I’ve lived in Georgia my whole life and still never manage to adjust when winter rolls around. I’m pretty sure I’m only built to thrive in the summertime! We’ve had some chilly weather here lately, and it looks like there’s a bit more on the way. You know what sounds extra cozy when it’s cold outside? Wrapping your hands around a warm mug of hot chocolate. Luckily, Athens and Oconee are home to some seriously sweet (and scrumptious!) spots to warm up with a cup.
I recently asked on social media where your favorite go-to hot chocolate spots around town were -- and y’all delivered! From extra rich cocoa to kid-approved toppings, here’s a roundup of the local favorites readers mentioned.
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1. Condor Chocolates
If you're serious about chocolate, this is your spot. Condor Chocolates is a true Athens classic that has a bean-to-bar chocolate shop where you can enjoy handcrafted hot chocolate made with Ecuadorian cacao as well as other chocolatey treats and desserts. Their downtown cafe vibe makes it a sweet spot to linger on cool afternoons.
Locations:
- Five Points: 1658 S Lumpkin Street Athens, GA
- Downtown: 160 E Washington Street Athens, GA
What's to love: Known for their bold flavor profiles, artisan vibes, and downtown vibes.
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2. Sips Espresso Cafe
If you find yourself on the Normaltown side of Athens, pop into Sips for a creamy and comforting cocoa to warm up your day. Known locally for their traditional café experience, this shop offers plenty of seating... and whipped topping for your liking.
Location: 1390 Prince Avenue Athens, GA
What's to love: A relaxed, classic café atmosphere.
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3. Jittery Joe's Coffee
I honestly haven't met anyone who says they don't like Jittery Joe's. They have a little bit of something for everyone, including hot chocolate. Luckily for locals, there are locations in both Athens and Oconee if you're craving a cup! An ideal spot when you're looking to take a break from running errands.
Locations:
- Downtown Athens: 297 East Broad St. Athens, GA
- Eastside Athens: 1860 Barnett Shoals Rd. Athens, GA
- Five Points Athens: 1230 South Milledge Ave. Athens, GA
- Alps Village: 1480 Baxter Street, Suite C, Athens, GA
- Epps Bridge: 1880 Epps Bridge Pkwy. #101 Athens, GA
What's to love: Community atmosphere, cozy couches and great customer service. Always.
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4. Molly's Coffee Company
Molly's quickly earned their good reputation by offering quality drinks and being a neighborhood hub spot with a curated drink list. While they're loved for their pretty latte art, this location also offers hot chocolate for those craving both quality and a cafe style treat in a smaller, friendly cup.
Location: 8830 Macon Hwy. Bldg. 100, Athens, GA
What's to love: Comfortable indoor/outdoor seating and homemade syrups and pastries.
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5. Treathouse at Treehouse kid & craft
Treathouse is still a fairly new addition to Treehouse kid & craft's shop on the eastside of Athens. It's a place where treats and art come together to create some fun and funky flavors. From syrups to sprinkles, if you can dream it, you can create it at Treathouse. Pair fun combinations like lavendar and rice krispies in, or on top of, your cup of hot cocoa!
Location: 585 Barber Street, Studio G, Athens, GA
What's to love: A fun and whimsical spot for kids to enjoy plus a toy shop and art classes for kids.
Looking for more things to do with kids in Athens & Oconee?
