Today we get to talk about one of our favorite things in the world….chocolate. With Valentines Day around the corner, if you are lucky enough to be near any of these places, we wanted to let you know where to find some of the best chocolate in the U.S.
Vosges Haut-Chocolat
Vosges Haut-Choclat sells some of the most unique chocolates in the world. Some of their unique ingredients include bee pollen, curry powder, reishi mushroom, coconut ash and bacon. Vosges Haut-Chocolat is an environmentally friendly facility. Their factory is certified organic and uses 100% renewable energy to operate. The ingredients used to make their chocolates are carefully selected and they only use the best ingredients available. The extra care they take to choose what goes into their chocolate really shows in the quality of it. Available at Sax Fifth Avenue as well.
Christopher Elbow Artisanal Chocolates
One of the interesting things about Christopher Elbow Artisanal Chocolates is that they have a short shelf life. Because his chocolates do not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives, they should be consumed within two weeks. When it comes to chocolate flavors there’s everything from traditional ones like dark chocolate and coffee to more interesting ones like bananas Foster, Rosemary Caramel, Tequila Lime, Passion Fruit Caramel and Russian Tea. Their hand painted chocolates are (almost) too beautiful to eat as you can see below. There is a store in Kansas City as well as one in San Francisco, and you can also buy the chocolate from select retailers like many Dean and Deluca locations.
See’s Candies
See’s Candies has been making chocolate for more than 90 years. The foundation of these recipes comes from the mother of the founder of See’s Candies, Mary See. Today, there are more than 100 different type of chocolates and candies available to purchase. Each of See’s Candies shops have a black and white checkered theme that transports visitors back in time. One of the best thing about visiting See’s Candies is that each visitor gets to try a piece of candy upon entering the store. The main headquarters are located in San Fransisco, California, but you can check their website for stores hear you that carry their products. When visiting a store make sure and ask for a sample of their very popular Toffee-ettes.
Jacques Torres Chocolates
Jacques Torres Chocolates only uses authentic ingredients in all of its recipes. From cookies to hot chocolate, they make just about any kind of sweet treat you can imagine. Jacques Torres uses French techniques to bring all of his dishes to life. Some of their more popular chocolates include espresso beans and champagne truffles. They currently have 7 locations in New York plus an ice cream shop in Grand Central Station.
Christopher Norman Chocolates
Christopher Norman Chocolates is celebrating its 20th year. What’s unique about these chocolates is not only do they taste incredible, but they look amazing as well. Their Chief chocolate officer, John Down, uses his arts background to add an interesting aesthetic appeal to his chocolates. The goal is to provide an experience that arouses the senses. From the hand painted truffles to the handmade chocolate bars, there’s a lot of diversity in this chocolate. Their factory is located in Hudson, New York. You can also find their products in many Whole Foods stores.
Honorable Mention:
Lindt Chocolates
Lindt Chocolates made our list because not only is it easily accessible, but it’s affordable as well. This chocolate can be found in many grocery or department stores, but it’s not your average chocolate. It’s rich and creamy and you can tell that a lot of quality ingredients are used. Favorites among customers include Lindt’s truffles as well as their boxed chocolate.
For those that are the ultimate chocolate lovers, they should consider going on a chocolate tour. Not only will they be able to learn how chocolate is made, they will get to taste some delectable samples along the way while visiting some of the most beautiful places in the world. Any time is a good time for some chocolate!
The best chocolate in the US is found in destinations with rich culinary traditions. Our advisors’ Bucket List Worthy Destinations guide highlights places where food and culture create extraordinary travel experiences.
