For New Yorkers with a serious sweet tooth, finding a dessert shop that combines quality ingredients, an expansive menu, and a truly inviting atmosphere can feel like hitting the jackpot. Look no further than ChocoLava, a celebrated sweet spot that has quickly become a local favorite in the heart of Brooklyn, NY. More than just a simple sweet shop, ChocoLava offers a gourmet experience centered around decadent chocolate creations, fresh-made crepes and waffles, and an impressive array of signature beverages. It’s the perfect place to cap off a dinner, enjoy an afternoon treat, or satisfy those late-night cravings.
The core of ChocoLava’s appeal lies in its dedication to rich, delicious desserts, with a clear specialization in molten chocolate and beautifully crafted, thin-crust crepes. Customers frequently rave about the vibrant, "chill crisp and clean" ambience, which offers a relaxed and pleasant setting to enjoy your indulgence. The concept is simple: take classic desserts and elevate them with premium ingredients and inventive combinations, all while providing attentive, spectacular service. If you're searching for a go-to spot for unforgettable desserts in the New York metropolitan area, especially in the borough of Brooklyn, ChocoLava deserves to be at the top of your list.
ChocoLava is conveniently located at 8404 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209, USA. This address places the dessert shop squarely in the popular and easily accessible Bay Ridge neighborhood of Brooklyn, a community known for its vibrant local businesses and diverse culinary scene. Fifth Avenue is a major thoroughfare, making the shop simple to find whether you are a resident of Bay Ridge, Sunset Park, Dyker Heights, or traveling from other parts of Brooklyn and the greater New York City area.
The location on Fifth Avenue is well-served by public transportation. Those using the MTA subway can typically access the area via the R train at the 86th Street station, a manageable walk from the shop. Numerous local MTA bus lines also service the Fifth Avenue corridor, providing easy access from surrounding neighborhoods. For those driving, street parking can be found, though it is New York City, so planning ahead is always recommended. The accessibility and central location within Bay Ridge make ChocoLava an ideal, stress-free spot for a planned treat or a spontaneous sugar rush. Its presence here solidifies its standing as a true local gem for Brooklynites.
ChocoLava's menu is an expansive and mouth-watering testament to the art of dessert-making. While the shop is named after the iconic lava cake, the offerings extend far beyond, providing something for every taste and preference. The comprehensive menu ensures that whether you're in the mood for a hot, fresh pastry, a cold, creamy shake, or a refreshing beverage, you'll find a high-quality option here. The service model is distinct and customer-focused; unlike many fast-casual dessert spots, ChocoLava provides table service, meaning you can relax and enjoy the ambiance while your order is brought directly to you. This attention to detail elevates the entire experience, making it a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
The primary categories of desserts and drinks offered include:
- CREPES & WAFFLES: A massive selection of thin, perfectly cooked crepes and crisp, golden waffles. Popular choices include the indulgent Nutella ($9.00), the fruity Strawberry banana ($12.00), the unique and rich Dubai ($15.00), and specialty flavors like Red Velvet Cake ($12.00) and Pistachio Lover ($13.00). The savory-sweet balance and freshness are hallmarks of this section.
- HOUSE CUPS & CAKE: Grab-and-go or sit-down delights like the rich Cheesecake Cup ($10.00), the spiced Biscoff Cup ($10.00), and the luxurious Dubai Cup ($15.00). Cake offerings include classic Cheesecake ($10.00), the moist Tres leches ($10.00), and the signature Lava bomb ($10.00) and Lava cake ($10.00).
- CHOCO DIPS: Simple, fresh fruit and treats dipped in delicious melted chocolate. Options include Waffle Stick / Topping ($7.00), Strawberry Stick ($7.00), Banana Stick ($7.00), Pineapple Stick ($7.00), and Marshmallow Stick ($7.00), perfect for a lighter treat.
- SIGNATURE SHAKES: A wide variety of gourmet, thick, and flavorful shakes. Highlights include the creamy Brownie Shake ($10.00), the intense Pistachio Shake ($12.00), the locally-inspired New Yorker shake ($11.00), and popular candy-themed options like the Kinder Shake ($10.00) and Reese's Shake ($10.00).
- MOJITO: A large list of refreshing, non-alcoholic Mojitos with flavors like Strawberry ($7.00), Blue Raspberry ($7.00), Watermelon ($7.00), and exotic options like Curacao mint ($7.00) and Passion fruit ($7.00).
- COFFEE: A full range of hot and iced coffee drinks, including Latte ($7.00 iced / $6.00 hot), Caramel latte ($7.00 iced), Cappuccino ($7.00 iced / $6.00 hot), and the classic Americano ($5.00).
ChocoLava distinguishes itself from other dessert spots in New York City by focusing on several key areas that enhance the customer experience. The consistently positive feedback from local patrons often centers on the quality of the food paired with the exceptional environment and service. This combination makes every visit memorable, transforming a simple dessert run into a pleasant, relaxing outing.
- Halal Certification: A significant feature that is highly valued by the diverse New York community is the shop's confirmation that its offerings are Halal. This provides peace of mind and welcomes a broader customer base, making it a key destination for those seeking Halal-friendly dessert options in Brooklyn.
- Outstanding Table Service: Customers repeatedly praise the "spectacular" service with "super friendly and attentive staff." The fact that orders are served directly at the table, eliminating the need to wait at a counter, creates a more comfortable and upscale-casual dining experience.
- Unique and Gourmet Menu Items: Beyond the standard fare, ChocoLava offers unique, specialty items. The menu includes distinct creations like the Dubai crepe and Dubai Cup, suggesting rich, non-traditional chocolate and sweet profiles that intrigue dessert aficionados looking for something new.
- Clean and Inviting Ambience: The decor is described as "chill crisp and clean." This bright, comfortable environment is ideal for socializing, studying, or simply relaxing while enjoying your treat. It’s a clean break from the hustle and bustle of New York City streets.
- Commitment to Quality: Patrons have specifically noted that the crepes are "incredibly delicious" and "definitely not ever too sweet," indicating a careful balance in recipes that focuses on flavor without overwhelming sugar. This attention to culinary detail is a major draw.
- Ample Amenities: The availability of a clean bathroom is a practical yet essential detail that enhances the overall convenience and comfort of the shop for customers spending time there.
Planning a visit to ChocoLava is simple. Whether you’re looking to call ahead with a question or need to navigate to the location, the essential details are as follows:
- Address: 8404 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209, USA
- Phone: (646) 400-4410 or +1 646-400-4410
In a city saturated with bakeries, coffee shops, and dessert options, what truly makes ChocoLava stand out for local New Yorkers? It’s the successful execution of an expansive, gourmet menu paired with a top-tier customer experience. For those in the Bay Ridge and wider Brooklyn area, ChocoLava is more than just a place to get dessert—it’s a destination.
The crepes and waffles, which many describe as the shop's flagship items, offer a perfect canvas for premium ingredients like Nutella, Ferrero Rocher, and Pistachio. The fact that the staff is praised for being "super friendly and attentive" and that they offer the luxury of table service creates a hospitality experience often reserved for higher-end restaurants, not casual dessert shops. For the value, the quality is exceptional, with desserts like the Dubai roll crepe ($14.00) and the Pistachio Lover crepe ($13.00) offering complex, satisfying flavor profiles that you simply won't find at a generic chain. The drinks menu, from the fresh, bright Mojitos to the extensive list of Signature Shakes (including the locally named New Yorker shake), ensures that your thirst is quenched with as much creativity as your sweet tooth is satisfied. Ultimately, ChocoLava is worth choosing because it provides a Halal-friendly, comfortable, gourmet, and locally accessible dessert experience that truly hits the mark for demanding New York palates. If you love chocolate, fantastic service, and a clean, comfortable spot to relax, make sure to visit ChocoLava on 5th Ave in Brooklyn.