Spring 2026

We’re delighted to share some seriously sweet news here at Eastgate. Hotel Chocolat is relocating its Inverness store to a larger space within the centre and opening a brand-new Velvetiser Café, bringing an indulgent new experience for chocolate lovers to enjoy.

Opening its doors on Friday 6th March, the new store and café will be home to the much-loved Velvetiser Café, serving a tempting menu of drinking chocolates alongside bespoke bakes and cakes inspired by Hotel Chocolat’s most-loved creations – all carefully designed to pair perfectly with the drinks on offer.

Visitors to the Velvetiser Café can explore cacao in all its forms, with a wide range of luxurious drinking chocolates and customisable combinations to choose from. Every drink can be tailored with dairy or plant-based alternatives and finished with a selection of toppings, including the signature Cacao Whip, adding that final indulgent touch.

Hotel Chocolat’s expert team will also be on hand to help guests discover their perfect chocolate ‘Love Match’, whether that’s smooth pralines, patisserie-inspired flavours or something a little more adventurous with a tipsy twist.

We can’t wait to welcome this exciting new café to Eastgate and invite you to take a moment to relax, indulge and savour the Velvetiser experience when it opens this March.