The Pursuit of Belgium Chocolates...

Just yesterday, for our 13th anniversary, Ray came home with a beautiful bouquet of white roses and a box of Pierre Marcolini chocolates. For those of you who know him, Ray has never failed to do something special for a birthday, holiday or anniversary. And even after 13-years of marriage (gosh, where did all the time go?!), he still surprises me with these sweet gestures.

We spent the evening watching "Somewhere in Time" while I enjoyed the delicious chocolates. After opening the box, I realized I failed to post a blog I had written a while back. And since I was experiencing a "piece of heaven" consuming PM's "Pave De Tours Fondant" -- a blend of chocolate with sugared almonds, hazelnuts and puff pastry cake, coated with dark chocolate -- I realized I should share this post...

Before we moved here, my idea of good chocolate was a Nestle's Crunch Bar. I was never into fancy chocolates wrapped in pretty boxes and didn't think twice about the Godiva Chocolates received during the holidays.

Oh my, have things changed! Now just the thought of Belgium chocolate will make my mouth salivate. Some well-known chocolatiers here in Belgium are Leonidas, Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini. The chocolates are not cheap (ranging anywhere from 5 to 17 euros per 250 grams -- meaning $8-$23 for a small box of chocolates), but hey -- some things are worth spending money for. And, these chocolates are SOO delish.

The fun part about going to the chocolatier is that there always seems to be a new and different type of chocolate to try. And I make sure to have it wrapped up in a nice pretty box even if it's only for my consumption...

Imagine my delight when I discovered that there was a Neuhaus factory store open to the public here in Belgium. From what I understand, not many people know about this place. So, DS and I went to check this place out and what a score we found! This shop had several samples of chocolate which we were encouraged to try. We were literally two kids in a candy store tasting several yummy chocolates.

DS especially enjoyed this trip since she had just finished reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Needless to say, we left after buying several boxes of chocolates (at excellent prices, I must add). Good thing this place is 1/2 hour away, otherwise Ray would have to sign me up for the gym!

"PS, don't touch the chocolates"

"Mommy, I'm not touching, I'm just looking...!!!"

In addition to the well-known chocolatiers mentioned above, there are numerous other chocolatiers that are very good. The girls and I went to Centho Chocolatier, recommended by my neighbor, Iza. Located off the beaten track in Duisburg Tervuren, Belgian Master Confectioner, Geert Decoster, takes much pride in his home-made chocolates. All of his chocolates are made on a base of "Origin Chocolate" made only from premium fresh butter and whipped cream blended to create flavors including chocolates w/lemon, lavender, cinnamon, honey, coffee, and nuts just to name a few. All the chocolates are made daily in the small factory connected adjacent to the shop. Chocolates here are 10 euros per 250 grams. I enjoyed the warm hospitality of Geert and learning a little more about chocolate. Although it didn't compare to Pierre Marcolini, the chocolates here were delightful!

The only sad thing about the discovery of fine chocolate, is that Nestle Crunch Bars will never be the same.