Jacques Torres Chocolate

The former pastry chef of Le Cirque, Jacques Torres did us all a favor by leaving an elite restaurant to bring fabulous chocolate to a bigger world.  He has factories (and stores) in Dumbo, the Upper West Side, and in Grand Central Terminal.  See their Mr. Chocolate website for exact locations and hours. 

What's great:

All the chocolate is made with the best possible ingredients, and always exceedingly fresh.  The combinations are both traditional and sophisticated including chocolate bunnies at Easter; chocolate covered nuts, espresso beans and pieces of ginger; classic bars in a large variety of flavors; caramel and hot fudge sauces; caramel chocolate popcorn; chocolate covered Cheerios; and unexpected combinations in their hand-made assorted bonbons.

What to know:

They have locations in Dumbo, Brooklyn, and in Manhattan in Grand Central Terminal's Lexington Passage.  See their website for details.

Their website is a terrific source of ideas for gift-giving, including corporate gifts.

They do custom favors for parties, weddings and corporate events.  Call for details.