When I heard the original Choco Taco was being discontinued, I knew I had to take matters into my own hands. That classic combo of a crisp waffle shell, creamy ice cream, chocolate shell, and peanuts?

There are some desserts I turn to when I need a fast, foolproof crowd-pleaser—and this Rocky Road Candy is high on that list.

While other businesses had approached Mike Malcanas and Michelle Thom over the years to lease the space at 1001 Fifth Ave. in ...