7 Dessert Spots in New York City to Visit for a Sweet Experience
Whether you’re looking to educate your children or just bring them somewhere to have fun and make memories, New York City has plenty to offer. In addition to a range of monuments and historical attractions, the “Big Apple” is home to many children’s museums and amusement parks. It also has an abundance of dessert shops that offer a variety of indulgent treats and hands-on experiences.
Here’s a look at seven New York City dessert spots that your kids are certain to enjoy.
Max Brenner Chocolate Bar and Restaurant
Located in Union Square between 13th and 14th Streets, the Max Brenner Chocolate Bar and Restaurant is a dine-in restaurant with an entire menu of chocolate-themed desserts, drinks, and meals. There are even whirring machines throughout the dining room that spin melted chocolate. The chocolate chunks pizza is one of Max Brenner’s most notable creations. It has melted chocolate instead of tomato sauce and topping choices such as bananas, peanut butter, and roasted marshmallows. Other menu items include chocolate pancakes, chocolate tiramisu, milkshakes, and some of the best hot cocoa in New York City.
Of course, you don’t have to only indulge in chocolate. The restaurant also serves a variety of sandwiches and burgers, pasta dishes, and kid-friendly meals. Max Brenner is a popular spot, especially on weekends, so it’s best to make a reservation.
Dylan’s Candy Bar
With more than 7,000 confections, Dylan’s Candy Bar in The Shops at Hudson Yard has one of the largest selections of candy in the world. Whether it’s chocolates or sweets, you’ll be sure to satisfy your own and your kids’ sweet tooth at this iconic store, which features a massive lollipop tree in the middle and candy patterns painted over the walls and on the stairs. You can create your own mix of candy from dozens of bulk bins or purchase already prepared bags of treats.
After browsing the main level, bring the kids downstairs to see how fudge is made or take them upstairs to the Candy Cafe, where tables are shaped like cupcakes and you can buy giant three-scoop sundaes with three toppings.
Alice’s Tea Cup
With locations in the Upper East Side and Upper West Side of New York City, Alice’s Tea Cup is a must-visit for families with young children. The Alice in Wonderland-themed family dining establishment provides children with a magical and memorable experience with its old fashioned chairs and tables, vintage-looking mismatched china, and various teas served on a three-tiered tray. Kids also have the option to wear fairy wings while they enjoy tea and other treats such as cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. This is another place where you may need a reservation on weekends.
Sour Patch Kids Store
Located at 665 Broadway in Greenwich Village, Sour Patch Kids Store is exactly what it sounds like: a store dedicated to the popular sour candy. You can purchase pre-packaged Sour Patch Kids, Swedish Fish, and other candy brands here or create your own mix from the self-serve station. Be sure to sample one of the over-the-top candy creations, like the “Pour Some Sugar on Us” white chocolate and Sour Patch Kids-coated waffle cone filled with ice cream, cotton candy, and Sour Patch Kids.
ChikaLicious Dessert Bar
ChikaLicious Dessert Bar in East Village between First and Second Avenues is a higher end, 20-seat dessert-only dining establishment with a rotating and sophisticated menu that typically includes basil sorbet and pink peppercorn ice cream. There’s a three-course tasting menu and you can also watch the chefs create the star-rated desserts while sitting at the bar. This is a great place to introduce older kids to more elegant desserts, while the ChikaLicious Dessert Club across the street has carry-out options for younger children who may not be able to sit through the three-course dessert meal.
Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain
Located at 513 Henry Street in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain is a restored 1920s pharmacy that offers tasty sodas and ice cream sundaes along with a dose of nostalgia. It has a communal dining room with soda jerk and waiter service and a menu that includes classic items like lime rickeys, ice cream floats, and egg creams as well as specialty shakes, hot cocoa, and frozen hot chocolates.
Li-Lac Chocolates Factory
The Li-Lac Chocolates Factory at 68 35th Street in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park offers world-renowned handcrafted chocolates, many of which are created from the same recipe and with the production techniques used from Li-Lac’s founding more than 99 years ago.
Li-Lac produces in excess of 140 gourmet chocolate items and has several locations throughout New York City. At the Chocolate Factory in Brooklyn, you can sample fresh made chocolate or purchase some of its high end decadent treats. There’s also a ground floor window, through which visitors can get a close-up view into the kitchen and production facility.
