Review: Knoops arrives in Oxford!

Hot chocolate lovers of Oxford – you’re in for a treat and a half.

Knoops, the cult favourite hot chocolate shop founded by Jens Knoop, has arrived on Turl Street. I implore anyone reading this who likes chocolate to get down there asap (and I mean, who doesn’t like chocolate?)

I was lucky enough to be invited to Knoops Oxford on the opening weekend to meet Jens (the founder.) The shop had a huge queue outside and while we waited Jens asked me what my hot chocolate ‘style’ is.
As someone who isn’t into coffee (an Italian who doesn’t like coffee? I know, I know) it was incredible to see that hot chocolate can be just as complex, varied and exciting as coffee. There are over 20 different types on the menu using cocoa from all over the world (apparently that isn’t even all of them) so you’re really are spoilt for choice.

Dark, milk, white, ruby, vegan, iced – you name it, they’ve got it.

I told Jens I don’t like my hot chocolate too sweet or too bitter. He then ordered for me – the 66% single origin, Mexico. It was heaven, not too sweet, not too bitter and with a slightly woody tone with some underlying gingerbread notes. I realise this sounds like I’m talking about a fancy wine, but that’s genuinely what it’s like in the shop. The variety is incredible and each drink has its own unique blend and flavour.

Jens chatted to everyone who came into the shop, asking what they had ordered and revealing how Knoops came about. Knoops started with its first shop 9 years ago in Rye, before opening 4 shops in London, one in Brighton and now one in Oxford.

Jens’s passion for chocolate shines through and you can tell the staff love their job. Staff of Knoops receive thorough training (chocolate training – can you IMAGINE?) and there are regular staff meet-ups and Q&A sessions so they can all stay on top of their chocolate game and feel super confident at work. This means they can answer all your hot chocolate questions and are on hand to recommend a drink based on your taste if you just can’t choose.

I actually went back the next day (no self-control and I’m fine with it) and tried the 64% Peru and the 72% Peru – both amazing and proved how every option is completely unique. I recommend branching out and going for something different, you definitely won’t regret it.

Knoops also serve standard tea and coffee, pastries (from local bakeries), milkshakes and iced drinks so there really is something for everyone. The chocolate drinks start at £3 and go up to about £6, which may seem pricey but this isn’t your run of the mill just add water to some chocolate powder type hot chocolate, this is the real deal and absolutely worth it.

Vegans – there’s a huge choice of non-dairy milk and you’re not charged extra for it. There’s even vegan whipped cream which I was very impressed by.