There is no better winter warmer than a cosy mug of hot chocolate. With a cup in hand and a good woolly jumper, there is nothing to stop you from exploring Kilkenny during the cooler months! Stroll around while sipping or take a moment to warm up and refuel for the rest of your adventure. Whether you enjoy it with cream, marshmallows and all the trimmings or a simply decadent cuppa, here are a few places in Kilkenny where you can grab a hot chocolate to sweeten your day.
The Book & Coffee Shop
This charming book shop is also home to a cosy café, ideal for bookworms. Sit among rows of shelves heaving with books of all genres at The Book & Coffee Shop and indulge in a rich hot chocolate while skimming the pages of your latest book purchase. This is how hot chocolate is meant to be enjoyed!
The Truffle Fairy
Where better to get hot chocolate than from a chocolatier? With stores in both Kilkenny city and Thomastown, The Truffle Fairy serves up single origin Venezuelan hot chocolate with deep tasting notes reflective of the festive season – coffee, cacao, plum & orange. It is also the perfect excuse to treat yourself to some chocolate shopping with a range of boxes of handmade chocolates, truffles and vegan bars!
Butler House
As the dower house of Kilkenny Castle, Butler House is not only an elegant guesthouse but you will also find a well-manicured walled garden. It is perfect for a leisurely stroll year-round and is made even better with a hot chocolate in hand. If a scrumptious hot chocolate isn’t enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, why not pop in for a sitting of their afternoon tea?
The Loop Café
Known for their mouthwatering prix fixe dinner menus, The Loop Café in Freshford are also popular for their sweet treats. It is a great stop-off point if you’re exploring all that North Kilkenny has to offer. Relax with a mug of hot chocolate accompanied with a freshly baked goodie – it’d be rude not to!
Windgap Lakeside Tea Rooms
Windgap is located in the historic Lingaun Valley which is loaded with points of interest worth discovering. From ancient passage tombs to Celtic high crosses, the rolling countryside around Windgap is a true gem. Stepping back in time works up an appetite, so drop by the Windgap Lakeside Tea Rooms to warm up with a hot choc and a quick bite.
Wildflower Café
Art lovers – this one is for you. In Butler Gallery, you will find the Wildflower Café – a welcoming spot with wholesome food catered for gluten free, dairy free and vegan diets. Spend your morning surveying the exceptional exhibitions at Butler Gallery which is free to visit before stopping by the café for a yummy hot chocolate – maybe accompanied by a slice of cake.
The Chocolate Garden of Ireland Café
Known for their indulgent chocolate products, The Chocolate Garden of Ireland has opened a café in Kilkenny city. Treat yourself to a delectable cup of hot cocoa while you browse their range of chocolatey gifts and more. Nothing beats a hot chocolate made with real chocolate flakes – taste the difference for yourself here!
