Get ready for a scrumptious ride through the irresistible world of chocolate…did you know cocoa beans were so valuable in ancient times they were used as currency?
Ben Franklin sold chocolate in his print shop in Philadelphia and Aztec Emperor, Montezuma drank 50 cups of cacao a day from a golden chalice – everyone, everywhere loves chocolate!
Here are six venues for a chocoholic experience you won’t forget in a long time:
An unforgettable Tasmanian dining experience awaits discerning foodies at Becker Minty Dining Room on Salamanca Place in Battery Point. You’ve never dined like this before in the stylish heart of the new homewares store, surrounded by an eclectic array of Australian art and a curated collection of décor, fashion, jewellery, perfume and gifts.
Enjoy an elegant sit-down lunch, or a casual wine and cheese tasting with friends grazing on plates like duck liver parfait, grilled brioche and sherried currants, before giving in to your dessert fixation with soft dark coverture chocolate, salted caramel, walnut crumb and vanilla bean mascarpone.
A sheer passion for fine patisserie is behind Aux Fines Bouches on Taree Street in Burleigh Heads. Step into a sweet tooth’s delight where tantalising aromas waft in the air and display cabinets overflow with decadent offerings sure to tempt every palate and taste, all handcrafted, baked and served with a side of love.
Taste the magic of desserts such as the fruit series where each creation showcases a flavour from around the world such as peach, yuzu, Black Forest and pear, or take home an indulgent salted caramel and chocolate tart to wow family and friends. Perhaps order a chocolate truffle gateaux as a spectacular centrepiece for your next celebration or special occasion.
For a day spent wining and dining, take to Jason's Restaurant located onsite at Bradford Estate Winery in Upper Beaconsfield. Relax over leisurely drinks in lavishly furnished rooms, boasting grand fireplaces and charming ornaments; or plan to celebrate a special occasion at Jason's, perhaps lunch enjoyed from a polished timber deck overlooking picturesque farmlands as far as the eye can see.
Showcasing local produce sourced from the Cardinia Ranges and nearby regions, alongside a carefully curated collection of local and imported wines, guests are spoiled for choice with starters like beef carpaccio, Hokkaido scallops or tempura prawns; for the main think confit duck risotto, finish with Lindt chocolate raspberry parfait, tuli soil and berry compote.
Known as one of the Eyre Peninsula’s most-loved dining destinations, head to L’Anse French Café on Liverpool Street in Port Lincoln for all things croissant. Eat, drink and relax at this stylish venue, where a glass-fronted bakery allows guests to watch the Chef in action creating delicious sweet and savoury treats.
Setting an ambitious standard for breakfast and brunch from an ever-evolving menu, expect to be tempted by buttery and flaky pan au chocolat, or Chef’s special Caramilk cronuts; those with heartier appetites devour a steak sandwich on housemade ciabatta, with aioli, beetroot relish, rocket salad, red onion and feta.
Perth sweet tooths seeking the home of healthy desserts made from plant-based, refined sugar, gluten and dairy-free ingredients head down Mulgul Road in Malaga to find Crunchbox. As well as an onsite café, this family-owned and operated plant-based dessert company supplies cafes, grocery stores and other businesses around WA with delicious sweet treats to tempt all tastes; you can also order online and have decadence arrive on your doorstep.
Stop by the café to devour a delicious plate of waffles with Nutella, ice cream, whipped cream, hazelnuts and maple syrup; don’t forget to grab a box of bite-sized treats to take home for everyone, with choices such as Sneakers, Picnik, peanut butter, Jupiter and tahini Trix…ideal gifts for the festive season!
Find indulgence and hospitality that will keep you coming back for more on the menu at Coco’s Patisserie on Koornang Road in Carnegie. Baking savoury and sweet treats fresh daily, stop in for a caffeine fix and linger awhile as the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts in the air and overflowing cabinets display delicious temptations sure to entice; join a lively buzz of conversation as you sip a latte and graze on a croc monster – loaded twice-baked ham and cheese croissant.
Perhaps pair a chocolate milkshake with a gourmet steak and green peppercorn pie, while those with a sweet tooth eye up goodies like choc chip croissants, or a lamington with four layers of sponge, two layers of cream and housemade raspberry jam, topped with chocolate and coconut.
