When the aroma of chocolate fills the air in downtown Chicago, it's not your imagination, it's a real live chocolate factory! From Bloomer Chocolates in the West Loop comes this sweet reminder of what chocolate lovers crave.
Fortunately, there's no lack of chocolate shops to satisfy their desire. From local specialties to exotic imports, milky bars to lusciously dark truffles, there's a chocolate taste and a chocolate place for everyone.
Some local favorites with a loyal following
Fannie May Candies (multiple locations)
This shop keeps childhood memories alive with its signature candies Mint Meltaways, Trinidads & Pixies (Turtles) that have been favorites for decades.
www.fanniemay.com
Macy's (multiple locations)
Even though the Field's name is gone, the Frango Mints, a Chicago tradition, are still occupying the shelves. Beyond the beloved Chocolate Mints, Frango introduces new varieties, including Limited Editions (think Pink Mints and Tropical). And check out the delectable coffees, cookies and dessert toppings.
www.macys.com
Long Grove Confectionary (multiple locations)
With whimsical chocolates and packaging, including chocolate pizzas, tool kits and golf kits, Long Grove is your short stop for themed presents. Have more time? Take a tour of their candy-making facilities in nearby Buffalo Grove.
www.longgrove.com
Vosges Haut-Chocolat (multiple locations)
This home-grown success story has quite a loyal following. Beyond the classic, Vosges ventures into the exotic, adding spices, flowers and other unusual ingredients to some of its chocolates. Adventurous palates will want to try curry, paprika, chili pepper, or ginger and wasabi infused chocolates. Vosges' newer creations include ice cream and brownies.
www.vosgeschocolate.com
Try a sweet change from the same old coffee shop
Ethel's Chocolate Lounge (multiple locations)
Ethel’s is the chocolate lover's alternative to the coffee shop. Displayed like artwork, the cocktail-inspired chocolates, truffles, and fruit and nut varieties tempt the eye as well as the palate. Catch up with friends at a local Chocolate Lounge, or pick up a gift at the smaller shop at 2 N. Riverside Plaza, next to the Ogilvie Transportation Center.
www.ethelschocolate.com
Moonstruck Chocolate (The Loop)
This café and chocolate shop sells amazing chocolate drinks and imaginative hand-crafted artisan pieces that invite you to sit, nibble and enjoy. Of course you might find the creative chocolates in the shape of animals, including a dark-chocolate black lab, just too adorable to eat!
www.moonstruckchocolate.com
Chocolates flown in from overseas
Leonidas (The Loop)
Fresh Belgian chocolates are flown in weekly to this out-of-the-way little shop in the heart of the Loop. The shop's best seller is the Manon Café, rich chocolate with a luscious coffee and fresh butter cream filling, topped with a roasted hazelnut.
teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland (Mag. Mile/Michigan Ave.)
Chicago is one of the few cities in the world to have teuscher chocolates flown in weekly from Switzerland. Pricey, yes. But the famous champagne truffles are made with nothing less than Dom Perignon And the rich chocolate aroma in this tiny shop is free. Step inside, if only for a restorative breath of chocolate air!
www.teuscherchicago.com
For the kids - chocolate as entertainment
The Hershey's Chicago Store (Mag. Mile/Michigan Ave.)
This store on the Magnificent Mile is a tribute to all things Hershey. Step inside and you’ll be drawn to that 5-pound Hershey’s candy bar that you thought only appeared in your dreams. The store is packed with candy-inspired merchandise, from mugs to pillows to clothing, and of course, lots and lots of candy. An imposing chocolate “machine” will delight the kids, as clanking candies fall two stories into their souvenir buckets.
www.hersheys.com
For the gourmet - chocolate while grocery shopping
Fox & Obel (Streeterville)
Will Fox & Obel ever stop amazing us? While browsing this European-inspired gourmet market, you’ll be drawn to the center counter for breads or desserts and discover some of the finest chocolate creations imaginable. If you’re ever lucky enough to be there when their chocolate-coated fudge brownie is out, go for it! It’s the shape and size of a squash ball—and you’ll need a few matches to work it off.
www.fox-obel.com
Vosges Haut-Chocolat photo courtesy of Erika Dufour Photography.
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer - E. Engquist.
We recommend checking with stores for product availability. Suggested prices may change without notice. SeeMore Shopping strives for accuracy, but is not responsible for errors or omissions.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by SeeMoreShopping.Publ. 10/06.
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