Food

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.

By Cat George, Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Stephanie Rogers
, November 30, 2022
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Santa taking a peek at the hot chocolate bar.

Photo by RALtoday

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.* 🧁

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.

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.

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.

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

Photo by RALtoday

Things to know if you go:

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Cat George
Catherine (Cat) is a Chesapeake, VA native who moved to Raleigh, NC in 2017. With a background in journalism, marketing, and PR, she has created digital content for over eight years. When she isn’t writing or journaling, she enjoys spending time with her family, walking her dog Tucker to the NCMA, grabbing lattes from local coffee shops, and connecting with local business owners.
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