In a cozy bakery in Boston’s South End, where sticky buns drip with caramel pecans and donuts are sold out by noon, a cheeky sign above the register proclaims:

“Make life sweeter- eat des-sert first.”

There’s no arguing with pastry chef Joanne Chang, whose Flour bakery sees crowds lining up as early as 7 a.m. for her signature treats. Indeed, the best places for dessert inspire you to throw out all the rules - eat with moderation, save the best for last - and give in to

sugary bliss, no matter what the time of day.As part of T+L’s coverage of the Best Places to Eat Like a Local, we surveyed the globe for the finest desserts, such as ricotta-and-choc-olate-stuffed pastries in Rome and the “mango avalanche” in Taipei, shaved ice piled high with fresh fruit, mango pudding, and sorbet.. Whether as an antidote to a long day of exploring or a quick pick-me-up between sightseeing stops, these sweets can define their destination in just one bite.

—Nikki Ekstein

from Vienna to New Orleans