Few things are as comforting as sipping a steaming cup of hot chocolate after a brisk day on the slopes. The warmth, flavor, and ambiance each cup brings can turn a simple drink into a memorable experience. In Vail Village, you’ll find a range of hot chocolate spots, each with its unique flair and atmosphere. Here’s our guide to the best hot chocolate destinations in Vail for 2024, offering everything from upscale treats to cozy, slopeside favorites.
1) For A High-End, Culinary Experience: Four Seasons and The Sebastian
For those seeking an elevated hot chocolate experience, the Four Seasons and The Sebastian deliver luxurious, European-inspired indulgence in a cozy mountain setting. These options go beyond a simple cup of cocoa, turning hot chocolate into an unforgettable treat that will delight all your senses.
A) Four Seasons Hot Chocolate
Location: The Remedy Bar, Four Seasons Resort Vail
Price: $16/cup; $28 for two
Step into the tranquil, upscale atmosphere of The Remedy Bar and let the experience unfold. When you order the Four Seasons hot chocolate, a silver tray arrives, bearing a porcelain cup adorned with a handmade, dark chocolate lattice, topped with a large marshmallow. Watch as a rich Valrhona chocolate blend and steamed milk are poured over the cup from a traditional French chocolate pot, slowly melting the chocolate and marshmallow into a smooth, velvety drink. Yes, it’s a splurge, but the craftsmanship and flavor are well worth it.
B) The Sebastian Signature Hot Chocolate
Location: The Sebastian Hotel Vail
Price: $18/cup
The Sebastian’s hot chocolate is truly a sight to behold. Served in a clear glass mug, this hot chocolate begins with a shimmering, gold-dusted sphere of Valrhona chocolate. When hot spiced cocoa—flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and star anise—is poured over, the sphere melts, releasing marshmallows and chocolate pearls. Every sip offers a mix of sweetness and spice, perfect for unwinding in the cozy ambiance of The Sebastian.
2) Best Boozy Hot Chocolate: The George Vail
Location: The George Vail
Atmosphere: Casual, sports-bar vibe with cozy seating
The George is a local favorite for adults looking to warm up with a boozy twist on hot chocolate. Known for its casual atmosphere, The George is a great spot to hang out with friends, catch a game, or play a round of pool or darts. Their specialty hot chocolates—like the “Chocolate Orange” and “Schnappy Dresser”—combine the comforting warmth of hot cocoa with a splash of liqueur. There’s no better way to unwind after a day on the mountain than with one of these drinks and a few friends.
3) Best Slopeside Hot Chocolate: The Gorsuch Cafe (Large, $5)
Location: Near Gondola One in Vail Village
Price: Large, $5
For hot chocolate lovers who want to enjoy a slopeside view, The Gorsuch Cafe is just a few steps away from American Ski Exchange and offers a delightful vantage point right by Gondola One. Known for its classic hot chocolate, this cafe serves up a traditional mix of steamed milk and chocolate sauce, topped generously with whipped cream. Feeling adventurous? Try their Mexican Hot Chocolate, which features a blend of Mexican cacao, cinnamon, and spices. Served in an adorable mug adorned with skiing graphics, this is the most Instagrammable spot for hot chocolate in Vail.
Enjoying your hot chocolate at The Gorsuch Cafe while watching skiers glide down the mountain (particularly the famous Pepi’s Face run) is a true Vail experience. Pair it with a fresh pastry, croissant, or deli sandwich if you’re looking for a light meal to fuel your next run.
We hope you enjoy exploring these delicious hot chocolate options in Vail. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious treat, a boozy evening drink, or a cozy slopeside cup, each of these spots offers a unique taste of Vail’s vibrant winter atmosphere.
We’re sure you’ll love the hot chocolate at any of these fantastic Vail spots, but don’t forget to prepare for your mountain adventures with the right gear! Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, American Ski Exchange has everything you need for a seamless ski experience, including high-quality rentals, expert fittings, and repairs. Reserve your equipment today and make the most of your time on the slopes.
Book your rentals now or visit us in-store at American Ski Exchange, just steps away from Vail’s best slopeside spots!