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Try This: Enjoy handcrafted sweets and holiday decor at The Dessertery

Take it from us: You’ll feel like a kid in a candy store — literally.

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Santa looking at sweets to add to his hot chocolate.

Santa taking a peek at the hot chocolate bar.

Photo by RALtoday

Table of Contents

City Editor Cat here. 👋 I consider myself a sweets enthusiast, so I felt compelled to check out The Dessertery (for investigative reasons, of course). This holiday-themed cafe is popping up at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts now through Friday, Dec. 23.

What we tried (with pricing):

When I opened the cafe doors, I was transported to a festive wonderland filled with carefully selected holiday decor, handcrafted desserts, and a hot chocolate bar featuring 50+ toppings (tickets are $25). Follow along to see how you can Try This — and maybe even kick off a new holiday tradition.* 🧁

A holiday-themed cafe with ornamented trees and Santa's sleigh hanging from the ceiling.

The cafe is adorned with carefully selected holiday decor.

Photo by RALtoday

What not to miss:

Did I mention that the cafe is all-you-can-eat? Think: Cupcakes, cheesecakes, petit fours, and assorted chocolates, all made by an in-house pastry chef. After I selected my sweet treats, I relaxed by one of the ornamented trees with an adult beverage from the bar.

Pro tip: Wear your holiday best to take pictures in the photo room. Photos are sent directly to your email.

Assorted desserts and a drink by a lit up tree.

Pro tip: Adult beverages are also available.

Photo by RALtoday

What we’re still talking about:

The hot chocolate bar was laid out beautifully — I truly felt like a kid in candy store. For my toppings, I opted for caramel drizzle on the inside, whipped cream on top with a chocolate swirl, crushed candy cane, and red and green sprinkles to complete my masterpiece. Talk about a perfect sip.

Someone holding a cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and red and white sprinkles.

Take your pick of 50+ hot chocolate toppings.

Photo by RALtoday

How you can experience this:

If I wasn’t in the holiday spirit before, I am now. Purchase tickets to secure a 45-minute time slot to get your fill of desserts and hot chocolate. Bonus: Select nights will feature appearances by Santa or live bluegrass music.

Assorted desserts.

Enjoy all-you-can-eat sweets like tiramisu.

Photo by RALtoday

Things to know if you go:

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