If you look in the mirror hanging on the wall in Max Brenner's New York City shop, there's a message reflected back at you in large, gilded letters: "It is so simple, you just need to love chocolate." And most people already do. But somehow, Max Brenner has made visitors to these chic sweet shops fall even deeper in love with the decadent dessert.

That passion probably has something to do with Max Brenner's signature confections. A chocolate pizza eats almost like a giant s'more, thanks to layers of melted chocolate and roasted marshmallows. Heart-shaped cakes are drizzled with warm chocolate, which melts the truffles hiding inside. Milkshakes double as full-sized desserts with infusions of salted caramel or hazelnut spread, arriving in Alice in Wonderland-inspired cups reading "Drink Me."

Should a savory prelude to the sweetness be in order, you'll find Max Brenner serves a full food menu as well. Brunch is served every day the sun comes up, and later on the kitchen whips up mac 'n' cheese, Kobe burgers, and dry-rubbed chicken wings. Just be sure to save room for a pot of fondue.