What could be better than a cup of steaming hot chocolate and something sweet to eat after a few hours in the cold? Ulster County offers plenty of great spots, including some secret local gems.

Start Your Hot Chocolate Search in Southern Ulster County

Let’s start in the county’s south. After a day skiing or snowshoeing at Minnewaska or Mohonk Preserve, why not head into the picturesque farming community of Gardiner for something yummy to eat and hot to drink? Café Mio on Route 44/55 offers fresh local fare prepared with love and care, served by staff who welcome visitors as if they are part of the family. This delightful café is open for breakfast and lunch from Wednesday to Sunday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. 

You can also head to Water Street Market on Main to visit the Mudd Puddle Café. Settle down to a view of the “Gunks”—the country’s premier climbing destination—while enjoying homemade baked goods and delicious hot chocolate. This sweet spot serves a full breakfast menu until 1 pm and treats from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

Find the Best Hot Chocolate in Northern Ulster County’s Quaint Towns

New Paltz, NY

Moving further north, anyone enjoying cross-country skiing on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail or ice skating or sledding in New Paltz should head to The Bakery at 13a Front Street. This rustic outdoor café with beautiful gardens is the town’s social center, a place to gather with others or sit quietly and read. Famous for over 40 years for its great bagels, croissants, rolls, Danishes, butter cookies, and rugelach, The Bakery includes a coffee bar and a full lunch menu.

Alternatively, duck off the trail to grab an award-winning hot chocolate from an authentic chocolatier at Lugusta’s Luscious Café at 25 North Front Street, Vegans—stop here. It’s open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Dry Fly Coffee Roasters is just a little further down the trail at 87 North Chester Street. Here, you’ll find freshly baked bread, pastries, and healthy breakfasts for warmth and nourishment. All accompanied, of course, by a cup of mouthwatering homemade hot chocolate.

Another New Paltz favorite is P & G’s Restaurant. This venerable institution is literally a cornerstone of Main Street, a beloved meeting place for more than a century. Serving the best burgers in town, the stellar service, hearty food, and kid-friendly atmosphere make this eatery the perfect place to stop with the whole family after an outdoor Winter afternoon.

Saugerties, NY

Looking for a place after you’ve spent the day in Saugerties in the northeast? Saunter into the cozy village and try The Dutch. Found on Main Street, this village tavern is the ideal local haunt to grab a bite of warming pub grub and an icy craft brew, even a tasty no-booze choice. While you’re here, another well-kept secret is Josie’s Coffee Shoppe at 174 Partition Street for fresh bagels and coffee daily. 

Kingston, NY

Alternatively, you may be in Kingston for the day, enjoying the heart of Ulster County on the banks of the majestic Hudson River. Perhaps you’re hiking the glorious Ashokan Rail Trail? Then, pop into the Dolce Café at 27 Broadway in historic downtown Kingston and experience crêpes, panini, and hot chocolate similar to the French or Italian style. 

Possibly the best in the county, this homemade hot cocoa tastes like melted chocolate in a mug. It’s no wonder the annual Hot Chocolate Fest is held in Ashokan. Another hot spot in the area is Kingston Social—an art gallery, mercantile, and beautiful café. Find it in the Stockade District opposite the Ulster County Office building.

Woodstock, NY

Even further north, visit Caffe in Woodstock at 82 Mill Hill Road after an exhilarating day’s skiing on Belleayre Mountain. Relax in this fast-casual Italian coffee, sweets, and gourmet sandwich shop to celebrate good times and even better eats. Still in the Catskill area, for more award-winning bean-to-bar chocolate, Fruition Chocolate Works at 3091 Route 28 in Shokan is well worth a visit.

Warm Up With the Best Hot Chocolate in Ulster County

Ulster County, New York, offers everything: natural beauty, history and culture, and exciting outdoor activities. From the Shawangunk Ridge to the Catskills, New Paltz to Woodstock, Opus 40 to Huguenot Street, the region offers fun, festivals, and farm-to-table dining. Now, you can add heavenly hot chocolate to the extensive list of reasons to visit. Plan your trip to Ulster County today!