ML Interest Tag: milk

The USPS Letters to Santa Program You Need to Know About

by Amber Guetebier

Spoiler alert: If your kids can read, do not let them read about how to send letters to Santa. Read this post in secret!

You stay up late wrapping presents in secret and make a show of setting out cookies and milk, but there’s one more thing you can do to prove Santa is real. This year, take the classic letter to Santa to a new level by not only sending it but also making sure your kiddos receive a response from the Jolly Old Elf himself. The USPS has an awesome program in place and if you’ve never done it before, this is your year. Here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Write the letter to Santa!

First things first: write the letter to Santa. Kids that can’t write yet can dictate to parents and spend a little time decorating the letter with stickers or a drawing. If your kiddos are learning their letters, you can always have them trace over some of the words. For kiddos that can write, make sure they have enough paper on hand but try and keep it to one page. Remember, this does not have to be a list of all the things they want for Christmas. They can also just send a letter thanking Santa for his hard work or asking him what his life is like. Be creative!

Have them put their letter in an envelope, addressed to: 

Santa Claus
North Pole

Try to avoid sealing this envelope without being too obvious.

 

Step 2: Write a response to your child.

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Okay, here’s the spoiler part! Using your stealth parenting-in-the-night skills, the same ones that power you to wrap presents and fill stockings undetected, you will need to write out the response from Santa (disguise your writing if you think necessary) and place it in an envelope addressed to your child with a return address of Santa Claus, North Pole. 

Make sure you put a stamp on this envelope: The current rate is 66 cents, or use a Forever stamp.

Tip: USPS suggests writing the response from Santa on the back of your child’s letter to save space and to make sure your kiddo will remember what they wrote (plus this way you get to keep it without giving anything away!).

Related: Do Your Kids Write Letters to Santa? They’re Not Alone 

Step 3: Mail it.

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Place everything into a larger envelope (like a Priority Mail Flat Rate or manilla envelope) and make sure there is adequate postage. A flat rate is great because you can buy the postage online and print the label, saving you a trip to the post office. 

Remember, in your envelope, you will have:

1 letter to Santa in an envelope addressed to Santa

1 response from Santa in an envelope addressed to a child with an actual postage stamp (and Santa’s return address)

Address this larger envelope to:

North Pole Postmark
Postmaster
4141 Postmark Dr.
Anchorage, Ak 99530-9998

The rest is up to Santa’s busy elves at the Postal Service. 

Important: The USPS recommends having the letters sent no later than Dec. 1 so that they can arrive at the Anchorage, AK office in time. 

Learn more here. 

Good to Know:

The USPS also operates Operation Santa, a letter-writing program for any kid in need. Children can write to a specific address and make requests. They even have a letter-writing kit. To learn more about this program, or to answer letters and donate to kids in need, click here.

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Getting Yelled At in a Parking Lot Was an Unexpected Parenting Win

By Leah Moore

My turning point occurred the day a man yelled at me from his car. They are words I will never forget. He must have seen us inside the grocery store. It was the first time we were going in without a stroller. We create the cutest chain of hand-holding I have ever been associated with. I am holding the hand of my oldest, Jordan, a six-year-old with a rare genetic disorder, Cri Du Chat. She is holding hands with the twin tornados, her baby brothers.

We are here on a mission. We have not only graduated from the possibility of my daughter, Jordan, never speaking, but we are also moving toward functional life skills. My daughter has proudly remembered the four things we need to buy. She has spent all week working on identifying them and is here to generalize the skill in the grocery store. Today’s haul includes strawberries, milk, popsicles, and chocolate chip muffins.

Aisle #1: “Looks like you have your hands full” greets us in the produce aisle.

“Yes, it’s our first time without the stroller,” I hear my chipper voice respond.

“Strawberries!” My daughter spots item number one. Off they go.

They have each put five cartons of blueberries into the shopping cart, but they are not tall enough to drop them gently, so there is now an avalanche of tiny spherical berries surrounding the cart. Twin B sits on the floor to start eating them. “Yum berries.” Twin A can’t stop giggling and our fearless leader is shouting, “Not on the list. Only Strawberries.”

Aisle #2: I have bribed Twin A to sit in the front of the shopping cart with the stolen remnants of the berries I couldn’t return into the package. This is a gentle reminder for consumers to wash their fruit before they eat it.

I have now bribed Twin B with a lollipop to sit in the grocery cart while Twin A insists on pushing the cart while I carry him. My daughter is leading us toward the milk aisle. We walk past a maintenance worker and a full butt crack showing as he bends over the lobster tank.

“Look, Mommy, tushie.”

“Yes, honey, I see it—let’s move ahead.” I grab the milk with my other arm, throw it in the cart, and we head towards item number three.

Aisle #4: Everyone is now sitting inside the cart, with squished blueberries on their pants, devouring the box of popsicles we just located. I go back to get a second box. Of course, I left the wipes in the car.

As we approach the final aisle, I compliment my daughter on her strong shopping skills. This is a big deal for her, and we have to finish the entire task to make the lesson stick. She is the most excited for item number four. The chocolate chip muffins. I, too, have never been more excited to purchase an item, because it means we can go home.

We turn the corner and I can see, like a glaring spotlight, they are sold out.

“What about blueberry muffins? They are delicious.”

“No! The list says chocolate chip!”

If you have ever been around a child, let alone one with special needs, the space between the expectation and the reality is frankly—painful. I was ready to handle the breakdown. I had my contingency plan in place. I mean I wasn’t too far from the beer aisle.

“Mommy.” She takes a deep inhale. “No muffins. Let’s go home. My list done.”

This momentous occasion practically makes me float out of the grocery store. (And for the record, not only did we not float, we disrupted an entire display of candy bars, Twin B signed the credit card receipt, and my daughter sang an inappropriate song.)

We pile into the car a full 50 minutes after we had arrived. Four items in our bag. As I buckle the last car seat, I hear a man shout from behind his steering wheel.

“Hey Lady!”

“Yes?”

“Hey. I saw you in there.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry. It was our first time—”

“You are a terrific mother. Have a great day.”

Thank you, kind stranger. I will have a great day. You have no idea how much of a success this was for us. I’m also going to figure out how to turn strawberries, milk, and popsicles into a meal—because while we were at the grocery store, I didn’t have any time to get dinner.

This post originally appeared on Moms Choice Awards.

Leah is a teacher who believes in the power of sharing stories. Leah has taught English and Theater in New York for more than a decade.  She is working to change the narrative around individuals with disabilities. Her first memoir, Loving You Big, will be released in August. 

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The Best Times to Shop at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Costco & More Grocery Stores

by Erica Loop

Insider tips to beat the crowds at your favorite grocery stores

Ah, grocery shopping: one of those necessary evils because hey—we all like to eat, right? It’s never easy piling the kids into the car, trying to remember if you need besides milk or bread as you wander the aisles… If only you knew when the best time to shop at the grocery store was. Well, we’ve got the answer for you!

Whether you’re all about Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Costco, Kroger or Aldi, we’ve got you covered for the best times to do your grocery shopping and save big. Get the scoop below.

Whole Foods

If you're looking to save money, Whole Foods Markets typically start their sales on Wednesdays. That means if you picked up a sale item on Monday, when you go back the following Thursday you may find it at a higher price. So take advantage of the deals when your local store has them.

When it comes to missing the rush, the best time to shop totally depends on where you live and your local store's traffic. City-based stores tend have the largest crowds at lunch-time. But suburban stores have a bigger rush in the evenings and on weekends.

If you REALLY want to beat the crowds, stay home. That is, stay home and order your groceries for delivery. Whole Foods Market is constantly expanding the list of cities that are delivery eligible.

Trader Joe's

Weekends at Trader Joe's: yes we know what it's like trying to get a prime parking space (or any space at all). Given that you probably already try to avoid TJ's on a hopping Sunday afternoon, when should you head out to get your fave fun frozen foods?

According to a store manager in a Reddit Ask Me Anything thread, Tuesday and Wednesday early mornings are the best times to shop at your local Trader Joe's.

Costco

When should you shop the mega warehouse store? That depends on where you live, but according to a Business Insider interview with Costco employees, definitely skip weekend shopping trips. These are the busiest times, making the stores the most crowded.

Even though the weekdays may equal a quicker shopping trip, there are better times than others. Evenings also tend to draw the largest crowds. In other words, weekday mornings or early afternoons are the best times to shop at Costco.

Kroger

Like Whole Foods, Kroger brand stores (including Baker's, King Soopers, Ralphs and Smith's), also start sales on Wednesdays. Kroger store employees typically stock the shelves late at night and in the early a.m. hours. That means you might want to consider shopping in the morning.

If you want to save even more, wait until Friday to shop. Kroger's free Friday download lets you download a coupon for one free item on Fridays only.

Aldi

Hmm. It looks like Wednesdays take the cake when it comes to new sales and new stuff.  Wednesdays are THE day for new items. It's also the day when the Aldi Finds section gets new additions and seasonal picks. That said, some stores don't stick to the Wednesday debut. Depending on where you live, new items may come out on Sundays.

 

Well, it looks like the best days to shop at your most-loved stores are…any day? While Wednesdays are big for savings and debuts, it all depends on where you live and when you absolutely need to shop. The milk won’t shop for itself––unless you’re doing grocery pickup.

 

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How to Make Ice Cream without an Ice Cream Maker

by Erin Lem

This might be the easiest dessert you make, ever

Fun dessert alert! Did you know you can whip up your batch of ice cream right at home without any extra appliances? All you need are the right ingredients and plastic bags. Read on for the “scoop” on how to make homemade ice cream in a bag.

Ingredients for Homemade Ice Cream in a Bag:

1 tbsp. sugar
1/2 cup milk (will make about one scoop of ice cream, can sub soy, coconut, or rice milk or use cream)
1/4 tsp. vanilla
6 tbsp. rock salt
1 pint-size plastic food storage bag (e.g., Ziploc)
1 gallon-size plastic food storage bag
Ice cubes

How to Make Ice Cream at Home:

1. Fill the large bag half full of ice, and add the rock salt.

2. Seal the bag.

3. Put milk, vanilla, and sugar into the small bag, and seal it.

4. Place the small bag inside the large one, and seal it again carefully.

5. Shake until the mixture is ice cream, which takes about 5 minutes.

6. Wipe off the top of the small bag, then open it carefully.

Insider Tips:

A 1/2 cup of milk will make about 1 scoop of ice cream, so double the recipe if you want more. But don’t increase the proportions more than that—a large amount might be too big for kids to pick up because the ice itself is heavy. This ice cream won’t have quite the same consistency as a pint of store-bought, but you can control the ingredients so that’s a big win.

If there is a milk allergy, try this with fruit juice. Use straight pineapple juice—it’s a terrific fruit sorbet. OR rice/soy milk as the milk substitute.

This recipe for how to make homemade ice cream in a bag is courtesy of Yuumii, an online community founded by a San Francisco family who wanted to come up with creative ways to spend more quality time with their kids.

Related: 15 Sweet Ice Cream Sundae Bar Ideas

 

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Easy Blueberry Muffins That Take Less Than 20 Minutes

by Erin Lem

This easy blueberry muffin recipe is a favorite with our kids

For breakfast fare that never goes out of style look no further than this easy blueberry muffin recipe. Any home cook can whip up a batch of these classic blueberry muffins in about 10 minutes without any unusual ingredients or pro kitchen tools. The secret twist to this delectable eat? The streusel topping that adds a layer of cinnamon sugar goodness to this irresistible grab-and-go muffin.

Makes about 14 muffins

Ingredients:
2 Cups Flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups wild blueberries (Frozen are ok)
1/2 cup butter softened
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup milk

For the streusel top:
2 Tbs Flour
2 Tbs Sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 tbs butter chilled

Method:
1. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a separate bowl beat butter and sugar until light. Beat in eggs and vanilla. You can either use an electric mixer or mix by hand with a wooden spoon.

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternating with milk until combined.

4. Coat the blueberries lightly with flour then fold the blueberries into the mixture.

5. Spoon batter into greased or paper-lined muffin tins.

6. To make the streusel topping, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until crumbly by using your fingers or a knife and fork. Sprinkle over muffins.

7. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

 

 

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Hawaiian Pasta Salad with Just Four Ingredients

by scott wardell

Great for family barbecues (or picky pasta eaters) this quick pasta dish takes minutes to throw together and only requires four ingredients—all of which we’re willing to bet you have in your pantry. Rebekah of PDXfoodlove is a big fan of the simple combination of high-quality mayonnaise and freshly ground black pepper. This rich combination really makes the recipe pop. Originally created as a side dish, this Hawaiian Pasta Salad is a must-have recipe for summer. This recipe yields two small servings. You might want to double or triple it if you’re feeding some especially hungry kiddos.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Pasta Salad:

1 c (dry) small pasta, such as shells or elbow macaroni
3 tbsp excellent quality mayonnaise
1 tbsp milk
Lots of freshly ground black pepper

Method:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, and allow it to cool down a bit so as not to curdle your milk. In the meantime, mix the mayo and milk together with a fork to create a mixture a little thicker than say, ranch dressing. You can add milk or mayo to your preference.

2. Stir the two together, and then season with a very very large amount of freshly ground black pepper.

recipe and photo courtesy of Rebekah at PDX Food Love

Few people can say they boast a passion for food like Rebekah at PDXfoodlove. Whether it’s reading about food, thinking about food, or reading about food, Rebekah can never satiate her hunger for all things food. A graphic designer and outdoor enthusiast by day, once in the kitchen, Rebekah dons her apron and whips up seasonal dishes that boast some serious homey comfort. Check out her food blog, PDXfoodlove, for more of her recipes (and her awesome photography!).

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57 Best Dad Jokes for Kids to Make Them Laugh Out Loud

by Amber Guetebier

Yes, dad jokes for kids are a little silly, but also a lot of fun

When does a joke become a dad joke? When the punch line becomes apparent. (Har har!). You’ve cringed, laughed, and even been known to repeat them on occasion. The good news is that kids get a real kick out of them. Once you’re done with these cheesy dad jokes, try out the best jokes for kids, jokes that are good for school kids, and riddles that’ll keep the kids puzzled.

Typical Dad Jokes for Kids

father and son laughing at dad jokes for kids
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-I used to hate the hokey pokey, but I really turned myself around. 

-Is the refrigerator running? Better go catch it! 

(yeah, that one hurt us, too...)

-Why did the bicycle keep falling over?

It was two tired. 

-What do you call a man who tells dad jokes but isn’t a dad?

A faux pa. 

-Dad: I told my kids to embrace their mistakes, then they hugged me. 

-I entered a pun contest. I submitted 10 of my best puns to see if any would be a win.

-Hey kids, I got you Fortnite. But it will only last two weeks. 

-What’s the secret to a good elevator pitch?

It has to work on many levels. 

-Want to hear a long joke?

Jooooooooooooooke. 

-What does a house always wear to a party?

Address. 

-Charlie Chaplin and Marcel Marceau just threw microphones into the sea. Guess it’s true that great mimes sink a mic.

-Have you heard how popular the local cemetery is?

People are just dying to get in. 

-Kid: I’ll call you later! 

Dad: Just call me Dad! 

-When does a joke become a Dad joke?

When the punch line becomes apparent. 

-This pencil has two erasers. It’s totally pointless. 

Food-Related Dad Jokes for Kids

two dads laughing at dad jokes for kids
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-What kind of drink is bittersweet?

Reali-tea

-What do the royals put on their pancakes?

Sir Up. 

-My kid just asked me "Can I have this, apple?" 

Guess he doesn’t know my name is Dad. 

-Dad: Did you hear the butter rumor? Well, I'm not going to spread it.

-Why Did the vegetable call the plumber?

It had a leek.

-What do you get when you coddle a cow? 

Spoiled milk. 

-Dad: Another word of caution. Never tell secrets near a cornfield. They’re all ears.

-How many apples are growing on that tree?

All of them. 

-Why did the man buy so much yogurt? 

To get cultured.

-Time to take this cookie to the hospital! It’s feeling crummy.

-Evaporated milk is confusing. There's so much liquid in it. 

-Dad to kid: Where are French fries from? 

Kid: France?

Dad to kid: Greece! 

-Dad to kids at dinner: I would tell you my pizza joke but it’s just too cheesy. 

-What do you call a band of berries playing music?

A jam session.

-How do you fix a broken tomato?

With tomato paste.

Science Dad Jokes for Kids

silly dad and son making faces
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-“Kara, on average, how far can a dog run into the woods?”

"Gee, Grand Dad, I don’t know.”

“Half way. After that, the dog is running out of the woods.”

—Grand Dad jokes 49-52 submitted by our hilarious reader Dave

-Did you ever notice ants don't get sick?

They're full of anti-bodies. 

-I can't find the U-Cut tree farm. I'm completely stumped. 

-Doctor, doctor, I'm terrified of squirrels! 

[Doctor] You must be nuts. 

—Jerry C., faithful reader 

-Dad: This book about how Newton discovered gravity is so good! I just can’t put it down. 

-What do you call a fish with four eyes?

Fiiiish!

-Why doesn’t a photon need a suitcase?

Because it’s traveling light. 

-Dad to kid (in a serious voice): A word of advice, kid. Never trust atoms. They make up everything. 

-How does a musician win a fight?

They call for Bach up.

-Kid: Why are you talking to yourself, Dad?? 

Dad: I needed an expert's advice. 

-Dad: I am giving away all my batteries...free of charge! 

-How do you know carrots are good for your eyesight?

Have you ever seen a bunny wearing glasses? 

Did you hear the one about the claustrophobic astronaut?

He just needed a little space. 

Body-Related Dad Jokes

silly dad and daughter
iStock

-How do you make a Kleenex dance? 

Put a little boogie in it! 

-“You have a hole in your sock, Jack.”

“No, I don’t.”

“Sure you do.  That’s how you got your foot in it.”

-"Wow! Chase, you sure got tall. I hope you don’t grow another foot.” 

“Why not Grand Dad?” 

“Because if you do, Mommy will need to buy you a third sneaker.”

-"Grand Dad, you look pretty sharp.  Where did you get your haircut?”

“On my head, Shane.”

-Dad tells kids: Here’s a cautionary tale. Don’t sing in the shower! 

-Kid: Dad, did you get a haircut?

Dad: No, I got them all cut. 

-Dad: I never thought I’d be the type to have a beard. But then it just grew on me. 

Kids: What?? Why not?

Dad: If you get soap in your mouth, it will turn into a soap opera. 

Kids: GROAN!!!!! 

-Kid: Dad, it hurts when I move my arm like this.

Dad: Then don’t move your arm like that. 

-Why do skeletons stay so calm?

Because nothing gets under their skin. 

-What do you call someone with no nose and no body?

Nobody knows. 

-Did you hear about the dad who chugged 8 sodas?

He burped 7-Up. 

-Kid to Dad: Why are there balloons in the bathroom?

Dad: I wanted to throw you a birthday potty. 

-What do you call a 12-inch nose?

A foot. 

-Dad, can you put my shoes on?

"Nope. They are too small for my feet."

 

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The 10 Best Spots for Hot Chocolate in LA

by Jennifer O'Brien

Indulge a little with the best hot chocolate spots in LA that will warm your heart (and soul) during this winter-y cold snap

There’s nothing more comforting on a cold and rainy day (and we’ve had our fair share of those lately) than a cozy cup of silky hot chocolate—guaranteed to brighten your spirits and warm your soul. But when you’re looking for the best hot chocolate near me, any old, run-of-the-mill cocoa won’t do! We’ve done some Nancy Drew-level sleuthing to uncover the best of the best hot chocolate in LA and are delivering each, delicious cup below. Ready for the best hot chocolate ever?

Best Hot Chocolate in LA

1. Café Demitasse

If you’re on the prowl for some of the dreamiest hot chocolate in LA, look no further than Café Demitasse in Santa Monica. Known for their Liquid Lavender Hot Chocolate with a huge, toasted marshmallow for dipping, this cozy coffee purveyor is likely to become a regular stop in your schedule—especially during chilly winter months. Enjoy a cup in shop or make it at home with their Lavender Hot Chocolate Kit that comes with 8 oz. of hot chocolate, 5 jumbo marshmallows, and a vial of lavender extract. There’s a reason they are rated as one of the best hot chocolate Santa Monica has to offer.

1149 Third St.
Santa Monica
Online: cafedemitasse.com

2. Lady Chocolatt

As one of the most impressive chocolate shops around, it’s no surprise Los Angeles’ Lady Chocolatt’s hot chocolate makes our list. This Brentwood standout handcrafts their chocolates in Belgium and has them flown to the shop, garnering a devout customer following. Though chocolate candy is the star here, Lady Chocolatt’s dark hot chocolate is far from an understudy—it’s truly some of the most decadent we’ve tasted and may just change your life—it’s that powerful.

12008 Wilshire Blvd.
Brentwood
Online: chocolatt.com

3. Chokolatta

While there is no longer a favorite hot chocolate Beverly Hills location (it recently closed), Chokolatta is still open for business in North Hollywood. With traditional Hot Chocolate and a Spicy Mayan flavor made from the finest cocoa beans available, you can’t go wrong. And if that’s not enough, the shop also sells a selection of chocolate covered strawberries, bon bons, and other delectable treats.

5264 Tujunga Ave.
North Hollywood
Online: chokolatta.biz

4. Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar

If regular hot chocolate isn’t doing it for you anymore, stop by the adorable Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar in Pasadena. Their extensive hot chocolate bar features a wide variety of assorted flavors to wet your whistle, including white chocolate, peppermint, salted caramel, campfire, P.B. cup, cupcake, and more. And if you prefer your hot chocolate frozen, they can handle that too.

1383 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena
Online: lavenderandhoneyespresso.com

5. ChocoVivo

ChocoVivo’s single-source bean to bar chocolate is a one-of-a-kind experience. Featuring one of the best hot chocolate menus we’ve seen, customization is the name of the game here. Customers choose the style of drink they want – whether it’s sipping chocolate, hot chocolate, iced hot chocolate, mocha hot chocolate, or frozen hot chocolate. Next, pick your base from various types of milk or filtered water. Lastly, choose the type of chocolate you desire – everything from 100% Cacao to Mayan Tradition and more. If that’s not enough, they have a fantastic selection of desserts as well.

12469 W. Washington Blvd.
Culver City
Online: chocovivo.com

6. La Monarca Bakery

La Monarca is always top of mind when Angelenos want to grab some mind-blowing Mexican pastries, but they also deliver the best Mexican hot chocolate Los Angeles has to offer. What starts with fair trade cacao ground in house, ends with a totally unique hot chocolate that’s both foamy and cinnamon-y with a kick. Or try the Champurrado—a delicious thick version of Mexican Hot Chocolate that pairs great with an order of conchas. You can also purchase containers of both mixes to go.

12 Locations across LA
Online: lamonarcabakery.com

7. Guelaguetza

Regarded by many critics as one of the best restaurants in the country, Guelaguetza isn’t just killing it at the food game, but the hot chocolate game as well. If you’re going grab a bite at this beloved dining star, don’t dare leave without trying their Mexican Hot Chocolate. Rich and creamy to the last sip, this is some of the tastiest artisanal Oaxacan chocolate you’ll ever have. They also have a hot chocolate gift set available for purchase so you can recreate the experience at home.

3014 W. Olympic Blvd.
Koreatown
Online: ilovemole.com

8. Churros Calientes

If you find yourself in West LA, Churros Caliente is well worth a stop. Their delicious Spanish style hot chocolate is even better with a side of the most mouthwatering churros this side of Madrid.

11521 Santa Monica Blvd.
West LA
Online: churroscalientes.com

9. Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Not only does the Hollywood Walk of Fame have Spiderman, Darth Vader, and a disheveled Elmo, but it also has some of the best hot chocolate in Tinseltown. Famed Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop features everything from Classic and Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa to Frozen Hot Cocoa and Decadent Drinking Chocolate. And if you happen to load up on some of those dreamy little chocolate squares during your visit, we’ll never tell.

6834 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood
Online: ghirardelli.com

10. Bardonna

While you won’t find it on their online menu, for those in-the-know, Bardonna on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica is one of the best places to get hot chocolate. Their one-of-a-kind hot chocolate bombs will delight both kids and adults alike—not to mention, a favorite spot to grab brunch (to balance out that sugar rush).

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Here’s Where to Find the Best Hot Chocolate in San Francisco & the Bay Area

by Andie Huber

Whether you like it rich or spicy, with marshmallows or whipped cream, here’s the best hot chocolate San Francisco has to offer

With the weather we’ve been having, nothing can warm up a rainy day or a snow day adventure than a cup of the best hot cocoa. In our food-obsessed Bay Area, it’s not surprising that people (kids and adults) take their hot chocolate as seriously as any other treat. The best cafes and hot chocolatiers use premium chocolates, freshly steamed milk, and gourmet toppings galore, taking a simple cup of cocoa to a whole new level. Whether you like it rich or spicy, locally sourced or European style, hot chocolate near me will cure a multitude of cold weather woes.

The Best Hot Chocolate in San Francisco

 

1. Christopher Elbow Artisanal Chocolates

This modern chocolatier in Hayes Valley is known for its eye-popping, gorgeous decorated chocolates, but if you haven’t tried their drinking chocolate, you’re only getting half the experience. With numerous flavors to choose from, there's something for everyone. The Classic and Cocoa Noir are the best bets for the kids and can be topped with housemade vanilla bean marshmallows. If your little one can’t finish their chocolate, the staff here recommend taking the remainder home and popping it in the refrigerator. It will set into a zero-effort chocolate pudding by dinner time. If you can’t get enough of the hot chocolate, Christopher Elbow also sells the mixes in canisters so you can get your fix at home.

401 Hayes St.
San Francisco
Online: elbowchocolates.com

2. Socola Chocolatier

Socola’s Asian-inspired chocolates have an enthusiastic following in the Bay Area, and fans cheered when sisters Wendy and Susan Lieu finally opened a jewel box of a shop in SOMA. You can find their whole line of gourmet chocolates, from guava to earl grey to Vietnamese coffee-filled truffles, along with coffee and a killer gourmet hot chocolate. The hot chocolate is made with their 72% dark ganache and freshly steamed milk and is topped with a homemade chocolate marshmallow. 

535 Folsom St.
San Francisco
Online: socolachocolates.com

3. Kokak Chocolates

We love this Castro spot for small batch single origin heirloom chocolates and hot chocolates too. "Kokak," meaning "ribbit" in the Filipino language, stems from Founder and Head Chocolatier Carol Gancia's deep Asian roots and passion for making adventurous flavors with the rare cacao variety, "Naciónal." Your hot cocoa options include classic, hot hot chocolate (spicy drinking chocolate that harkens back to the Mayans), single province hot chocolate, and cold chocolate milk if you want yours chilled. 

3901 18th St.
San Francisco
Online: kokakchocolates.com

4. XOX Truffles

French truffle maker and San Francisco chocolate hero Jean-Marc Gorce makes quite the show with his fancy hot chocolate at his chocolate shop and cafe on Columbus Ave., just up the hill from North Beach Library. There you’ll find him talking truffles in his tiny, sunshine-yellow and blue storefront. His hot chocolate recipe begins with a ladle full of liquid truffle which is then whisked with hot milk on the countertop before your eyes. Decide if you want whipped cream and claim a free truffle with every drink. Peanut butter truffles are a hit with the kids but there are tons of other flavors to choose from. If the kiddos can’t finish their cup make sure you sneak the final sip to get the luxurious, rich truffle sediment.

754 Columbus Ave.
San Francisco
Online: xoxtruffles.com

5. Dandelion Chocolate

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This chocolate factory serves up three types of hot chocolate (and bites to eat that look so perfect, glazed, and petite it’s almost a shame to eat them). Take your pick from a thick, rich European drinking chocolate, a Mission blend with Mexican spices, or the Dandelion classic, lighter, and sweeter than the rest. They all come with a micro cookie on the side. Dandelion also serves Frozen Hot Chocolate, a recipe invented by the pastry chef. When they're back open for in-person dining you can pull up a seat in the cafe or better yet, snag a stool at the sidebar and watch chocolate science taking place. You’ll see vats of melted chocolate being stirred and shaken.

740 Valencia
San Francisco

1 Ferry Building
San Francisco
Online: dandelionchocolate.com

6. Lush Gelato

Hot chocolate at an ice cream parlor? Definite yes. Lush is the first store licensed to make gelato from scratch in the city of San Francisco. They feature many local purveyors in their flavors, including Cowgirl Creamery, Frog Hollow Farm, and Bellweather Farms. The house hot chocolate is made with their chocolate gelato, is served piping hot, and is wonderfully rich and smooth—just like everything else at Lush. Your child may have trouble choosing between a hot chocolate and an ice cream cone!

520 Columbus Ave. 
San Francisco
Online: lushgelato.com

The Best Hot Cocoa in the East Bay

1. Chocolaterie

The gourmet chocolates in this store are so artistic they could be installed at SFMOMA. People regularly come in just to take pictures of the meticulously fashioned bon bons. Drinks are made with the same Solstice chocolate that's used to make the signature truffles. The classic hot chocolate blends 75% dark chocolate with sugar and a touch of salt and is then hand-mixed with steamed organic whole milk. There's also a Mexican blend with cinnamon and chili as well as an option to add lavender for a different taste altogether. All are rich, smooth, and silky. Afterward, snag a box of chocolates to continue the indulgence at home.

1964 University Ave.
Berkeley
Online: shopchocolaterie.com

2. The Chocolate Dragon Bittersweet Cafe & Bakery

This favorite chocolate shop offers lots of options when hot cocoa cravings hit. Their classic hot chocolate is made with traditional milk chocolate with a touch of dark, or you can go for a spicy version—an intense and spicy sipping chocolate. Salted caramel combines all those great flavors and chocolate chai melts dark chocolate into their unsweetened house-brewed chai. 

5427 College Ave.
Oakland
Online: chocolatedragoncafe.com

Where to Find the Best Hot Chocolate on the Peninsula & South Bay

1. Timothy Adams Chocolates

Timothy Adams offers the ultimate custom hot chocolate experience. Pick from nine different chocolates ranging from white to dark, from Valrhona to TCHO, combine it with milk, almond milk, or hazelnut milk, and have it served hot with homemade marshmallows or chilled over ice. Spice it up with a Mexican blend, or for parents, make it a mocha. Timothy Adams is a place for the serious chocoholic: the owners have been making chocolate for over twenty years and selling professionally for a decade. 

539 Bryant St.
Palo Alto
Online: timothyadamschocolates.com

2. Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Although this hot chocolate is only available on Saturdays and Sundays, it’s worth the wait, and the drive. The Ritz-Carlton at Half Moon Bay opens up its hot chocolate bar on its outdoor terrace at 1 p.m. on weekends. After you get your cup of dark or milk hot chocolate, embellish it with all the toppings your heart desires, from cinnamon whipped cream to caramel to chocolate crispies to mini marshmallows. Adults can add a shot of liquor as well if you need extra warming. Enjoy your hot chocolate in front of some of the most spectacular views in the Bay, then get a s’mores kit for your kids to enjoy making over the fire pits.

1 Miramontes Point Rd.
Half Moon Bay
Online: ritzcarlton.com

3. Cocola

Cocola has locations all over the peninsula and we particularly love getting a hot chocolate from their Santana Row location and finding a sunny spot outside to sit. Grab a chocolate eclair if you're feeling especially indulgent. 

Various Locations
Online: cocolabakery.com

The Best Hot Chocolate in Marin County

Equator Coffees & Teas

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Equator might be better known for its coffee but which kid can resist a hot chocolate that comes with frothy bear artwork? The dark chocolate they use comes from TCHO, a Bay Area chocolatier that works directly with cacao bean farmers and cooperatives to improve growing and drying methods. Baristas at Equator add sugar and water and mix the chocolate with soy, almond, or regular milk creating something that just hits the spot on your way to or from the beach or hiking the trails of Marin.

Various Locations
Online: equatorcoffees.com

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Which Grocery Stores Are Open on Christmas Day? More Than You’d Think

by Karly Wood

You can totally still find everything you need, even a last-minute gift card for that niece you left off your list, at these stores

Picture this: it’s Christmas Day and just realized you forgot to get apples for the pie. Or, maybe you don’t celebrate Christmas and you just need to buy some milk. So, what do you do? Luckily there are a decent amount of grocery stores open on Christmas that can save your day. So where should you head when your entire family is just minutes away and you need something ASAP? We’ve compiled a list of convenience and grocery stores open on Christmas Day.

But first—the bad news. While there are several convenience and grocery stores open on Christmas, some of your go-to grocers will be closed for the holiday. Grocery stores giving their employees the day off include Aldi, Costco, Hy-Vee, Giant, Kroger (hours vary by location so check your local store to confirm), Publix, Stop & Shop, Target, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Wegman’s and Whole Foods.

Convenience and Grocery stores open on Christmas Day

  • 7-Eleven: Most locations are open 24 hours
  • Acme: most stores open at 7 a.m.
  • Albertsons: Most locations are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Bravo Supermarkets: Most locations will be operating with special hours
  • Cumberland Farms: Open from 7 a.m. to midnight
  • Circle K: Most locations are open 24 hours
  • CVS: Most locations are open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Pavilions: Most are open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Safeway: Some Safeway locations will be open on Christmas, so check your local store for hours
  • Sheetz: Open 24 hours
  • Starbucks: Not a grocery store, but if you need more caffeine to survive the day you can make a pit stop as most locations will maintain regular hours
  • Walgreens: Stores that are regularly open 24/7 will stay open on Christmas, and most other locations should stay open with reduced hours
  • Wawa: Most locations are open 24 hours
  • QuickChek
  • QuickTrip: Most are open on Christmas Day

Your local stores’ actual holiday hours may vary depending on where you live, so be sure to check before you head out.

 

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