One step inside Monaco's and the difficulty begins. Because everything in the bake shop looks so good, picking a favorite can be an onerous task. That is because Joseph Monaco, a veteran of Veniero's in the East Village, is serving up delightful Italian treats at his shop in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn.

You may have had a rainbow cookie, but Monaco is taking it one stop further with his luscious rainbow cake filled with a mixed berry Bavarian cream. You will also find New York-style cheese cake that is rich in flavor. Eat in plain or topped with fresh raspberries and blueberries. There are also lots of pies served in two sizes; individual ($4) and 7 inch pies ($15) in flavors like apple, pecan and coconut custard. And what would an Italian bakery be without cannolis ($3.50), each filled with a sweet ricotta cream laced with citron and chocolate chips. You will also find Napoleons, e'claires, mini fruit tarts and profiteroles; delicious cream puffs filled with whipped cream and topped with dark chocolate and white chocolate. They are very addictive.

Monaco's is also serving up a great espresso, macchiato or cappuccino. So, take a seat at one of the cafe's tables and enjoy a taste of some sweet bliss.

-Thomas Rafael