Candybar

Western Addition, San Francisco –

As its name would suggest, Candybar is all about dessert. But this is not a place for doe-eyed children to frolic with bags of jelly beans and chocolate bars; this is a grown-up’s confectionary, where intricate and ever-changing sweets like graham cracker guava sorbet complement sparkling wine, lemonade sorbet comes with soju, and trios of shareable cupcakes have sealed the deal on many a date night.

Lit by spidery chandeliers and contemporary pendants, vibrant eye-catching murals of koi fish, urban scenery, and local art give the minimalist space the feel of a classy gallery.

Trendy couples and groups of bubbling-sugar junkies make the venue a frequent post-dinner spot, carving their way through chocolate tarts with candied peanuts and blackberries – officially known as “Peanut Butter Jelly Time!” – toasting with fresh sangria, cozying up at the small bar, or settling in at one of the tightly-packed tables with a board game.

A solid list of plain ol’ beer, wine, and champagne are also on hand, as well as a small selection of savory snacks like cheese and salami plates for those not enticed by honey-almond panna cotta or almond brittle lathered in Nutella.

Although its delectable desserts will test the resolve of even the most devoted dieters, Candybar’s warm and friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect place to satisfy guilty pleasures – even if it means another hour on the treadmill tomorrow.