The dark side of Chocolate

Solonos 49, Athina 106 72, Greece
$$$ Chocolate cafe
(122 Reviews)

Located in the heart of Athens, The Dark Side of Chocolate is not just another café; it's a sweet escape for chocolate lovers and a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Found at Solonos 49, this charming chocolate café invites you into its cozy embrace, promising an unparalleled experience for those with a penchant for the finer things in life, particularly chocolate.

This delightful café is a haven for those seeking warmth and comfort, especially during the colder months. Imagine stepping inside, where the air is filled with rich chocolate aromas, and sultry jazz melodies play softly in the background. The ambiance here is as inviting as a warm hug, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a bustling day exploring the vibrant streets of Kolonaki.

The Dark Side of Chocolate offers a menu that celebrates high-quality chocolate in a variety of forms. While the menu may be in Greek, the friendly and knowledgeable staff are more than happy to guide you through their delectable options. From exquisite hot chocolates featuring a staggering range of cocoa percentages to gourmet pralines that are exquisite in taste and presentation, there's something to satisfy every chocolate craving.

One of the standout sensations is their 70% dark milk chocolate hot chocolate, hailed by customers as the best they've ever tasted. Imagine sipping on a cup of creamy richness that dances on your palate, an experience beyond mere words. As Spence, an enthusiastic customer, put it, “Everything from 32% to 100% cocoa options” means you can explore a spectrum of flavors that cater to both the adventurous and the classic chocolate lover.

Adding to the café's charm, the outdoor and indoor seating options provide a perfect atmosphere for indulging in one of their sweet creations, whether you’re alone or with friends. Don't forget to ask about their pralines; a delightful treat perfect for gifts or a sweet personal indulgence. As highlighted by Hannah, the staff is exceptionally kind and willing to help you find the perfect confection.

As you savor each sip and bite, you’ll understand why Thomas K, a regular since his university days, recommends this café as "the best place for chocolate right in the heart of Athens." Whether you’re stopping by after a visit to nearby attractions like the Panepistimio metro station or simply looking to treat yourself, The Dark Side of Chocolate promises a memorable experience on your culinary journey through Athens.

Don’t miss out on this cozy chocolate haven that truly captures the essence of indulgence. Visit The Dark Side of Chocolate where each cup is a celebration of quality, flavor, and the love of chocolate.

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Same-day delivery
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Planning
Quick visit
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Friday

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

122 Reviews
Thomas K

10 Oct 2025

The best place for chocolate right in the heart of Athens, a personal fav since I was studying in the university nearby! You can easily reach it from Panepistimio metro station. The menu is in Greek only but the staff will be more than willing to guide you through it! Best hot chocolates in Athens in an original tiny bar dedicated to it, with great music taste as well! Don’t miss it!

Hila Balas Davidof

03 Sep 2025

Nestled in the charming streets of Kolonaki, We stumbled upon a hidden gem that warmed both my heart and my taste buds. This delightful family-owned chocolate haven is a treasure for anyone seeking a cozy place to relax after a long day or when it's cold outside. From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in a welcoming atmosphere that felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. The star of the show, of course, was the hot chocolate itself. Served in handcrafted red mugs. What truly set this place apart, however, was the warmth and hospitality of the man that runs it. Aristotelis seem to have a genuine passion the chocolate and all he offers in his lovely place. Make sure you enter his chocolate kingdom when you're in the area.

Spence

02 Sep 2025

A hot chocolate bar (w coffee too) with a lovely menu (it’s in Greek, but staff speaks English well and can talk you through the options). Everything from 32-100% cocoa options. Sultry jazz plays as you melt into a delicious cup of joy. We will return to try EVERYTHING on this menu!! Indoor & outdoor seating with a clean bathroom. There is a step to get inside.

Ghialy Yap

19 Aug 2025

This cafe makes the best 70% dark milk chocolate. The hot chocolate is beyond any description I can write. The sensation of having the drink is the best in all my trip so far.

Hannah

12 Aug 2025

A very sweet little café with a wonderful and helpful lady! I visited because I wanted to buy pralines as a gift. When I first stopped by, the pralines weren’t available yet (they are usually ready around 3–4 PM), so I came back later to pick them up. I was kindly offered a tasting, as they couldn’t say exactly what fillings were inside. Each praline was beautifully crafted and tasted very nice — with some surprising flavors like rosemary and basil. I chose the medium-sized box for €15, which made a lovely gift. Although the presentation and service were truly charming, I personally wouldn’t purchase the pralines again. I didn’t have anything to drink during my visit, but there are about four tables where you can sit and enjoy a very calm and peaceful atmosphere.

Thomas Palma

12 Aug 2025

Cute shop with a nice cozy atmosphere. There is a whole menu of different hot chocolates, from white and milk hot chocolates to different types of dark hot chocolates. There are different additions that can be added as well like vanilla or coffee. The owner was very helpful and explained the menu to us.

Ziv Lin

03 Jul 2025

Delicious chocolate and coffee! Really friendly service. We're glad we followed the Lonely Planet Tipp to come here. I tried "Painted Black" as a cold drink which was absolutely delicious, even for my friend who normally doesn't like dark chocolate.

George Chalhoub

28 Jun 2025

A hidden gem in the heart of Kolonaki where you can taste a high quality hot chocolate and enjoy a creative praline with tasteful flavors : jasmine, basil, cardamom, black tea, lime zest… using honey and olive oil but also art by applying a thin decorative sheet to decorate every taste.

Join the The dark side of Chocolate Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.