Whether you’re warming up after a bracing walk along the Tees, taking a cosy break from shopping, or just treating yourself because, well, you deserve it, Teesside has plenty of spots that know how to do hot chocolate right.
I’ve spent far too many chilly afternoons “researching” to bring you my top ten favourite places for a steaming cup of chocolatey happiness in the local area. Take a look below to start planning your hot chocolate tour of Teesside.
1. Off The Ground, Middlesbrough
Nestled on Grange Road in Middlesbrough, Off The Ground is more than just a coffee shop – it’s a social enterprise with heart, serving up ethically sourced coffee and community spirit. For your hot chocolate fix, choose between white, milk or dark, or turn it into a mocha to warm yourself up post-shopping or after a blustery stroll. It’s a cosy, purposeful and delicious spot.
2. Koselig Bakeri, Guisborough & Saltburn
Koselig is a charming Scandinavian-inspired bakery coffee shop in both Guisborough and Saltburn that delivers proper comfort baked goods, all made in-house. Pair one of their flaky treats with a steaming mug of hot chocolate and you’ve got hygge in a cup. Dog friendly, warm and full of pastry joy – all you need to bring is your appetite and your chill-out mood.
3. Echo 3 Coffee House, Darlington
Tucked away in Clark’s Yard, Darlington, Echo 3 is an indie roastery cafe that’s full of personality, from the freshly roasted in-house beans to playful touches (yes, Star Wars fans, you’ll feel seen). Hot chocolate lovers take note: you’ll receive a cup of hot milk and a jar of chocolate pieces for you to make your drink as rich as you like. If you want a hot chocolate that comes with character (and maybe a Stormtrooper poster), this one’s a winner.
4. Scoundrels, Saltburn
Up the cliff and in Saltburn town, Scoundrels brings speciality coffee, filter brews and a seriously tempting selection of cookies and vegan treats. Twist your usual hot chocolate with a vegan cookie sandwich alongside, which is ideal after a windy seaside walk with chocolate-warming vibes to match the waves. This is an absolute must if you’re visiting the Teesside coast.
5. Sunday, Norton & Guisborough
Everything here is vegan-friendly, colourful and designed to feel like every day’s a Sunday. So for a hot chocolate with extra plant-based cheer, this is the place. It’s relaxed, fresh and perfect if you’re looking for something lighter yet comforting. They don’t skip out on the richness, using proper vegan chocolate to make them, and just imagine marshmallows minus the guilt!
6. Yard, Saltburn
Hidden inside the homeware shop Lilian Daph in Saltburn, Yard is stylish, dog-friendly and full of good vibes. With freshly baked pastries and warm, welcoming decor, it’s a great spot for a posh hot chocolate served up in their specially made cups. And one of my favourite things about Yard is the fact that the roof comes off when the weather is warm! It’s a brilliantly beautiful little place that you need to try.
7. Cafe Etch, Middlesbrough
Tucked away on Gilkes Street, Cafe Etch is a creative little haven where great coffee meets good vibes. With its industrial-chic style, friendly team and tempting bakes (think blondies, brownies and all sorts of small-batch treats), it’s the perfect pit stop for a slow morning or a catch-up with friends. Alongside their amazing hot chocolates, you can expect plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, local art on the walls and a relaxed, slightly bohemian feel.
8. Signals, Saltburn
A bright and buzzing spot in Station Square, Signals serves brunch, home-baked cakes and hot drinks by day, and transforms into a lively bar in the evening. Their “famous hot chocolates” are a big draw, so if you’re after a show-stopping mug that could double as dessert, you’re in for a treat. The Millionaire’s is a must try, topped off with a little wedge of millionaire’s shortbread.
9. Hobo Coffee House, Preston Farm
Hobo Coffee House have moved from Yarm into their new home inside Padel Up Teesside in Preston Farm Industrial Estate. And even with the move, they’re still serving up the most delicious range of treat and hot drinks, including their incredible hot chocolates. For something a bit off-the-beaten-path, this could be your secret hot chocolate hideout. It’s perfect for when you want quality chocolate comfort away from the usual crowd.
10. The Sitting Room, Saltburn
Perched inside the arches of the old Victorian station in Saltburn, The Sitting Room is a quirky cafe by day, cocktail haunt by night. With vintage decor, a great selection of real-leaf teas, artisan coffee, fat sandwiches, and of course, beautiful hot chocolates, it’s perfect for a relaxed catch-up. They usually have specials on, so look out for those!
Which of these Teesside hot chocolate hotspots are you going to try first?
