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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of River North

Chocolate unique spots

Made for those who seek out unconventional cocoa-based experiences that break the mold of standard dessert menus.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Cafe

Cozy, minimal cafรฉ with authentic Kazakh decor and subtle cultural elements creates a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi support work or socializing, while unique Central Asian pastries and dishes offer a distinct culinary experience.

Mocha features real dark chocolate with a unique rich flavor. Hot chocolate stands out for its slightly bitter, high-quality taste and consistent richness.

Coffee infused with tary adds a distinct flavor and richness not found elsewhere. The menu features unique Kazakh dishes and a sweet cheese latte that stands out for its unusual and delicious taste.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"You have to try the unique Kazakh food here; it's so authentic."

"I enjoyed the rich, wonderful hot chocolate."

Good to know

1

Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles only, leading to potential tickets.

2

TARY serves unique Central Asian pastries and drinks not found elsewhere.

3

The cafe gets packed, making tables hard to get at times.

02
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Chocolate flavors blend with creams in dishes showing Brazilian and Italian influence. Desserts include warm chocolate chip cookies, a dark chocolate dessert with crunch, and a smooth mini cone with a surprise at the bottom.

A unique mix of Italian and Brazilian fare shapes the menu. Salads offer distinctive flavors unlike typical dishes, creating an interesting taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"The flavors here are so unique and interesting."

"The wagyu just melted, showcasing its glorious marbling."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

03
Philz Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers a laid-back atmosphere with calm, relaxing vibe and nice music. Space feels roomy but sparse, featuring an adorable mural and outdoor seating. Free water is available, supporting a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Hot chocolate here tastes like the ones from Korean vending machines, rich and smooth. The Gerrdeli chocolate Mocha is light on sugar and well balanced, and the chocolate chip gluten-free muffin has a vanilla-like cupcake flavor.

Coffee offers a unique flavor and high quality. Drinks like the mint mojito stand out for their distinct taste and creativity.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee here; it was always fresh and customized."

"Their drinks are so unique and creamy, I forgot what I ordered."

"The Gerrdeli chocolate Mocha is perfect, light on the sugar."

Good to know

1

Philz Coffee only offers pour over coffee and does not serve espresso-based drinks.

2

Expect to pay around $7 for a medium drink.

3

The store has a confusing how-to-order chart that differs from their actual ordering process.

04
Chip City image 1
Dessert shop

Small shop with a vibrant baby blue color scheme and a fun photo booth creates a lively atmosphere. Warm smell of fresh baked cookies fills the air, welcoming people inside. The place offers delicious, warm cookies and a cozy seating area for enjoying treats on site.

Thin chocolate chip cookies come warm, gooey, and fresh with high-quality ingredients. Chocolate options include triple chocolate, chocolate lava, and galaxy brownie, all rich and well-baked.

Cookies feature many unique and fun flavors that rotate regularly. These are not your normal cookies, offering a fresh taste experience each time.

People are saying

"These cookies are the best I've ever tasted."

"The chocolate chip cookies are warm, gooey, and fresh."

"The cookies here have such unique and fun flavors."

Good to know

1

Chip City is a grab-and-go place, not sit down.

2

They offer a BOGO deal on Uber Eats, which makes it easy to indulge.

3

The cookies are priced at $5, with an additional $4 for ice cream.

05
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Rich and decadent chocolate desserts like the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart and chocolate torte close the meal. The double chocolate crisp cake offers a sweet, crisp texture alongside other unique options.

Dishes combine simple but complex flavors with thoughtful creativity. Unique pairings like fava beans with grilled octopus add distinct textures and tastes, while desserts offer a refreshing change from the usual.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The food here is unique, flavorful, and thoughtfully made."

"The chocolate torte is a decadent, generous portion."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

06
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse offers a stylish and warm dining room with quiet sophistication and a relaxed but upmarket atmosphere. Cocktails are expertly crafted, complementing the coal-cooked steaks that define the menu. Private rooms and a dynamic space support both intimate and business gatherings.

Chocolate desserts feature decadent creativity and balance, with options like the Chocolate Snickers and a hot chocolate tart that avoids excessive sweetness.

Offers a UK-based perspective on steakhouse dining, standing out in a city known for its own steakhouses. The Chateaubriand is buttery, paired with creamed spinach and macaroni and cheese that bring unique, rich flavors.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The steak's flavor from dry aging is truly unique."

"The chocolate here is rich, tender, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

07
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop image 1

Two-story chocolate shop offers stunning river views and a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. The space fills with lively energy and can get noisy and busy, especially with families around. Seating is limited and first-come, first-served, with an outdoor patio providing a more relaxed vibe.

Rich, creamy scoops and handcrafted hot fudge define the chocolate experience here. The World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae and hot chocolate stand out as truly unforgettable treats.

Watching river life while eating creates a unique experience. The shop offers terrific chocolates and unique ice creams with a smooth flavor from a special chocolate-making process.

People are saying

"Jameson's service made the chocolate experience feel personal and joyful."

"I loved the nice view overlooking the river and city."

"I thought the ice cream and chocolates were unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

There's a special offer on 7/25 for a mini hot fudge sundae at $7.25.

2

Seating is first come, first serve and can be sparse during peak hours.

3

Finding a seat can be nearly impossible during busy times.

08
VELA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space channels sophisticated Mexican vibes with warm, vibrant design inspired by Mexico City. Music shifts from chill to loud with a live DJ mixing house, reggaeton, and hip hop, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy upscale casual energy with comfortable seating and standout cocktails.

Churros come with natural-tasting chocolate that is earthy and not waxy. The chocolate sauce includes a touch of mole, adding a subtle kick without overpowering the flavor.

Salmon Tostadas and Empanadas offer unique flavor combinations that stand out. Pulpo a la Parilla adds a distinctive twist, while drinks feature flawless presentation and unusual tastes.

People are saying

"The food here has flavor profiles that are above and beyond."

"The flavors here are unique and leave you feeling satisfied."

"The churros' chocolate sauce had a subtle mole kick."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 off cocktails and half-price appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant hosts a popup event with their sister restaurant every month.

09
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Coffee shop offers calm, classy atmosphere with amazing city and river views. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options, featuring a beautiful terrace ideal for relaxing or people-watching. Space suits those seeking a high-quality coffee experience in a cozy, focused setting.

Hot chocolate here is very rich and well prepared. It pairs well with pastries like the chocolate croissant and is available both hot and iced.

Atmosphere feels classy and unique with a distinct vibe. Coffee options include black cardamom latte and shakerato, offering unique and flavorful choices.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"I loved their unique coffee options like the black cardamom latte."

"The hot chocolate here is rich and delicious."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered on weekends, but check availability.

2

Expect to pay over $8 for a latte.

3

Parking is very difficult, so plan ahead.

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