When it comes to afternoon drinking, fine, dainty teas are what tourists generally connect with London. But as temperatures plummet, people probably need something with a little more bite than elderflower tea. For those times, cozy up with one of these warm, refreshing beverages. They hit the spot when the thermometer decides to hit rock bottom.
The Ultimate Hot Chocolate
What could be more comforting than a cup of rich, creamy hot cocoa? London’s best has to be Rococo’s, which is made from flakes of real organic chocolate and enjoyed in the MaRococo secret courtyard garden. Add a side of fresh truffles for the ultimate treat.
The Most Decadent Coffee
At specialty coffee bar Workshop, a cup of the black stuff is taken very seriously indeed — and the beans are roasted onsite. Pull up a chair at the industrial-chic tables and find out what all the fuss is about with the Cult of Done Espresso, a snappy and beautifully refined coffee blend that is half deep, fruity Guatemalan Acatenango and half crisp Costa Rican Herbazu.
The Hottest Hot Cocktail
Hot drinks needn’t be alcohol-free. At The May Fair hotel, the decadent bar serves afternoon tea with a twist. Settle in next to the fire and indulge in a chamomile, spiced rum and pomegranate cocktail, served piping hot in a clear glass teacup with complementary cupcakes.
The Tastiest Mulled Wine
One of the best things about the advent of winter is the return of those heartening urns of mulled wine. The Hide Bar has one of the best mulled wines we’ve tasted, a spicy, warming brew sure to put color in anyone’s cheeks.
Photo Courtesy of Maria Bacarella
