A mouth-watering guide to cozy up with cocoa, sweets and festive desserts this season
The holidays are about more than twinkling lights—they’re about indulging in warm, comforting treats that make winter feel magical. Whether you’re craving rich hot cocoa, decadent pastries, or a scoop of festive ice cream, these spots have you covered. Grab your coziest scarf and set out on a sweet tour you won’t forget.
Retreat Sweets
Westport
Retreat Sweets serves up whimsical treats like mochi donuts, soft-serve ice cream, lattes and Korean corn dogs. It’s a playful stop that’s perfect for sweet-tooth adventures.
Best to try: Mochi donuts, matcha latte, soft-serve swirl
Website: retreatsweets.us
Coco Cafe
Stamford
Step into Coco Cafe for a cup of cocoa that is the perfect addition to a classic holiday scene. With a cozy atmosphere perfect for people-watching or holiday chats with friends, it’s your go-to for seasonal drinks and treats.
Best to try: Hot Pink Latte, hot chocolate, pistachio shake
Website: instagram.com/cococafect
The Farmstand by Dairy Boy
Weston
A charming local farmers market experience by Paige Lorenze. The Farmstand pairs seasonal produce with baked goods, flowers and cozy local items, making it a perfect stop for a holiday outing.
Best to try: Seasonal cocoa, freshly baked pastries, farm-fresh treats
Website: instagram.com/thefarmstand
Las Vetas Lounge
Fairfield
For a slightly grown-up twist on your cocoa stop, Las Vetas Lounge offers a warm, inviting cafe and lounge setting perfect for sipping seasonal coffees or enjoying a sweet breakfast on chilly mornings.
Best to try: Blueberry blues pancakes, mulled cider, Cafe Aulait
Website: lasvetascafe.weebly.com
The Granola Bar
Darien
A sunny, health-forward café that mixes fun with flavor, The Granola Bar now has a dinner menu in Darien. Stop in for apps, a whole meal or grab a holiday-inspired drink to-go.
Best to try: Latkes with brown butter apple sauce, pumpkin and cinnamon butter pancakes, frozen hot chocolate
Website: https://thegranolabar.com/
T-Swirl Crepe
Fairfield & Stamford
A Japanese crepe café with holiday cheer baked right in. T-Swirl Crepe offers sweet and savory options, but the seasonal specials steal the show.
Best to try: Fuji caramel apple crepe, bubble tea
Website: t-swirlcrepe.com
Van Leeuwen
Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport
Nothing says winter like creamy ice cream—even in December! Van Leeuwen serves up artisanal ice creams, including seasonal flavors perfect for a holiday indulgence.
Best to try: coffee affogato, brown sugar cookie dough brownies, earl grey tea
Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com
Bistro Versailles
Greenwich
This chic patisserie brings a taste of Paris to Greenwich. With buttery pastries and elegant desserts, it’s perfect for a pastry date or a sweet treat while holiday shopping.
Best to try: ganache, cafe au lait, pear tart
Website: versaillesgreenwich.com