There’s no sweeter way to warm up from the cold than with a steaming cup of rich hot cocoa. New York City might be better known for its pizza and hot dogs, but there are many places throughout the Big Apple to enjoy a decadent hot chocolate that will transport you to a Parisian cafe. Not only is drinking chocolate romantic, but it’s an affordable luxury experience. Here are some of the city’s best:

La Maison du Chocolat: Both the milk chocolate and dark chocolate varieties will impress any cocoa fanatic at this world-class chocolatier. Rich, yet not too sweet or too bitter, the hot chocolate here is the perfect accessory for watching either ice skaters at Rockefeller Center or following a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depending on which location you are at. 30 Rockefeller Plz. or 1081 Madison Ave.

Mariebelle Fine Chocolates: Walk past the adorable powder blue shop filled with artful chocolates and you’ll find the most charming Parisian-style cafe in the rear serving a variety of hot cocoa flavors. The “Aztec” blend of dark chocolates is especially popular for drinking chocolate–pair with a flaky chocolate croissant and you’ll forget you’re in bustling SoHo. Enchanté! 484 Broome  St.

City Bakery: In addition to their drool-worthy baked goods and savory salad bar, this Manhattan staple offers some of the best hot chocolate in the city. Order “with” or “without” a homemade marshmallow (with recommended) and enjoy alongside treats such as a chocolate chip cookie or pretzel croissant. During the month of February, City Bakery’s Hot Chocolate Festival features a different flavor daily, such as caramel, banana peel, or chili pepper. 3 W. 18th St.

Jacques Torres Chocolate Haven: Step inside what looks like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory for all things dark brown, sweet, and cocoa. The “wicked” hot chocolate, featuring a hint of chili pepper, is a crowd-pleaser and an instant cure for the winter blues. Add the homemade whipped cream on top for the ultimate indulgence. 350 Hudson St.

Max Brenner: There’s a reason why “the bald man” opened a chocolate boutique in busy Union Square–chocoholics flock here in droves. With half a dozen varieties of Italian hot chocolate to choose from, including white chocolate, there’s no shortage of options to pair with the menu specialty–chocolate pizza. 841 Broadway.

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