Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Chocolate Lovers on Staten Island
Top Things to Do in New York City for Chocolate Lovers on Staten Island
1. Beans and Leaves Coffee and Tea Cafe
Neighborhood cafe where towering hot chocolates come crowned with toasted marshmallows, cocoa flights rotate seasonally, and Nutella-drizzled crepes tempt from the griddle.
✓ Why Go:
It’s Staten Island’s most photogenic cocoa stop—cozy, creative, and endlessly customizable for serious chocolate cravings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
November–March for peak hot chocolate vibes; weekdays 11 am–3 pm to avoid weekend lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about off-menu cocoa flavors and dairy-free options; the window seats are perfect for photos.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors rave about decadent cocoa creations, friendly staff, and a warm, neighborhood feel.
2. Royal Crown Bakery
Old‑world Italian bakery turning out chocolate-dipped cannoli, flourless chocolate cake, and Nutella-filled bomboloni alongside excellent espresso.
✓ Why Go:
A beloved staple where Italian pastry craft meets chocolate indulgence—ideal for dessert after dinner.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for the freshest pastries; late evening for the lively dessert crowd.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order cannoli with chocolate-chip ricotta and grab a slice of the flourless chocolate cake to go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Loyal regulars praise consistent quality, generous portions, and a bustling, welcoming atmosphere.
3. Holtermann's Bakery
Historic Staten Island institution known for breads and classic sweets—think rich chocolate donuts, eclairs, and crowd‑pleasing blackout cake.
✓ Why Go:
Taste a time-honored local bakery tradition where simple, chocolatey classics shine.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Saturday mornings for the widest selection; pre-order holiday cakes well ahead.
✓ Insider Tip:
The chocolate blackout cake sells out on weekends—call early to reserve a slice or whole cake.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals describe it as nostalgic, fairly priced, and reliably delicious.
4. Piece A Cake
New Dorp favorite for custom cakes, playful cupcakes, and chocolate-forward slices like fudge and blackout varieties.
✓ Why Go:
Creative chocolate bakes perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat during a New Dorp shopping stroll.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid‑afternoon for steady case variety without the lunch or dinner rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Build a mix‑and‑match six‑pack of chocolate cupcakes to sample multiple flavors.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the moist cake, rich frosting, and helpful staff.
5. Ralph's Famous Italian Ices
The original storefront of a Staten Island icon, scooping chocolate water ice, chocolate chip cream ice, and sundae-style creations all summer long.
✓ Why Go:
A warm‑weather rite of passage with chocolatey options for every level of sweetness.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
June–August evenings; arrive before sunset to beat the line.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a split cup to try two chocolate flavors; expect limited curbside parking.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Generations of fans call it a must‑stop tradition when temperatures rise.
6. Cake Chef's Cookie Jar
Sweet shop showcasing brownies, blackout cupcakes, and chocolate‑dipped cookies from a beloved local bakery team.
✓ Why Go:
Stock up on portable, giftable chocolate treats in one convenient stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning to early afternoon for the best selection before the after‑school rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Look for seasonal chocolate specials—holiday weeks bring limited‑time items.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate the wide variety and friendly counter service.
7. Egger's Ice Cream Parlor at Historic Richmond Town
Vintage‑style parlor serving hot fudge sundaes, malted shakes, and wintertime hot chocolate within Staten Island’s living history village.
✓ Why Go:
Pair chocolate indulgence with a charming stroll through Historic Richmond Town’s heritage buildings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Summer weekends for sundaes; December for festive cocoa after exploring the village.
✓ Insider Tip:
Cap your visit with a shareable brownie sundae—rich, nostalgic, and perfect for families.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the old‑school vibe and luscious hot fudge.
8. Project Brunch
Playful brunch spot known for over‑the‑top chocolate milkshakes, seasonal hot chocolates, and cocoa‑dusted French toast.
✓ Why Go:
Instagram‑ready plates meet serious chocolate splurges—great for groups.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays before noon to minimize waits; weekends can draw lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Portions are large—split a chocolate shake and one entrée to sample more.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Groups applaud the whimsical menu and indulgent flavors.
9. Casa Belvedere
Italian Cultural Foundation offering rotating culinary classes that often include chocolate‑centric desserts, set in a hilltop villa with harbor views.
✓ Why Go:
Learn to make tiramisù, chocolate budino, or truffles, then savor your handiwork in a beautiful setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings when classes run; consult the calendar for pastry or chocolate sessions.
✓ Insider Tip:
Classes sell out quickly—join the email list and arrive early for parking on the hill.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Attendees highlight expert instructors, hands‑on fun, and memorable views.
10. Chocolate Fantasy at Nicotra's Ballroom
Annual tasting event where local bakeries and restaurants showcase chocolate treats, benefiting Meals on Wheels of Staten Island.
✓ Why Go:
Sample dozens of chocolate bites under one roof while supporting a community cause.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Typically held in February; purchase tickets as soon as they’re released.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small box for extra samples and pace yourself—there’s a lot to try.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Residents call it the sweetest night of winter and a can’t‑miss fundraiser.
