Several years ago, I began a quest to find the perfect chocolate chip cookie. As ubiquitous and American as this food item is, you’d think this an easy mission. However, I found almost 99% of cookies did not meet my standards. First of all, size matters. To catch my eye, the cookie must match the size and caloric intake of at least two regular sized cookies. Second and perhaps most importantly, texture is paramount. Each bite must begin with a pillowy dough embrace followed by a firm yet smooth crunch finish. And third, the chocolate chips must be wantonly plentiful. Like, two or three scoops above average. Thus far, the only cookie I’ve experienced with this killer combo is at Culture Espresso in New York City – a diminutive, unassuming coffee shop that is secretly a cookie powerhouse. But I live in New Orleans, so I was determined to find something here that compares. I mean, don’t we live in one of the premier food cities in the country?
Before hitting the pavement, I tried making my own. I found a recipe online for a cookie based on the famous Levain bakery cookie in New York. The trouble was, as solid as this recipe was, I couldn’t quite nail it. Plus, I don’t have time to just whip this up when I need a sugar fix. But then, almost if sent by the divine Gods of Nestle Tollhouse, my mom (who finds everything, everywhere all the time) brought over a box leftover sweet treats from a party. And there it was. The Cookie! JEMS, (short for Just Eat Me Sweets) understood the assignment without even knowing it. I am hooked. Give it a try and see if you agree with me!
Here is a list of favorites from my research:
Choclate Chip Sea Salt, Just Eat Me
Chocolate Chip Cookie, Debbie Does Doberge
Chocolate Chip Cookie, Boulangerie
Chocolate Chip Cookie, Butcher
English Toffee Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookie, The Green Fork
Chocolate Chip Cookie, Martin’s Wine Cellar
Heath Bar Cookie, Rouse’s
And, I’d love your feedback! What is your favorite chocolate chip cookie in New Orleans?
Sale & Event Picks:
Ongoing: 40% off floor models, Villa Vici
Through Nov. 30: 30% off sitewide, Sunday Shop online
Nov. 29: 30% off one item, Earthsavers
Nov. 29-30: Earn $5 per $50 spent, Swap (in store only)
Nov. 29: Locals Only Black Friday Sale, Porter Lyons
Begins Dec. 1: Designer Estate Sale (Villa Vici owners)- By appointment- email Vikki@villavici.com
