If you're hunting for edible art in New York City, these five bonbon makers are turning chocolate into canvases. From boutique studios to Brooklyn ateliers, each brings a distinct brushstroke to the craft.
The State of Hand-Painted Bonbons in NYC
Hand-painted bonbons have become the city's sweetest status symbol, blending pastry precision with fine-art flair. These aren't your corner-store chocolates; they're small-batch, labor-intensive creations where each shell is a miniature canvas. In NYC, the scene is tight-knit but competitive, with makers differentiating through flavor innovation, visual style, and the experiences they wrap around the product. Whether you're a local foodie or a corporate gift-giver, the options are as varied as the city's neighborhoods.
How We Evaluated Each Maker
We looked at each business through the same lens: the breadth of their product range, how clearly they communicate pricing and ordering, and how deeply they're rooted in the local NYC food scene. We also considered the uniqueness of their offerings—from classes to corporate services—and how well their online presence reflects the quality of their physical product. Each maker stood out in its own way, whether through a signature collection, a focus on local pickup, or a flair for themed events.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five bonbon makers we're featuring, from the most established to the newest kid on the block.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Stick With Me Sweets | Iconic, press-approved gifts with nationwide shipping |
| BonBonBarNY | Local boutique shopping and hands-on classes |
| Borough Chocolates | Brooklyn-made bonbons with a bespoke touch |
| Bergoderi Stylish Desserts | Event-ready bonbons and dessert experiences |
| Bella Choco Bella | Affordable, personalized bonbon boxes with local delivery |
The Five Makers, Closer Look
#1 Stick With Me Sweets
A screenshot of the Stick With Me Sweets website.
Stick With Me Sweets has earned its reputation as a bonbon heavyweight, with accolades from Vogue and The New York Times Wirecutter. Their Signature Collection is an iconic gift of handcrafted, hand-painted bonbons, and they offer a Build Your Own Box option for personalization. They also cater to dietary needs with a dedicated Vegan Collection, ensuring no one misses out on the artistry. Shipping nationwide and daily local delivery in NYC make them a convenient choice for both locals and out-of-town gifters. Their story-driven book boxes add a narrative layer that turns each purchase into an experience. If you want a proven, press-worthy pick, this is your go-to.
#2 BonBonBarNY
A screenshot of the BonBonBarNY website.
BonBonBarNY is a boutique confectionery that puts hand-painted luxury bonbons front and center, right in the heart of NYC. Their website is clean and direct, inviting you to shop, book a class, or inquire about corporate events—making them a versatile choice for both personal indulgence and business gifting. The focus on hand-painting suggests a level of craftsmanship that's both visual and edible. While their online presence is minimal, it's enough to spark curiosity and drive you to their shop. For a local, hands-on experience, they're a hidden gem worth discovering. Their classes offer a rare chance to learn the craft yourself.
#3 Borough Chocolates
A screenshot of the Borough Chocolates website.
Borough Chocolates brings a Brooklyn edge to the bonbon scene, with a tagline that says it all: 'Artisanal Hand-Painted Bonbons, Made in Brooklyn.' Their website is a visual feast, with a gallery that showcases their intricate designs and a 'Bespoke' section for custom orders. They also offer a 'Curio' line, suggesting a playful, collectible approach to chocolate. With store hours that invite you to visit their Norman Ave location, they're a neighborhood staple for those who want to see the artistry up close. Their 'Summer Sorbetto' collection adds a seasonal twist that keeps things fresh. If you're after a true Brooklyn original, this is your spot.
#4 Bergoderi Stylish Desserts
A screenshot of the Bergoderi Stylish Desserts website.
Bergoderi Stylish Desserts takes a different route, offering hand-painted bonbons as part of a broader dessert menu that includes pavlovas, tarts, and cakes. Their 'Stylish Hand Painted Bonbons' product page highlights a Picasso-style aesthetic, with flavors like Cookies & Cream and Passion Fruit. They're not just a chocolate shop; they're a full-service dessert atelier with event services, including dessert bars and live cake shows. This makes them a unique pick for weddings and special occasions where you want a multi-sensory dessert experience. Their bonbons are priced at a premium, reflecting the artistic effort involved. If you're planning an event that needs a wow factor, they're worth a look.
#5 Bella Choco Bella
A screenshot of the Bella Choco Bella website.
Bella Choco Bella, based in Hoboken, NJ, offers a more accessible entry point into hand-painted bonbons, with a 16-piece gift box starting at $44. Their signature collection features ethically sourced Belgian cocoa and flavors that change monthly, including herb-infused ganaches from their own garden. They emphasize personal service, with every order scheduled and confirmed within 24 hours, and they offer local pickup and delivery. Their corporate and custom options make them a practical choice for businesses looking for a personal touch. While they're just across the river, their reach extends to NYC customers who appreciate a neighborly approach. For a budget-friendly yet artisanal option, they're a solid pick.
How to Choose Your Bonbon Maker
Start by thinking about the occasion. If you're sending a gift across the country, Stick With Me Sweets' shipping and press pedigree make it a safe bet. For a local experience where you can learn the craft, BonBonBarNY's classes are a unique draw. If you're a Brooklyn purist, Borough Chocolates' bespoke options and gallery will speak to you. For events, Bergoderi's dessert bars and live cake shows add a theatrical element. And if you're watching your budget but still want quality, Bella Choco Bella's personal service and lower price point are hard to beat. Consider what matters most: convenience, experience, or price.
Streamlining Your Bonbon Selection
You can automate your decision-making by setting up a simple scoring system. Assign weights to factors like price, shipping speed, and customization options, then plug in each maker's details. For example, if you're a corporate buyer, you might prioritize businesses that explicitly offer corporate services, like BonBonBarNY and Bella Choco Bella. Use a spreadsheet to compare their offerings side-by-side, and you'll quickly see which one aligns with your needs. This way, you're not just going on gut feeling—you're making a data-backed choice.
The Sweet Takeaway
Each of these five makers brings something unique to the table, from Stick With Me Sweets' iconic status to BonBonBarNY's local charm. The best choice depends on what you value most: whether it's the convenience of nationwide shipping, the intimacy of a Brooklyn shop, or the flair of an event-ready dessert. No matter which you pick, you're getting a piece of edible art that's sure to impress. So go ahead, treat yourself or someone you love—you can't go wrong with any of these.