Choux Factory: Better than Beard Papa’s
Dear Food Diary:
Seems like every time my friends and I decide to take a walk around the UN, we end up at Choux Factory. Before trying this place, like most cream puff lovers, I thought Beard Papa’s were the best ever (both japanese). But once I took a bite into these puffy, buttery balls of sweetness, I was converted, and there was no turning back.
Why I like’m better? Well first of all, they are super puffy, flaky and fresh, never ever mushy or too hard and piped to order. It also tastes more buttery than Beard Papa’s, the fillings are not as sweet, and the flavors more intense.
Now to the filling, it’s really creamy, and not too sweet, it also comes a little bit chilled, so it tricks your brain into thinking that this could be puddingish or even ice creamish, which is totally satisfying, specially the Chocolate flavor, love it. I really like the Strawberry ones too, you can really taste and see the fresh pulp of the berry, but they were no where to be found the last couple times I was there, instead they offered Blueberry, which is pretty yummy as well, but the flavor tastes a tad bit artificial. I don’t care too much about Custard, but if you usually like vanilla and original flavors, this one’s for you. Expresso isn’t bad, but since they brew this extremely aromatic Kona Coffee, I rather get an latte and pair it with other flavors.
Look out for: Fresh baked chocolate muffins, only get it if they just came out of the oven. Oh goodness! so moist it almost melts in your mouth. Break it apart and you see the steam dancing in the air, it’s soft and super duper chocolatety, so irressistable, you almost feel guilty… for not sharing that is. It’s a real treat and if you ever happen to be there at the perfect time (when they are fresh out of the oven, i repeat, fresh out of the oven) get one all for yourself and enjoy. I love the muffin top, it’s a little crispy with a lot of chocolate chips, surely a yummy yummy yummy moment, reminds me of that episode of Seinfield.
What I don’t recommend are these pre-made and decorated puffs, topped with this colorful cream and some have berries, they are pretty, but not worth the extra money. It has the looks, but because they are pre-filled and sit in the fridge for who knows how long, the pastry isn’t as perfect.
They are so worth your trip that even when you aren’t around the UN area, you should walk, cab, bus or train it there by “accident”. Plus you can always walk around the parks in the neighborhood, or visit the UN? Ok, who am I kidding? just get yourself there for the puffs.
P.S. Chubby’s RATING: 
865 1st Ave
212.223.0730
I can't wait to taste these cream puffs. So they are better than beard papa's huh?