Best Desserts: Your picks

When I set out to satiate the sweet tooth, I turned to the suggestions posted by readers on our first round of "Best Desserts." I loved tracking down (and tasting) your hidden gems!

Lisa in Cary recommended not only a venue but a dish – the Upside-down Apple Pie at McCormick & Schmick's. The spices caramelize to create a veneer underneath a warmed, gooey crust and tender, tart apples. The cinnamon ice cream accompaniement makes this sinfully rich but oh-so-right. Eat it hot for the best contrast of temperatures and textures.

Another reader, this one in Raleigh, likes the much more intimate setting of Hereghty Heavenly Delicious. The name is not an overstatement. Hereghty is a touch of France just off Glenwood Avenue, with chandeliers, strong coffee drinks, crepes both savory and sweet and macaroons by the dozen. The selection of tarts will make you feel virtuous even as you indulge. 

In far north Raleigh, Ralph pointed me in the direction of Nantucket Grill, just off Durant Road. "Try them and Nantucket might just move onto the list," he wrote.

An Apex neighborhood spot was recommended by Christen. Namoli's New York Pizzeria makes desserts fresh in-house, and fills the cannoli fresh when you order. On the day I stopped by, the display case featured coconut cake, Mounds cake, and rhubarb strawberry chocolate cake. I chose the chocolate cake layered with mousse and enrobed in ganache. It was just right, not over-rich, and worth the trip. 

No dessert list would be complete without a mention of the mile-high options that draw visitors to Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery. The selection changes daily, and just to survey the case is a treat. Each HUGE slice (they are not cheap!) is enough for two or even three, so plan to make dessert your meal at Hayes Barton.