Valentines Day – Chocolate with a difference in Atlanta

The first thing you see when you step into the Shakolad Chocolate Factory is a coffee cup that sums it up: Everything is Better Dipped in Chocolate. The aroma that wafts through the door tells you that here, you may be in chocolate heaven.

There are not mere boxes of chocolates here. There are chocolate heart-shaped boxes, of several sizes, and they will be filled with the chocolates of your choice. Or bring your love a couple of chocolate champagne glasses tied in a bag with gold ribbon. You can go a little kitschy with the chocolate “World’s Greatest Lover” gift certificate or the chocolate CD that says “just for the record – I love you.” Last year, the chocolate hand cuffs were a big seller. Shakolad is located in Alpharetta and Sandy Springs.

Does you honey like to get creative in the kitchen? Sign up for a chocolate party at Chamberlain’s Chocolate Factory in Norcross. (see map) It takes a minimum of six and you’ll make truffles, paint with chocolate and create a custom take-home box.  Don’t ask about a party around Valentines though- things are too crazy, but get on the schedule and extend the holiday.

From bean to bar is the the way Cacao Atlanta describes its chocolate – all chocolate is made right there starting with cacao beans. Owner Kristen Hard buys her cocoa beans from farmers and co-op partners and believes in making chocolate in a socially and environmentally responsible way. If you hurry, you can still get in on the “Don’t Buy Love, Make It – Valentine’s Day” sessions for 30 minutes at the factory where you can create specialties for your love (or yourself!) Located in Inman Park.

What if one day a year, you skip the entree and just go to The Chocolate Bar for a chocolate martini and a dessert? Located in Decatur and Castleberry Hill this place is beautiful and they have a great selection of chocolates, specialty drink and wines.

If you’re single – don’t stay home and grumble about “dumb holidays.” Get out and get some chocolate.

(Photo: personal collection.)