Cacao versus Hot Chocolate

What's the Difference and Which One Should You Choose?

If you're having a day where you don't fancy coffee (we all get them!) then we believe in giving you options so you can enjoy the perfect 'chocolate' cup that suits your mood and needs. That’s why our coffee Land Rover serves both ceremonial grade cacao and ‘traditional’ hot chocolate.

But what’s the difference between the two, and why might you choose one over the other?

The Magic of Ceremonial Grade Cacao

Ceremonial grade cacao is chocolate in its purest form. Minimally processed and free from additives, it’s packed with antioxidants, magnesium, and nutrients that promote well-being. Often called a “superfood,” cacao has been celebrated for centuries for its ability to boost mood, increase focus, and provide sustained energy.

We pair our Common Roots cacao with either a Cornish farmed whole-milk from Roddas or with creamy British grown oat milk from our friends at Unordinary as a vegan-friendly option, offering a rich, earthy drink that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent.

Last season Alison's favourite take on this was an Iced Honey Cacao - 12oz cup, filled with ice and whole milk (or oat if you prefer) and cacao and organic honey blended & poured over the top.

With its natural, unsweetened flavour and health benefits, cacao is perfect if you're seeking a mindful, nutrient-dense beverage.

The Comfort of Hot Chocolate

Our creamy organic hot chocolate, on the other hand, is that ultimate cosy classic. Made with cocoa powder, milk, and teeny tiny bit of added sugar, it’s designed to be a sweet, indulgent treat.

It’s the drink that let's be honest, evokes childhood memories of cold winter days and feels like a warm hug in a cup if you want us to go all cliché on you!

For our hot chocolate we use a Dominican Republic hot chocolate sourced from our coffee producers at Origin, where it is created with the same care as our cacao, ensuring a velvety, comforting drink that satisfies that slightly sweeter tooth.

Why We Offer Both

So Cacao vs. Hot Chocolate! We’re all about well-being and balance. That’s why we offer both ceremonial grade cacao from Common Roots (our new cacao supplier for the 2026 season) and traditional hot chocolate - because we know that some days call for nourishing cacao that calls to your soul, and others simply call for a decadent chocolate treat.

Our ceremonial cacao aligns with our focus on health and sustainability. It’s pure, packed with benefits, and made to nourish your body and soul. But we also understand the joy and comfort that comes from a cup of classic hot chocolate, especially when you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic.

We also know that many off our vegan customers like a pure cacao, no dairy, with our Unordinary Oat Milk, for a hit of dark chocolate with oat!

Which One Will You Choose?

• Choose cacao if you’re looking for a drink that’s packed with nutrients, promotes well-being, and feels like a mindful ritual.

• Choose hot chocolate if you’re in the mood for indulgence, comfort, and a sweet escape.

We like cacao for a start-the-day pick-me-up - and hot chocolate for an evening treat.

Experience Both with us at Wavi Coffee

Every summer there is plenty of chances to stop by the Land Rover at events across the Southwest of the UK and try them both. Sign up to our newsletter to find out where we are this season!