Last Updated on December 24, 2023 by Pamela MacNaughtan
Finding the best hot chocolate in Quebec City is a constant goal. Let’s face it, hot chocolate (chocolat chaud) is LIFE, especially the really good stuff. And no, we are not talking about the stuff you buy from Tim Horton’s, Mc Donalds (gasp!) or Starbucks.
The best hot chocolate in Quebec City is made from real chocolate and steamed milk or cream. It’s rich and delicious, belly-warming and tastebud pleasing. It’s lovely on its own, and superb when paired with a cheese platter filled with a variety of Quebec cheese.
here are my picks for the best hot chocolate in quebec city!
bar artefact at auberge saint-antoine
Each year, Bar Artefact at Auberge Saint-Antoine tops the list for the best hot chocolate in Quebec City. Generally served mid-November to mid-March, the hot chocolate recipe changes from year to year – which may be why we rush to sample each year’s recipe as soon as it is available.
Served in a white porcelain pitcher, the hot chocolate at Bar Artefact is said to serve four people, but honestly, we can drink an entire pitcher ourselves. Served with cookies or other sweet treats, the cheese platter is even better.
lgbtqia2s+ safe space • where: old port (vieux-port) • 8, rue saint-antoine • cost: $18/pitcher
érico chocolaterie
Tied for the top spot on our best hot chocolate in Quebec City each year is Érico, a chocolatier in the neighbourhood of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Creating fine chocolate using high-quality cacao beans, as well as local ingredients, Érico is one of our favourite stops whenever we are smacked with a chocolate craving.
The hot chocolate menu at Érico’s feature 10 different options. Each one is sex in a cup, but our absolute fav is the Décadent which has three different chocolates and two different high-quality cocoa powders.
where: saint-jean-baptiste • 634, rue saint-jean • cost: $10 and under
la maison smith
La Maison Smith has been one of our favourite cafes in Quebec City for several years. Starting off in Place-Royale, there are now locations in Old Quebec City (Upper Town), Limoilou, Saint-Sacrement and Île d’Orléans. Each cafe has a similar style, rustic chic and serves up a variety of pastries, sandwiches and wraps.
But we go for the hot chocolate, which has definitely improved over the last couple of years. It is not as thick as the hot chocolate found at Bar Artefact, Érico or CM, but it is just as rich and tasty!
where: place-royale • 23, rue notre-dame • cost: $4 – $8
cafe saint-henri
A busy cafe with floor to ceiling windows, communal tables, and third-wave coffee, Cafe Saint-Henri is a go-to for students, freelancers, and anyone craving delicious artisanal donuts. The wifi is free and the vibe is cozy. An ideal spot to relax or work remotely.
While the donuts are divine, the hot chocolate is pretty damn good too. It’s not too rich, and not thick. A lovely choice if you’re looking for a satisfying cup of hot chocolate that won’t leave you wanting to book a dentist appointment afterwards.
lgbtqia2s+ safe space • where: saint-roch • 849, rue saint-joseph est • cost: $6 and under
Maelstrom Saint-Roch
Located in a quiet section of the neighbourhood of Saint-Roch, Maelstrom is known for serving coffee and energizing eats during the day and turning into a cocktail bar at night. The decor is comfy, worn wooden floors and mismatched tables and chairs, free wifi, and cold brew coffee are just some of the things we adore about Maelstrom.
The hot chocolate is just rich enough to be completely satisfying. Yum!
lgbtqia2s+ safe space • where: saint-roch • 181, saint-vallier est • cost: $6 and under
Le Chic Shack
Located in Old Quebec City’s Upper Town, Le Chic Shack often has line-ups outside during the busy season. They do, after all, serve up some savoury burgers and gourmet poutines (which should not be missed!).
Let’s face it, we go for the burgers and poutine too. But, we also go for their hot chocolate! Rich and decadent, the hot chocolate at Le Chic Shack can also be turned into a boozy hot chocolate. Honestly, one a really cold winter day, those boozy hot chocolates are #lifegoals!
lgbtqia2s+ safe space • where: old quebec (vieux-quebec) • 15, rue du fort • cost: $6 and under
