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Top picks in San Diego

Chocolate caramel spots

Made for those who find the combination of chocolate and caramel to be the only acceptable standard for dessert.

Based on 764 Opinions
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01
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Rows of handmade caramels, toffees, chocolates, and candies fill the space with vibrant colors and rich aromas. The atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with lively energy, drawing both children and adults. Candymakers work in view, adding a sense of craftsmanship and freshness to the experience.

Rich toffee, praline fudge, and dark chocolate covered orange peel candies stand out for their quality and freshness. Options include sugar-free chocolates like salted caramel, alongside a wide variety of sweet and satisfying chocolates sold by the pound.

Rows of handmade caramels and toffees fill the shelves, offering a colorful and nostalgic selection. The house caramels and sugar-free salted caramel chocolates stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the chocolates here; they had great quality and freshness."

"I loved the house-made caramels, they were so creamy and good."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a wide variety of handmade candies and chocolates.

2

Expect busy crowds on Saturday evenings, especially during peak hours.

3

Most candies are sold by weight, so be prepared for varying prices.

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Coffee stand offers cozy seating and a warm, welcoming vibe despite being tucked in a gas station parking lot. Small setup includes free chocolates and a chalk area for kids, creating a friendly atmosphere. Known for handmade croissants and large, fresh açaí bowls, it stands out with authentic care and quality.

Fresh bread croissants come with Nutella spread and optional strawberries. The owner offers free chocolates and cookies while you wait, adding a welcoming touch.

Espresso pours over caramel and milk to create a smooth, rich macchiato. Drinks like the caramel macchiato and Biscoff cinnamon honey latte highlight sweet, layered flavors.

People are saying

"They gave me a free chocolate with my coffee."

"The caramel macchiato is delicious, especially with the espresso poured over it."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time during busy mornings, especially on weekends.

2

Everything is made to order, which may take extra time.

3

The café is located behind a gas station, making it a bit hidden.

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Bright, open bakery with heated patios and live local music creates a warm, inviting vibe. Small indoor space fills quickly, making it lively and social with families, dogs, and shared tables. Unique entry by buzz-in adds a speakeasy feel to the experience.

Chocolate almond croissants stand out with rich flavor and flaky texture, rated highly compared to others. The blackberry chocolate croissant offers a surprising twist, and chocolate croissants often sell out quickly, prompting early orders.

Brown Butter Caramel Knot stands out with its rich, brown butter caramel flavor and soft, knot-shaped pastry. Caramel lattes also appear as a sweet option alongside other pastries like croissants.

People are saying

"I thought the chocolate almond croissant was almost unbelievable."

"The butter caramel knot was one of the best I’ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Live music performances happen every Saturday morning.

2

Pre-ordering is recommended as popular items often sell out quickly.

3

Expect long lines on Saturday mornings, especially for croissants.

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Cozy bakery with authentic French specialties and colorful food vitrines creates a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. Seating is ample, including indoor and outdoor patio options suitable for families. Quiet and calm vibe suits studying or relaxed brunches.

Rich and indulgent, the chocolate almond croissant stands out with its layers and warmth. The La Signature chocolate cake offers a perfectly balanced flavor, while the Dubai chocolate croissant and chocolate macaroons add variety to the chocolate selection.

Croissant dough French Pudding filled with cinnamon, pecan, and caramel topped with chocolate stands out. The ube caramel gelato and salted caramel latte also feature prominently on the menu.

People are saying

"I insisted on heating up the chocolate almond croissant; it was yummy."

Good to know

1

The prices are quite high, with a croissant costing $10 with nuts on top.

2

The macaroons cost $35 for 12 pieces.

3

The Dubai chocolate croissant costs $11.

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Chocolate shop offers handmade decorated bon bons and creative seasonal flavors with a wide variety of fillings. Atmosphere includes free samples and a selection of ice cream and cookie dough alongside chocolates. The place draws those seeking unique gifts and innovative desserts.

Specialty bonbons and chocolate barks come in many flavors and stand out for their quality. Chocolate making classes offer a hands-on experience to create chocolates tailored to personal tastes.

Rich creamy caramel appears in the Lady Bug bon bon, paired with milk chocolate and Hawaiian Sea Salt. Staples include decadent salted caramel truffles and smooth caramels.

People are saying

"I'd never experienced such decadent chocolate before."

"The caramels here are really nice and decadent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the chocolate making class, especially during holidays.

2

The shop accepts credit cards only; cash is not accepted.

3

Seasonal flavors are available, rotating for holidays like Valentine's Day and Easter.

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Small bakery with freshly made mochi and organic ingredients offers a warm modern atmosphere with large glass window into the kitchen. The space feels cozy and inviting, featuring minimalist decor and comfortable seating. It draws those seeking unique Asian desserts in a relaxed setting.

Chocolate mochi balls come covered in cocoa powder to stop sticking and arrive with a sweet cream dip and crushed chocolate wafers. The window shows a chocolate cake alongside a pork floss cake.

Salted caramel cakes come in various sizes, including 12-inch and mini versions. The flavor balances sweetness well, offering a rich but not overpowering taste. Prices for mini cakes hover around 15 dollars.

People are saying

"I loved the mini cakes, especially the chocolate Oreo ones."

"The Caramel here is visually stunning and delicious."

Good to know

1

The store opens at 11 am on Sundays, not 10 am.

2

Expect higher prices than most dessert places.

3

Free parking is available, but the lot fills quickly.

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Ice cream shop offers free samples outside and features unique, high-quality gelato flavors stored in visible containers. Atmosphere feels cheerful and welcoming with friendly staff and a well-designed space. Customers enjoy a variety of options including vegetarian and dairy-free selections.

Gelato features creamy vanilla and chocolate chips alongside salted caramel and hazelnut chocolate flavors. Pistachio and Bacio (chocolate hazelnut) stand out, while dark chocolate tastes very rich.

Salted caramel stands out with a salty-sweet balance and pairs well with flavors like hazelnut chocolate and bacio. The gelato also features unique combos like olive oil and caramel and banana with dulce de leche.

People are saying

"The chocolate hazelnut gelato was the best I've ever had."

"The salted caramel gelato is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They clearly labeled vegetarian options.

2

They offered vegan options.

3

Prices are a bit expensive because it's located by the beach.

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Tiny shop with colorful decor and outside seating offers a wide variety of paletas and ice cream flavors, including vegan and non-dairy options. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with friendly staff. Location near an arch provides views of planes arriving, adding a unique backdrop.

Cheesecake pops filled with salted caramel and dipped in white and milk chocolate stand out. Popsicles come with dark chocolate dip and mazapan crumbs, and toppings include fruit fillings and Belgium chocolate.

Cheesecakes feature salted caramel fillings and dulcet de Leche caramel, offering rich sweetness. Popsicles come with caramel drizzles and toppings like chocolate, sprinkles, and nuts.

People are saying

"You have to try the paletas dipped in chocolate; they're so creamy."

"The cheesecake with salted caramel was the best ice cream I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for catering services at least one week in advance.

2

Pop Pops Paleta offers a wide variety of flavors, including vegan options.

3

Each popsicle costs around $7, with additional toppings available.

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Spacious coffee shop with modern, European-inspired decor and comfortable seating creates a cozy, airy atmosphere. Chill music and ample power outlets support both relaxation and work. Vietnamese coffee drinks and unique pastries add to the distinctive vibe.

Chocolate appears in several baked goods like the almond chocolate croissant and banana chocolate bread. Drinks include a tiramisu-inspired option with white chocolate truffle cream.

Caramel drinks include an Iced Caramel Macchiato priced at $6.73 with a strong milk flavor and mild coffee taste. The Caramel Corn Latte and Caramel Macchiato offer richer caramel notes and balanced flavors.

People are saying

"The chocolate croissants here are delicious and taste good warmed up."

"I ordered the caramel corn latte and it was to die for."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices for drinks can be higher than average coffee shops.

3

The coffee shop offers a variety of unique flavors and options.

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Spacious chocolate shop inside a historic building blends Victorian architecture with modern nightlife energy. The air fills with a rich chocolate aroma, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plenty of seating offers comfort amid attractive, well-organized chocolate displays.

Rich chocolate flavors stand out in various forms, including sundaes and hot chocolate. The shop offers a clean, bright setting with a wide selection of chocolates and ice cream creations.

Caramel treats include salted caramel brownies, sea salt caramel sundaes, and caramel milkshakes. Options like the caramel hot chocolate and caramel squares also stand out for their rich flavor.

People are saying

"Their chocolate sundaes are a real treat."

"The caramel brownie sundae is rich, gooey, and perfectly indulgent."

Good to know

1

The store is open until midnight for late-night visits.

2

Expect a long line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

There is limited parking nearby, so plan to walk a bit.

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Sprawling restaurant blends indoor art deco with a lush outdoor patio featuring a grassy area for lawn games. Atmosphere stays cheeky and vibrant with live classical music and a lively crowd. Cocktail menu highlights tea-based drinks alongside unique British-inspired dishes.

Chocolate raisin scone comes with jam and cream. Desserts include ooey gooey chocolate sponge and toffee caramel, both rich. Drinks and a chocolate hand pie also stand out.

Sticky toffee pudding comes warm with salted caramel ice cream and caramel sauce. The toffee and date cake pairs well with salted caramel gelato for a rich, sweet dessert.

People are saying

"The chocolate sponge dessert was ooey gooey and rich."

"The sticky toffee pudding with salted caramel ice cream is amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great cocktail deals.

3

The restaurant allows individual payments during happy hour.

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Brightly lit coffeehouse offers a chill and welcoming atmosphere with a clean, cheerful environment and outdoor dining area. Unique herb scents fill the air, complementing a menu known for creative pies and ice cream flavors. The space attracts those seeking an elevated coffee experience with whole ingredient dishes and vegan options.

Cookies feature large salted chocolate chips and walnuts. The chocolate chip walnut cookie stands out for its rich flavor and size.

People are saying

"The green chili pork pie was very good."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options for pies and ice cream.

3

Dessert pies are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Ice cream shop offers fresh churros and delicious ice cream churro combos in a fun, lively atmosphere with pavers that signal order readiness. The place attracts families and couples looking for a sweet treat after outdoor activities. Energy stays upbeat despite occasional chaos.

Double chocolate churros stand out with rich flavor and generous portions. Hot chocolate pairs well, especially on cold days, complementing the chocolate dip served alongside churros.

Caramel appears in several forms like salted caramel, caramel chips, and dipping sauces. It pairs well with mini churros, ice cream, and Oreo for a sweet, rich flavor.

People are saying

"The churros with caramel dipping sauce were delicious."

"The Dubai double chocolate churro was a delicious surprise."

Good to know

1

IceChurro is open late for evening visitors.

2

Bring your own napkins as they are not provided.

3

Expect a confusing kiosk setup for ordering food.

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Shop offers artisan desserts made fresh daily using generational family recipes with all items containing dairy. Atmosphere feels like a take-it-to-go spot with no seating and a focus on handcrafted quality rather than retail convenience.

Local production of artisan desserts includes a variety of chocolate-based treats like cakes and truffles. Personalized touches appear in chocolate bag decorations with colored ribbons matching wedding colors.

Caramel comes with chocolate and flaked salt and appears in treats like the caramel apple and the everything brownie. It has a rich flavor but can be difficult to eat due to its texture.

People are saying

"The chocolate truffles and cakes were yummy."

"I couldn't stop thinking about the caramel; it was even better than I remembered."

Good to know

1

All items are made fresh on the premises by the owner.

2

A slice of cake costs $15, and a truffle costs $5.

3

There was a non-dairy chocolate bar available, but it was not consistently available.

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Bright orange and blue decor sets a stylish atmosphere with upbeat music playing. The place offers a drive-through and draws people looking for fresh, highly praised cookies paired with coffee. It feels easy-going and welcoming, with a focus on value and quality treats.

Cookies come in Chocolate Chip, White Chocolate Macadamia, Nutella, and Cookies & Cream flavors. Chocolate chip cookies are loaded with chocolate chips and rank among the top three cookies tried.

Caramel flavors appear in drinks like the caramel apple dirty soda and cold brews with vanilla and caramel. Some drinks have a light caramel drizzle, while others mix caramel syrup for a flavor similar to a caramel frappe.

People are saying

"The chocolate chip cookie was loaded with chocolate chips."

"I loved their caramel apple dirty soda with caramel drizzle."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at CoCo Playa, so arrive early.

2

All cookies were sold out by 2-3pm during my visits.

3

Expect to pay around $16 for two medium drinks.

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Cozy cafe with indoor and outdoor seating offers a wide variety of chocolate-based treats including smooth gelato and savory crepes. Atmosphere ranges from lively and fun to occasionally affected by noise and outdoor activity. Spacious interior features plenty of tables but some furniture shows wear.

Dark chocolate flavors stand out with rich, decadent taste. A wide variety of chocolate ice cream and gelato options satisfy different cravings. Chocolate treats like crepes, hot chocolate, and chocolate strawberries add to the sweet experience.

Banana walnut caramel crepes come filled and topped with a caramel drizzle. Caramel cheesecake offers a rich, sweet option alongside other desserts featuring salted caramel and chocolate flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the berry crepes and caramel cheesecake."

"I thought the chocolate ice cream was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The happy hour special, $5 beer and $6 wine, goes until 10pm.

2

The restroom is not available for customers who haven't made a purchase.

3

They add a 50-cent fee to use a credit card.

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Ice cream shop offers handcrafted artwork on cones and cereal bowls with live band music creating a marvelous atmosphere. The vibe is quiet and inviting with many open tables and a variety of unique ice cream options including Dole whip served in fresh pineapple.

Selections include German chocolate fudge, Dubai chocolate strawberry cup with fresh strawberries, and caramel/chocolate apples. Hot chocolate and espresso drinks complement the chocolate treats.

Caramel apples come in about six clever designs and taste delicious. Staff offer to slice them, and options include Oreo caramel apples alongside fudge and matcha treats.

People are saying

"I loved the Dubai chocolate cup, it tasted amazing!"

"The caramel apples here are a work of art."

Good to know

1

All orders are charged a 4% service charge, which is not a tax.

2

Prices on the entire menu are above average.

3

Expect to pay $15.50 for a milkshake with chocolate and strawberry.

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Ice cream shop offers large scoops and inventive flavors including non-dairy options and treats for dogs. Atmosphere is sunlit and breezy, ideal for relaxing and chatting. Prices are notably high, with generous portions.

Chocolate options include chocolate fudge brownie and chocolate chip cookie dough ice creams. Cones come in a chocolate-covered waffle style, and non-dairy oat milk chocolate chip is available.

Salted caramel appears in several forms like a dipped waffle cone and a blondie, both offering a rich, sweet flavor. It also features as a distinct ice cream flavor alongside others like Phish Food.

People are saying

"I loved the chocolate chip cookie dough and chocolate fudge brownie flavors."

"The salted caramel waffle cone was a hit with Phish Food."

Good to know

1

Single scoops cost over $10, with waffle cones starting at $2.50.

2

Generous portions are served, making it a good value despite high prices.

3

You can taste any flavor before ordering to find your favorite.

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