Chicago's Best Remedy For Your Sweet Tooth

Hello Lover...

The first time getting Ethel’s Chocolate I knew I was in for a treat. I had heard about them many times before, but never had the pleasure of trying them. This past July I received a box of chocolates for my birthday. I almost didn’t want to open it, even the box looked fancy! Boy am I glad I did!

Inside of it were 12 perfectly tucked, perfectly shaped colorful pieces of chocolate. Where would I start?! I wouldn’t. As I tried to distinguish one piece from another using my handy dandy Ethel’s chocolate guide, I made the decision that I would save them for a special occasion. That was an extremely difficult decision to make because one of the tiny pieces of euphoria was peanut-butter and jelly flavored – only my all-time favorite snack! It was delicious in case you were wondering.

It's not all chocolate

Ethel’s has found a way to make apples a gourmet treat. Now I haven’t tried these caramel covered Granny Smith’s for myself, but if they’re anything like the chocolate, you won’t be disappointed.

Frango Mints were once Chicago’s most popular chocolate items. I say were, because these babies are hard to come by nowadays. Marshall Fields, practically a landmark in downtown Chicago, was home to Frango Mints before Macy’s (curses!) took over.

The mints have just enough chocolate and just enough mint. They’re not too fancy and they don’t come with crazy flavors. They’re a classic treat that you’re sure to love.

Luxury, meet mouth. Mouth, meet luxury.

I’ve always had a difficult time pronouncing Vosges Haut Chocolat, which makes it difficult for me to recommend it to people! (Apparently I’m not the only one, as this question was in their FAQ!) Vosges, pronounced vohj o- sho-colah, is the home of luxury chocolates and exotic truffles. Before Vosges, I had no idea that wasabi, curry or Kalamata olives could be put in chocolate AND taste good! They’re a tad on the expensive side, but they’re not cheap when it comes to flavor!

In addition to their truffle collections, chocolate lovers can also purchase chocolate bars, chocolate chips, peanut-butter bonbons (I’ve got a thing for the PB, can you tell?) and more! If you get the chance, be sure to try their hot chocolate. Served to you in a beaker-esque glass, this rich cocoa will warm you up and make your tummy happy.

As both an anatomy and chocolate fan, I’d say these give the peanut-butter and jelly flavored chocolate a run for its money!

“Mama don’t allow cussin’, unless you’re tastin’ her damn good cookies!” I only know of Chocolate Gourmet because of their damn good cookies and ugly truffles. Those are the real names, promise! Once again, they’re a bit on the pricey side. If you’re looking for a fun treat you can enjoy, I’d stick with either Ethel’s or Vosges. CG is a tad less creative.

It's whats on the inside that counts

With flavors like messed-up mocha and morning after merlot, how could you not want to treat your taste buds? Personally I’d stay away from the hairy coconut, as the name isn’t very appealing (and I just don’t like coconut!)