Your kids want hot chocolate

Your kids want:

Mac and cheese | Chicken fingers | Lemonade | French fries | A hot fudge sundae | Tacos | Grilled cheese | A milkshake | Burgers

GO TO:Max Brenner

It’s only been open since last summer, and amazingly, it’s already cool to hate the Bald Man. Maybe it’s the company’s coy yet relentless marketing; maybe it’s the fact that the two NYC locations are routinely bogged down with more tourists than Top of the Rock. Nonetheless, you’re unlikely to find a more down-deep pleasing mug of hot chocolate than the four varieties—which include dark, milk and white chocolate, plus one accented with orange zest—at Max Brenner. (For that matter, the chocolate-drenched cubes of coconut are pretty darn satisfactory as well.) The texture is velvety, and not overly thick or chalky as upscale hot chocolates often tend to be. Smooth and rich, it has a delicious sweetness that lingers, allowing a small cup ($3.95) to last at least twice as long as a mug of Swiss Miss. If you’re planning on hitting up one of Brenner’s restaurants for a taste, head to the East Village location. The atmosphere is cozy and warm, with dim lighting and a pleasant waitstaff that serves it up much more efficiently than its frenzied Union Square counterpart. 141 Second Ave at 9th St (212-388-0030, maxbrenner.com).

NEXT BEST THING:Andrew’s Coffee Shop

This expansive establishment brings on the hot stuff nice and sweet for kids in need of a quick fix. With a light, even texture, this cup is exceptionally easy to drink. Either sit at one of the casual booths or head to the separate to-go entrance for fast service and a fantastically priced cup (just $2!). 463 Seventh Ave at 35th St (212-695-1962).

Patty time! | Table talk | Eat with your hands | Dinner theater