"Hope it's Chocolate for Me"

In case you were trying to figure out a ridiculous reason to celebrate on this dreary Friday, here it is: Thanks to the friendly staff at Dunkin Donuts, I was enlightened to learn that today is

National Doughnut Day.

While I've enjoyed my fair share of doughnuts, I think that if you're really looking to honor a baked good, it should be a cupcake. There's something nostalgic about a good cupcake that conjures images of birthday parties in elementary school. (Until recently when it became a controversial treat). As an adult, I've maintained (even increased) my appreciation for a perfectly frosted cupcake. With the overwhelming number of bakeries in the city, I took it upon myself to give you the top three places to get cupcakes. Satisfaction guaranteed:

Sugar Sweet Sunshine - an excellent place to grab a chocolate chip cheesecake cupcake to hold you over while you wait for your table for brunch at Essex.

Buttercup Bake Shop - all I'm gonna say is, it's a good thing they close early 'cause I'd have a difficult time deciding between a cupcake and a slice of pizza after happy hour on 2nd ave.

Crumbs Bake Shop - try the Artie Lange/Baba Booey 6 pack. Not only delicious but supports a good cause. Proceeds are donated to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

Hope it's chocolate for me.