Ice cream season is upon us, and sinking into a decadent Dubai sundae is the perfect way to celebrate the occasion.
Chef Romina Peixoto, an Eleven Madison Park and Le Cirque alumna, is scooping up the treat ($12) at Sweet Graffiti, a Herald Square dessert staple that packs a punch — “bold, loud, and anything but ordinary” is the motto. Naturally, the vanilla soft serve topped with chocolate syrup, homemade pistachio cream, and finished with golden toasted kataifi and chopped pistachios fits into the “anything but ordinary” category.
“The Dubai chocolate has gained popularity through its viral presence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram,” Chef Peixoto says. “The trend was further fueled by influencers and celebrities, and that contributed to his rapid rise and demand.”
Plus, it sparks just the right amount of intrigue, according to Neil Hershman, the CEO of 16 Handles: “At first the initial response is always, “This isn’t a chocolate bar!” but then you take another bite and start questioning what a chocolate bar even is. The combination of smooth and crunchy in the pistachio knafeh filling makes it addictive.”
In addition to popping up on feeds and inundating Google search results, you’ve likely seen the catchy flavor making the rounds in NYC over the past few months. Take for example the Dubai chocolate-covered strawberries from Bryant Park’s Winter Village that dethroned hot chocolate for the holidays.
Now we’re glad to see a summertime remix — one that claims to be “bigger, bolder, and colder” — land in NYC, just in time for the gorgeous weather. However, regardless of the season, the chocolatey sensation has a few consistent standout features.
“The Dubai chocolate bar is unique to its innovative fusion of Middle Eastern flavors and textures,” Chef adds. “The feeling is a crispy shredded phyllo pastry, pistachio cream, and tahini. With a smooth milk chocolate on the outside, the combination creates a distinct taste and textural experience, making it very popular.”
(For all those considering an order, note that the Dubai sundae contains tree buts, dairy, and egg.)
We’re not sure about you, but we’ve definitely found our new guilty pleasure. If you need us, we’re en route to Sweet Graffiti!
Should you want a dessert that’s equally delicious but a timeless classic, might we suggest heading to Lexington Candy Shop for an old-fashioned Coca-Cola? (Hey, the shop just turned 100 — they know what they’re doing!)
📍Sweet Graffiti: 51 W 32nd Street
⏰ Daily: 11am-9pm