[slideshow]Photo by Thinh Tran/The Gazelle;Photo by Thinh Tran/The Gazelle;Photo by Thinh Tran/The Gazelle;Photo by Thinh Tran/The Gazelle[/slideshow]

Rejoice, chocolate lovers! If the vending machine Kit-Kat bars or the mini Mars you pick up at the campus convenience store fail to meet your expectations, grab some friends and head to Maya La Chocolaterie. The assortment of well-crafted desserts at Maya will not disappoint those with a soft spot for the bittersweet treat.

Despite its location in the center of Khalidiya Mall, Maya is easy to miss amid fashion shops and electronics stores. Maya's interior decor, with its wooden floors, large brown armchairs and tall display shelves, sets the cozy ambiance and separates the café from the outside cacophony and distinguishes it from the tile-and-glass surrounding.

Maya's extensive menu includes all and everything chocolate, from chocolate drinks to pastries. For chocoholics craving a classic treat, try their various hot chocolate drinks. The luscious concoctions, made with steamed milk and melted chocolate and topped with fluffy marshmallows, has the consistency of thick Italian cioccolata calda, or hot chocolate,that melts on your tongue and instantly warms you up. Those looking to indulge in a generous dessert should not miss Maya's signature fondue, for one or two. Dark or milk chocolate is melted over a burner with a tealight candle and served with fresh fruits, marshmallows or brownies. Dip a piece of strawberry into the molten chocolate and let the burst of tart, creamy, bitter and sweet goodness embrace your taste buds.

The delightful desserts and peaceful setting make Maya a great space for relaxing, conversation and even work. Bring your reading along and treat yourself to the chocolatey deliciousness, which will no doubt make your workload a bit easier.

Maya Cafe is located on the ground floor of Khalidiya Mall, a 10 AED taxi ride from the Central Souk. From the main entrance, Maya is straight ahead between two escalators.