I stopped in at Chi Chocolat for lunch today. Originally I was going to pick up some chocolates for a friend, but then I spied their tasty panini options. I asked for the portabello mushroom panini but the very friendly man behind the counter (whom I suspect was the owner) informed me that he was not serving that panini today because he was not able to find suitable portabellos at the farmers' market. I was happy to hear that as I love the notion of supporting a local business who buys fresh and supports local farmers. I opted for the roasted pepper and goat cheese panini and a passion fruit italian soda. I was thrilled with the presentation of my lunch: simple, colorful and extremely enticing. My panini was amazing. The bread was perfect and the chef had spread just the right amount of goat cheese on it. The green salad that accompanied my panini was drizzled with a very tasty vinagrette. My Italian soda was fantastic - quite literally the best Italian soda I have ever had. After lunch, we picked up the gift box that the owner had put together which was packaged very attractively. We then picked up a few pieces of chocolate for the road. It was fantastic chocolate. In a time when so many chocolatiers seem to strive to define themselves by pairing odd flavors and spices with chocolate, Chi Chocolat succeeds in creating beautiful and rich chocolates that are as satisfying to look at as they are to eat. I remain especially enamored with the dark chocolate truffle I just ate that was covered in pink sugar crystals. AMAZING! I can't wait to go back and will bring my friends. Lucky paw up high for Chi Chocolat - a definite new stop on this urban perro's route about town.
Pros: Fun location on India in Little Italy, amazing chocolate treats, friendly service
Cons: I was a little confused at first on what chocolates were available
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