Italian Bear Chocolate
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ITALIAN BEAR CHOCOLATE ATMOSPHERE
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We stopped at Italian Bear Chocolate on a rainy Sunday night after a day of adventuring. My husband had learned about the spot online from Reddit/Reels and was so excited to try the indulgent hot chocolate. The actual shop is pretty small, but they're doing their best to maximize the space with seating. While we were there it was SO SO BUSY and there was a group of people all looking to get on the waitlist. There was one staff member outside, doing their best to organize everyone and keep them from blocking the sidewalk. We ended up in line with everyone and stood in the rain watching people inside enjoy their treats while the anticipation build for our turn. It was about a twenty minute wait for us and when we made our way inside it was cramped. Pro Tip: try to sit as close to your table as you can, otherwise people can't get through the chairs to the inner tables. Since we knew this would be a one time experience (at least during this trip) we opted to get a Large Gianduia hot chocolate (£7.50) with Triple Chocolate (+£1.90), a slice of chocolate cake (£7.50) with Triple chocolate (+£1.90) and a vanilla milkshake that comes with the triple chocolate (£6.90). The presentation was impressive and everything is super indulgent and rich. The gianduia hot chocolate is a hazelnut hot chocolate, which I thought was good, but wasn't my favorite to be complimented by the triple chocolate- I feel like I enjoyed the chocolate drizzle more than the actual hot chocolate. I think I would try milk or dark chocolate next time without the triple chocolate. The cake was my favorite of our choices the chocolate ganache made it and the triple chocolate soaked into the cake to make each bite extra chocolatey. It was VERY RICH though and you'll absolutely want to share this. We ended up leaving a few bites on our plate because we just couldn't finish it. The vanilla shake was my husband's favorite- the triple chocolate hardened on the inner part of the cup and he scraped the hardened chocolate to have crunchy, chocolatey bites with the vanilla milkshake. This was a nice change from the other two very chocolatey items. We did ask for water when we ordered and it would have been really nice to have while we were eating, because it is a lot of rich chocolate. They were so busy that it was hard to get someone's attention to try and order water and it was too cramped to get up ourselves to grab one of the pitchers they had by the counter. I think our experience would have been better with a palate cleanser like water and they do offer a whole food menu as well with non chocolate items. The quality was definitely there and the triple chocolate was a fun little novelty and definitely has its place for some items. If I were a local I'd love to be able to just grab a cup of hot chocolate or a slice of cake to go and enjoy at home (potentially over more than one session) and I probably wouldn't want to endure the crowded restaurant again, but it was a very fun date with my husband and we enjoyed treating ourselves and overindulging in chocolatey goodness.
The pictures do not do justice for the quality of chocolates that they serve. The chocolate here is absolutely sinful. The best I have ever tasted. I knew this was going to be a great experience but nothing compared to actually being here.
The first time I heard about Italian Bear was through a YouTube video by Insider! When I got to the place, I was told there was a queue across the street to stand in -- which there was. I hopped in and got to the front rather quickly but ended up waiting at the front for about 20-30 minutes. Once inside, I was seated at a table and ordered a hot chocolate with the chocolate rim! It was so rich and decadent but somehow not overindulgent. It was delicious. I decided to order a chocolate chip cookie as well but didn't enjoy that too much. It was too dry for my liking. I enjoyed the set up on the inside and the wait staff was very kind! They even filled my reusable bottle with water. Only complaint I would have is it's definitely pricey but in truth I really enjoyed my experience. Overall would recommend to anyone interested!
I had heard great things about hot chocolate in London, so I decided to try Italian Bear Chocolate. We ordered the milk hot chocolate with triple chocolate around the rim. It was incredibly rich and thick--definitely something to share, as it might be a bit much for one person. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering recommendations and even assisting us with directions when our phone wasn't working. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a visit!
Death by Chocolate!! This was a great treat in SOHO. Such fun for the children. I may never sleep again. Lol. The cake was a bit dense but overall the hot coco and strawberries were awesome! Yes we are all that chocolate! Delicious!!!
If I could bath in this hot chocolate, I would. It is the most creamy, tasty treat you could imagine... and honestly you can't go wrong. The dark chocolate is really flavorful and delicious and is not super heavy.. the hazelnut chocolate was unbelievable. I would definitely recommend the tre chocolat addition- because the white and milk chocolate are delightful! Mixing them all together is truly a party for your tastebuds. This is worth every moment you need to wait for a table and every calorie you are willing to sacrifice.
Came in on New Year's Day around 4:30. They had us wait across the street for the queue. We waited about 20 minutes for a party of four. Inside was cozy. We enjoyed a dark chocolate and milk chocolate. Both rimmed with triple chocolate. We got both regular size and it was more than plenty for us to share. It was a decadent treat. Very luscious and smooth.
A very cute little hot chocolate spot in London. My fiancé and I wanted something sweet after dinner and this place definitely met our needs. There is outdoor and indoor seating but since we came in November it was a bit cold and rainy so expect to wait if you want a seat inside. We got a medium hot chocolate and it is a very very rich hot chocolate. It's not like Starbucks or Swiss hot chocolate, it's like a super thick hot chocolate(90% chocolate and 10% milk) but in a good way. The cheesecake was good too but definitely bought from somewhere else and cut up here. Definitely recommend trying this decadent hot chocolate If you have a sweet tooth and it is simply a perfect drink during the colder months in London!
Thick, decadent hot chocolate with melted chocolate ladled over the sides of the cup? Say no more! I have had this place bookmarked for years ever since I saw a feature on them online via Buzzfeed or InsiderFood. I waited in anticipation for the chance to finally make a stop here next time I was in London. When we found ourselves in Soho after a football match the other day, we quickly walked over from the Oxford Circus underground station and made this our first stop. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, but the shop was bustling with patrons and shortly after we stepped in, they blocked off the door indicating they were full. Whew~ We took a peek at the menu which had a variety of coffees, teas, drinks, shakes, patisserie, cakes, ice creams, and even a selection of pastas and more. We were here for the Italian Hot Chocolate though where you have a choice of chocolate flavor, choice of additional flavor to give it a twist (e.g. ginger, cardamom, etc), and the last option to add "Triple Chocolate." I went with a milk hot chocolate with the triple chocolate. We also ordered the cannoli siciliano and choice pistachio, ricotta, and vanilla pastry cream. Our hot chocolates came out quickly and after one spoonful, I immediately shot to chocolate heaven. The hot chocolate itself was thick, creamy, and just lovely. Every one of the triple chocolate flavors were also delicious with white chocolate being my favorite (no surprise there as I love white chocolate). The regular size was just perfect for me. For those not overly into sweets or not sharing with anyone, I would recommend going with the small. The cannoli's were also good. They were a little too crispy for my liking, but the flavors were smooth and nice. Not great, not bad. Overall, I was over the moon with my hot chocolate and am SO happy I got to try it. I love thick, creamy, European/Italian hot chocolate and this place is a MUST for that. The interior is also cute and quaint with a handful of outside seating available as well. If you're in Soho, definitely make it a point to stop here!
Brought three cousins and my brother after a day of eating around Camden market and soho and this place took the cake (literally) for the best place we ate at all day. We had no idea a reservation was recommended for this spot because of how busy it was but the host who seated us was kind enough to find a way to wrangle a table for us five in under five minutes despite the place being booked up. We got the medium sized hot chocolate with cardamom and the dousing of three chocolate on the rim of the cup and the chocolate ganache cake with the same treatment. One of my cousins didn't even like chocolate or hot chocolate and enjoyed it immensely. We devoured both and still had some to spare because of just how decadent it all was. I highly highly recommend this spot. One thing that would be nice is if there's larger water jugs because we had to keep asking several times for water because we were downing it so fast.
We just happened upon this restaurant and got seated straight away. Limited pasta and wine selection but really delicious. Great meal, great service and so reasonable for London. My son loved the chocolate shake. The glass was lined with thick chocolate. The dessert that keeps giving! Would definitely recommend.
Everything went perfect. This Soho Location always has a huge line so I pre booked. But we got there 20 mins early. They were very accommodating and we got a cozy table. The chocolate here is to die for. So good you just can't resist. read more
"You can even eat the dishes!" (kind of) If you're a chocolate lover, look no further. Wonka would be a fan. I sure am. The hot chocolate here is dark, rich, and if you order it with "triple chocolate," the cup itself is dunked in dark, milk, and white chocolate. So with each sip you can also lick and enjoy the thick chocolate on the cup--and eat it all with a spoon. Everything edible here can be drenched in chocolate. The people at the next table got a big slice of chocolate cake--with more chocolate poured over it. Incredible. I went to the Fitzrovia location and visited late so it wasn't crowded at all. A unique experience for chocolate lovers. Highly recommended! read more
Okay, I know everyone comes here for the hot chocolate which yes, it's good but the thing you should get, is the chocolate chip cookie with chocolate drizzled on top! Now that was de-lic-ious!!! We made a reservation on Christmas Day and luckily, got into the small yet cozy restaurant before crowds showed up for lunch. Glad we were able to enjoy this experience before the noise! Go early! read more
We stopped at Italian Bear Chocolate on a rainy Sunday night after a day of adventuring. My husband had learned about the spot online from Reddit/Reels and was so excited to try the indulgent hot chocolate. The actual shop is pretty small, but they're doing their best to maximize the space with seating. While we were there it was SO SO BUSY and there was a group of people all looking to get on the waitlist. There was one staff member outside, doing their best to organize everyone and keep them from blocking the sidewalk. We ended up in line with everyone and stood in the rain watching people inside enjoy their treats while the anticipation build for our turn. It was about a twenty minute wait for us and when we made our way inside it was cramped. Pro Tip: try to sit as close to your table as you can, otherwise people can't get through the chairs to the inner tables. Since we knew this would be a one time experience (at least during this trip) we opted to get a Large Gianduia hot chocolate (£7.50) with Triple Chocolate (+£1.90), a slice of chocolate cake (£7.50) with Triple chocolate (+£1.90) and a vanilla milkshake that comes with the triple chocolate (£6.90). The presentation was impressive and everything is super indulgent and rich. The gianduia hot chocolate is a hazelnut hot chocolate, which I thought was good, but wasn't my favorite to be complimented by the triple chocolate- I feel like I enjoyed the chocolate drizzle more than the actual hot chocolate. I think I would try milk or dark chocolate next time without the triple chocolate. The cake was my favorite of our choices the chocolate ganache made it and the triple chocolate soaked into the cake to make each bite extra chocolatey. It was VERY RICH though and you'll absolutely want to share this. We ended up leaving a few bites on our plate because we just couldn't finish it. The vanilla shake was my husband's favorite- the triple chocolate hardened on the inner part of the cup and he scraped the hardened chocolate to have crunchy, chocolatey bites with the vanilla milkshake. This was a nice change from the other two very chocolatey items. We did ask for water when we ordered and it would have been really nice to have while we were eating, because it is a lot of rich chocolate. They were so busy that it was hard to get someone's attention to try and order water and it was too cramped to get up ourselves to grab one of the pitchers they had by the counter. I think our experience would have been better with a palate cleanser like water and they do offer a whole food menu as well with non chocolate items. The quality was definitely there and the triple chocolate was a fun little novelty and definitely has its place for some items. If I were a local I'd love to be able to just grab a cup of hot chocolate or a slice of cake to go and enjoy at home (potentially over more than one session) and I probably wouldn't want to endure the crowded restaurant again, but it was a very fun date with my husband and we enjoyed treating ourselves and overindulging in chocolatey goodness. read more
The pictures do not do justice for the quality of chocolates that they serve. The chocolate here is absolutely sinful. The best I have ever tasted. I knew this was going to be a great experience but nothing compared to actually being here. read more
2 months ago
6 months ago
3 years ago
The first time I heard about Italian Bear was through a YouTube video by Insider! When I got to the place, I was told there was a queue across the street to stand in -- which there was. I hopped in and got to the front rather quickly but ended up waiting at the front for about 20-30 minutes. Once inside, I was seated at a table and ordered a hot chocolate with the chocolate rim! It was so rich and decadent but somehow not overindulgent. It was delicious. I decided to order a chocolate chip cookie as well but didn't enjoy that too much. It was too dry for my liking. I enjoyed the set up on the inside and the wait staff was very kind! They even filled my reusable bottle with water. Only complaint I would have is it's definitely pricey but in truth I really enjoyed my experience. Overall would recommend to anyone interested! read more
I had heard great things about hot chocolate in London, so I decided to try Italian Bear Chocolate. We ordered the milk hot chocolate with triple chocolate around the rim. It was incredibly rich and thick--definitely something to share, as it might be a bit much for one person. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering recommendations and even assisting us with directions when our phone wasn't working. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a visit! read more
2 years ago
Death by Chocolate!! This was a great treat in SOHO. Such fun for the children. I may never sleep again. Lol. The cake was a bit dense but overall the hot coco and strawberries were awesome! Yes we are all that chocolate! Delicious!!! read more
If I could bath in this hot chocolate, I would. It is the most creamy, tasty treat you could imagine... and honestly you can't go wrong. The dark chocolate is really flavorful and delicious and is not super heavy.. the hazelnut chocolate was unbelievable. I would definitely recommend the tre chocolat addition- because the white and milk chocolate are delightful! Mixing them all together is truly a party for your tastebuds. This is worth every moment you need to wait for a table and every calorie you are willing to sacrifice. read more
3 years ago
Came in on New Year's Day around 4:30. They had us wait across the street for the queue. We waited about 20 minutes for a party of four. Inside was cozy. We enjoyed a dark chocolate and milk chocolate. Both rimmed with triple chocolate. We got both regular size and it was more than plenty for us to share. It was a decadent treat. Very luscious and smooth. read more
4 years ago
A very cute little hot chocolate spot in London. My fiancé and I wanted something sweet after dinner and this place definitely met our needs. There is outdoor and indoor seating but since we came in November it was a bit cold and rainy so expect to wait if you want a seat inside. We got a medium hot chocolate and it is a very very rich hot chocolate. It's not like Starbucks or Swiss hot chocolate, it's like a super thick hot chocolate(90% chocolate and 10% milk) but in a good way. The cheesecake was good too but definitely bought from somewhere else and cut up here. Definitely recommend trying this decadent hot chocolate If you have a sweet tooth and it is simply a perfect drink during the colder months in London! read more
Thick, decadent hot chocolate with melted chocolate ladled over the sides of the cup? Say no more! I have had this place bookmarked for years ever since I saw a feature on them online via Buzzfeed or InsiderFood. I waited in anticipation for the chance to finally make a stop here next time I was in London. When we found ourselves in Soho after a football match the other day, we quickly walked over from the Oxford Circus underground station and made this our first stop. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, but the shop was bustling with patrons and shortly after we stepped in, they blocked off the door indicating they were full. Whew~ We took a peek at the menu which had a variety of coffees, teas, drinks, shakes, patisserie, cakes, ice creams, and even a selection of pastas and more. We were here for the Italian Hot Chocolate though where you have a choice of chocolate flavor, choice of additional flavor to give it a twist (e.g. ginger, cardamom, etc), and the last option to add "Triple Chocolate." I went with a milk hot chocolate with the triple chocolate. We also ordered the cannoli siciliano and choice pistachio, ricotta, and vanilla pastry cream. Our hot chocolates came out quickly and after one spoonful, I immediately shot to chocolate heaven. The hot chocolate itself was thick, creamy, and just lovely. Every one of the triple chocolate flavors were also delicious with white chocolate being my favorite (no surprise there as I love white chocolate). The regular size was just perfect for me. For those not overly into sweets or not sharing with anyone, I would recommend going with the small. The cannoli's were also good. They were a little too crispy for my liking, but the flavors were smooth and nice. Not great, not bad. Overall, I was over the moon with my hot chocolate and am SO happy I got to try it. I love thick, creamy, European/Italian hot chocolate and this place is a MUST for that. The interior is also cute and quaint with a handful of outside seating available as well. If you're in Soho, definitely make it a point to stop here! read more
11 months ago
Brought three cousins and my brother after a day of eating around Camden market and soho and this place took the cake (literally) for the best place we ate at all day. We had no idea a reservation was recommended for this spot because of how busy it was but the host who seated us was kind enough to find a way to wrangle a table for us five in under five minutes despite the place being booked up. We got the medium sized hot chocolate with cardamom and the dousing of three chocolate on the rim of the cup and the chocolate ganache cake with the same treatment. One of my cousins didn't even like chocolate or hot chocolate and enjoyed it immensely. We devoured both and still had some to spare because of just how decadent it all was. I highly highly recommend this spot. One thing that would be nice is if there's larger water jugs because we had to keep asking several times for water because we were downing it so fast. read more
11 months ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
2 years ago
We just happened upon this restaurant and got seated straight away. Limited pasta and wine selection but really delicious. Great meal, great service and so reasonable for London. My son loved the chocolate shake. The glass was lined with thick chocolate. The dessert that keeps giving! Would definitely recommend. read more
3 years ago
Fantastic hot chocolate and desserts!! Love this place! Such great food and the best chocolate I've ever had. read more
5 years ago
We had the hot chocolate and chocolate cake with triple chocolate. The cake was divine - super decadent, creamy, moist -- just perfectly balanced, and good thing we shared it between three people. Would definitely have it again with the triple chocolate (covered in milk, dark & whole chocolate sauces). Even my friend who usually doesn't like white chocolate enjoyed it! The hot chocolate was a good balance between thick and smooth, and not very sweet so it paired super well with the cake. Their menu is also so extensive it's quite impossible to go through everything but tempting to come back! The service is quite slow though so expect to spend a while here. read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
If you want the world's best hot chocolate look no further! I'm so excited for this share! Of something is good you must share it - Well I've only lived in England less than 6months with Covid-19 and lockdown. Much craves for a delicious treat that's rich in flavor and not on my teeth lol. Walking down the streets of london. I knew my destination was SAID and I am so pleased with the results. This dark chocolate mocha is so good. Not too sweet but rich in dark chocolate flavors. Atmosphere: Small inside/outside cafe with minimal outdoor seating. Vibes: chill, relaxing, mood music instrumentals throughout Great for a "getting to know you" date.. To the couples who really enjoy each other's time, company and talking this place is for you. This location isn't loud rather quite the opposite it's the perfect venue for great conversationalist. I really wanted an almond croissant to accompany my dark chocolate mocha but they were sold out! that's how popular the food is here but until next time read more
1 year ago
A very cute, small establishment with an impressive amount of seating. Always filled with customers and lit with candles, boasting wine bottles, pastries, and an impressive drinking chocolate menu. Very vegan and gluten free friendly, options are robust and plentiful. The dark drinking hot chocolate with the "triple chocolate" drizzle was plenty sweet enough and the coffee was super cute and delicious. The ambiance was extremely warm, with yellow hanging lights and chocolate molds in the wall. Fun fact: a "bear" in the queer community is an older, hairy and burly gay man. I suspect that since this restaurant is in soho that "Italian bear" is a okay on that term. Ambiance: 10/10 Ease of seating/ receiving a table: 9/10 Vegan options: 9/10 Gluten free options: 9/10 Low carb options: /10 Overall deliciousness: 10/10 Ambiance: 9.5/10 read more
If you're into sweets, then this is the place for you. It's not too far of a walk from Piccadilly Circus. I forgot what night we went, but when we got there there there was a queue at the door if you wanted to dine in and have coffee and sweets. If you are just ordering to go then you can skip the queue and walk inside and order what you want. I'm not sure how the wait was to sit down inside, but I'm sure it was long because this place is small. These deserts are really good and worth the travel to get them. I would be back if I was ever to visit London again. read more
3 stars. Disorganized from the moment we walked up to the storefront. They didn't have a wait list to sign and there wasn't a clear line outside. They have a rope they put up in front of the door to stop people from constantly walking in to ask about the line (I'm guessing that's why), but it didn't work. Long story short, just make sure you check with the other people congregating outside who's next in line and let it be known to the wait staff you are also waiting. Once you get inside, the situation doesn't really improve - the service is not great and you have to work hard to get any attention at all. We got one hazelnut and one dark chocolate, and shared a slice of their caramel pie/tart thing (name is escaping me now). Please MAKE SURE YOU GET THE SMALLEST SIZE CUP AVAILABLE. We both got the med size and couldnt finish it because it literally is diabetes in a cup - super decadent and was just too much of a good thing. The caramel pie/tart thing on the other hand was really good. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
If you like chocolate, you will love Said!! This place is chocolate heaven. White chocolate, milk chocolate and dark chocolate.... what do you prefer? They have it. Their hot chocolate is your choice of chocolate in a cup with all three chocolates poured on the rim of the cup! So, if you don't like THAT much chocolate I would get a cookie or strawberry dipped in chocolate. The hot chocolates were good since it was cold outside, it was literally like drinking melted chocolate. You can even order those in a chocolate cup of your choice!! They also have chocolate you can purchase and other cookies and cakes and stuff! The place is in London, but it is Italian chocolate from Italy. All the workers were Italian and the name stands for Soc. Az. Industria Dolciumi. It was established in 1923. They were very helpful and friendly. So if you find yourself in London and the Soho district and want to get chocolate wasted, give this place a look, you will not be disappointed!!! read more
7 years ago
We arrived at 9 PM on a Monday evening and were told there would be a 1.5 hr wait. They added us to the online queue and we were told we can go explore the area because we will get a text when a table is ready for us. Probably important to note that it is table service ONLY. Up until 9:30, we checked the online queue link and it said we were in the same place for the past 30 min. We decided to refresh a few times and then around 9:45, we refreshed again and it said that we left the queue? Went back to the store and the guy said he called a bunch of people but no one responded. We never got a text or call. Thankfully after 15 min of waiting we got seated. They never gave us a menu so we went to get one ourselves. At this time, it was about 10:15 and still no one took our orders. Eventually, we ordered and it came at 10:55... The shop closes at 11 PM... We got a regular sized dark hot chocolate with the three chocolate drizzles on the rim and a slice of their white chocolate cheesecake. The drizzles were rich and delicious. The hot chocolate itself was acidic and I could not withstand more than a sip. Maybe something was wrong with the machine, I'm not sure, but it was not good. Also, beware that the hot chocolate is not as thick as everyone says. It is also water based and definitely not that sweet. The cheesecake was just average. It was room temperature when we got it too. If I could give SAID only a half star I would, mainly because of service. When we were waiting for our food, one of the waiters dropped an unfinished mug of hot chocolate right next to us, an inch away from splashing us. He just left it there... Second waiter comes over and pics up a few pieces of the mug, but leaves the chocolate on the floor... By the time we left, it was still there. It seems like the people there just float around. It's not even a big cafe because it maybe seats 20 people total? There should be no reason for slow service and poor communication if there are 5 hosts/waiters to attend to 20 people total. Ultimately, over hyped. read more
4 years ago
This is a must if you are in the area and looking for a late night or after theatre dessert stop! We had the Tripple Hot Chocolate as well as some of the Cakes. Amazing! I wish we could have this every night back in the states! Great local stop and Highly Recommend! read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
4 years ago
So to put this into context, we waited outside online for 30mins as we made no reservation, so no issues with that, we finally got in excited to get some drinks after seeing this place pop up on Tick Tock, we ordered drinks after 30mins nothing had arrived , we asked our waitress how much longer to which we got a blank look of confusion and a reply that they are really busy and did we want to cancel our order, never had that before , like ever. We said we can wait another 10mins as we really wanted to try the drink, we had dinner reservations that we wanted to make, so 10mins later we decided to call it and cancel the order, shocking service and not an ounce of remorse, clearly they did not care as this place seams to be busy due to the social media uptake. I can get them being busy but not even an apology for the wait or a please come back with our sincere apologies. Adding menu pics as that is as far as we made it. read more
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More info about Italian Bear Chocolate
41 Broadwick Street
London W1F 9QL
United Kingdom
Soho
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020 7437 1584
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https://www.italianbearchocolate.com
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