By Toccara Castleman

You may do a double take when walking past Ayza. Yes, there’s a cute wine and chocolate bar hidden within the otherwise blase block of West Thirty-First Street―your eyes aren’t deceiving you. I recently got to enjoy the warm weather and sample the great wine at this year-old venue and was pleasantly surprised by what it offered.

While the interior is beautiful and small, even by Manhattan standards, I envision it being a cozy meet-up for friends during the winter months. And, of course, as we head into summer, the outdoor seating is definitely Ayza’s best accessory. Flanked by large red umbrellas to shade you from the scorching sun and quaint tables, the location makes for a serene escape away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Herald Square.

The menu offers more than 150 red and white wines, champagnes, and chardonnays and a decadent chocolate selection paired with fresh fruits. It also features appetizers, soups, salads, cheese platters, and panini sandwiches.

In addition to the spirits, a highlight of my evening at Ayza was a waitress named Julia, who was knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely accommodating. Overall I was glad I gave Ayza a chance, and if you’re in the neighborhood and pay it a visit, I think you will be too.