First time going here and it was amazing. The owner and the employee were both very friendly and wanted us to be satisfied. Will definitely come back. read more

Oh my god the chocolate... trust the staff, they won't steer you wrong. Thats all you need to know have fun and enjoy the show, there is one. read more

This place is amazing! You must love chocolate to come here because it's overwhelmingly sweet. The prices weren't as bad as others were saying, but it's definitely not a once-a-week kinda place. The owner was lovely and entertaining, calling your name when he's ready to make your hot chocolate so you can watch the show. I would recommend this place to anyone who likes hot chocolate or just wants a warm beverage on a cold winter night. read more

Rene is awesome. He makes every customer feel special. He puts on a show while creating your treats. The peanut butter hot chocolate is amazing. Definitely a worthwhile experience. I will return. Great place to take a visitor. read more

Love it! Dirty espresso volcano was incredible. Love Rene! Watching him create his luscious drinks is a unique pleasure. Awesome Parisian cafe. Superb music. Excellent choice. Great for dates and romantic encounters. Cash only. read more

I recently visited the Rim Cafe after having read raving reviews online. Its a tiny restaurant across from a park, with a blinking eiffel tower statue on the roof. That didn't even compare to the interior, which was similar to Fridays, times 100. The walls are covered in photos and other assorted memorabilia which create an immersive space that somehow isn't overpowering despite itself. Of course, I had to order the chocolate volcano after hearing so much about it. I ordered the hot version, and my boyfriend ordered the cold version. The barista was really kind and engaging, and explained the process of making the drink as she went. We took our drinks to one of the comfortable 'sofas' and thoroughly enjoyed them. I much preferred the hot volcano over the cold one. We even met the owner himself and got to watch him make a mini promotional video of the epsresso process, which he gave us a sample of. Afterwards, we had to buy some of the decadent truffles that were on display, 6 for $10. Overall, I was incredibly happy with the entire experience. The one critique I would have, however, was that while the wall decorations were appealing, some of the other interior decor was a bit tacky (specifically, the leopard print, and some of the items in the windows). I would definitely recommend this place to others, and look forward to my next visit! (and finishing those yummy truffles. read more

RIM Cafe - Chocolate volcano-whipped cream, hot chocolate, and two different kinds of chocolate shavings generously drizzled on top - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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One of Philly's hidden gem. I had the original Volcano and it's the best hot chocolate ever. The place is very unique and welcoming.

A MUST visit! Chocolate heaven for sure. They make your hella-fancy and gorgeous chocolate drink right in front of you! It's truly a performance. The cafe is adorable, posters covering the walls and ceiling. There is so much to look at. Wonderful atmosphere, staff/owner is great people. Tell yo friends! read more

Go to place for Rene and Belle's amazing hot chocolate volcano and everything else in between!

Great place!! You have to try on e of the house hot chocolates. The chocolate fudge with pistacchio and the cuban capuchino! Fantastic

It was only a couple days after a trip to Italy and I was already missing the European athmosphere, hospitality, and ambiance and was exploring the Italian Market for anything that would cure my longing to be back in Italy when I stumbled upon the RIM and my problem was solved. With Italian Lavazza coffee, hand-made truffles, canolis, pictures of Italy and France decorating the interior, and a barista with the most exciting and passionate personality I've never seen before who hails from France, I felt like I was back in Italy again. Certainly not the kind of place to get quick coffee to go, this is the kind of place where you linger over your coffee, mingle with other patrons, and observe as Rene whips some of the most intricate drinks. A speciality is the chocolate volcano made with imported chocolate and whipped cream that foams over the rim of your cup, as well as the raspberry cappucino, and the RIM tea. The truffles are also made from French chocolate. read more

I've been living in the city of brotherly love for about 6 months now. One of the greatest gems the city has to offer is Rim Cafe in South Philly! Before Philadelphia I was living with my father over seas in South Africa. South Africa is known for many things but one thing that is unique and (as they say) "Proudly South African" is their Rooibos tea. A red bush tea which not only is delicious, but keeps you physically fit and mentally sharp! Why am I going on about this magic tea? Well I'll get to that in a second. I walk into Rim Cafe an like all everyone else was captivated by the showmanship and passion of its owner Rene (Who I honestly think is Willy Wonka in disguise)! Never in my life have I seen such wonders with Chocolate! Just when I thought I've seen it all, Rene pulls out a bag of Rooibos tea. Automatically I wondered if he knew the background of his product so I quizzed him. Not only did he know exactly where the tea came from and what its health properties were but he was able to do things I didn't even know you could do with Rooibos tea! Iced,hot,frappe,siphon(which really is a treat and a show!), you name it he did it! So much better then simply adding hot water and a few lumps of sugar! If you ever want something to lift your spirits, put down the Red Bull and head over to Rim Cafe for a cup of Rooibos tea! You wont find it anywhere else outside of Johannesburg! Trust me I've looked! read more

This place is great for a first date. The interesting atmosphere gives your plenty to talk about and Rene is always "making it happen." As for drinks, their Nutty Volcano is amazing! Rene does a little show for you as he pours the drink and garnishes it with delicious homemade chocolate. This is definately a must stop if you're in South Philly. Only downside to this place is the price of the drinks. That's the only thing that keeps me from going every night for some hot cocoa, but that's probably a good thing. read more

A gem among the many (very) pizza and sub joints found throughout the neighborhood. RIM offers some of the most interesting concoctions I've ever seen. The shop has a unique atmosphere that is hard to describe but it feels comfortable and welcoming despite the dim lighting. Rene is such a gracious host who genuinely loves his customers, which only enhances the experience. The drinks are a bit on the pricey side but considering all that goes into them and the effort that Rene puts into crafting each one, I'd say they are fairly priced. After having him 'Surprise Me' with a mixture of coffee, white chocolate and raspberry (and something else, I couldn't hear him say what), I don't think anyone can make it happen quite like Rene. The chocolate creations are also phenomenal... my favorite was the chocolate-covered bacon that one of his employees whipped up for me but his truffles are by far the best I have ever had. While some might shy away from the dark interior and loud music, I highly suggest that anyone try it once as they might be surprised at what they will find there and I am sure that they will not be disappointed. read more

I went to this place last night with a friend and I was in utter shock. Rene was awesome and so nice, he really knows how to "MAKE IT HAPPEN". This place is awesome if your looking to steer away from the typical Max Brenner or Naked Chocolate, both which I have been to. If you want a unique, worthwhile experience, and don't mind your picture being taken for the website, I would suggest you "make it happen"! read more

Good deserts with a fantastic atmosphere.

Very unique and entering place to grab a sweet drink and a nice dessert. It is somewhere you want to return once you discover it.

Best hot chocolate in the world! Highly recommended!!! Definitely best place in Philly!

This place really is fantastic. It's so good and so bizarre and so fun that I can't even properly describe it. The YELP voucher was great for my friends and I, but sadly they won't be accepting these anymore. Rene, the owner, explained to us that somehow his Yelp account has been hacked and he hasn't been able to get anyone from Yelp to help him resolve the issue. That's too bad because I would expect Yelp to be more responsive. And Rim Cafe really is fantastic! read more

Phil is great! We have used him twice (so far will keep using him) and he is reasonable and timely. We got apple wood first and then a mix...i am so happy i don't have to lug firewood! All wood comes in blue ikea totes...easy peasy! read more

My husband and I were looking for a great place to have hot chocolate. We did a random search and ended up going to RIM cafe. I must say that this is one of the best random places that we've ever been. I don't know how Rene the owner does it, but the chocolate is truly magical. I've traveled the world and this is by far the best I've tasted. The atmosphere is very quirky and the owner and his wife are golden. I will return! read more

Such a cozy environment! I felt like I was in Italy with how authentic everything was! The owner is this sweet jolly Italian man that clearly loves what he does! He personally makes every hot chocolate with love and will even put on a show when he is making it! read more

I've been meaning to come here for a while, and finally that bitter cold winter night came when all you want is a hot cup of chocolate comfort. Unfortunately the experience was probably not enough to bring me back. The price seems wildly exorbitant for what you get, especially when half of the different chocolate shavings end up on the counter. We also sampled some truffles and a mini cannoli, which were also just ok. They had some really interesting novelty cannoli shells (bachelorette, birthday, eagles themed) that were fun to see. The atmosphere of the place was not really enjoyable for me, which is kind of important since hot chocolate is not a to-go friendly item. The whole interior basically felt like a dark claustrophobic version of grandmas living room. I can see why some people might enjoy the flair of the hot chocolate preparation and the eclectic decor, but it didn't do much for me. read more

Rene, welcomed us into his cafe...a bit vintage, a drum set, a motorcycle, a counter filled with cones of homemade chocolate and a menu that will have you asking what shall I get? A hot chocolate or a latte? A clear mug, a dollop of whipped cream, steaming milk and shaved fresh white chocolate at least 4 different types...now that's a white chocolate volcano and it was absolutely delicious!!! Absolutely fell in love with this place and will tell everyone I know about it... read more

Rene is always making the most wonderful things, and telling the most interesting stories. I always have a fantastic time here! Try the truffles. Oh my you gonna die..... read more

after hearing about this place for the last couple years, i decided to finally go in. i was with 4 other people, we walked in to set our things down and the owner kept yelling "Can i help you" over and over. I looked over and asked if they were open (it was very dark inside with only two other customers) and he accused us immediately of only coming in to use the bathroom. he was extremely rude, yelled, and dangled the bathroom keys at me even after i repeatedly told him that we were simply putting our things down before coming to order. we left without ordering. I've never experienced something like that before and it blew my mind that he would behave in such an aggressive manner. read more

While in Philly on a business trip, I heard a lot about the RIM Cafe. They been featured on a national food show so how could I not check this place out? Well, gotta tell you, it was definitely worth the visit. I had the BEST hot chocolate I have ever had in my life! Smooth, ever so slightly rich and creamy and absolutely wonderful. Now that being said, don't be afraid to walk in to this dark little cafe with little colored string lights and funky decorations of everything from foreign currency and photos of classic international film stars taped to the ceiling to cameras to teapots hanging from the ceiling to vintage shoes in the window. That being said, the owner was there to personally prepare the decadant delight and I got to watch the whole process which is a show to behold, with freshly grated chocolate being shaved over the top of the glass mug. I highly recommend the RIM if you're in Philly! read more

I just had the Guinness World Record LARGEST shot of espresso at RIM Cafe!! The owner, Rene, made a shot of the smoothest espresso with the power of 10 shots all in one 1.5 oz shot. I'm not sure when I'm sleeping, but he Made it HAPPEN!!!!! read more

Make it happen!!! I finally got a chance to go to the famous Rim Cafe and it was so worth the trip! Rene is an amazing host who made me feel like family! Fun and exciting atmosphere and if you are lucky Rene will play the drums while you are there. And the treats? Omg so good! Returned home with a box of truffles for my daughter and she was in heaven. So just go, eat, drink and be merry because at Rim Cafe how could you not!! read more

I loved it! Coffee and Tea like you would not believe! Great atmosphere and very friendly people. No other place I know of like this. I had a blast! read more

This is a great place to meet new friends and spend time with old ones. What a great option if you don't feel like drinking alcohol. Rene is awesome and the drinks are awesome. All are hand made and try the desserts too! read more

RIM really is as good as it gets. René will put on a hell of a show as he prepares his specialties before your eyes - everything's done with energy & enthusiasm (and who knows how many thousands of times he's made RIM's signature drink, the Volcano). René will share his stories and humorous wisdom with you while you enjoy your beverage or one of his delicious truffles. You're also sure to hear his famous phrase: "Make it happen!" read more

OK this place is the greatest! I and a friend go there every 2 months or so just to partake of the good things they serve up and the company and fun they serve up hot and fresh every time. Rene' is a master at what he does and I don't know anyone that can make a better hot chocolate. Belle is the hidden gem of this place though. She always has not only great suggestions if your looking for something, but she also can serve it up hot and fresh with the best of them. She made this chocolate gelato for my friend that made me want to steal it from him. These 2 do wonders there everyday, and i love it every time we go if it just for and hr or 5hrs we love this place. read more

1 star since I biked all the way across town to check this place out on a recommendation only to find that they were closed. This was around 9 pm on a Tuesday. Which happens to fall well within their normal operating period (6-12). What kind of legitimate business is just randomly closed with no indication during their stated business hours. read more

I was amazed at how amazing the chocolates are here and the coffee drinks.... Nothing else in Philly even comes close! Definitely check this one out you'll be pleased you did read more

I'm not quite sure why there's such love for RIM. It certainly has its good points - Rene is awesome, and the hot chocolate is great. Oh, and there's jazz on some Saturday afternoons. But a straight cup of coffee is terrible, and the environment - with its large-screen television, occasionally a movie playing on an additional computer monitor, and weird recorded chirping bird noises - is distracting and annoying. It might be nice for the occasional visit, but as a regular cafe where one might get your basic cup of coffee and read a book, it's not worth the trouble. read more

sit down and enjoy the show. rene is such an entertainer and his drinks are great. i love taking people here who have no heard of RIM and watching the look on their faces when rene starts working his magic. read more

No visit to Philadelphia would be complete without a visit to RIM Cafe and seeing Rene "make it happen". Today was no exception. I brought my cousin Laura with me to experience a place I absolutely love. Laura was just as enthralled as I was. We had the most amazing hot chocolate drinks. Laura had the Salted Caramel ( a favorite of mine) and I had the Peanut Butter. Another amazing experience as hosted by the always gracious and vibrant Rene. RIM Cafe is a place like no other. The coffee, espressos, and specialty drinks are beyond amazing. The chocolate truffles add to the chocolately goodness. Anytime I find myself in Philly, which is never enough, I make it a point to head over to the RIM Cafe and see Rene. He is a wonderful host who makes everyone feel welcome and special. Taking friends or family there is something I really enjoy as well. I will be back in Philly in June, and you can rest assured there will be several visits ahead to the RIM Cafe. Tres Bien!! read more

Mind blown hot chocolate experience! What an amazing way to enjoy this time of year.

Rene is a God amongst mere coffee shop owners. He will magically create your drink in front of you with singing and yelling, spinning and fancy pouring, and will chat you up all the while. He'll probably take pictures of you, and you'll wonder whats going on, and then he'll send them to you on Facebook and they'll be the best pics of yourself youve ever seen. The ambiance is just amazing, the drinks and chocolates are amazing, and it completely exemplifies the word unique. And yet, even at the mellow pace of an artisan, I was in one time when a group of 25 people on a city food tour came in and asked for 25 volcanoes (hot chocolates) and, without blinking, turned and yelled out "I'm-a gonna make it happen!". Just perfect. read more