All Of It: What is the Best Chocolate Chip Cookie in NYC?

Host: Alison Stewart
Guests: Sonal Shah (Senior Editor, The Infatuation), Molly Fitzpatrick (Senior Staff Writer, The Infatuation), Meathead (Barbecue Hall of Famer)
Release Date: May 23, 2025

Introduction

In this mouth-watering episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart delves into a timeless debate: What is the Best Chocolate Chip Cookie in New York City? Joined by Sonal Shah and Molly Fitzpatrick from The Infatuation, along with barbecue legend Meathead, the discussion explores the diverse landscape of NYC's cookie offerings, listener favorites, and the intricate process behind ranking these beloved treats.

Why the Chocolate Chip Cookie Remains the Standard

[01:54] Sonal Shah:
"The chocolate chip cookie holds a special place because it evokes strong emotions— from the enticing smell to the nostalgic memories of home baking. It's a staple in many bakeries, serving as a canvas for creativity within familiar boundaries."

[02:35] Meathead:
"Everyone has a good association with chocolate chip cookies and a strong nostalgic factor too."

The guests emphasize that the chocolate chip cookie's universal appeal makes it an ideal benchmark for evaluating bakery quality. Its versatility allows bakeries to experiment while still offering something customers know and love.

The Infatuation’s Methodical Approach to Ranking

[05:05] Molly Fitzpatrick:
"We approached the taste test methodically, laying out 32 cookies, numbering them, and scoring each on a scale out of 10 based on criteria like texture, flavor balance, and chocolate quality."

[05:27] Meathead:
"We used clipboards and note-taking to ensure an unbiased evaluation, eventually narrowing down the favorites through debates and bracket-style comparisons."

The meticulous process underscores the dedication to impartiality and thoroughness in determining NYC's top chocolate chip cookies.

Key Criteria for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie

[06:05] Meathead:
"Each person has their own preferences—whether it's thin or thick, chewy or crispy, the amount and type of chocolate, and additional ingredients like nuts."

[06:13] Sonal Shah:
"No two people have the same idea of a perfect chocolate chip cookie. It's about finding that sweet spot in texture and flavor that satisfies individual tastes."

The discussion highlights the subjective nature of cookie preferences, making the ranking process both challenging and insightful.

Listener Contributions and Popular Selections

Alison Stewart opens the lines for listener participation, leading to a variety of opinions:

• Tom from Scarsdale ([07:21] Richard):
  "It's going to be controversial, but my favorite is Insomnia Cookies. My wife and coworkers prefer Levaine, but I find it a bit dry."

• Elaine from Queens ([09:47] Elaine):
  "The Hillary Clinton chocolate chip cookie bake-off winner was the best cookie I ever tasted."

• Michelle from Tribeca ([13:50] Michelle):
  "Rigor Hill Market's salted chocolate chip cookies are perfect, especially if you get them before noon."

• Dorian from Queens ([22:11] Dorian):
  "The thick, cakey cookies from train stations like Penn Station remind me of childhood and are perfect for sharing."

These diverse opinions reflect the broad spectrum of what makes a chocolate chip cookie exceptional, from nostalgic value to innovative flavors.

Highlighting the Top Contenders

1. Red Gate Bakery’s Choco Toffee Cookie ([17:03] Sonal Shah):
   "This cookie seamlessly incorporates toffee, enhancing the caramelized brown sugar and brown butter flavors. The balance of crisp edges with a chewy center, complemented by a hint of salt, makes it a unanimous favorite."

2. The Defunct City Cakes’ Half Pound Cookie ([11:22] Molly Fitzpatrick):
   "Crisp on the edges and gooey in the middle, never underbaked. Rumors suggest a comeback is on the horizon."

3. Winner on 7th Avenue and Park Slope ([15:53] Sonal Shah):
   "Using malted flour adds a subtle nuttiness and complexity, reminiscent of malted milkshakes and old-fashioned soda fountains."

4. Prospect Butcher Co.’s Lard-Based Cookie ([16:33] Meathead):
   "Incorporating house-made lard adds a unique salty dimension, making it taste intriguingly like pepperoni, but in a delightful way."

5. Elbow Bread’s Nori-Infused Cookie ([20:56] Meathead):
   "An adventurous blend of dark chocolate and nori seaweed creates an umami-rich experience, perfect for those who appreciate unconventional flavor pairings."

Special Mentions and Unique Offerings

• Maman's ([10:28] Molly Fitzpatrick):
  "Sophisticated with a mix of walnuts, macadamia nuts, and almonds, paired with dark chocolate for a refined flavor profile."

• Edith’s Amber Caramel Chocolate Chip ([24:25] Sonal Shah):
  "A thin, chewy cookie with a hint of seaweed for complexity, challenging the traditional notion of what constitutes a chocolate chip cookie."

• Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate with Almonds ([23:06] Richard):
  "A commercial option that stands out with its rich dark chocolate and almond combination, earning praise even among bakery enthusiasts."

Defining the Essence of a Chocolate Chip Cookie

[24:05] Sonal Shah:
"The beauty of the chocolate chip cookie lies in its simplicity, yet each bakery brings its unique twist, whether it's through additional ingredients or inventive baking techniques."

[24:25] Meathead:
"Even simple cookies can be vastly different in flavor and texture, making it fascinating to compare and appreciate each variation."

The guests agree that while the chocolate chip cookie is a straightforward treat, the endless possibilities in its preparation keep the debate lively and engaging.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

[19:02] Meathead:
"Participating in this taste test was a delightful reminder of the comfort and nostalgia that comes with enjoying a good chocolate chip cookie. It's essential to embrace the variety and celebrate each unique creation."

[24:05] Sonal Shah:
"Whether you prefer classic, innovative, thick, or thin, the chocolate chip cookie continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse tastes and creativity of New York City's bakers."

Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to explore The Infatuation’s latest rankings and encourages ongoing conversations about personal favorites, reinforcing the community-driven spirit of All Of It.

Final Ranking Highlight

• Number One: Red Gate Bakery’s Choco Toffee Cookie
• Runner-Up: Winner on 7th Avenue and Park Slope
• Third Place: City Cakes’ Half Pound Cookie

For a complete list of rankings and more detailed reviews, listeners are encouraged to visit The Infatuation's website.

Join Us Next Time:
Stay tuned for more engaging discussions on culture and its consumers with All Of It on WNYC, weekdays from 12:00 - 2:00 PM.

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