Cold weather indulgence

When the temperature finally begins to drop around us, our craving for ice cream is quickly replaced by the urge to find just the right hot drink to warm our souls during the typically short winter season. Forget about those watery concoctions mixed with powder packets you’ve found elsewhere. Served in a steamy glass mug, the oversized hot chocolate ($3.75 regular/$4.05 large) at downtown favorite Strands Café is a sweet way to beat the cold.

The perfect, not-overly-rich chocolate taste is achieved with warm milk, accented by a homemade vanilla bean syrup and fresh cocoa powder. Finally, it’s capped with a mountain of smooth, freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa (by request). To amplify your indulgence, pair the mug of sweet goodness with one of the many edible treasures made in-house, including flaky croissants, sweet pastries, unbelievable handmade chocolate truffles or fresh berry tarts. Treat yourself with a visit to this amazing café and coffee shop, and you won’t be disappointed this winter.

226 Laurel St. • 344-5346 • strandscafe.com