Dark Sugars London and the hot chocolate hype

We’re on a bit of a mission right now. We’re slowly working our way through London’s cafés, bakeries, and chocolate spots, searching for drinks that feel genuinely indulgent. Naturally, hot chocolate plays a starring role. And when it comes to Dark Sugars London, the hype has been impossible to ignore.

A hot chocolate at Dark Sugars London has been on my list forever. It’s my sister’s favourite place in the city. And it’s one of the most talked-about chocolate spots online. So today, we finally head to Brick Lane, excited and ready to see if it really lives up to the reputation.

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First impressions of Dark Sugars London on Brick Lane

Dark Sugars London iseasy to find – just follow the smell of chocolate all the way up Brick Lane. Deep cocoa and warm chocolate cuts straight through the noise of East London. Then you notice the shop itself. It’s small, busy, and full of life.

Shelves are lined with handmade chocolates and truffles, and big slabs of chocolate sit ready to be shaved. Behind the counter, cups of hot chocolate are built with care, and generous handfuls of chocolate shavings land on top of steaming cups. It feels theatrical and fun.

Dark Sugars started life as a stall in Old Spitalfields Market, growing out of a love for chocolate and an interest in cocoa origins across West Africa and South America. This is a place that takes chocolate seriously, but still keeps things playful.

Looking at the Dark Sugars menu

Before ordering, we take a moment to look around. The Dark Sugars menu goes well beyond hot chocolate. There are truffles, pralines, chocolate bars, and gift boxes. Everything looks tempting. Still, today’s mission is clear.

I order the hazelnut praline hot chocolate, topped with white and dark chocolate shavings. It’s one of their most popular choices, and it feels like the right place to start.

The hazelnut praline hot chocolate

The hot chocolate arrives looking generous and comforting. We’re asked if we want the extra chocolate shavings on top – err yes please!

Thick, glossy hot chocolate fills the cup, crowned with a serious amount of chocolate shavings that already begin to soften from the heat below.

I take a sip straight away.

It’s rich, but not overwhelming. Thick, yet still easy to drink. The hazelnut praline adds a gentle nuttiness and sweetness that sits well with the chocolate, rather than competing with it. Meanwhile, the chocolate shavings slowly melt, making the drink richer and deeper with every sip.

As I drink, the hot chocolate thickens and the flavour intensifies. It’s a comforting cup of hot chocolate for sure – but is it one of the best in London?

How it compares to other London hot chocolates

London loves hot chocolate, and there’s no shortage of options. You’ll find light and milky versions, ultra-dark sipping chocolates, and plenty of Instagram-friendly cups piled high with cream. In that crowded scene, Dark Sugars stands out by focusing unapologetically on chocolate itself.

The hot chocolate at Dark Sugars London leans fully into richness and texture. The standout are the extra chocolate shavings, which are dramatic and delicious, but not so bulky that you can’t enjoy the drink.

When it comes to Dark Sugars hot chocolate price, it sits slightly higher than an average café drink at around £5.50. However, the quality and generosity make it feel justified. You’re paying for real chocolate, plenty of it.

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More than just hot chocolate at Dark Sugars London

Although the hot chocolate is the main attraction, it’s hard not to notice everything else Dark Sugars offers. The chocolate counter alone could keep you busy for a while. Truffles, pralines, and bars invite you to take something home, or at least promise a return visit.

Final thoughts on Dark Sugars London

So, does Dark Sugars London make the best hot chocolate?

It makes one of the best I’ve tried. The hazelnut praline hot chocolate, especially with added chocolate shavings, feels rich, comforting, and indulgent.

Most importantly, it lives up to the hype. If you find yourself wandering Brick Lane and craving something warming and chocolate heavy, Dark Sugars is worth the stop. And if you’re on a wider mission to find London’s best hot chocolates, this one absolutely belongs on your list.

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Dark Sugars London
Address – 141 Brick Ln, Bethnal Green, London E1 6SB
Nearest Tube – Liverpool Street