Italian Bear Chocolate - Fitzrovia — Restaurant in London

We visited this store in Feb. It was a weekend getaway trip to London and we thought we would try this famous hot chocolate. As per the sign outside the store we waited to be seated or attended to. The weather was wet and really cold and we had been waiting a good 10-15 mins before we decided we would walk into the store. We wanted to get small hot chocolates to take away anyway. Upon entering, we saw how small the place was. It was very crammed especially near the entrance with seats lining up everywhere. I get trying to make the most of your space but this felt literally back to back. To the point the moment we entered a family seated nearest to the entrance got up and was about to head to the door. Before we could move out the way the very moody gentleman made a comment about waiting to enter before someone’s left (whatever 🙄). We carried on to the counter where, I kid you not, the couple sat near the counter were seated so close I darent take a step back even though the counter was against my chest. The young girl behind the counter was busy with something whilst we looked at the menu waiting for her to acknowledge us, again waiting a good few mins (she deffo didn’t miss that we were there) before she looked up and if looks could speak hers would have said “why are you at the counter”. She looked and then looked around as if we were lost. I was a little annoyed at that point and told her straight that we had been waiting outside and just wanted hot chocolate to take away, she took our order and gave us our drinks. It took less than 5 mins, The couple behind me had moved their tables further away themselves by then. Overall, the hot Chocolate was different, not bad and definitely not over sweet. But the environment and overall experience ruined it, as much as I wanted to try the cake, I don’t think I’ll come back from out of town for an...

I placed an order via the Italian Bear Chocolate website on 4 Oct for delivery to my workplace, located close to the Fitzrovia branch. I paid £50. Despite choosing a date and time in the future, upon submitting the order, I received confirmation that the delivery would be made that day. I immediately called the Fitzrovia branch to alert them to the error and ask them if it was possible to arrange delivery for the date and time I chose. A very helpful member of staff confirmed that it was possible, cancelled the immediate delivery, and stated that delivery would be made on the correct date and time.

The day and time arrive. No delivery turns up. We wait another 45 minutes. Nothing. I call the Fitzrovia branch and spoke to a member of staff who could not have been more unhelpful. She declined to take my details despite me offering them repeatedly, refused to check with a manager, and was adamant that I must have ordered from the other branch because there absolutely was no record of anything to be delivered that day. No offer of assistance was forthcoming and it was clear I was a nuisance to her. I hung up frustrated and annoyed. I ordered from elsewhere and resolved to never spend money at Italian Bear Chocolate.

Whilst I'm out at lunch that day, I receive a text message from someone at Italian Bear Chocolate apologising for the delay in delivery and offering to deliver the cakes immediately. I declined as I had made alternative arrangements and, to be honest, the service I received from the second person I spoke to was not service I want to support. I asked for a refund. I was told that it was not possible to make a refund to the card I used to pay so I would have to let them know when I was around so they could drop the cash off in person. I gave up. They have my £50 and I got nothing but frustration and the most appalling...

My Favourite Dessert Spot in London - A Chocoholic’s Dream! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Italian Bear Café in Fitzrovia is tucked away on Rathbone Place, just minutes from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road, making it a perfect little escape from the bustle. This place is my absolute go-to when I’m craving something sweet. Their triple chocolate cake is pure heaven. A quick tip: ask the team to warm it up for a few seconds to soften it slightly (tastes so much better warmed as it’s quite rich and dense!). Given how rich it is, it’s perfect to share (unless you’re a full-blown chocoholic, in which case, no judgment!).

The triple chocolate hot chocolate is just as indulgent, velvety, deep in flavour, and not overly sweet. It pairs perfectly with the cake for the ultimate chocolate experience. While I always order the same thing, they offer a variety of desserts including waffles, pancakes, doughnuts, crepes, and more. You can also add triple chocolate sauce to selected desserts like the tiramisu or the chocolate cake for that extra touch of indulgence.

Service is usually lovely - warm, attentive, and efficient, even during busier times. Staff are always happy to help with recommendations or modifications. The café has a cozy, chocolate-themed interior with chocolate displays in the window and along the counters, which adds to the charm. The atmosphere is always inviting, whether you’re there for a solo treat or meeting friends.

Evenings can get busy (particularly post-dinner time), but you can usually find a table during the day without a reservation. Lunchtime varies depending on the day, but the flow is manageable.

Italian Bear Café is perfect for solo chocolate therapy, a catch-up with friends, or even a romantic dessert date. Whether you’re after a comforting classic or want to explore the rest of the dessert menu, it’s a sweet little gem that never...