Studio Art Cafe in Pickering combines creativity with comfort, offering a unique space where art and coffee culture meet. Their hot chocolate menu includes flavors like Nutella and Dulce de Leche, providing a delicious twist on the traditional drink. The cafe often hosts art-related events and showcases local artists, making it a vibrant community hub. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a cozy place to enjoy a hot chocolate, Open Studio is worth a visit.

The atmosphere at Open Studio is warm and inviting, with plenty of seating options that encourage patrons to linger and enjoy their drinks. The combination of art and coffee creates a unique experience that sets this cafe apart from others in the region. With a focus on community engagement and creativity, Open Studio Art Cafe is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a destination for inspiration and connection.

6. Goldies Cafe and Eatery

Location: 75 Bayly St W, Ajax, ON

Website: https://www.goldiescafe.ca/

Goldies Cafe and Eatery in Ajax is a beloved local spot known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food. Their hot chocolate is a standout, praised by regulars for its rich flavor and comforting warmth. The cafe offers a casual dining experience, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a sweet treat. Goldies is particularly popular for its breakfast and lunch menus, but their hot chocolate is a highlight that keeps customers coming back for more.

The welcoming environment at Goldies makes it an ideal spot for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a cozy meal or drink. The staff is known for their excellent service, ensuring that every visit is enjoyable. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink or planning to spend some time catching up with friends, Goldies Cafe and Eatery provides a delightful experience that enhances the hot chocolate enjoyment.

7. The Nutty Chocolatier

Location: 182 Queen St., Port Perry ON

Website: https://www.thenuttychocolatier.com/

The Nutty Chocolatier, located in Ajax, is a delightful destination for chocolate lovers seeking a cozy spot to enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate. This charming shop specializes in gourmet chocolates, offering a wide range of handcrafted treats, including Belgian chocolates and truffles. Their hot chocolate is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a rich and satisfying experience for every customer.

The inviting atmosphere at The Nutty Chocolatier encourages patrons to linger and enjoy their treats. With its old-fashioned charm and friendly staff, it’s an ideal place for families and friends to escape the winter chill. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or planning to savor a sweet treat, The Nutty Chocolatier promises an enjoyable experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

8. Isabella's Chocolate Café

Location: 2 King Street E, Oshawa, ON

Website: https://www.isabellas.ca/

Isabella's Chocolate Café is renowned for its rich and indulgent hot chocolate, making it a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers in Oshawa. The café takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to create a hot chocolate that is both creamy and flavorful. Customers can enjoy a classic version or opt for variations that incorporate unique flavors, enhancing the traditional experience. The hot chocolate is often paired with their delicious baked goods, such as cookies or pastries, making it a perfect treat for a cozy afternoon.

The ambiance at Isabella's Chocolate Café adds to the overall experience of enjoying their hot chocolate. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to relax and savor your drink. The friendly staff is known for their excellent service, ensuring that every visit is enjoyable. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick pick-me-up or planning to spend some time unwinding with friends, Isabella's hot chocolate is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your spirits

9. Additional Hot Chocolate Spots

In addition to the standout cafes already mentioned, Durham Region boasts several other delightful spots where you can enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate. Here are a few more locations worth checking out:

The Coffee Shop: Located in Whitby, The Coffee Shop offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a warm drink. Their hot chocolate is a favorite among locals, and the cafe features a variety of other beverages and light snacks, making it a great place to relax or catch up with friends.
The Village Bake Shop: This quaint bakery in Port Perry is known for its homemade treats and rich hot chocolate. The Village Bake Shop provides a charming setting where you can enjoy a warm drink alongside freshly baked pastries, making it an ideal stop for a sweet indulgence.
Starbucks: With multiple locations throughout the Durham Region, Starbucks offers a classic hot chocolate that can be customized with various toppings and flavors. It's a convenient option for a quick warm-up, especially during busy shopping trips or outings.
Tim Hortons: A popular Canadian chain with numerous locations in Durham, Tim Hortons serves a classic hot chocolate that is a favorite among locals. Known for its affordability and consistency, it's a go-to spot for a quick and comforting drink.

These additional spots provide a variety of atmospheres and flavors, ensuring that you can find the perfect hot chocolate to enjoy during the winter months.

These cafes and eateries in Durham Region not only serve delicious hot chocolate but also provide unique atmospheres that enhance the experience. Whether you’re a horror fan, an art lover, or simply looking for a cozy spot to warm up, there’s a perfect place for you to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate this winter.