In Thorns Marketplace in Northampton, MA you I'll come across some delightful chocolates and…read moretruffles. I wasn't sure if my mind was playing games on me, but on my last trip to Northampton this chocolate stand was called Heavenly Chocolate, and now they're called Firetype Chocolate. They simply decided to go for a new name. They're just a small stand located across from Share Northampton. The chocolate variety they offer is anything but small. One little truffle will set you back almost $3.00. As far as I could tell everything is sold individually, not by weight. I got some of the chocolate that sounded a bit interesting, also the barks are a bit larger than the truffles. I got the Salted Almond Bark, Maple Honeycomb and another one that's very similar. These are such quality chocolates. The honeycomb is a bit sticky, and you might need to floss your teeth right after. They also have a small selection of gummy candy. I got the pear, these are soft and juicy. These are unique, flavorful chocolates, that any chocolate lover is sure to appreciate. Firetype Chocolates are made by hand right here in Northampton. This is their only physical location.

I bought these chocolates for my wife for Mother's Day. She said they were the best that she's…read moreever had and requested a box for each holiday going forward. The clerk was also super nice and patient and also hand wrote a "map" to the chocolates so my wife would know what each one was. Very helpful.

Nestled in the heart of Northampton, Ana Bandiera Chocolates is the kind of place you might expect…read moreto find in Boston, New York, or Paris--not in a picturesque farming community in western Massachusetts. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic building, the café embraces its 19th-century roots with original wood floors, vintage furnishings, and the timeless charm of an old-fashioned soda fountain. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles effortlessly with rich chocolate, creating an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and savor the moment before you've even placed an order. Watching my European-style dark sipping chocolate being prepared was a performance in itself. Every movement behind the counter reflected care and craftsmanship rather than routine. Paired with a warm brownie, the experience promised indulgence and exceeded every expectation. Crowned with a swirl of whipped cream, the sipping chocolate was impossibly smooth, velvety, and intensely rich without being overpowering. The first sip was so luxurious that the bustle of the café seemed to disappear, leaving nothing but the warmth of the cup and the deep, complex flavors of expertly crafted chocolate. The brownie followed with its own quiet perfection; warm, chewy, and deeply fudgy, delivering a decadent companion to an already unforgettable drink. Ana Bandiera Chocolates is more than a café; it's a destination for anyone who appreciates the artistry of fine chocolate. Sourcing cacao from across the Southern Hemisphere while honoring a tradition that stretches back to the ancient Aztecs, the shop transforms a simple afternoon treat into an experience worth lingering over. Northampton is fortunate to have a place of this caliber. It is a hidden gem that proves world-class craftsmanship can thrive far from the bustle of a major city.

Disappointed After Hearing So Many Great Things…read more I really wanted to love this place. As someone who works nearby, I've had countless customers recommend Ana Bandera's to me. People would constantly tell me how amazing it was and that I had to try it. After hearing so many positive reviews, I finally decided to stop in for a vanilla chai latte. Unfortunately, my experience was nothing like what I had heard. When I walked in, there were only about three customers inside. Right before me, another customer came in and was greeted with smiles, laughter, and friendly conversation. When it was my turn, the atmosphere completely changed. There was no greeting, no conversation, and honestly, I didn't feel welcome. The interaction felt cold, as if I was inconveniencing the staff just by placing my order. Since it was my first visit, I wasn't familiar with how everything worked. When my drink was ready, the employee simply placed it on top of the pastry case, said, "Have a good day," turned around, and walked away. There was no explanation, no smile, and no attempt to make a first time customer feel appreciated. I stood there for a moment in disbelief because I truly thought that couldn't be the entire customer service experience. I still left a tip because I believe in supporting people who work in customer service, and I hoped maybe it would brighten someone's day. But I walked out feeling disappointed, especially since it was raining and I had gone out of my way to finally visit a place that had been so highly recommended. Unfortunately, the drink itself didn't make up for the experience. The vanilla chai latte tasted overwhelmingly like straight chai. I couldn't taste any vanilla, it wasn't sweet at all, and it honestly wasn't enjoyable. To make matters worse, the drink was served in a to-go cup without being sealed, and it spilled all over my car on the drive back to work since it was filled to the top. When I arrived at work, I looked at the cup and honestly thought it looked like something I could have made at home and poured into a plastic cup. After such a disappointing visit, I decided to read some of the lower-rated reviews, and I noticed someone else had mentioned receiving an unsealed to-go drink that spilled as well (2reviews confirming this is not the first time) Knowing that another customer had experienced the same issue made it seem like this wasn't just a one time mistake. From the negative comments I read seems also the staff with attitude is a regular thing. I'm usually someone who believes every business deserves a second chance. I've had disappointing experiences elsewhere before, and if a business makes an effort to correct things, I'm more than happy to return. Sadly, this visit left such a poor impression that I don't see myself coming back. Customer service is just as important as the product you're serving, especially when you're welcoming someone for the very first time. I truly hope this was simply an off day, because based on the recommendations I received, I expected a much warmer experience. I genuinely wanted to become a regular customer. Instead, I left feeling unwelcome and disappointed. Would not be coming back and will be sharing my experiences with my customers.

Amazing cheese selection! Fair priced, great people. I have been going here for a year now. They…read moreare actually at the basement of thorns marketplace down underneath now about a block away from their old location. Theres a parking garage next to it. Highly recommend! Great wine selection as well!

This place is so well curated and the staff is always incredible. Shout out to Becca for assisting…read moreus with a life changing cheese experience!

I have been a fan of Herrell's my entire life! Before and after renovation and all! They always…read morehave a great assortment of flavors and I always love to look for their most unique options! They cater to all types of dietary issues and have dairy free and sorbets. Even their cookie and cake selection usually has at least one GF item. Their board also displays if any flavor has wheat, nuts, or eggs in it, which is much appreciated! The staff is always knowledgeable and friendly. The line can be out the door at times, but the staff work diligently to keep it moving. The seating can be tight but it's a nice place to hang out if they have the space. Fun wall hangings and always their signature bears keeping us all company! The only downside to this place is that it is so well frequented, as it should be, that some flavors sell out quickly. It will be there one day and then not the next, so get it while you can. Or alternatively, you can email them and special order a flavor you love that you keep missing. I love that they do this! It takes time, so plan ahead, but it is so worth it! And although I want people to keep this business running, I.e. keep the money flowing so they keep in business... I have to also say, don't forget to come in and get your free birthday sundae!! Maybe just bring a friend who will purchase their own item.

Good selection of flavors. The cookie dough vanilla base was really good but there was to much…read morecookie dough for me it was overpowering. They have ice cream cakes and a selection of baked goods here too. Indoor seating available. Employees are very nice here.

Awesome late night drinks! Didn't try any food but was a fun spot…read more Definitely want to try more soon

Stopped by the cafe for a tea and to read. Staff are very nice, this cafe offers a unique ambiance…read morethat i've been looking for.

Really impressed by Hungry Ghost Bread! My friend and I stopped in randomly and I'm very glad that…read morewe did. It was mainly a bakery, with a small counter and one employee at the front, where you place your order. All the breads looked amazing, but I decided to just go with a pretzel, since I was just looking for a little snack. I know it's hard to base a review off a pretzel alone, but wowza, that pretzel was delicious! It was clear that the ingredients were top notch. If you're looking for more of a café vibe, you're not going to find it here. But if you're looking for some great baked goods, look no further!

Is hungry ghost the best bread in New England? The argument could be made. Sort of a no frills…read morebakery but worth stopping in if you're passing through Northampton.

Delicious, richly flavored, generous portioned chicken tagine. Tasty Harris soup. Almond baklava…read morewas yummy and atypical in that it was not too sweet, not soaked in syrup. Very reasonably priced. Casual, order at the counter.

THIS PLACE WAS SOOOO DELICIOUS. A friend and I were trying to figure out a place to eat when we…read morestumbled upon this gem. We were first attracted to it due to all of the omelet options on the menu, so we decided to sit down and eat there and it was so so good. I got the veggie omelet and it was full of flavor and delicious. Ordering food was seamless (order at the front then sit down). It was a clean environment, in a small cute place.