It’s not exactly hot chocolate season in Bristol right now. But, then again, it’s the middle of July and it’s non-stop rain, so maybe it is? Serving over 20 different chocolate flavours – from 28% White to 100% Extra Dark – Knoops is opening its first Bristol location this Friday (August 12).
Known for its uniquely customisable menu, Knoops is opening off the Clifton Triangle, near the university campus on Queens Road. Visitors will be able to craft their ideal iced chocolates, milkshakes and hot chocolates down to the chocolate %s and any additions. This makes the chocolate boutique’s 20th UK store – which already boasts a site in Bath.
“Bristol’s thriving food and drink scene makes it the ideal location for our milestone 20th Knoops,” says CEO William Gordon-Harris. “In the heart of the university campus, the store is the perfect place to grab a drink to refuel during a study break, and for visitors to pick up a drink to enjoy the city centre’s vibrant culture with a Knoops in hand.”
How does Knoops work?
To make your bespoke hot chocolate, there are 20 different types to choose from – from a sweet 28% White up to the deep and rich 100% Extra Dark from the Philippines. In between, there’s a 39% Single Origin from Ecuador with notes of nougat, vanilla and almonds and a 73% Single Origin from the Philippines with notes of citrus, honey and caramel, amongst many others.
On top of this, there are nine different dairy and plant-based milks, and any hot chocolates and iced chocolates using 54% chocolate or above can be made vegan. Plus, there are over 20 extras to add, like sea salt, orange zest, chilli and cinnamon. And why not blend your drink with ice cream and make a thick milkshake?
You can even top your creation off with the addition of a handmade Knoops marshmallow. Bristol locals can also enjoy the brand-new Cocoa-Fruit Frappé, which unlike chocolate isn’t made from cocoa beans, but from the fruit pulp that surrounds them. With delicious notes of lychee and pear, the Cocoa-Fruit Frappé is 100% vegan.
Founder of the brand, Jens Knoop, adds: “We’re very excited to expand our presence in the South West, having opened in Bath last summer. As our journey continues, it’s exciting to serve both new and existing customers across the country their daily treat in a cup.”