If the décor somewhat resembles a paler version of Tiffany’s robin’s-egg blue-and-brown palette, it’s no wonder: what is here is no less delicate. Cacao reminds us of a French dress shop more than a patisserie or café; it’s elegant and simple, with colorful presentations assembled atop minimalist furnishings, which you can well imagine are fussed over and straightened after every pawing from curious customers.

The lovely, personable owners will answer questions without being the least bit condescending, and have garnered quite a devoted following with their passion and dedication. Oh yes, and with their drinking chocolate. This is no powdery Swiss Miss, no lumpy and uneven Ghirardelli, even. Drinking chocolate, as opposed to hot chocolate, is thicker, more concentrated, and intense. It’s a tradition all over Europe, and the tannic-velvet sensation and deeply earthy, nutty flavor will stay with you for days after sipping.

Of course, there’s hot chocolate here, too, but this is also a totally different ball game than what you’re used to. There’s a seamless integration of milk and chocolate, whether in the darker blend or the lighter one. When the sleet is falling outside at Christmastime, drinking this hot chocolate is nothing less than magical.

Once the caffeine buzz has set in, go on a compromised-judgment shopping spree throughout the rest of the store: chocolate-covered nuts; bite-sized chocolates; bar chocolates; fruity chocolates; dark chocolates; milk chocolates. Trust us, you’ll be happy about it later.