Habana Outpost first opened its doors in 2005 in Manhattan (which I have not been to yet) but I have had the pleasure of enjoying the experience at the newer homely location in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. They proudly describe their cuisine as “Latin food with unique Cuban and Central Mexican accents.” However if you want to categorize it, their food is tasty and full of flavor. Word on the street is that you must try the “World Famous corn.” Just like the food, the staff and overall vibe is full of flavor. Reopening the season on May 3^rd with a block party, Habana Outpost maintains an ongoing fiesta throughout the summer with events that add to the already fun outdoor courtyard environment.

This place is more than just about food and fun. They have a strong mission that is evident all throughout the restaurant. New York’s first “eco-eatery” goes to great lengths to conserve and recycle in any way they can: with solar panels, biodegradable and compostable place settings, tables made from recyclable aluminum and recycled plastic. Not only would you be conserving the planet’s resources, but you may also learn a few things from the fun facts posted throughout the restaurant. You’ll never guess what the cups are made from (you can find the answer on your next cup of lemonade). You’ll find even more fun eco-facts on their website:

• 75% of our trash can be recycled.
• 1 billion worth of trees is thrown away each year in the U.S.
• Each year our supermarket goes through 60,5000,000 paper bags.

They also support the local market, serving Brooklyn brewed beer, hosting local vendors and displaying local art throughout the restaurant.

The man behind this neighborhood friendly hangout stretches his helping hand well beyond his restaurants. Owner Sean Meenan is active in countless efforts including ETSY.com and Positively Green magazine. In an interview on The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch, he explained his approach of promoting his message without judgment or force. Thanks to him, Habana Outpost shares their afterschool special message in a fun and tasty way.

Note: I wouldn’t forgive myself if I didn’t suggest you go across the street for a piece of Cake Man Raven’s red velvet cake for dessert.

Whether you’re planning a Girls’ Night Out, a date with your boo, or a night of solo bliss, let me recommend Max Brenner, Chocolate by the Bald Man, to satisfy your chocolate needs. When a friend of mine suggested that I visit this chocolate heaven, my mouth was watering before she finished describing her meal. After my own firsthand experience, it is my chocolate loving duty to share it with you.

Please be advised that there may be a wait because everyone wants some of the chocolate goodness, but it is well worth the wait, and you will have an opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere. The “Look Mom! Willy Wonka does exist!” sign sums up this fantastical place perfectly. Feast your eyes on the two chocolate mixers at the entrance, a chocolate bar filled with heaps of chocolate, chocolate pipes running throughout the restaurant, and walls lined with jumbo jars of cinnamon and other sweets. Once seated, you will get to flip through a menu dedicated to chocolate with pages of unique hot chocolate blends.

Although The Bald Man also offers entrees that I hear are full of flavor, Max Brenner is the only place that justifies my regular routine of choosing my dessert before (or instead of) choosing my meal. Max Brenner’s menu offers great variety – from traditional fondues and s’mores to internationally inspired crepes to uncanny creations like the chocolate pizza. You can even find chocolate filled syringes to feed your chocolate cravings. The dishes are served with fresh fruits and sweet treats like gummy bears, and the quirky dishware (a hug mug that fits perfectly in the palms of your hands, metal straws, and vials of chocolate) only enhance the experience. Max Brenner certainly creates a gratifying atmosphere. It has been said that chocolate creates feelings similar to that of falling in love. So whether you fall in love with your boo or the chocolate itself, you will leave Max Brenner with a mushy feeling inside.

Oded Brenner (who is actually a bald man) is the man that we owe the gratitude for this chocolate heaven. Taking inspiration from some famous chocolate experts including Michelle Chaudun, and with insight from designers such as Jean Paul Gautier, Mr. Brenner had the revelation that chocolate was more than just food but something that should be appreciated through all the faculties and sensations as an all encompassing experience. After opening chocolate bars in London, Australia and Isreal, Brenner further developed the idea into Max Brenner, Chocolate by the Bald Man, which they launched in Singapore and the Philippines. In 2006, Max Brenner shared the ultimate chocolate experience with New York, opening two locations, one in Union Square and one in East Village.[1]

Sharing the passion for chocolate with each customer that enjoys this amazing chocolate experience, Max Brenner has truly made a name to remember, and many are singing its praises: The March/April 2008 issue of Hi Class Living mentions “the first restaurant entirely devoted to chocolate” and recommends the Chocolate Martini. The January/February 2008 issue of Travel + Leisure Mexico even raves en español. Many also recommend Max Brenner’s chocolate bars that can be found in the chocolate shop. Even celebrities like Orlando Bloom, find their way to enjoy the chocolate creations of the bald man. So if you have not been there yet, you should put it on your to-do list.