1. Pablo's Mexican Hot Chocolate
311 E Grand River Ave., Old Town Lansing

Made with bitter, Mexican chocolate and whole milk tended over low heat, then frothed with a molinillo (a type of wooden whisk), this version of hot chocolate is a labor of love. It is watched scrupulously while on the stove to ensure the milk doesn't burn, and muscle goes into giving the final product its creamy, foamy consistency. Pablo's adds its own secret blend of spices to give the hot chocolate a cinnamon-y, slightly spicy taste.

2. Great Lakes Chocolate and Coffee Co.'s Hot Cocoa
500 E Michigan Ave, Ste 190, Lansing

Rich and sugary, made with melted chocolate.

3. Biggby's Dark Hot Chocolate
Various Mid-Michigan locations

A dark-chocolate rendition of the classic.

4. Espresso Royale's Mint Hot Chocolate
527 East Grand River Avenue, East Lansing

A pump of peppermint syrup gives this nostalgic drink a kick.

5. Starbucks' Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Various Mid-Michigan locations

Steamed milk and mocha sauce get the royal treatment with the addition of toffee nut and vanilla syrups, whipped cream, caramel sauce and a sprinkle of turbinado sugar and sea salt.