Vero 1/F, Fenwick Pier, 1 Lung King St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
2559 5882 www.verochocolates.com/
Hong Kong chocolatier VERO is a fan of Italian brand Amadei, known for sourcing from the best artisan growers from around the world. At their Wanchai lounge, they have fabulous chocolate sculptures, but we’re more interested in the stuff we’re actually allowed to eat – these include a seasonal selection of handmade bonbons, gift boxes, and a signature hot chocolate that is simply out of this world, served with a disk of fine chocolate on top that melts into the steamy 70% beverage below, a complex, layered concoction. Other creations include hints of mint, caramel and raspberry, or distinctive 70% – 75% specials from Central and South American countries and Madagascar.
Jean-Paul Hevin Chocolatier Shop 2045, 2/F, IFC Mall, 1 Harbour View Street, Central
2111 9770 www.jphevin.com.hk/
French pastry chef Hévin made his name in Paris and Tokyo before hitting Hong Kong with his luscious – and slightly kooky – chocolate creations: cheese filled chocolate anyone? Hong Kongers inflicted with a sweet tooth can indulge in chocolat chaud in true Parisien style. Their 72.4% signature chocolate comes in a delicate teapot containing about 5 espresso sized shots of delicious liquid bliss, but those preferring a milder experience can order the Chantilly cream topped Viennoise rendition. Other hot chocolates on the menu utilize only 50% cocoa but these are flavoursome varieties sourced from South America and Madagascar, with hints of spice, roast coffee, vanilla and more.
Sift G/F, 46 Graham Street, Soho, Central
2530 4288 www.siftdesserts.com/web/home.html
Who doesn’t love the finger licking goodness of Sift’s scrumptious red velvet cupcake? Chocolate lovers in the know however, head to their Graham Street Dessert Bar for some of their divine hot chocolate. Brewed with 70% Valhrona dark chocolate and served with homemade roasted marshmallows, this is one heady hit of pampering for the soul.
Cafe Loisl Shop A, G/F, 8 Tai On Terrace, Sheung Wan
9179 0209 www.cafeloisl.com
We’ve all heard of (and drooled over) the sacher cake, so we know the Austrians have a way with chocolate. This adorable café hidden in Sheung Wan is a snug spot for a slice of pastry, a creamy Viennese coffee, or a big cup of old fashioned cocoa made with European brand Han Houten. Choose a traditional flavour, or sweeten it up with a touch of sugar.
Four Seasons Lobby Lounge Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central
3196 8888
Pastry chef Grégoire Michaud is a fan of rich dark hot chocolate, favouring a 78% cocoa content drink, with a pinch of sea salt to bring out an elegant sweetness, far from the cloying heaviness that characterizes cheaper versions. Though lower in sugar and more modest of fat, the delectable depth delivers more satisfying punch for discerning chocoholics.
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