Cocoa Mountain Dornoch in Highland

We stopped in Dornoch during a day tour on our way to Dunrobin Castle. I’d do the same if I returned and you should too! Our guide had planned to take us to Cocoa Mountain, but we arrived before they opened, so we stopped by another cafe in town. As I am not a coffee drinker, I got a hot chocolate at said café, and it was delicious! My mom, my sister, and I wandered around Dornoch Cathedral’s cemetery and grounds, sipping our hot chocolate happily and exclaiming how delicious it was. Some locals heard us and exclaimed, “the best hot chocolate in town is from Cocoa Mountain.” Well, that determined that I must try it, so I wandered on over and they did appear to be open! I walked on in and waited as they helped a customer in front of me. Once they’d finished, they let me know they actually weren’t yet open (!!! not sure who that person was), but after much teasing, happily took my order. I got hot chocolate for myself, my mom, and sister, along with a box of every flavor of chocolate they had available. They have some great deals where you can do a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate with 4 chocolates, but I couldn’t settle on that few! They packaged it all up in a cute box with helpful flavor key, and I was on my way. This hot chocolate was just as delicious as the previous hot chocolate we had, and I don’t think any of us could choose a favorite as they were yummy in quite different ways. It was thick and luscious, not too sweet, but never bitter, and just incredible. I don’t know how we all drank two hot chocolates in a row, but we couldn’t bear not to finish it! The chocolates were also all wonderful. My favorites were the unusual flavors: Orange Geranium and Raisin & Toasted Almond. Additional offerings include baked goods like cookies and brownies, plus bars of chocolate, chocolate drops, chocolate shards, etc. The interior was quite large with a good amount of seating as well as picnic tables outside. Prices were very reasonable and a steal for exemplary treats. I don’t think they had a parking lot, but there was parking along the street, and I believe there were some lots in a different section of town. It’s a cute little area, so very walkable, and at least on our visit, not too busy. I will forever be grateful to the two nice women working that day who probably secretly rolled their eyes at the American wandering into their store before opening time, but nicely took my order anyways. I hope to return someday!

Literally *the best* hot chocolate I’ve had. The white chocolate and toffee croissant was amazing too and the selection of chocolates great - definitely something for everyone. Busy when we arrived yet made to feel very welcome. Very reasonably priced too. Highly recommend.

Excellent coffee and the chocolates were amazing

Incredible hot chocolate, great coffee and delicious chocolates. Not to mention the chocolate croissants!!

My partner wanted to treat me and splurged out extra cash so I could get the chocolates I wanted in a bespoke box - an extra £10 taking the grand total to £80, a fair but significant sum. We’ve visited the Balnakiel cafe on a few occasions and have always enjoyed this pilgrimage as part of our visits a bit further north. The quality of the chocolates are top notch and we’ve enjoyed exploring the range of interesting and delicious flavours on offer - something still couldn’t deny them. However, you certainly hope to get what you pay for when you’re paying extra but this was not the case, I got a lot of what I asked for but not all of it or some not in the quantities I asked. I appreciate some things might not be available or low stock etc. but given I’d especially paid for the bespoke box thought might have been made aware, or been consulted to ask for alternatives rather than have it decided for me or at the very very least a little apologetic explanatory note included with my order. Got nothing except my half bespoke order. My partner tried contacting them twice (only way we could see was by email) and they never ever responded - non-existent customer service. I’d advise against paying extra for bespoke mail order. Either go in person or just pay for one of the collections.

Just needs that spark back again it's like they have ran out of smiles when serving and it's you that has to put effort in ! though the hot chocolate is lovely not as amazing as the one had in Durness once I remember chocolate was all melted around outside of mugs and warmer ! hope that spark returns again

Bit of a disappointment tbh, felt busy and slightly chaotic with not a lot of ambiance. Asked for hot chocolate with oat milk and got told I had to have the vegan chocolate, even though I explained I am not vegan - it’s just a preference on the milk added to chocolate mix (which I understand does have dairy in!) apparently this isn’t possible and was told something about the owners don’t let them? All felt odd.

ordered the hot chocolate chaser and once the initial drizzle of chocolate was gone the hot chocolate itself was pretty awful - tasted a bit like dirty water if i’m honest - had to leave 3/4 of the cup - had a blondie this was tasteless and dry, however the chocolates were nice from the selection we had.

Very friendly and helpful. Even suggesting parking spots. Hot chocolate was delicious and we had a brownie ( yum) and a toffee croissant which was amazing. Can't fault them.

The hot chocolate is undoubtedly very nice but didn't blow my mind. We had some of their small chocolates which were also nice but not a must-have. Staff very friendly; waited around 10 mins for the drinks but it was a little busy at the time. It's also a great area to wander around and check out the shops

If you’re a hot chocolate lover, this place is a dream! The hot chocolate here is the creamiest, richest, and most chocolatey I’ve had in ages. Every sip is indulgent, with a velvety smooth texture and a deep, decadent chocolate flavor that’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, just pure chocolate bliss. It’s the kind of drink that warms your soul and leaves you craving more. Highly recommended for anyone looking for the ultimate hot chocolate experience!

Very indulgent hot chocolate, thick and creamy. Highly recommend this stop in Dornoch! We did try another one in Balkeneil which sadly didn't match up to this!

We made a specific stop to try the ‘best hot chocolate’ as my husband is well versed with his sweet tooth! Having visited the falls of shin that morning where we received exceptional service and yummy hot chocolate we came away from Cocoa Mountain disappointed, the hot chocolate looked great, but was average, the service was similar and the venue felt stark.

Fantastic hot chocolate..absolutely delicious. Nice selection of cakes too.

Popped in to buy some artisan chocolates. They had a nice selection reasonably priced. Flavours were a little odd but managed to choose some my mum would like. Boxed up and popped in a bag along with a few separate ones for me. The young man behind the counter was polite and served me quickly. There was one other person in the shop and it seemed very quiet. The chocolates came in a little ballotin box which I popped in a parcel with some other gifts and posted to my mum for her birthday. It wasn't until I got home I realised that there was a small leaflet with the flavours of the chocolates left in the bag. Shame it hadn't of fitted into the box. I shall have to email her a picture now so she can see what she's eating. Overall a nice visit.

Heartbreaking disappointment. We have visited on previous holidays and LOVED the products here and at the other location but could not have been more disappointed on this occasion. Saved until the last day of our holidays to be served lukewarm drinks that tasted like watered down hot chocolate by 2 staff members who spent half the time we were waiting deciding if £5 was a big enough bet to eat the used coffee grinds. No marshmallows on 2 drinks and served in a takeaway cup as 30 mins from closing surrounded by dirty tables. £16 for 'the best' hot chocolate. I could have cried, and my 2 children nearly did! Really hope this was just a bad day.

It is the best hot chocolate I've ever tasted, in a lovely little village

Bloody good coffee! Wonderful and friendly staff

Cold coffee had to put it back. Cookie was very disappointing. Won't be rushing back thatd for sure.

The best hot chocolate I have ever had

Best hot chocolate we've ever had! Wee chocolates that came with it were great too. Dog friendly 🐾

Nice modern cafe, good choice of coffee, organic tea, and a fabulous choice of luxury chocolates. Calm atmosphere, and dog friendly.

Outstanding hot chocolate excellent service what more fo you need

Oh dear, I really wanted to give a good review, but.... Pluses: it was clean, the seats were comfy, the loos were very clean and in good order, the service was good. Sadly - we had a latte with an extra shot for my partner, and I had a mountain mocha: my partner described his as underwhelming " I don't know what it would have been like without the 2nd shot" and my the mountain mocha was insipid, didn't taste of much...... maybe we're spoilt as we buy hotel chocolat and locally have an award winning chocolatier. Couldn't bring myself to buy any chocolates, the selection looked okay but nothing special for the price. So sorry.

What fun! We were first there in the afternoon and there was already a long line, so we made another attempt at 10 a.m. and yes, it was almost immediately our turn! Sooo delicious, the chocolate is dripping off the mug! Probably enough sugars for a whole week, but how tasty! 😀

Popped in for hot chocolates and to buy chocs to take home. Cocoa mountain claims to serve the finest hot chocolate, well we totally agree. It was truly awesome, a real treat. They also serve a range of coffees, cakes, etc, but trust me, try the hot chocolate, you'll thank me for it.

I had to remortgage my house for this hot chocolate but I have waited my whole life to climb the Cocoa Mountain. The view from the top was sensationally creamy and satisfying. The best. And now I am skint.

Amazing staff, beautiful coffee x

Lovely hot choc and chocs. If you buy drinks then you get money off the individual pick and close chocolates! Recommended

Server got my order wrong (one drink less from an order of five). She realised at the end, and said don't worry you will get one on the house. After waiting an age for the order it was just the four drinks.. no free one. I didn't want to queue again for 20 minutes so I just took the four. I gave the rest to my family; I tasted my wife's hot chocolate. It was ok but you really could make better at home. Felt very over priced for something that was mediocre.

It's alright. Bit expensive for what you get.

We as a family was so looking forward to tasting this amazing Hot Chocolate, and oh my how disappointed we all were. The first sip was light and creamy but as you progressed it became bitter and sickly till you ended up with a muddy sludgy consistency that was impossible to consume. And to think we paid £28 for four drinks and two cakes. It's a shame as we was really looking forward to it.

Had a cup of hot chocolate really enjoyed it would recommend

Super delicious drinking chocolate! My wife is literally melting. Plus a small selection of chocolates... you can't melt more ;-) definitely visit and snack. An enjoyable stop on a tour of Scotland!

Best hot choclate we have ever had!

Absolutely amazing hot chocolate! 😋 Fast service, quiet place, friendly staff and lots of options to choose from. Would be nice to know the secrets of making hot chocolate so delicious. If you are passing by I definitely recommend visiting this place.

Really lovely place to go for a cuppa, excellent quality coffee, excellent customer service, very well thought out interior, clean, dogs allowed and had a lovely chat with one and it's owners! Thanks kindly, we'll be back next time going a walk on the gem of a beach!

Cor delicious! Great service and gorgeous hot chocolate and mocha. Dog friendly. Chocolates we took with us to scoff later equally delicious

Awesome praline chocolates and coffee

Had to stop here after hearing so much about it and were not dissapointed ,the most luxurious hot chocolates i have had and my wife was extremely happy with getting her chocolate hit.

We got ourselves tea, chocolates, and chocolate croissants, and ate them at the nearby beach - absolutely delicious and the staff were lovely.

A very enjoyable cup of hot chocolate, definitely worth a stop.

Amazing hot chocolate and had raspberry and white chocolate brownie. Bought my Dad a tin of the best hot chocolate as a gift. Well worth the visit

A different style of cafe, mainly sells chocolate items like bsge of chocolate shards and mini chocolates. No cake options but 2 cookie types on offer. Vegan milk options for tea available. Had sofas to sit on as well as tables

The quality is excellent, the prices OK however we felt let down when we bought a can of drinking chocolate which had a limited shelf life left. We didn't notice until we got home and wrote to the but never got a response. It wasn't cheap so we expected more in terms of service and adherence to sell by dates.

The most amazing hot chocolate ever! Nothing more need be said.

Staff are very friendly and helpful something you do not see much of these days, we had a cups of the hot chocolate and it lived up to its reputation. Highly recommended.

They serve here the most Unbelievable Hot chocolate. By a country mile & then some. 👍🏻 Highly recommend

Lovely cafe in the center of Dornoch. The hot chocolate was so delicious. I would have taken another one but well, my hips said no ;). Friendly service and very tasteful interior made my stay a pleasant experience.

Been looking forward to sampling the best hot chocolate in the world for ages after friends told us about it. We wasn't disappointed when we visited it is delious. And the chocolates are delious to

Well, it's a bold claim, "The best hot chocolate" But wow, it really is the best one I've ever tasted, ever!!!! So indulgent but so worth the calories 😋

Nice cup of coffee with the hot chocolate extremely chocolate ! Friendly staff

Hot chocolate with oat milk as a treat.

Amazing hot chocolate & croissant and lovely staff, thank you

ive just finished the nc500 and im going back and reviewing all of my stops from along the way!!! cocoa mountain, you guys were superb!!!! absolutely amazing chocolates and your staff were so incredibly welcoming!!!!! you were my first stop i made..... by far the best as well.... just like ur hot choc!!! I WILL BE BaCK!!!

Excellent hot chocolate, with different types of chocolate. Friendly staff.

The hot chocolate was absolutely gorgeous. Then I had the tough decision of which 4,chocolates to have. These were gorgeous too.

They had vegan croissants and hot chocolate!!! Amazing!

Relaxed atmosphere, friendly service. You feel welcome and can enjoy. very good cappucino and delicious pastries. Thank you.

Friendly staff and delicious hot chocolate, just what’s needed after a windy walk along Dornoch’s lovely beach. Clean, modern cafe.

Amazing!!! Super friendly, the best hot chocolate EVER!!

Had to come here as the guide book extolled it's virtues! The book didn't lie !

Best Chocolate ever! Delicious cakes

Oh my word ... this is *the* place for hot chocolate!! A must visit if you're in Dornoch!!

Amazing chocolate not to be missed

One of best drinks had. A large mocha chaser = big mug with 4 chocolates. Very highly recommend.

Came to Cocoa Mountain a few years ago now and loved the experience. Travelling around with my wife again this year and it’s gotten even better! Toilets are lovely and clean - the staff were incredibly helpful and friendly and so far have been the nicest servers to chat too on our trip so far. Thanks to Liam and Layla for accommodating us.

Dog friendly spacious cafe with truly excellent hot chocolate and coffee. Also the specialist chocolates are very very good. £5.95 gets you a regular hot drink and your choice of 4 chocolates. Delicious. Gluten free too!!

Lovely welcome. Quick service. Lovely hot chocolate and chocolates to die for. Nice and clean with good facilities. A chocolate heaven.

The member of staff who served us was very friendly and helpful. The hot chocolates were very nice.

Lovely hot chocolate and mocha but is very expensive.

Best birthday treat you could have if you like chocolate. Staff were very friendly and the croissants, chocolates and hot chocolate was delicious.

Absolutely amazing place, so friendly and welcoming. The hot chocolate is the best ever tasted. You can even take your dog in. This place is a must if you are visiting Dornoch.

Lovely hot chocolate with chocies on the side, plus a delicious gluten-free raspberry blondie. The lady serving me was totally understood my coeliac condition.

Called in at 4.10pm to buy a hot chocolate and was snapped at by the cafe assistant that I could not use the toilet because they were being cleaned..I then decided to walk straight out the front door without buying any drink or bars of chocolate..next time if you are closing at 4.30 pm please clean your toilets after that time when closed ..not in the customer time when they need to use the toilets

The best hot Chocolate I’ve ever tried in my life! Great selection of cakes and chocolates to take home as a wee souvenir. Great spot for a treat while visiting Dornoch

The best hot chocolate I’ve ever had, EVER! It was like drinking molten chocolate. 😋. Dog friendly and loads of comfortable seats.

Best hot chocolate I’ve ever had! Oh my days. Cool tracks of. The Red Hot chilli peppers playing in the background. What’s not to like.

Took a short day trip to Dornoch on a cold and blustery day and stopped for a warming cuppa and sweet treat at Cocoa Mountain. It did not disappoint! I had a lovely latte, my husband a cuppa and we had a couple of cakes. Service with a smile, nice atmosphere the cakes were delicious. Highly recommended and I would definitely come back here again.

Just had coffee. No hot food available

Coffee and hot chocolate always great

Hot chocolate was spectacular! Full of flavour but not sickly sweet. Served with chocolate dripping down sides of cup 🤪

Best hot chocolate you can get in solar system. Always consistent, high quality and unforgettable taste. Doesn't matter if you are at Dornoch or Durness.

Lovely relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff and amazing food. Would highly recommend. Stayed for ages and didn't feel rushed Excellent roomy disabled toilets.

Staff very friendly and the hot chocolate is to die for. Definitely worth dropping by!! Also do a great vegan selection

Good cup of coffee and good service 👌 👍

Great hot chocolate worth a visit

DON’T BUY ONLINE I ordered chocolates on the 12th of December for Christmas. They never arrived. Despite many emails and opportunities to put this right Cocoa Mountain have failed to do so and I still await my refund almost a month after asking for one and almost two months after my original purchase. Terrible service. They clearly don’t care about their customers. I won’t be buying from them or visiting them again. Go elsewhere for your chocolates!

Good chocolate, and the food was good. Wery bad acoustics and nothing cosy. Sorry but that was not good for the experience. Please fix the acoustics and hey you can do it a litle more cosy.

Best hot chocolate ever and the chocolate are just lush.

Majorly overrated. Went for the first time last year really enjoyed it but 2 times I've been since I have been very disappointed from tasteless coffee to stale cake they have it all.

This cozy cafe crafts exceptional hot chocolate, a velvety indulgence that captivates with rich flavor. A delightful retreat for chocolate enthusiasts seeking warmth and comfort.

hot chocolate is bitter, only the top is nice due to the sauce. tea is good but my friend does it disgustingly, she adds about 3/4 milks and 3 sugars but nice display. all together, ok.

The best hot chocolate drink I’ve ever had. Really indulgent but not sickly sweet somehow. Lovely on a freezing cold day by a member who seems to really enjoy her job.

Shopkeeper up the road as I leave …”I’m sorry we don’t usually allow dogs” Me … I’m sorry but you should have a sign saying so” Shopkeeper (patronisingly) “We do” I go outside and look at the door… no sign at all!! I walk along to CocoaMountain which has a sign which says “Dogs welcome” Delightful girl assistant gives my dog a biscuit and myself an excellent cappuccino This coffee shop is warm, friendly and reasonably priced… It’s a lovely coffee shop and deserves to flourish.

Had a lovely hot chocolate and a very nice cookie. There was a large selection of delicious looking chocolates and I was very pleased to see that they also sell their products via the internet.

Hot Chocolate out of this world 🌎....

It was a great experience. The hot chocolate was very filling and delicious as were the cakes. Thank you

Good hot chocolates for a cold day. Good selection of other hot drinks but the star of the show will always be the classic hot chocolates for a standard price. However service was quite slow and was standing waiting to be served for a while without being acknowledged, would have expected more attentive staff for a place like this and it's a shame considering how good the hot chocolate was.

Very good coffee (strong and fine). The cakes and the sweets are also very good. Dogs are welcome and the costumes are very friendly.