It’s been a pretty cold winter, especially for someone who has spent the past 4 out of 5 winters in kind of (Vegas) and really (Delray Beach, FL) warm places. And since my usual Iced Green Tea from Starbucks isn’t cutting it during these freezing nights and snowstorms, I’ve had to switch things up for the cold months.

But I despise everything about coffee – but mostly the debilitating anxiety attack that comes on about 15 minutes after sipping a cup – I have been really getting into Hot Chocolate this year. Which is weird because I really hate sweets and don’t like to eat anything with that much sugar. But I’m cold and in survival mode! And whatever.

It’s only been for the past few weeks, but I keep craving the creamy, rich taste and it doesn’t hurt that holding a piping hot beverage doubles as a hand warmer. The temperatures have been in the teens; I need all the help I can get.

So I’ve been on the hunt for my most favorite Hot Chocolate, and have come up with a few:

• Magnolia Bakery – Duh, it’s Magnolia. They rule at anything sweet.
• Le Pain Quotidien – This one if for when I’m feeling like I don’t want to be too “bad” by pounding a huge cup of chocolate because, you know, it’s organic and fair-trade, or whatever.
• Sweet Corner Bake Shop – This adorable little neighborhood spot is on my corner, and is the biggest culprit in aiding in my newfound obesssion. It’s the right amount of sweet and creamy, and the temperature if always just-right – for finishing it in basically one sip, that is.
• City Bakery – This place is a gem, and it’s 2 blocks from my office so…But for real, they serve up a Hot Chocolate so rich, I sometimes feel like I can’t finish it. I do, though. Waste not, want not.

I’m sure there are a thousand more perfect Hot Cocoas just waiting for my approval. No fear – I will be on the hunt.