Oh, the weather outside is frightful, so ditch the fire and warm up with VB Chocolate Bar’s $4.50 hot chocolate.

Located in downtown Cottleville, VB’s atmosphere is unlike any of its surroundings. Twinkly lights, lounge chairs, and fire pits adorn the outside walkway to the entry, and a gust of espresso scents and coffeehouse music waft out the door to assure you that you are in the right place. On a Friday or Saturday night, seating is sure to be limited as the café welcomes a wide demographic ranging from middle school students to adults.

Different from most coffee shops that boast an entirely dark atmosphere with dark woods, paints, and leathers, VB has an earthy aesthetic filled with sages, plums, and natural wood tones, which heighten its relaxing yet lively environment.

The menu is extensive, with options from $12 artisanal flatbread to four different types of $2.75 black tea. One of the most popular items is VB’s European Style Drinking Chocolate. Available in white, milk, or dark, the drinking chocolate will satisfy any chocolate lover. The presentation of the hot chocolate almost inhibits you from touching it because the cloudy whipped cream and smooth, chocolate covered marshmallow in the middle make it too perfect to touch. One sip and a whipped cream mustache later, the hot chocolate will warm you from head to toe. Beware though, about halfway through, the drinking chocolate may become overwhelmingly rich to those who don’t enjoy an overabundance of sweetness.

VB is the optimal place for those looking to catch up with some friends who are back from college or for those wanting to enjoy the holidays with loved ones. So, if you have the means of splurging on handcrafted coffees, and some $2 to $7.50 desserts and pastries, give yourself the gift of sweetness this holiday season.