Chocoholics Unite: 2002
Imagine if all the chocoholics could share their best fixes. Are any chocolate factories still giving tours? In your travels, what sinful treat best satisfies that urge for something chocolaty?
Cadbury's Chocolate
I must say Cadbury's Chocolate is the BEST, followed by Lindt Balls. Cadbury's
factories still do tours. Cadbury's in Hobart, Tasminia (Australia) does
tour Monday to Friday. Must book as very popular and very yummy. You get
to taste a lot of chocolate during the tour. I had problems eating all the
chocolate they provide during the tour. Dunedin, North Island (New Zealand)
Does tours 7 days a week -only just opened in July 2002. Excellent tour
also. They have a giant chocolate waterfall, the smell of warm chocolate
was amazing. Also need to book for this tour. I have been on both tours
- I enjoyed both and there is nothing beter than watching your favourite
chocolate being made right in front of your eyes!
Charmaine <email>
Brisbane, Qld Australia 12/11/02
Hot Chocolate in Italy!
The highlight of my first European vacation (Oct. 2002)was the "International
Chocolate Festival" in Perugia, Italy. If you love chocolate this festival
is a "must do" for you. The first thing I had there was a hot chocolate
beverage that was literally HOT CHOCOLATE....Amazing. I literally wept as
I drank it. I crave it now, but naturally can't find it anywhere here in
the states. I found the website www.natfoods.it, but it's all in Italian.
Oh well - I guess I'll just have to go back next year!
Gregory Daven <email>
Studio City, CA USA 12/10/02
Chocolate Factory Tour
Just traveled to the Lindt Factory in Kilchburg, Switzerland, this past
Oct.. tour is only open on Wed., Thurs., Fri. afternoons. We stopped there
on a Sun., "rats".
Marg Hall <email>
Cranbrook, , BC Canada 11/29/02
Chocolate lovers Unite!
I am an unrepentant chocoholic, and for my money, the best is Van Ooost
in Bruges. I have them send me my supply on a regular quarterly basis. Just
fax your desires!
Andre S. <email>
Hermosa beach, CA USA 10/07/02
Great London Chocolate
An Aussie native and a London resident, I am always on the hunt for good
chocolate. One of my favorite spots of consumption is the aforementioned
Max Brenners at Harrods, but I also like Rococo (321 Kings Road, Chelsea).
The beautiful handpainted wrappers on the Valrhona chocolate make a simple
bar the perfect gift. The organic artisan bars are heavenly (caramelised
almonds, cinnamon and rose are among the favourites) although at 3 GBP each
(65 grams) not cheap, but lovely for a splurge.
The Chocolate Society (http://www.chocolate.co.uk/) has a store that stocks Valrhona as well as their own fabulous products. And in a pinch, you can always grab a yorkie (my favourite is the raisin and biscuit) or a dime bar for less than 50p from a corner store!!
London may not be the centre of chocolate creation
that other countries in Europe can lay claim to being, but there are plenty
of places you can enjoy it!!
Ella
London, UK 09/25/02
Belgian Chocolates
I'm sure Mr. Rutan is correct about Dumon's chocolate. However, I lived
in Brussels, specifically, Waterloo, for 6+ years. There is a small company,
Irsi, in Wateroo. They have a factory and one store there; another store
in downtown Brussels. We tried all the chocolate--this was the best. The
addresses are as follows: 15, Rue du Bailli, 1050 Bruxelles, Tel: 648.70.50;
and 176, Chaussee de Bruxelles, 1410 Waterloo, Tel: 354.66.21. Irsi's chocolate
possesses all the traits Mr. Rutan described...plus it makes you feel you're
in heaven.
Joe De Palma <email>
Washington, DC USA 09/18/02
Dumon's chocolate
The only place to buy chocolate in Belgium is at Dumon's chocolate! While
in Brugges last November I was standing in the rain with a friend looking
into one of Dumon's shops--the one run by Christophe. The store was closed
but Christophe saw us looking in and graciously let us in. I cannot thank
him enough for his hospitality and kindness. His chocolate is silky, creamy
smooth. No fake shiny coating on these chocolates. Coco butter is used to
make the chocolate what it is--simply the best.
Robert Rutan <email>
miami, fl USA 09/14/02
Liquid Chocolate Heaven at Harrod's
We were thrilled to find a great place to sit and enjoy chocolate in London
- at Harrod's! Max Brenner Chocolate Bar, on the second floor. OH! HEAVEN!
After wondering around Harrods for over an hour, just trying to find our
way from room to room, we were ready for a break. Happily, we ran into the
Chocolate Bar. We both ordered the "Stakado", in dark chocolate. It was
like drinking fondue from a straw! They brought it to us in little metal
cups, set in an egg-shaped ceramic pot. The straw had a little spoon at
the end so that we could scoop up every last bit of liquid heaven - but
I must admit, that's not enough. You might be tempted to use your fingers,
even in proper ol' London! They sell many chocolate products to take with
you, all a bit on the pricey side, but for those who love chocolate, money
is no object! Here's their website: http://www.harrods.com/restaurants/max_brenner.html
Anna
Bothell, WA USA 09/10/02
Lindt Excellence Limited Edition
I've just returned from a week in Switzerland, where I became completely
hooked on the Lindt Excellence Limited Edition Bars. These are just like
the ordinary Excellence bars, but come in flavours like white chocolate
with apricot, milk chocolate with nougat pieces and Stracciatella. The very
best is the semi-dark Excellence flavoured with orange and pistachio pieces.
If anyone knows where to buy these online or in Australia, please contact
me! I also tried the Teuscher truffles (rumoured to be the best in Switzerland),
which were delicious but perhaps a bit overpriced. The displays in the Teuscher
shops are quite spectacular, and worth seeing even if you don't buy anything.
Katy <email>
Australia 09/09/02
best chocolate in the world
The best chocolates I have had are made by the Swiss company: Teuscher.
. . unbelievable! Their champagne truffle is the best. I have also had XOXO
Truffles from San Francisco - great. Also, anything from Burdick chocolate
in Vermont is wonderful. I have to say the best turtles I have had are in
Davenport, Iowa at Largomarciano's. All the best!
Patricia <email>
Glen Ellyn, IL USA 09/03/02
Brugge chocolate
Everyone knows the best chocolates are in Brugge. I've only been there twice,
but each time I have spent an entire day sampling 100 g to try to find the
best. Dumon is very good and the best for the price, but my favorite continues
to be Van Oost. They are amazing. They also seem to travel the best and
keep the longest. They are located at Wollestraat 11, off of markt. their
phone is 33 14 54. I only wish they had a website. They had gone up in price
over the year between visits, but I still think they are worth it. Don't
buy too much or it may get more expensive!
Vicky B <email>
Louisville, KY USA 08/04/02
Broc, Switerland
All chocolate in Brugge is wonderful!! You have to go to the Nestle Chocolate
factory in Broc, Switerland! They are open after 1400 for about 2 hours.
We were there a week ago today. After the strange but interesting movie,
translated via head sets, we took the tour. At the end, they open up a large
room with all the chocolates they make, waiting for you to try!!! With both
hands and my mouth full of chocolate, the hostess came by and said I did
not need to have the guilty look on my face! Just enjoy and when I had my
fill we went to the gift shop. I was able to eat more than my wife and daughter
combined! I did not get sick or feel guilty! Heavenly!
Doug <email>
Youngsville,, NC USA 08/02/02
Israeli Chocolate in London
Anyone in London should head on down to Harrod's food court and stop by
the Max Brenner shop. Max Brenner - actually two men from Israel who learned
how to make chocolates in Belgium - make the most incredible chocolates
around. They have a warm chocolate drink that is just that -pure chocolate
that's been specially warmed which you drink from a straw. Amazing! Unfortunately,
the guy that ran the Israeli shops has skipped the country and closed down
all their stores here. But there still is the London and, I believe, Sydney
Australia stores. As for other chocolates, just got some dark chocolate
truffles by Arti-Choc from their Amsterdam store - very woody, strong taste,
not sweet at all.
Davida Chazan <email>
Jerusalem, Israel 07/27/02
Depla Pol Chocolatier
I simply assume everyone knows that the best chocolates are from Bruges.
Now that the Verbekes are retired, we get our chocolates from Depla Chocolatier
by the fish market. M. Depla made special chocolates bars to our liking.
We are hoping that by our next trip to Bruges, he'll have our favorite praline
- Bresils the way M. Verbeke use to make them.
Christy
San Francisco, Ca USA 07/08/02
Italian Chocolate
My husband and I found a delicious chocolate bar in Rome- La Dolcevita by
Montebovi. We bought the Extra Fondente in both milk and dark chocolate.
The bars cost about 50 cents apiece. You might wonder why someone would
be eating chocolate in Rome instead of gelato, but we had room for both.
The chocolate was so good, we brought home five bars of each flavor. If
you notice these displayed by a cash register (as we did), try some. You
won't be disappointed!
MJM
Danville, CA USA 07/03/02
Chocoholics Unite
Dumon's Chocolates in Bruges are the creamiest, tastiest I've ever had.
Thank you, Rick Steves, for guiding us to such a good spot.
Rita <email>
Gold River, CA USA 06/28/02
valrhona
I became addicted to Carre de Guanaja by Valrhona while in France. Small
squares in a small black metal box. I carried a box with me the whole trip,
allowing myself one or two every day with coffee. Unfortunately, it is a
habit that followed me home and I buy them from a French shop off the internet.
Advertised as the "Grand Cru de chocolat noir amer".
joe <email>
thomasville, GA USA 06/20/02
Chocolates in Brugges
Chocolatier Dumon in Brugge is fabulous! But, if you happen to be in town
when the open-air market is in the square ( I believe it is Wednesdays and
perhaps Saturdays) there is a young couple that sells hand made chocolates
equal to Dumon at a more attractive price. We returned with chocolates from
both, and our friends were quite pleased!
Mark
The Woodlands, TX USA 06/19/02
Chocolate
Dumon's chocolates in Brugge are the BEST! Hand crafted and fresh -- we
brought several pounds home for gifts. Don't pay more for anything else!
biganna
austin, tx USA 06/19/02
Chocolate
When in Amsterdam head to Puccini Bomboni for fantastic (although not cheap)
chocolate. One store is several blocks behind the Anne Franke museum.
Bob Sweet <email>
Brookfield, WI USA 06/17/02
Milka & Ritter sport
I'm off to Germany next month, where they have 'Milka' brand chocolate which
is GORGEOUS! I love the white, and biscuit varieties. Also, Ritter Sport
white chocolate with smarties in it was on limited edition last year - yum!!
Phil
Leeds, UK, UK 06/16/02
chocolate
For some of the best CHEAP chocolate, when in Switzerland go to the Migros
stores. Thier house brand is excellent and very low priced.
Lloyd Wheeler <email>
Tallahassee, FL USA 06/13/02
Chocolate and Brachetto Wine
You've got to try Brachetto Wine (from the Piedmont region of Italy) with
your chocolate. It's like having the best of both worlds. It makes a great
romantic combination for a special occasion (but then, just being in Europe
is a special occasion!) or a decadent delight anytime. Try it on your next
sunset picnic!
V. Allford
Sunland, CA USA 06/09/02
Chocolates in Brugge
I just brought back a 1 kg box (2.2 pounds) of chocolate from Chocolatier
Dumon in Brugge. I went to the one at 6 Walstraat. Christophe was so nice
and accomodating and they have great chocolates at a great price. He has
1 kg and 2 kg styrofoam boxes that you can transport your chocolates in
so they can be protected as you travel. Also, I noticed that The Chocolate
Line has 1/2 kg and 1 kg styrofoam boxes.
Jane <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 06/07/02
Chocolate
Before getting on the Eurostar to go to Paris, my daughter and I stopped
at the Boots pharmacy in the station and loaded up on a variety of candy
bars. It was fun sharing the bars with our fellow travelers on the train.
My favorite is Ritter Sport peppermint. It is fun to try the different candy
bars. Not a big investment, but fun to do it with your daughter on vacation!!
Paula Bishop
Highlandville, MO USA 06/06/02
fine chocolate in Paris
Debauve and Gallais is a very fancy, pricey, & delicious chocolatier with
a couple different locations in Paris. I went to the one at 30 Rue Saintes-Peres,
7th arr, a short walk from the Orsay. Exquisite chocolate, beautifully presented!
Makes for a divine gift for someone special or a great treat for yourself.
Trystan
San Jose, CA USA 05/13/02
Le Notre
In Paris last month I discovered the chocolate macaroons at Le Notre not
far from the Parc Monceau. These are nothing like coconut macaroons you
might get in the states but truly melt in your mouth delicious. There are
other flavors as well but I couldn't really see a need for them along side
the chocolate. I'll be stopping there on a return trip next year.
Renee <email>
Rancho Cucamonga, CA USA 05/09/02
Chocolate!
My favorite chocolates used to be Leonidas (based in Belgium, but I bought
my first Leonidas chocolates in Amsterdam). Today I tried Corne (from Belgium)
for the first time. YUM! Now I can't decide which is best!!
Sue H <email>
San Diego, CA USA 05/09/02
chocolate
For the absolute best chocolate in Switzerland, go to Sprungli. They are
located in Zurich, there are two on Bahnhofstrasse and one in the airport.
You can order over the web as well. I suggest the daily made truffels. Enjoy!!
Guerry McComas <email>
mogelsberg, SG Switzerland 05/06/02
Goldkenn liquor chocolates
Goldkenn liquor chocolates...these tasty Swiss treats are the only way I
can stand the taste of liquor! (I have always bought mine in Liechtenstein,
but since I probably won't be returning there this Fall, I'll have to find
them elsewhere.
Carmen Smith <email>
Charlotte, NC USA 04/27/02
Spanish hot chocolate
Surprised that nobody so far has mentioned the amazing Spanish hot chocolate
usually available only around breakfast hours in many bars and cafes. It's
got definite hints of cinnamon and other spices, but what's most notable
is that it's almost as thick as a chocolate milkshake. Accompany it with
an order of churros (doughnut-like, but cylindrical; excellent for dunking)
and you've got an outstanding breakfast.
Chuck <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 04/24/02
Real Chocolate Jimmies
Really good chocolate jimmies (also known as sprinkles) can be found at
any supermarket in Holland. They are far superior to the jimmies available
in the USA (which do not have a genuine chocolate taste). I recently came
home from Holland with 9 boxes of them in my suitcase, which ought to keep
me happy for at least a few months.
Elisabeth Evans <email>
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania USA 04/19/02
Perugina chocolate
We too love the PERUGINA chocolates from Italy, esp the BANANA ones! There
is a week long chocolate festival held every October in Perugia...it was
absolute heaven! So much chocolate, so little time! They have a website...I
think it's Eurochocolate.com1
Barbara <email>
Louisville, KY USA 04/03/02
CHOCaid & Ireland
The best chocolate in Ireland is made in 9 person 'factory' just 25yards
from the Atlantic Coast in Ballinskelligs. 'Skelligs Chocolate' is available
in Harrods in London! But the most meaningful chcolate in the world comes
from CHOCaid in Cork, Ireland. A beautiful chocolate globe. 30% of what
you pay goes to a hunger relief project AND you get to go on-line and choose
the exact project !! Its at www.chocaid.com
Alan Clayton <email>
kinsale, cork Ireland 04/01/02
Le Chocolat
Cacao et Chocolat on the Ile St. Louis in Paris is an incredible experience.
The dark chocolate with a pinch of cayenne pepper was out of this world!
Now if they only had a website...
Cheri
Birmingham, MI USA 02/15/02
chocolate
joel durand, in st remy de provence, has the best chocolate in the whole
wide world. flavor is intense and rich, have had it shipped to me about
five times since visiting last year
k rouse <email>
albany, ga USA 02/13/02
I think that possibly the best chocolate in the world is a swiss chocolate
called Lintt. they make a beautiful prailene chocolate that has two different
melting points so as the outside of the chocolate melts the centre feels
cold mmmmmmmmmmmmm!!
Rebecca <email>
Appleby-in-Westmorland, united kingdom 01/20/02
MMmmmmmaribou
Sweden's Maribou brand chocolate is the best I've ever had. And it's available
in just about every store to which you go! It's right up there with Godiva(which
I love also) But my bias goes directly to Sweden:)
Alisha
USA 01/17/02
Chocolate heaven!
I think Belgian chocolate reigns supreme. Leonidas is good...but the Neuhaus
brand is even better. And, it doesn't have to be expensive. In Belgian suppermarkets,
the bags of little toffee covered chocolates (chewy like Reisens but 1,000
times better) called "Chokotoffs" make me drool every time.
Heather <email>
Clovis, CA USA 01/11/02
chocoholics Unite
If you want to "blow your mind" eating the best pralines in Europe visit
Friandises Chocolatier in Maastricht, Netherlands. Heaven on earth. Really.
Bruce Toy <email>
Calgary, Alberta Canada 01/09/02