Lagusta's Luscious

I’ve visited Lagusta’s Luscious a few times now, and my overall experience has been a mix of really great moments and a few things that left me slightly underwhelmed. It’s clear this place isn’t your average café — it’s a unique spot that blends artisanal vegan chocolates, desserts, and café drinks with strong values and a mission that many locals and tourists appreciate.  Let’s start with what really shines: the chocolate and pastries. If you’re a fan of vegan confections that actually taste indulgent, this place will impress. The chocolates here are creatively flavored and beautifully crafted — from citrus and herb combinations to rich caramels and classic dark chocolates — all with depth and complexity that you don’t often find in vegan sweets. Many people rave about how these chocolates stand up even compared to non-vegan artisanal brands, and I can see why.  Beyond chocolates, the café side offers some standout treats and drinks. The coffee and specialty drinks (think interesting lattes and well-made espresso) are comforting and fit perfectly with a sweet dessert. Pairing a handcrafted drink with a decadent cookie or caramel treat feels like a real treat, and it’s obvious a lot of care goes into the selection and preparation of the menu.  Another thing I appreciate about this place is its commitment to sustainability and ethics. The shop uses eco-friendly packaging, composts kitchen scraps, and highlights ethically sourced, high-quality ingredients. For customers who care about environmental impact and vegan, cruelty-free food options, that’s a big plus — and it’s woven into the identity of the business, not just an afterthought.  That said, the experience isn’t without its downsides. For one, the café can feel a bit inconsistent depending on when you go. There were times when the pastries seemed a bit dry or not as fresh as I hoped, and service, while friendly, sometimes lagged when the café was busy. It’s a small space, which contributes to a cozy vibe, but it can also feel cramped or rushed if it’s crowded.  Additionally, some items feel priced on the higher end, especially when compared with other local cafés or chocolate shops in the area — though honestly, that seems tied to the artisanal, handcrafted nature of what they’re doing. It’s not unreasonable, but if you’re expecting bakery prices, you might be surprised.  Another small frustration is that not all of the menu offerings are always available. Some pastries or special draw items seem to sell out early, which can be disappointing if you made a special trip based on a specific item you saw on social media or the menu board. In short, Lagusta’s Luscious is worth visiting at least once — especially if you’re into ethically made vegan chocolates and inventive desserts. The atmosphere is unique, the values are admirable, and the taste often lives up to the hype. But be prepared for occasional inconsistencies in service and availability, and don’t expect a typical café experience. If you go in with that mindset, you’ll likely walk away happy and planning your next stop back for another artisan chocolate or latte.

A wonderful and peaceful place with pleasant music. The hot chocolate is incredibly delicious, and the handmade candies are amazing. You can even watch the process of making the chocolate treats. Good parking spot.

Finally they have brought back their delicious cashew mac n cheese!! I was so disappointed when they took it off their menu when they moved locations years ago, but it’s finally returned. You must try it, especially with the shiitake jerky. It used to have breadcrumbs on top, but seems like that’s not an offering anymore. Other than the food, the chocolates are definitely high quality, but very expensive ($4 for one tiny square). The coffee is good, too, but they’re more popular for their seasonal specialities and fun lattes (especially in the autumn).

This is usually the best chocolate friendliest coffee chocolate store we’ve ever been to. It’s so very cute. The staff is so nice and so patient and I absolutely love them it to the miztvah wall. Thank you to the owners. This place is like a scene out of a movie.

After years of ordering chocolates and having them shipped to Florida, I was finally able to walk in to this adorable chocolate shop and enjoy the space. I have never tried anything I didn’t absolutely love. Their chocolates are out of this world. Love the vibes, the kind customer service and their amazing creations. 100/10.

Such a wonderful coffee and chocolate shop next to a beautiful trail and lovely little nook. The staff was so wonderful and positive, and of course the chocolates were great. I took home a box for my family.

I am guilty of forgetting from time to time that Lagusta’s has the best espresso in New Paltz and perhaps the best in Ulster County. Breakfast burritos are amazing, but get there early because they quickly sell out. The fermented vegetable hot sauce (I believe it’s Ethiopian style) is not to be missed if you can take the heat. Chocolates are always good. Whether vegan or not, if you’re a dark chocolate lover, you’ll be in heaven here.

Always amazing flavors and incredible quality, they are known for their chocolates but the food and drink are creative and delicious as well. My spouse joins on trips to the Hudson Valley specifically to come here, and with good reason. We treasure our Lagusta's purchases (and struggle to make them last!). Metered street parking isn't too bad and the seating and ambiance are really lovely inside and out. Minus one star only for the irony of building such a marvelous temple to compassion, but choosing a location and prices that reserve access to the most privileged. I love this place now that I'm in a position to buy expensive chocolates and canvas shopping bags with quips about radicalism. I would have resented the hell out of it when I was poor. I understand this is essentially a luxury goods store in a specialty market that has transcended many obstacles to reach success, but if they are living their expressed values, this could be better communicated.

Please read before going in. Before walking in, prepare an idea of a budget. Try to gather some self control. Once you walk in.... Good luck! Ok so all began with basically everything house made. Milks, syrups, chocolates. Options of chocolates are wild. I of course had to grab a few and was utterly blown away but the flavors. Keep in mind, these are vegan. I normally don't do vegan. These were amazing. Spent 3 times as much on chocolates as coffee. No regrets. This is a paradise of sweets, little treats and coffee. What more could you need? Unfortunately no pictures. Didn't have enough brain power to pull out a phone while nibbling on delectable treats. So yea don't walk here. Run!!!

Lagusta's in New Paltz has always been on my radar- even back when I lived in Westchester. Now that I'm up in the sticks, it's kind of nice knowing I'm closer to them. So one day on my lunch break, I decided to finally swing by and see what they're all about- especially since their whole thing is chocolate. The space inside is cozy with a nice cocoa aroma that almost wraps around you like a blanket. This isn't just a chocolate cafe- it's a nice little wonderland where cocoa is the soul, but not the whole story. Alongside their truffles, you'll find hot chocolate, brownies, pastries, etc- all Vegan. I was really looking forward to the chocolate truffles, but the chewy texture threw me off. I expected that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth center like the classic ones. And I get it- these folks are completely vegan- even so, I hoped for a similar consistency in these- veganized of course. And I couldn't leave without trying the hot chocolate. Theirs needed more cocoa oomph. Still, the service was solid and the staff was great.

Excellent !!!!!!!!!! 5 stars!!!!!!.everything is fresh & Extremly Tasty, not like commercially made sweets,always an amazing experience to visit &; purchase my favorites. I will always be a customer here. Their prices are extremely reasonable also!!!!!.

I have been coming hear for over two years and I'm still impressed with how wonderful the staff and the owner are. They are always friendly and ready to make suggestions. They take the time to make connections with everyone walking up to the counter and being able to do this with out slowing down service. The cookies, cakes and especially the chocolates are always fresh and delicious and VEGAN! When this place is busy it still feels welcoming and relaxing. Don't be scared of the term Vegan when it comes to the chocolates. It is definitely worth going out of your way to try them. You will not be disappointed. I am allergic to chocolate but will occasionally make the exception and have one or two. Plus the espresso is great.

I wanted to love this, but sadly, I just didn't. I'm a big fan of hot chocolate, and the pics of this looked good, but it wasn't for me. I usually don't get whipped cream and I should've stuck with that but for some reason I wanted to try it "as is". I don't like the hot/cold contrast and even though I like cinnamon, I was not at all a fan of the top being dusted with cinnamon. I'm not really sure that I could properly evaluate the rest of the cocoa, with all that, but we'll say I didn't love it. Perhaps my palette just isn't sophisticated enough? I also tried 3 chocolates: Rosemary salted caramel - very rosemary heavy, didn't love it. Tahini salted caramel - better than the rosemary, but I still didn't love it Strawberry Balsamic Caramel - I think this was the best, but I still didn't finish it. I'm a huge fan of salted dark chocolate and love trying new chocolates, so I was surprised that I struck out on all 3. Like I said, maybe my palette just isn't sophisticated enough for this place. And considering I spent $18 on this (more than I spent on my lunch which was amazing), it was definitely a let down.

When I went to visit my family I found myself becoming a regular here. This café is absolutely delightful. So, this is a chocolate shop as well. & Vegan! (without being in your face about it). Don't sleep on the mocha latte! The quality of the ingredients they use here are off the charts. I also tried a turmeric tea latte with maple one day.

Ridiculously good chocolate. Yes expensive but these offerings are worth it. Turtle bar is like a dinner substitute. It's thirteen dollars but incredible flavor. Layers and textures. And vegan. How?!?! Worth every cent.

Came to this shop looking for Little Loaf Bakeshop goods, but they ran out for the day. The cashier was kind enough to walk me through their vegan goods, so I opted for their vegan chocolate chip walnut cookie. DELICIOUS!!! It has a crispy crunch texture and it literally tastes like a regular chocolate chip cookie. I would definitely be back to get more of their chocolate chip walnut cookies and other vegan treats.

This place is an absolute gem. There are a plethora of coffee shops which miss the mark on exquisite coffee in favor of ambiance and experience. Lagusta's is a strong opposite of this. They source their coffee from high end roasters, brew it with the right equipment, and most of all with the right experienced hands. The place is a perfect meeting point between hitting the mark on the right product, the right people, the amazing ambiance.

PLEASE NOTE: This review is for ordering online and having shipped to your home. I'm always so impressed with the quality of Lagusta's chocolate. I've now been able to try many of their offerings, and I have to say that THE ones to get are: Halloween: + the cherry bleeding hearts (anatomically-accurate dark chocolate hearts filled with a bright housemade cherry filling that bursts when you bite into it) Autumn: + the apple cider caramels topped with a candied pecan (it tastes like a syrupy version of the drink and a pecan pie had a baby) Winter: + the cranberry orange caramels (tart and refreshing and Starburst-like, yet covered in rich chocolate... for those of of us who can't decide between candies!) Not seasonal/available mostly year round: + strawberry balsamic caramels (very jammy strawberry filled chocolates with a white balsamic vinegar reduction, making it less sweet and more EVERYTHING) + maple honeycomb (it's like a Crunchie bar from England! a puffy toffee highlighted with concentrated maple syrup) Treat your friends. Treat yourself. (PRO TIP: do *not* put these chocolates in your refrigerator. It changes their texture and mutes their flavor more than you might think. I've found them to be best at room temperature [both for enjoying and storing]).

I absolutely love Lagusta's ! Vegan chocolate for the win. This was my first time visiting in person and location is super cute. Even on a weekday, it was packed with people. There are lots of prepackaged options and treats behind the case, plus they also offer vegan food options, though I didn't get a chance to try those. I didn't know what to get, so I went with the mystery box, and some of the flavors were deliciously weird in the best way. It reminded me of when my husband ordered a box of chocolates in the past as a gift .. it's always fun trying flavors I wouldn't normally pair together, but they work so well ! Hope to be back again in the future !

Everything about this place is amazing . Sandwiches are incredibly flavorful and fresh. We love the treats and beverages too. Would love location in Massachusetts. The indoor and outdoor seating is clea, comfy casual. Love it here.

Both the chocolates and the fancy chai concoction were superb! The ingredients in the chocolates taste so fresh - strawberry balsamic, preserved lemon, an herbal one - all so good. And the chai had a nice ginger floral flavor and was not overly sweet. Absolutely nailed it!

We bought a bunch of these chocolates and the strawberry-balsamic here is far and away the best one. Absolutely delicious! I'm not even a fan of the combo usually, but the sweet-and-savory mix of flavors with this strawberry jelly inside and rich, dark chocolate shell on the outside is extraordinary! Would buy a whole box of just these even though they're all so expensive. Also enjoyed the lemon thyme chocolate and the sugarplum hazelnut bonbon. 5 stars!!!

The pastries and drinks were amazing. Love the atmosphere. Everything is vegan and there are a few gluten free options. The outside seating is very welcoming. I wish there were food options, but they run out to fast and they stop serving food once they run out.

Stopped by at end of day walking around NP. I looovveee Lagusta's. My friends and I got hot chocolates and matcha and some treats. My friend also left a donation for a mitzva for someone else to enjoy. Everything is especially delicious. This place is special due to their commitment to the community as a whole and the LGBTQ community.

I had my eye on this place for quite some time, finally had a chance to stop in. Had the cafe latte - with oat milk. Really excellent, please see photo. (Note: this is a completely vegan operation so don't as a matter of habit request a dairy product in your coffee.) Also purchased some of their chocolates. Not cheap, but certainly among the best I've ever had. Outdoor seating (early fall for my visit), was very pleasant and comfortable. Great to see a successful business incorporating ethical considerations in their operations. Bravo!

Absolutely the best drinking chocolate. The chocolatea, chocolate gifts, and specialty drinks are to die for. Cute seating area, with trail view. Love this place, come every time we are in New Paltz. Also, there's a mitzvah wall!

It's always a gamble when trying something for the first time, via US mail no less. But luck be a lady tonight because I struck gold...in chocolate caramel form! I recently learned about this awesome company via Instagram and have been drooling for months. When I saw the addition of Butterscotch Caramels on their website I knew that the time had come to finally see what this place was made of. I received my order in an extremely timely fashion. It was well packaged and arrived in flawless condition. BUTTERSCOTCH CARAMELS! I really do not know what to say. I am speechless. They exceeded all expectations. You cannot tell the difference between these vegan caramels and the non-vegan version, as far as taste. These actually taste better! Buttery, rich caramel, enclosed in sweet chocolate with a hint of sea salt. 'Tis perfection. The vegan chocolate tastes like a mixture of dark and milk chocolates. I don't know, but it works. I'm so happy these didn't come with caloric information because I definitely ate a whole row in one sitting. As a matter of fact, I'm just gonna go order another box because it's that insanely delicious.

Oh My GOODNESS! This place is amazing. So much delicious vegan chocolate. We have been here twice - each time we stay at The Gray Barn at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary. If I lived locally I would be bankrupt with high blood sugar it is so gooooood! Bring back the vegan Nutella!

We got an unsweetened matcha latte, a beet focaccia sandwich, two cookies, and chocolate. We loved all of it.

I'm not vegan nor is my wife and we had to try a 15 box assortment because with the flavors we saw well it was enticing. We have noticed the chocolates have a unique flavor some we like more than others. The hot cider was a nice warm up on the fall day we were there. Staff were wearing masks and were very diligent in their work spaces.

Let me start this update with a plea for you to first read my original review. I have a feeling it's more compelling than this brief ode to my favorite chocolatier in the vegan universe. Did you read? Ok, good. This update reflects true Love in the Time of Coronavirus. I had been having a trying week, like everyone in the world had been having a trying week. It was the start of something huge here in New York, the week when the first cases were being announced. People were starting to horde TP. People were still gathering in groups, thumbing their nose at predictions and promises. For me, dread was already setting in. Visions of dinners from the freezer or can were already filling my head. And then my husband came home with a box of chocolates from Lagusta's Luscious. This was everything to me that day. Those divine bits of fruit creams, caramels, nougats enrobed in the most velvety of chocolates made the next week better than bearable. I could almost pretend everything was going to be OK again. You don't have to do without edible luxuries in these times, friends. You deserve this. They are still shipping and Easter is right around the corner (strawberry bunnies! peanut butter bunnies! white chocolate bunnies! creme eggs!) Be still your hearts.

Relaxing atmosphere with delicious treats and drinks! I had a peaches and cream tea latte and an earl grey shortbread cookie. Both were wonderful. I also left with a package of 8 assorted vegan chocolates. If I lived in the area, I would be a regular as the space is cozy and inviting as well! Stop in to sit or get takeout and you will be glad that you did!

The cutest vegan cafe to get delicious coffee, locally made pastries, and house-made chocolates! It's a nonnegotiable to stop by when I'm in the area.

The sweets here are off the hook! Service is perfectly friendly and the ambience is welcoming and lovely whether indoors our outside on the slate patio. Both the peanut butter and tahini ice cream bars are what I will be dreaming about for the rest of my days....oh and don't forget the outstanding coffee!

This place is an absolute must when your in town! The chocolates are all made in house and they always have new flavors, and they are simply DELICOUS. I actually miss it already! The staff is friendly and welcoming. We absolutely love coming here for the treats! My favorite flavors is the strawberry balsamic, the potato chip one and the lemon thyme. They also sell online to ship to home. I will be placing order for holidays. Absolutely yummmmm!

Came in here for some hot chocolate, it was good. I shared it with my son who enjoyed it too. We also got chocolate from here but my son being only 4 was not into it, but my husband said it was delicious. Cute looking place.

Loved the assorted chocolates we picked up here while hiking in the area. The maple cream one was absolutely delicious and my fav.The cardamom caramel was another fav.

If we're focusing on chocolate quality.. I'm sorry to say that this really wasn't what I was expecting. I'm someone who loves chocolate, I don't eat it all the time but chocolate that just melts in your mouth and has the perfect balance makes your girl melt. A five star overall review on Yelp made my expectations high. I walked in, so SO ecstatic because I know what it's like to have that melt in your mouth experience. I bought a set of 15 chocolates for myself and bf to share, and a set of 8 for my family to bring back to NYC. Packaging 5/5 service 5/5! We're opening the box of chocolates and our eyes light up as we decide which flavor to pick. I nibble a piece of the chosen chocolate and instead of going into bliss, I've come to find that the chocolate didn't melt.. and sadly tastes like chocolate that may have been expired or frozen :/ So maybe it's because it's my first time having vegan chocolate. Maybe that day was slow and they didn't bring out their best quality chocolates. Maybe My bf and I were having a field day. BUT my taste buds do not lie :/ For the price, which is similar to most chocolatier speciality shops - it's not worth it. I wish I paid less. sorry but this is my truth Pricing Box of 8: $15 Box of 15: $35 (not sure need to double check)

Spent $68 on 8 pieces of UNDERWHELMING chocolate for a business lunch. It's not creamy, the filling combinations are trying too hard and the service is HORRIBLE. THE counter girls were beyond RUDE, inflexible & down right snobs because I didn't understand the whole "vegan" thing. What a way to turn away business. I got to my local business meeting & the business owners there commented on the rudeness of the staff. NOT A GOOD SIGN. Just another elitist fake rip off place hiding under the guise of "vegan"... GO SOMEWHERE WHERE CUSTOMERS ARE VALUED. HORRIBLE bratty EMPLOYEES who don't earn their pay! Don't trust the reviews, you will be disappointed.

My favorite chocolate shop! After a day of hiking at Mohonk, really enjoyed a box of chocolates to take home along with the hazelnut spread. The spread is the bomb and the assorted chocolates we picked out were so delicious and fun to enjoy. Our favorite chocolate we got was the rosemary caramel chocolate. I also enjoyed the vulva, which is chocolate and peppercorn. Super unique and such a fun name. Thanks to Lagusta's for supporting small farmers to produce ethical chocolates!

Such a great find, I wish I lived closer so I could try all of their flavor rotations! I actually didn't know that these were all vegan until we ate all of them (in one sitting, after promising that we would stretch them out for 2-3 days, oops!) and now I love them even more! Love small businesses that sincerely care about their community and the environment. We got, in no particular order: yuzu cashew, thyme lemon sea salt caramel, cookies and cream, two dark chocolate raspberry, sea salt caramel, hibiscus, and blueberry. Also, not pictured because we ate it so quickly, their pistachio cookie. YUM. So good! My boyfriend and I are going to try (and very likely fail) to replicate them at home this weekend because we've talked about them so much!

Delicious chocolates made with sustainable ingredients that support living wages for their employees, what more could you want? We tried many different confections from Lagustas while stocking up on provisions for a cabin stay nearby. Favorites included the fudge, lemon thyme caramel, bark (so gorgeous!), and the ice cream sandwiches! Oh, and the licorice! I had no idea that I could actually like licorice. So good. The only negative thing I can think of was that we looked up the hours before heading into town and everything (Yelp, Google, their website, IG, and FB) all stated they opened at 10 am on Sundays. When we arrived at 10:15 they were closed. I checked IG to see if they had posted any updates and there wasn't anything so I called and was told they were opening at noon that day. I wish there had been a update posted to social so that we could have planned our day more efficiently. Still, worth the waiting around and I'd be here a dangerous amount if I lived in the area.

Best coffee and chocolate in town. My go-to spot for cold brew and people watching. The baristas are also super friendly and create a warm atmosphere.

It is almost impossible to find vegan chocolate or a vegan dessert place where I live. So imagine my surprise to stumble upon one while visiting New Paltz. The shop was pure heaven. The smells, the different chocolates wrapped and in the case. I went a bit overboard and bought so many things but there were no regrets! My favs so far: earl grey & preserved orange bar turtle bar maple pecan caramels

Absolutely amazing chocolate shop and all of the chocolates are vegan! Delicious and such an assortment. We order online because live out of state. It was great to visit the shop in person. Best chocolates!!

I love the chocolate here. One thing that really bothers me is an iPad shoved in my face suggesting I tip $15.00 after I buy $100.00 worth of pre packaged chocolates. All she did was ring up the chocolates. I'm a big tipper and find it VERY uncomfortable having the business SUGGEST how much I should tip.

As a former vegan I have to level with everyone. I came through new paltz being a fudge boy. I love checking out local chocolate shops in whatever small town I'm passing through. I plugged in "chocolates" to yelp and this was at the top of my search. I'm thinking "hmm ok 4.5 stars, passes the eye test let's go". The reviews will tell you they are great chocolates whether vegan or not. I'm here to level with you. I want you to have a real experience. These are vegan chocolates at the end of the day. You will bite into each one, beautiful as they are (respect) and be left disappointed if you're used to normal dairy chocolates. They lack creaminess and the fillings are mostly tough and not smooth. If I was still vegan I'd rate it 5 stars, since I'm not I'd consider these below average. I loved the workers, all very sweet and this is just a review on what to expect as a non vegan!!! Peace and love peace and love. The vulva is a great one tho, hilarious :)))))))

Hot chocolate phenomenal Staff and service terrible Less than zero stars Attitude central station is here is that's what you are looking for

Oh man worth a stop on the way north from anywhere. Beautiful chocolates, baked goods, and a mean af latte.

Amazing sandwiches, vegan desserts, coffee, and service. The fact that their front window reads "ceasefire now" makes this place perfect. Thank you.

Delicious vegan chocolates along with a staff that was both welcoming, knowledgable and professional. Purchased a variety 15 piece box along with their chocolate strawberry bar .. will highly recommend and I cannot wait to return.

BEST. VEGAN. CHOCOLATES. IN THE WORLD. Conveniently located in the cute little town of New Paltz. For all of the time that I cannot make it here, I order directly from their website. My favorite chocolate bar is the Earl Grey Preserved Orange bar. For Easter, the Velveteen Rabbit is a necessity. For Valentine's day, every girl should have a Chocolate Bon Bon filled Skull to smash. Literally one of my favorite businesses in existence. If you are within a 2 hour radius, I recommend you visit and see for yourself.

This place is overpriced and the store ambiance isn't really what I thought it would be. Staff has Attitude, creating a non-welcoming atmosphere. They should be more open and friendly, excited to interact with customers.

After karate, this place has become our guilt-free haven to unwind and indulge in something sweet. The staff, comprised of lovely and kind ladies, consistently provides excellent service with a warm and friendly demeanor. Oh and i can't forget, we love their outdoor patio.

Ordered their iced teas. Delicious... ordered a vegan pastry from local baker.. delicious

Okay, honestly this is the BEST! We love their products and love that it's all vegan, because good chocolate should be good to the world, not just our hearts. Whenever we're in NY, we stop by the store on 9th Ave and stock up. Our motto while were there is: "This is not the time to be cheap." When we're home in CA, we order online and can hardly wait for it to arrive. Support this place, you will not regret it. We are particularly in love with: Rosemary Sea Salt Caramels & Thyme, Preserved Lemon Sea Salt Caramels but if anyone wants to send us any of the others, we're here.

finally got to try this place, since i only tried one of chocolate places in NP. i was welcomed as soon as entered and offered suggestions. they politely let me look around to decided, since it is bit pricey, but high quality. so i settled on a small box of 8 piece of chocolates, the counter person was very nice and answered all my questions on the chocolates, plus took it a step further by describing the flavor profiles and ingredients. so after i made selection of my 8 pieces, I saw a cooler with cold stuff, I grabbed a strawberry lemonade cookie sandwhich. the cashier thanked me for my purchase and even give me a sample of chocolate and described the favor and even went as far as to ask me if had a nut allergies, just in case, man got to say they are very reasonable and respect their customers here. the chocolates tasted fresh and clearly were hand made with love. the ice cream sandwhich, was amazing, I love the lemony flavor cookie and the ice cream, it tasted so fresh and it felt like fruit was blended fresh in sorbet. truly this a place if I want high quality rare flavor chocolate for my own pleasure or a nice gift for someone, I will definitely come back.