A simple sweet tooth is no problem when you're visiting New Orleans — the French Quarter in particular is packed with shops and restaurants offering the city's most famous treats: creamy pecan pralines and beignets smothered in powdered sugar. Delicious desserts abound as well; one can't leave the city without sampling bread pudding swimming in a buttery rum sauce. But if you're craving chocolate and only chocolate will do, no worries. NOLA has you covered.
Kilwins Chocolate, Fudge and Ice Cream
600 Decatur St., Suite 106
Kilwins has been crafting chocolates and other treats since its first shop opened in Michigan in the late 1940s. The French Quarter location continues the tradition of offering hand-crafted chocolates such as a variety of clusters and barks; caramel- and cream-filled chocolates, truffles and “Tuttles”—the Kilwins take on the nut- and caramel-filled turtle. Sugar-free and no-sugar-added options also are available.
Laura's Candies
331 Chartres St.
Laura's bills itself as the city's oldest candy store, established in 1913, and it's packed with Louisiana character as well as chocolate. If you need a chocolate voodoo doll, you'll find it here. Their selection of chocolates includes Cajun Bark, Mississippi Mud, turtles and pecan clusters, along with a tempting variety of truffles such as Amaretto, espresso or pralines and cream.
Leah's Pralines
714 St. Louis St.
This little family-owned shop has operated in the same French Quarter location for more than 72 years and takes pride in its handmade treats. Despite its name and its other offerings including Creole seasonings, it's a treasure trove for chocolate hunters. Gourmet chocolate creations include Cajun Mud, chocolate-dipped pecan brittle, pecan turtles and peanut butter cups. Pro tip: Veer off the chocolate trail long enough to try the bacon pecan brittle.
Lolli's Chocolates
1640 Hickory Ave., Suite F
If you're a fan of chocolate-covered strawberries, this is the place for you. Large, fresh strawberries dipped in white or milk chocolate are available with a variety of toppings including almonds, M&M’s, pecans or sprinkles. Not feeling the fruit? You'll find plenty of delicious chocolate treats here such as truffles, turtles and charming molded chocolates, as well as chocolate-dipped cookies, pretzels and marshmallows.
Southern Candymakers
334 Decatur St.
It would be hard to pass up the freshly made pralines this shop is known for —and there's no reason you should — but you'll find plenty of delicious chocolate creations here as well. Try the Bourbon Street Bark, a juicy cherry cordial, chocolate-covered toffee or a Tortue (French for turtle). Adorable chocolate crawfish are available in small, carry-on friendly gift boxes so you can share (or not) when you get back home.
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