Morning Routine: Max Brenner

Max Brenner, the man behind the eponymous Union Square chocolate and dessert haven (841 Broadway, 212-388-0030), dished on his morning routine.

Do you ever indulge in chocolate for breakfast? Yes. A chocolate croissant and hot chocolate. That’s my winter routine. Summer is all about fruits. And always avocado on toast with olive oil and sea salt – love of my life.

What’s a breakfast treat people can make at home that isn’t too dessert-y? Make a pure chocolate spread. Boil a quarter of a quart of whole milk. Once boiled, mix in 10 ounces of milk chocolate until a smooth spread is obtained. Toast a soft brioche bun and spread over the chocolate cream. Sprinkle some crunchy almonds. Delish.

What’s a typical morning like for you? Cuddling with my wife, Liron, and daughter, Nellie, around 6:30 a.m. for half an hour in bed and telling her an imaginary story.

Then, while having my early bite, reading some of the morning news and spice it up with gossip columns. Then walk to Max Brenner, mostly for meetings. I prefer to have the meetings in the morning while I’m super fresh and sharp.

Where in NYC do you live, and any morning neighborhood rituals? West Village. The main ritual in spring and summer is to steal another moment with my daughter on the way to school and go to the park together for a swing. But any other season it’s always about the quiet morning walk in Washington Square Park for meditative thoughts. 

Follow Style/Entertainment Editor Julie Gordon on Twitter: @jbgordon