Is there anything tastier or more welcome on a cold, wet December morning in San Francisco than a cup of thick, velvety hot chocolate? Probably not. So why not gift this lovely treat to someone you love? Seems a little hard to wrap? No problem. Here are few ways to share this rich treat.
HOT CHOCOLATE ON THE GO
Why not gift a ‘hot chocolate date’? Here are two places to consider visiting for their superb riffs on this rich brew.
Boulette’s Larder, Ferry Building
Described as Homemade Hot Chocolate, Boulette’s is prepared in small batches in a copper bain-marie and served with an optional dollop of whipped cream.
BIO, Union Square
You have to love a place that lists two hot chocolates on the menu: French Hot Chocolate $4 and Melted Chocolate Drink $5. Both are divine. The owner, a lovely woman who does not suffer fools, is from Madagascar and is the artist of the paintings that decorate this tiny establishment. Best to get your drink to-go as seating is limited to two tables outside.
HOT CHOCOLATE AT HOME
Christopher Elbow, Hayes Valley
401 Hayes St.
Sleek, sophisticated and oh, so rich. That’s the best way to describe Mr. Elbow’s selection of ‘drinking chocolates’ which you prepare at home. A cup of Cocoa Noir is as close as you can get to the hot chocolate served at the Angelina Tea Room in Paris without a passport. $16 for a 12 ounce can. Other flavors are available but I prefer my chocolate pure and unadulterated. They also serve hot chocolate to-go or to enjoy in their lovely seating area.
Scharffen Berger, Ferry Building
Sweetened Natural Cocoa Powder
Yet another chocolate company that was founded in San Francisco.We do have a reputation for indulging in the finer offerings of the culinary world. This dates back to the Gold Rush in 1849 when miners would spend their new found wealth on hot baths, beautiful women and chocolate.
Somehow I am not surprised. Their other chocolate is so good that they can’t help themselves when it comes to chocolate greatness.
I also suggest the TCHO “Drinking Chocolate” for something you can try at home. It’s thick and rich.