NYC Tastes

There's not much better in life than ROYCE's signature NAMA chocolates, but their incredible Baton Cookies come in a very close second place. There are two flavors to choose from hazelnut or coconut, with each cookie individually wrapped inside the box.  I've been on an insane coconut rage lately so naturally I chose those.  One side a thin crispy coconut cookie, the other a smooth side of creamy chocolate. Together an incredible delight perfect for just about any occasion...nibbling alongside a morning espresso, a quick afternoon pick me up or my personal favorite late at night alongside a big creamy stout (Bourbon County if possible).  It's like a little slice of heaven:) ROYCE

Have you ever opened up a box of chocolates that smelled so incredible you felt downright intoxicated off the aroma?  I had this experience at Royce' just last week and let me tell you the taste is even better than the smell. Royce' was founded in Sappora, Japan in 1983 and has been making chocolate ever since using only the highest quality ingredients and artisan techniques.  This isn't just ordinary chocolate, it's chocolate that is so silky, smooth it literally melts like butter in your mouth.   Ken Romaniszyn, the owner of Lady M Cake Boutique on the UES is the company's American partner and they now have three locations in New York: Midtown East, Bryant Park and their newest store which I visited on Bleeker Street.   The shop is tiny but filled with incredible products along the stretch of two walls.  I highly recommend tasting one of their Potatochip Chocolates in either Fromage Blanc, Chocolat Caramel or Mild Bitter. The chocolate caramel I ...