On Saturday February 3rd, the day before the Superbowl, I was exhausted from preparing all the big game day appetizers and desserts that I decided I needed to go out and treat myself. Prior to this, I heard there was a new chocolate/coffee shop that opened next to where Oliver’s Tavern used to be in Essex (RIP). Me, being a girl who will go to any lengths to get a good cup of coffee, decided that this place was worth a shot, and stopped by. When I walked in, the place kind of reminded me of a bookstore more than a coffee shop, because of the decorations that were meticulously placed and the multiple bookshelves holding up many different types of books. The shop also smelled like mocha, so you can imagine that it emanated a cozy kind of feeling. The barista could tell that it was my first time in the shop and proceeded to give me a quick rundown of all their specialty drinks and desserts. One thing I found very interesting about the place was that when you ordered a coffee drink, you were given the choice of what kind of coffee beans to use: Brazilian, Columbian, or Dominican Republic beans. Each bean had a different flavor touch if you will: for example, the Dominican Republic beans had a chocolate flavor, and the others had fruity and earthy touches to them. I ordered their most popular drink, a mocha latte, made with the Dominican Republic beans. In addition, I ordered a dark chocolate pretzel that was just recently prepared prior to then. Both the drink and sweet were delicious, however the coffee was strong, but I didn’t mind because I typically drink coffee with just a small amount of milk. The only drawback about this shop is that it is a little on the pricey side, however their drinks and sweets are things I would not mind paying a little extra money for. Overall, this place looks adorable, smells great, serves great chocolates and drinks, and has genuinely-cordial service. My Yum Sum rating is a 4.5/5.

Here is a link to the shop’s website!

https://www.essexchocolatier.com/