[Photo: Kathy YL Chan]

I've always had a soft spot for chocolate loaf cakes, humble and satisfying. They hit the spot in those moments when you don't want to commit to a slice of cake or the frosting overload of a cupcake. Sarabeth's Bakery happens to turn out an excellent chocolate loaf, a high domed medium-sized creation, priced at $6.50. The loaf is studded with sweet pockets of cherry preserves, a little fruitiness popping up in the occasional bite. The light crumb almost melts away on the tongue; it's plenty moist and chocolate-y, though not the least bit buttery or dense. Which simply means there's always room for another slice!

Sarabeth's Bakery

75 9th Avenue, New York NY 10011 (map)
212-989-2424
sarabeth.com/restaurants