6 Best Spots for Traditional French Hot Chocolate in Paris

I've discovered six incredible spots where you'll find Paris's most decadent hot chocolate! Angelina's Belle Époque setting serves their famous thick l'africain, while Carette offers stunning Trocadéro views with your cup. Don't miss Jean-Paul Hévin's secret recipe, Café de Flore's literary atmosphere, La Maison du Chocolat's luxury sips, or Un Dimanche à Paris's modern artistry. Each venue crafts this beloved French tradition differently, and you're about to discover what makes each one special.

Angelina: A Belle Époque Institution

Stepping into Angelina on Rue de Rivoli is like traveling back to the Paris of the Belle Époque, where literary giants and fashion icons once gathered over steaming cups of the world's most decadent hot chocolate. Since 1903, this elegant tea house has been serving its legendary chocolat chaud l'africain, a velvety potion so thick and luxurious that it's served with a side of whipped cream to cut through its intense richness.

The tea room's ornate interior, designed by celebrated architect Edouard-Jean Niermans, features belle époque elements including elaborate moldings, gilt mirrors, and marble-topped tables that transport visitors to a more graceful era. The combination of historic ambiance and arguably the city's most famous hot chocolate has made Angelina a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Parisian experience.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00-19:00, Friday-Sunday 8:30-19:30
• Price Range: Hot chocolate €8.20-9.50
• Reservation: Recommended for weekend brunch, walk-ins accepted for other times
• Wait Times: 30-45 minutes during peak hours
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Notes: Dairy-free options available upon request
• Languages: English menu available

The Signature Experience:

Angelina's hot chocolate is made from a closely guarded recipe blending three types of African cocoa from Niger, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. The resulting concoction is so thick that spoons practically stand upright in it. Located at 226 Rue de Rivoli, the flagship store sits perfectly positioned between the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden. The belle époque salon can accommodate about 200 guests, but the real insider secret is to request a table in the back room, where the atmosphere is more intimate and the waiting times are often shorter.

Pro Tips:

To experience Angelina at its best, visit during off-peak hours, particularly between 3:00-5:00 PM when the lunch crowd has dispersed and before the evening rush begins. Consider sharing a hot chocolate between two people, as its richness can be overwhelming for a single serving. The establishment offers take-away service through a separate entrance, perfect for enjoying your drink while strolling through the adjacent Tuileries Garden.

Practical Advice:

While Angelina welcomes walk-ins, those visiting during peak tourist season (July-August) or weekends should either arrive early (before 10:00 AM) or make advance reservations. The full hot chocolate experience is best enjoyed in-house, but if time is limited, the boutique sells packets of their signature hot chocolate mix to prepare at home. Remember that during the summer months, their iced chocolate variation offers a rejuvenating alternative to the traditional hot serve.

Carette: Elegant Hot Chocolate With a View

Nestled in the historic Place du Trocadéro, Carette offers one of Paris's most sophisticated hot chocolate experiences against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. This art deco establishment, founded in 1927, has maintained its reputation as a premier destination for traditional French hot chocolate, serving it with the same elegance and attention to detail that made it famous nearly a century ago.

The hot chocolate at Carette exemplifies the Parisian chocolat chaud style – thick, velvety, and intensely rich, made with high-quality dark chocolate and served in delicate porcelain cups. Unlike many tourist spots, Carette maintains its authentic French atmosphere while delivering both exceptional beverages and one of the most Instagram-worthy views in Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Price: €8-10 for hot chocolate
• Best visiting hours: 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM daily
• Reservation recommended: Yes, especially for window seats
• Waiting time: 15-45 minutes without reservation
• Dietary options: Regular and light versions available
• Outdoor seating: Available year-round, heated in winter
• Dress code: Smart casual

The signature hot chocolate at Carette is crafted using a blend of three different chocolate varieties, creating a complex flavor profile that sets it apart from other Parisian chocolatiers. The drink arrives accompanied by a small pot of whipped cream and an elegant butter cookie, served on a silver tray. The establishment's prime location at 4 Place du Trocadéro offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, particularly magical during sunset or when the tower sparkles on the hour after dark. Insider tip: Request a table in the corner section by the windows for the best combination of people-watching and tower views.

Pro Tips:

Visit between 3:00-5:00 PM to avoid the main tourist rush while still enjoying ideal lighting for photos. Consider ordering your hot chocolate alongside one of Carette's famous macarons – the salted caramel variety pairs exceptionally well with the rich chocolate. During warmer months, ask for your hot chocolate "à l'ancienne" style, which comes with a separate pitcher of hot milk allowing you to adjust the thickness to your preference.

Practical Advice:

Make reservations at least one day in advance for prime seating, especially during peak tourist season (June-August and December). While the outdoor terrace offers the best views, indoor seating provides a more authentic art deco experience. Credit cards are accepted, but having cash on hand is recommended for smaller purchases. The establishment can get quite busy with tour groups around midday, so planning your visit for early morning or later afternoon will provide a more relaxed experience.

Jean-Paul Hévin: Master Chocolatier's Secret Recipe

Jean-Paul Hévin, one of Paris's most celebrated chocolatiers, has crafted what many consider the ultimate French hot chocolate experience. His signature recipe, developed over decades of chocolate mastery, transforms single-origin cacao into a velvety elixir that exemplifies the pinnacle of Parisian chocolate craftsmanship.

Located in the sophisticated Marais district, Hévin's chocolate salon offers an intimate setting where guests can experience his legendary hot chocolate while watching master chocolatiers at work through the workshop's viewing window. The hot chocolate here isn't merely a beverage – it's an carefully orchestrated symphony of flavors that showcases the nuanced characteristics of carefully selected cacao beans.

Quick Facts:

• Price: €8-12 per serving
• Best time to visit: 2-4 PM (less crowded)
• Reservation: Not required but recommended for groups
• Dietary notes: Dark chocolate version available (dairy-free)
• Duration: Plan for 30-45 minutes to properly savor
• Languages: English-speaking staff available
• Payment: Major credit cards accepted

The Signature Experience:

Jean-Paul Hévin's hot chocolate stands apart through its precise 70% dark chocolate to milk ratio and unique preparation method. The chocolate is melted slowly at exactly 45°C (113°F) before being blended with gently warmed whole milk from a specialty dairy in Normandy. The salon's address at 231 Rue Saint-Honoré offers an elegant space to enjoy this luxurious drink, open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM. Insider tip: Request the "chocolatier's special" – an off-menu variation that includes a hint of vanilla and sea salt that perfectly amplifies the chocolate's complexity.

Pro Tips:

For the finest Jean-Paul Hévin hot chocolate experience, visit during mid-morning hours when the chocolate is freshly prepared for the day. The ideal temperature for tasting is just below scalding, so resist the urge to drink immediately. Let it cool for approximately three minutes while enjoying the aroma. Pairing the hot chocolate with one of Hévin's single-origin chocolate squares provides an educational contrast in how the same cacao presents differently in solid versus liquid form.

Practical Advice:

Photography is allowed in the salon, but flash photography near the workshop viewing window is prohibited. Consider making a reservation during peak tourist season (July-August and December) when the salon can become quite busy. The establishment offers take-away containers designed to keep the hot chocolate at optimal temperature for up to 30 minutes, perfect for enjoying in nearby Tuileries Garden. Remember that the rich nature of authentic French hot chocolate means one serving is often enough to share between two people.

Café De Flore: Historic Saint-Germain Classic

Best Spots for French Hot Chocolate in Paris: Café De Flore

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Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Café de Flore stands as one of Paris's most iconic literary cafés, serving what many consider the city's finest chocolat chaud since 1887. This historic establishment has welcomed countless intellectuals, artists, and writers, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, who helped cement its reputation as a cultural landmark.

The café's legendary hot chocolate remains virtually unchanged since the early 20th century, featuring a rich, velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor that exemplifies the traditional Parisian style. Served in a silver pot alongside a separate vessel of whipped cream, this signature drink offers visitors an authentic taste of French café culture while surrounded by Art Deco interiors and the bustling energy of the 6th arrondissement.

Quick Facts:

• Price: €8-10 for hot chocolate
• Peak Hours: 10am-7pm daily
• Reservations: Not accepted
• Seating: Indoor and outdoor available
• Dietary Notes: Traditional recipe contains dairy
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings (8-10am)
• Photography: Allowed, but be mindful of other guests

The hot chocolate at Café de Flore represents the pinnacle of Parisian chocolate craftsmanship. Made with high-quality dark chocolate, whole milk, and a closely guarded blend of spices, the drink is served at precisely the right temperature to maximize its flavors without scalding. Located at 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, the café operates daily from 7:30am to 1:30am, making it an ideal spot for both early morning indulgence and late-night cravings.

Pro Tips:

To experience Café de Flore like a local, visit during off-peak hours (before 10am or after 8pm) when the tourist crowds thin out. Request a table in the ground floor interior room for the most authentic atmosphere, and don't rush – the hot chocolate is designed to be savored slowly as it maintains its perfect temperature thanks to the traditional silver serving pot.

Practical Advice:

While the café accepts credit cards, keeping cash on hand is recommended for smoother service. During peak tourist season (June-August), expect to wait 15-30 minutes for a table. The terrace carries a slight surcharge but offers prime people-watching opportunities along Boulevard Saint-Germain. Consider pairing your hot chocolate with one of their classic croissants, which arrive fresh from their bakery several times daily.

La Maison Du Chocolat: Luxury in Every Sip

Nestled in the heart of Paris's elegant 1st arrondissement, La Maison Du Chocolat stands as a reflection of French chocolate craftsmanship. Since its founding in 1977 by Robert Linxe, this prestigious establishment has become synonymous with luxury chocolate experiences, offering what many consider the finest hot chocolate in Paris. The rich, velvety beverage served here transcends the ordinary, delivering an intensely chocolate experience that showcases the artisanal expertise of master chocolatiers.

The signature hot chocolate at La Maison Du Chocolat represents the peak of Parisian chocolate culture, crafted from a proprietary blend of rare cacao beans and presented with unparalleled elegance. Visitors from around the world make pilgrimages to this chocolate sanctuary to experience their legendary chocolat chaud, which strikes the perfect balance between rich indulgence and sophisticated refinement.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €8-12 per cup
• Best Time to Visit: 10:30 AM-noon (fewer crowds)
• Reservation Status: Not required but recommended for afternoon sessions
• Dietary Options: Dark chocolate version available (dairy-free upon request)
• Peak Season: October through March
• Multiple Locations: Five boutiques throughout Paris
• Languages: Staff speaks French and English
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted

The flagship location on Boulevard de la Madeleine offers an intimate salon experience where the hot chocolate is served in elegant porcelain cups, accompanied by a small selection of house-made chocolates. The preparation process involves melting premium chocolate with just the right amount of whole milk and cream, creating a consistency that coats the palate without becoming overwhelming. The temperature is precisely controlled to preserve the complex flavor notes while ensuring maximum enjoyment.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, visit during mid-morning when the chocolate artisans are preparing fresh batches. The aroma alone is worth the trip, and the hot chocolate will be at its absolute finest. Consider pairing your drink with one of their signature chocolate pastries, particularly the Venezuelan dark chocolate éclair, which complements the hot chocolate perfectly without overwhelming the palate.

Practical Advice:

When visiting La Maison Du Chocolat, timing is essential – avoid weekend afternoons when tourists flood the establishment. For the best service and experience, learn basic French greetings and always begin interactions with "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir." While the hot chocolate can be ordered to go, the true experience demands sitting in the salon and savoring every sip. Remember that portions are rich and intense – consider sharing if you're planning to explore other chocolate destinations in the same day.

Un Dimanche À Paris: Modern Chocolate Artistry

Un Dimanche à Paris represents the ideal marriage of traditional French chocolate craftsmanship and contemporary culinary innovation. Nestled in the charming Cour du Commerce Saint-André, this modern chocolate concept store has revolutionized the Parisian hot chocolate scene since its opening in 2010. The establishment combines a chocolate shop, pastry boutique, restaurant, and chocolate lounge under one elegant roof.

The venue's signature hot chocolate stands apart from traditional Parisian offerings through its sophisticated flavor profiles and artistic presentation. Master chocolatier Pierre Cluizel crafts these luxurious beverages using single-origin chocolates and innovative techniques, creating an experience that appeals to both chocolate purists and adventurous gastronomes.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €8-12 for hot chocolate
• Reservation recommended for weekend visits
• Multiple dietary options (dairy-free available)
• Peak hours: 3-5 PM daily
• Languages: English-speaking staff available
• Wheelchair accessible
• Payment: Major credit cards accepted

The Chocolate Lounge Experience:

The heart of Un Dimanche à Paris lies in its sophisticated chocolate lounge, where the hot chocolate service elevates beyond mere beverage to culinary artwork. The signature "Chocolat Chaud à l'Ancienne" features a unique two-part serving: a porcelain cup of intense liquid chocolate accompanied by a small pitcher of hot milk, allowing guests to customize their drink's richness. Insider tip: Request the "chocolatier's special" – an off-menu variation that includes a hint of rare Venezuelan cacao and spices.

Location and Atmosphere:

Located at 4-6-8 Cour du Commerce Saint-André in the 6th arrondissement, the space occupies a historic 17th-century building with exposed stone walls and contemporary design elements. Operating hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The intimate setting accommodates approximately 30 guests, creating an exclusive atmosphere that never feels overcrowded.

Pro Tips:

Visit during mid-morning (11:00 AM-12:30 PM) to secure a coveted window seat and enjoy the hot chocolate service at its most relaxed pace. For photography enthusiasts, the natural light filtering through the historic passageway creates ideal conditions for capturing the artfully presented beverages. Consider pairing your hot chocolate with one of their signature chocolate-based pastries for a complete chocolate immersion experience.

Practical Advice:

While walk-ins are accepted, reservations are strongly recommended for weekend visits, especially during tourist season (July-August) and winter months. The establishment offers a loyalty program for frequent visitors, providing special access to chocolate workshops and preview tastings of new creations. Remember that the full restaurant menu is only available during specific hours, but the chocolate lounge menu, including hot chocolate service, remains available throughout operating hours.