Chocolate Oasis

During my Boston days one of my favourite cafes was Burdick's in Harvard Square. If you got there early enough, you might be able to snag one of their few tables. There, sitting under the long mirror with a large cup of coffee, you could almost pretend that you were in Paris. So imagine my delight when I discovered that a Burdick's had opened here in New York. With warm wood and mirrors and cherry blossoms in the center of the room, the New York Burdick's is just as welcoming as the Cambridge one. And it's at least twice the size!

Burdick's began in Walpole, NH and is known for its amazing handmade chocolates, most notably their chocolate mice. These delightful little creatures come in dark, milk, and white chocolate and make wonderful little gifts (penguins also make an appearance in the store as well as wee ghosts at Halloween). I'm not a big hot chocolate drinker but I know people who swear that Burdick's has the best.

On this visit, I indulged in a coffee and slice of lemon and chocolate cake. Absolutely delicious. Unlike so many cafes in the city, Burdick's has no blaring music and people seem to inherently know to speak with low voices. In short, it's a great place to escape from the noise of the city. And an excuse to have some chocolate (that is, if you need an excuse).

Photos by Michele.