Christopher Norman Chocolates, buried way down in the Financial District, doesn't always receive as much attention as it deserves. But that's partly why I love this place—it's never crowded and always serene. His famed chocolates are sold by the piece, fresh-made in the shop's back kitchen, but it's the brownies and hot chocolate that have me frequenting the cafe counter.

The combo is a good marriage; each on its own is not overpowering, so together you get one decadent afternoon snack without the crazy sugar high. The hot chocolate ($3.50) is dark and sultry but drinkable, with a thin consistency and plenty of chocolatey foam. It's a hot chocolate you can actually drink, no spoon required. The brownie ($3) is equally dark, just the way a good brownie should be, and mild, leaning on the cakey side with a thin crackly crust.

Unfortunately they don't do brownies with nuts, but they do bake blondies with nuts, perhaps something to try on my next visit! There are a few tables and counter seats to sit and enjoy your snack, a little oasis in the Financial District.

Christopher Norman Chocolates

60 New Street, New York NY 10014 (map)
212-402-1243; financierpastries.com