We love a spot that kills two birds with one stone. The chocolatier in the new Scotch Plains Plaza in Essex does that and more. I’ve dropped in a handful of times since discovering it a few weeks back and with each visit, I’ve left with a powerful cold brew and a gift for someone. Teresa, owner and “curator” is pleased to be part of the seemingly re-blossoming Essex community and she takes her love of chocolate and support of local and sustainable businesses very seriously. Her spanking new space in the far corner of the Oliver’s Tavern complex (we hear that’s coming soon. too!) offers an unending variety of coffee and chocolate. Is there anything better? Teresa painstakingly chooses each confection from artisanal purveyors to ensure it meets her criteria. She prefers family owned, CT/New England-made (some California-made), organic and fair trade. And she doesn’t stop there. The coffee is from Willoughby’s in New Haven, the half and half is sourced from CT dairy farms. Even the paper products are made in the USA. The mocha and chai are both house-made. Aside from the rows and rows of tempting chocolates that line the cases, there’s a veritable gallery of bean-to-bar offerings wrapped in exquisite artwork. Teresa really knows her stuff and she’ll give you a quick education on beans, flavors, and notes. Vegan, dairy-free, nut-free? She’s got something for you. We can’t get enough of the brownie and caramel stuffed organic dark chocolate kitty!

124 Westbrook Road, Essex

www.essexchocolatier.com