Looking for the Best Hot Chocolate in Dubai? When Dubai’s skies turn grey and the air carries a rare chill, there is one indulgence that instantly feels right: hot chocolate. Rich, comforting and unapologetically nostalgic, the city’s café scene delivers everything from classic European-style cups to decadent, dessert-like creations.
From artisanal blends to comforting classics, this curated list brings together some of Dubai’s most satisfying hot chocolates, each offering a reason to slow down and savour the moment.
Paul
Crafted with care and precision, Paul’s hot chocolate is a refined option for purists. Made with quality cacao and balanced sweetness, it favours depth of flavour over excess, appealing to those who appreciate a more grown-up take on the classic.
Home Bakery Kitchen
Few places capture comfort quite like Home Bakery. Its classic hot chocolate comes topped with marshmallows and a chocolate bar stirrer, while the much-loved Ovaltine version arrives crowned with whipped cream and colourful sprinkles. Familiar, generous and reliably cosy, each cup is priced at around Dhs 33.
Saddle Café
Saddle’s signature hot chocolate is indulgence at its finest. Rich, velvety and generously portioned, it reflects the café’s reputation for bold flavours and elevated comfort. Best enjoyed slowly, preferably alongside one of Saddle’s indulgent desserts.
Best Hot Chocolate
Café Bateel
Elegant and unexpected, Café Bateel’s dark hot chocolate is blended with pistachio, finished with whipped cream and pistachio sprinkles. The result is a refined drink with a subtle Middle Eastern influence that feels both luxurious and comforting.
Angelina
Renowned worldwide for its decadent hot chocolate, Angelina’s version is thick, luxurious and made using high-quality African cocoas. Often described as closer to melted chocolate than a drink, it is unapologetically indulgent, priced at approximately Dhs 43.
Godiva Chocolate Café
Chocolate lovers are spoiled for choice at Godiva. From the classic hot chocolate to pistachio, godsalted caramel blonde and even red velvet variations, each option leans into richness and indulgence. Prices typically range between Dhs 39 and Dhs 42.
North 28
Perfect after a visit to Ski Dubai, North 28 offers a warming signature hot chocolate alongside a playful s’mores version. Affordable and comforting, prices range from Dhs 23 to Dhs 25, making it a popular post-adventure stop.
SAID DAL 1923
Often described as divine, SAID DAL 1923’s hot chocolate is famously thick and indulgent, evoking the experience of sipping melted chocolate. Available in milk, dark or gianduja, it is a must-try for those who favour depth and intensity.
The Ultimate Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- marshmallows, for topping
Method
- In a heavy-based saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, salt and confectioners’ sugar.
- Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking continuously until the cornstarch has completely dissolved.
- Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking constantly to prevent sticking.
- As soon as it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and continue whisking for one minute until slightly thickened.
- Add the chopped chocolate and whisk until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract until well combined.
- If the hot chocolate is thicker than desired, add a little extra milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Pour into mugs, top with marshmallows, and serve immediately.
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