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Archive for the ‘Chocolate’ Category

Koko Monk’s Chocolate Tasting

May 12th, 2013 admin

Koko Monk Chocolates

As everyone probably knows by now I am a chocoholic and the minute I hear about a new chocolatier or anything chocolate for that matter, I’m intrigued. Koko Monk is a new chocolate boutique located in Kitsilano that was founded by Paul Dincer who began with a passion for creating handmade, painted chocolates with complex flavour profiles.

Paul Dincer – owner

I had first tasted Paul’s chocolates at the Vancouver Farmers Market on Main street last summer, where he was selling his chocolates under Levni Chocolates. The minute I tasted one of those chocolates it made an impact on me, being invited recently to taste Paul’s chocolates in his new boutique it was an invitation that I accepted without hesitation.

At this media tasting we were each served a selection of six chocolates from his collection to taste. Paul guided us through tasting each of the chocolates one by one, he wanted us all to experience each of the flavours in this complex structured tasting.

Smoking Hearts: Raspberry-infused chocolate containing 12-year single malt scotch, guava, coconut, mango, then smoked a second time

The 6th chocolate in the tasting was his most expensive in the collection, Koko Monk Smoking Hearts which he presented to us in his exclusive presentation case. He then told us that the Smoking Hearts is a Raspberry-infused chocolate containing 12-year single malt scotch, guava, coconut, mango, then smoked a second time.

My favourites from the selection I tried were the Bachanalia with balsamic vinegar caramel with sea salt; along with the Brunette Bangle with curry and coconut and finally the Smoking Heart.

Koko Monk is located at 1849 West 1st Avenue in Kitsilano. You can find them on twitter @LevniKokoMonk

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Chocolate, Latest, Tastings Tags: , , , No Comments »

S’mores

March 19th, 2012 admin

A S’more is a traditional nighttime campfire treat consisting of a roasted marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two pieces of graham cracker. There is the traditional and there is the untraditional, this roundup is all about both and who is currently featuring S’Mores on their menu in Vancouver.

Mink Chocolates Café

Campfire S'mores

Price: $9.75

S’Mores

70% Cacao or 38% Cacao with Graham wafers, marshmallows, and a mini hibachi for marshmallow toasting.

On the Menu: Yes

Twitter: @minkchocolates

Location: 863 West Hastings

 

Yew Restaurant

S'more

Price: $8

S’more – Coffee Marshmallow, Almond Crumble & Chocolate Ice Cream in a jar

On the Menu: Yes

Twitter: @fsvancouver

Location: 791 West Georgia Street in the Four Seasons Hotel

 

Cartems Donuterie

Campfire S’mores Donut

Price: $3

Campfire S’mores donut

On the Menu: Yes

Twitter: @Cartemsdonuts

Location: 408 Carrall Street and 485 Commercial Drive

 

Society Restaurant

S’mores Creme Brûlée

Price: $8

S’mores Creme Brûlée

On the Menu: Yes

Twitter: @Glowbal_Group #gcSociety

Location: 1257 Hamilton Street

 

Doux Crepes 

Chocolate Marshmallow S’mores Crepe

Price: $5.35

Chocolate Marshmallow S’mores Crepe

On the Menu: Yes

Twitter: @Crepes_501

Location: 1367 Richards Street

 

Society Restaurant

S’mores

Price: unknown

S’mores

On the Menu: Not yet

Twitter: @Glowbal_Group #gcSociety

Location: 1257 Hamilton Street

 

All were delicious and all were different, treat yourself, or treat a friend.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Chocolate, Culinary Adventures, Latest, Snacking Tags: , , , , , , 1 Comment »

Festival of Chocolate Vancouver Oct 15-Nov 10

October 14th, 2011 admin

Chocolate Events multiply like Rabbits… No, it’s not Easter, and no chocolate bunnies in sight at this time, however the Fall Festival of Chocolate, showcasing local chocolatiers, artisan chocolates, pastry chefs, bakeries, wines, beers, whiskeys – well, all things chocolate and all things that pair with chocolate, keeps multiplying.

The magical mystery of cacao and chocolate is explored through seminars and pairings, held at local chocolate shops, wineries, breweries, restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.

Join the Festival of Chocolates for events held from October 15 through to November 10, across the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. Awesome events to experience!

Chef Alessandra Quaglia and Chef Jean-Francis Quaglia expand outside the chocolate box with Chocolate and Salsa – the Dance, not the condiment. On November 2, 2011, at Provence Marinaside, Vancouver. Chefs pair these delicious appetizers with three wines: Cocao and Coffee Braised Shortribs, Cocao Butter & Espelette Seared Scallops and a Duck Confit with a Cocao Nib vinaigrette. Following this, a chef’s demo (and tasting!) of mini pot-du-crème shots. To end, a Salsa Dance Lesson, with Ivan from dance4u.ca. Chef Alessandra says “There is nothing better than being able to combine my two passions – cooking and dancing. Thank you, Festival of Chocolate.”

Moving south to White Rock, the Ocean Park Village Pub, and Dione’s Chocolates of Crescent Beach pair up for an evening of fine wines and fabulous chocolates – at only $28 per person for 5 wines, 5 chocolates, and a chocolate infused Village Pub specialty coffee; this is one event that is not to be missed! Dione Costanzo, Dione’s Chocolates, loves the pairing of hand rolled lemon chocolate truffles with a Lindeman’s Shiraz.

Moving east to Port Moody, Rubens Chocolate host Chocolate High Teas and Chocolate Fondue – an amazing menu, filled with Belgian Chocolate – and family friendly. The Rubens Chocolate Bistro in Port Moody is delightful, the gelato delicious, and the chocolate fondue delectable. Peter Paul Rubens would be pleased.

Moving west to Wellbrook Winery in Delta, wines, chocolates, and chocolate blueberry infused appetizers are the theme of these events. Chef is pairing lamb, venison, and scallops in the test kitchen. Only $28 per person, another delicious few evenings with chefs, wine, chocolate and chocolate influenced foods.

Sinfully The Best Chocolates, in Steveston, is offering complimentary samples every day throughout the Festival. Owner Cathy Cheung says “The Goats cheese and chocolate truffle was inspired by Donahue’s Cheese, Chocolate and Champagne Tasting Seminar in 2010.” The lemon mousse truffle is sinfully luscious. Cathy Cheung, owner, Sinfully The Best, Steveston, says: “The Festival of Chocolate inspired us to create, bake, test, try and finally open our own artisan chocolate shop here in Steveston. We use fresh local fruit, and have regulars popping in every day to taste our newest creations.”

Hundreds of chocolate events and locations over the course of the Fall Festival of Chocolate – including chocolate spa treatments, chocolate romance and chocolate pairings galore. Festival Director Dawn Donahue says: ”There are no limits to the use and enjoyment of chocolate – the unsung hero of the pastry chef, the baker, the home cook, and kids treats – the sinfully delicious small indulgences that have proven to be a healthy part of everyday life.”

For a full listing of chocolate events for 2011 www.festivalofchocolate.ca

Posted in Chocolate, Latest Tags: , , , , , 1 Comment »

Chocolate Buffet Brunch at Beyond

November 13th, 2010 admin

Export Manager of Bisol

On Sunday October 24th I attended the West Coast Chocolate Festival’s Brunch and Chocolate Buffet at Beyond Restaurant in the Century Plaza Hotel.

Chocolate Buffet

Chocolate Buffet

In addition to their regular Sunday brunch of breakfast specialities (pancakes, waffles, eggs and such) and their lunch specialties (beef curry, chicken with vegetables, mussels and other dishes), salads and cold dishes they also had a full on chocolate buffet. This Chocolate Buffet table was filled to the brim of chocolate cakes, English Trifle (outstanding) and a coffee crème brulee that was delicious ( I had 2) along with a chocolate fountain with dipping fruits and a White Chocolate Passionfruit liquid drink made by Xoxolat.

Bisol Wines of Italy had their export manager in Vancouver to pour their Proseco at the event.

By: Richard Wolak

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Granville Island Craft Beer & Chocolate Pairing

November 12th, 2010 admin

Vern Lambourne, Brewmaster - Granville Island Brewery

On Friday November 5th I attended a wonderful event that was put on by the West Coast Chocolate Festival, it was beer and chocolate pairing evening, specifically Granville Island Beer & Rogers Chocolates.

Granville Island Brewery Craft Beer

The evening also saw Bella Gelateria maestro James Coleridge create 4 flavours as he presented 3 sorbettos and 1 gelato made from Granville Island Craft Beer, these flavours were the Lions Winter Ale Sorbetto, Chocolate Stout Sorbetto, Cypress Honey Lager Sorbetto and my favourite Wort Gelato!

James & Nina of Bella Gelateria

The packed house enjoyed the evening of tasting as well as the music provided by Geoff Peters on Piano as well as other musical entertainment.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Chocolate, Tastings Tags: , , , , No Comments »

Great Gatsby Chocolate & Martini Evening October 22

October 18th, 2010 admin

Speak Easy Martini’s paired with chocolate infused canapés

Now in its 8th year, the festival added a brand new event: “Great Gatsby” Martini and Chocolate Evening presented in partnership with Leigh Square Community Arts Village and Christine’s Catering Company. This cocktail event was inspired by a 1920′s motif and will dazzle your senses and your soul as we pair four tantalizing martinis such as the “Swanky Doll” and the “Gatsby Gin Mill” with eleven delectable canapés, Brie and Cranberries Sachet, Slow Braised Buffalo Ribs and Pepper Beef Carpaccio infused with unforgettable artisanal chocolate. On display for your viewing pleasure is the art collection “The Game” inspired by the 1920’s surreal game, titled Exquisite Corpse or Cadavre Exquis and topping it off, local youth crooner, 2010 PNE Talent winner  Corbin Van der Zalm, will be sharing his inspiration.

Reminiscent of the 1920’s, a time of celebration, the festival will inspire surprise, entertain and above all, help us cherish the good things in life… chocolate. As if that is not enough, your mere presence fulfills our mission: mentored work experience for youth, showcasing emerging artists’ and performers, and modeling our mindfully appreciative approach to chocolate and to life.

Swing with us at the Great Gatsby Chocolate & Martini Evening, for your senses and soul.

Tickets available at festival website www.chocolatefestival.ca ; for direct link to ticket purchase, click here please.

Ticket Price: $56.00 (all inclusive)

Location:

The Gathering Place, Port Coquitlam

#1100 – 2253 Leigh Square Place

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Panache – A Night of Chocolate

October 17th, 2010 admin

Chef Thierry Busset

I attended the opening event for the West Coast Chocolate Festival on Friday October 15th, this event was called “Panache” and was held at the top of the Renaissance Vancouver Harbourside Hotel. It was an elegant affair with canapes and appetizers made by Chef Kevin Greehy being passed around, glasses of Prosecco and wines being poured, along with a walk around Vistas with a 360 degree view of Vancouver while indulging in all things chocolate.

Chocolatier Greg Hook

The room was filled with chocolatiers, chefs, vodka purveyors, wineries, pastry chefs, and many passionate chocolate lovers including yours truly.

Chocolate Macarons, Pistachio filled Chocolates, Soucees by Chef Thierry Busset

Belgian Chocolate in raspberry by the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel

Chocolatier Hodie of Xoxolat

Cardemon Crème Brulee Chocolates by Xoxolat

My favourites were Chef Thierry Busset’s (of CinCin and soon to be Thierry) Chocolate Macarons and his Pistachio filled Chocolates and his Soucees, I also loved Greg Hook’s (of Chocolate Arts) Pumpkin Chocolate Squares, the Belgian Chocolate in raspberry (by the Renaissance chefs) was divine as was the Chocolate Tini made by XFour Vodka, and I always love seeing Hodie Rondeau (of Xoxolat) and indulging with her Cardemon Crème Brulee Chocolates.

Bernard Callebaut Chocolate Ganache

Handcrafted gelato from Bella Gelateria

Many more events to come through November 10th for the West Coast Chocolate Festival and you can see them online here.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Chocolate, Festivals Tags: , , , , No Comments »

Chocolate Festival October 15 – November 10th

October 5th, 2010 admin

I love chocolate and I know that many of you do as well and I’m so happy to be attending some of these amazing chocolate inspired events that will be taking place around the Vancouver area over the next month.

There are over 50 events to choose from for the whole family including specials events for kids and for seniors as well

The festival kicks off at Panache on Friday October 15th with an elegant evening of chocolate, wine, hand crafted gelato, XFour martinis, Quady Wines, chocolate martinis, canapes, savouries, sweets, and all things that go with chocolate.

Panache includes chocolates from Callebaut, Rubens Chocolate, Hagensborg, and XOXOLAT; samples of chocolate afternoon tea from Rowena’s Inn on the River, wines from Saturna Island Winery, Desert Hills Winery, Quady Winery, tea, and coffee; and the fabulous old word handcrafted gelato from Bella Gelateria – a true taste of the festival events that abound across the lower mainland for the next 29 days.

Starting with Prosecco served by Marcus von Albrecht each guest will enjoy the Bisol Winery of Veneto, Italy – Colmei Valdobbiadene Prosecco – Elegant and full, with pronounced fruitiness, the Flavour is well rounded and youthful, soft with emerging fruitiness. Finding a chocolate, savoury or canapé to compliment this fine beverage would be a wonderful taste excursion.

Each station showcases our Chocolate Festival Partners. Each ticket is all inclusive of the stations located all around Vistas. Samples abound, with the opportunity to purchase products at every station. Who could resist that special box of single origin chocolates that XOXOLAT is sampling. Or the fine selection of Chocolates from Rubens Chocolate?

The next beverage to surprise and entice may be the martinis -  chocolate or otherwise. The new XFour Vodka, Handcrafted here in BC in the Okanagan will certainly enhance the conversation.

XFour (TimesFour) is B.C’s first handcrafted premium corn and rye based vodka. Handcrafted and distilled four times by master distiller Frank Deiter who has accumulated over 70 awards for his line of spirits; Xfour is completely additive free and fed with British Columbia’s own pristine glacier water retrieved from a 356 ft deep well. A crystal clear complexion, with hints of fruit and anise.

The canapés and appetizers made by Chef Kevin Greehy will be passed all evening. A delicious assortment of local ingredients, showcasing the talents of the Renaissances’  award winning chef, Chef’s newest restaurant in the hotel, p2b bistro & bar, is a modern, upscale-casual bistro emphasizing fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients used to deliver simply prepared, chef crafted food.

Vistas, 360 Revolving Event Space, top of the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside, hosts the opening event for the 2010 West Coast Chocolate Festival. An elegant room, with a 360 degree view of Vancouver, the vistas balance the tastes and flavours being served.

Purchase tickets to Panache here in advance before they sell out.

Here is the complete schedule of the Chocolate Festival Events.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Chocolate, Great Ideas, Latest Tags: , , , , , , , No Comments »
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