The Grounds of Alexandria - Part 2

I visited the Grounds of Alexandria yet again this weekend, and boy has it changed! 2016 is certainly the year of drinks; from freakshakes to fruit-infused water, everyone is hopping on the hype train to destination hydration. Alexandria is no different. This month saw the long-awaited opening of the new Soda Bar, in the centre of the Grounds, serving up scrumptious smoothies, juices, and (you guessed it) some pretty unique sodas. 

Even if you steer clear of buying drinks, the Grounds Cafe offers free self-service water that is subtly infused with watermelon, cucumber, and fresh mint leaves. While the water looks completely ordinary, it does have an undeniably fruity and refreshing flavour that really sets it apart. 

However, the real queen of drinks at the Grounds of Alexandria this weekend was not the fruity water or sparkly soda, but something else altogether. Believe it or not, the Grounds have added to their impressive repertoire a very surprising take on an old classic: the hot chocolate! We got a mug to share, accompanied with some divine desserts.

From left to right: chocolate brownie, salted caramel slice, and mango mascarpone tart

Is there anything more comforting than a mug of steaming hot chocolate in the winter? The Grounds of Alexandria does it in style, heating their chocolate in huge pots that are suspended over an open fire. As you wait in line to be served, you can warm your hands over the glowing charcoal, and watch the miracle of your hot chocolate being created. The Instagram-ready mugs are topped with whipped cream, a blowtorched marshmallow, and extra shards of fine dark chocolate. Not only are they pleasing to the eye; they also pack quite the punch.

As somewhat of a hot chocolate connoisseur, I can attest that this is without a doubt one of the best hot chocolates I've ever had. The taste is creamy, dark, and complex, with a hint of spice that warms you from within. From what I could make out through my super-discreet detective skills, the secret recipe involves the use of aniseed, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Who knew? I'm certainly inspired to try making it myself at home, if only it is half as good as theirs.

I've never seen hot chocolate quite like this!