You never need an excuse to treat yourself, but as the weather gets cooler and we’re spending more time indoors, justifying that indulgent chocolate or those moorish salted nuts becomes a whole lot easier. Whether it’s something to nibble on when you’re cosied up under a blanket on the lounge or you need a treat to serve guests after dinner, having a wealth of sweet and salty snacks in your pantry is basically essential. And why settle for anything less than the bounty on offer at The Strand Arcade?

Let it be known, these are no ordinary snacks though. This is no place for mere chips or simple crackers. The Strand Arcade’s food boutiques boast the finest treats there are. Think crunchy nuts roasted and seasoned fresh each day. Or hand-crafted chocolates you probably won’t want to share. Did we mention sweet and spiced teas you’ll be pouring all autumn long? Below, we share the must-try treats you have to grab before leaving The Strand Arcade.

It’s a classic for a reason. Rich chocolate, pillowy marshmallow, slightly salty nuts and dried fruit — what’s not to love about rocky road? The Nut Shop’s version is the perfect treat for any occasion: as a gift, as a snack, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Milk Chocolate Rocky Road, $10.50 from The Nut Shop, Ground Level

Fancy something on the darker side? The Nut Shop’s dark chocolate hazelnut clusters are a must-grab. The combination of crunchy hazelnut and smooth dark chocolate means they’re indulgent without being overly rich, the ideal post-shopping nibble.

Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Clusters, $17.10 from The Nut Shop, Ground Level

Proclaimed by Koko Black as one of their best blocks, the Salted Caramel Surprise is adored for all its gooey, sweet and salty goodness. It’s no surprise it’s a cult favourite. Our advice? Buy two blocks to save yourself from the regret of not buying more.

Salted Caramel Surprise, $9.90 from Koko Black, Ground Level

The ultimate after-dinner treat, the Honey Almond Nougat from Koko Black is pretty hard to go past. A sweet vanilla nougat is blended with honey and crunchy almonds before being coated in milk chocolate for an irresistible snack you’ll be coming back for.

Honey Almond Nougat, $9.90 from Koko Black, Ground Level

This is one of those treats you simply cannot leave Haigh’s without. The famed chocolate shop’s signature creamy milk chocolate takes the form of frogs in these iconic treats you’ll want to eat by the handful.

Milk Chocolate Frogs, $15.90 from Haigh’s, Ground Level

Made with the iconic Haigh’s milk chocolate and blended with sweet, crunchy honeycomb, we challenge you to find a more crowd-pleasing block of chocolate out there.

Milk Honeycomb Block, $16.90 from Haigh’s, Ground Level

A blend of pure Dutch cocoa, Australian wattleseed and the slightly tart acai berry, Gewurzhaus’ hot chocolate is a unique take on the traditional hot chocolate. Whether you make yourself a classic hot chocolate to cuddle up with on the couch or get creative and use it to make a spiced cake, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this clever blend.

Feel Good Hot Chocolate, $17.95 from Gewurzhaus Herb and Spice Merchants, Ground Level

Blending the rich flavours of chai with creamy Madagascan vanilla, this chai blend is ideal for comfort. As the cooler days roll in, we can’t think of anything more enjoyable than brewing a mug of this and settling down with a good book.

Velvety Vanilla Chai Tea, $23.95 from Gewurzhaus Herb and Spice Merchants, Ground Level