Ruby et Violette’s chocolate chunk cookies were a Top Pick Of The Week in 2005. Since then, the original owner retired and three energetic young sisters bought the business. Thank goodness for family businesses: These entrepreneurs have done amazing things, adding brilliant brownies and ice cream the likes of which we’ve never seen on this planet. They could be served in any palace on earth—or any great restaurant or bakery. The exquisite gift boxes could be presented at Buckingham Palace, with no additional wrapping required (and remain as a memento of the gift after the brownies are gone).

How good are they? While we love all of the products we write about, here, we’re deeply in love. Should the Mercer sisters try to retire, we’d track them down and get the secret recipes. If you are in New York City, visit the café at 457 West 50th Street. Read more about Ruby et Violette in the full review. And take a look at our favorite baked goods in our Cookies, Cakes & Pastries Section.