May 2005
Chocolatiers
by Celia Cheng
Chocolate is happiness. From childhood associations of eating chocolate, to receiving chocolate as a gift signifying passion and devotion, we love to buy, give, receive — and of course, eat chocolates.
For chocolatiers, great pleasure and pride is taken in producing quality chocolates and making them available to others.
For me, chocolate represents a very personal gift. I love searching for exquisite chocolates, picking out a selection, watching them being packaged and then presenting them to friends.
Like haute cuisine or the making of fine wine, the artistry of chocolate making is complex, requiring the utmost dedication. For Cravings’ first specialty topic, I have chosen to feature the work of artisanal chocolatiers that one can find in New York City. This includes both local and non-local chocolatiers who have storefronts or representation in the City.
Here I offer my top picks in addition to notables that embody the chocolate landscape in New York City. There is also a listing of other local chocolatiers’ information.
I am not covering all existing chocolatiers, but providing a guide for anyone who is interested in embarking on a chocolate tasting adventure. Taste is a subjective matter, so I recommend that you go out there and try for yourself to determine your own cravings.
Take a chocolate break!
Note: The pricing and store hours are based on information gathered during Spring 2005, and may be subject to change.
