Hot chocolate (with a little kick)

By Perrie Samotin | Special to amNewYork

December 8, 2006

Looking for something sweet? Whether out for cocktails or just wanting to warm up, here are our picks for where to get your drinkable chocolate fix.

Witchcraft
For folks who prefer to forgo the fanfare when getting their sweet on, check out one of Witchcraft's several outposts -- the gourmet breakfast and lunch spot from Tom Colicchio, the man behind Craft and Craftbar. Choose from six inventive varieties, including chocolate bay leaf, peanut butter, malted milk chocolate, spiced chili and orange peel hot chocolate.

Several locations, visit www.witchcraftnyc.com

Max Brenner, Chocolate by the Bald Man
Max Brenner's bringing chocolate back. One look inside what can only be described as an over-the-top chocolatorium, you know these people are serious: it's 5,000 square feet of Wonka-esque flamboyance and pure chocolate. This winter, check out their thick Italian, multi flavored, crunchy waffle-ball infused, even low-cal hot chocolate options. But if you're up to it, order a "suckao" a straight shot of concentrated chocolate.
841 Broadway
212-388-0030

Marquee
Marquee can be an ordeal. Over two years old and still nearly as selective as opening day, there's no guarantee you'll get in to enjoy their elaborate Godiva Belgian Blends Blizzard cocktail, but it's worth a shot. Made with white Godiva liquor and latte-flavored Godiva Belgian Blends, both peach and vanilla vodka and a dash of Chambord, the drink is rich, decadent and fabulous. What else would we expect from a place that literally turns away thousands of people each night.
289 10th Ave.
646-491-0202

STK
When you picture your average steak joint, it's probably heavy on the wood, brass and testosterone. This new Meatpacking spot, however, looks more like a high-end, streamlined mega-lounge. The food undeniably created with a tad more panache than the average steak spot -- is creative, urbane and the cocktails follow suit. Try the decadent Cobblestone Sidecar, made with B&B, Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, Cointreau and served in a cinnamon graham cracker crusted rim.
26 Little West 12th St.
646-624-2444

Lonesome Dove
Renowned Texan chef Tom Love officially brought us the taste of the west this fall with Lonesome Dove. Between the hearty portions of cowboy cuisine and calculated "western" décor, a cold beer might seem like the logical choice, but if you stick around for an after-dinner drink, their chocolate martini mixed with White Chocolate Liqueur, Absolut Vanilla, White Crème de Cacao and served in a chocolate lined glass with a cocoa-sugar rim is dessert in a glass.
29 W. 21st St.
212-414-3139