San Francisco: CocoaBella Chocolates

What a nice find on Union Street in San Francisco. (http://www.cocoabellachocolates.com ) This store has looked the world over and found gems from places like Tuscany, Wavre, Bale, and Kansas City.

Pierrick's "Praline Noisettes"- Dark Chocolate with Hazelnut Praline
Corne' Port•Royal's "Rocher"- Crunchy Praline in Milk Chocolate
Charles Chocolates "Lavender Honey Truffle"- Cream w/ Lavender and Honey
Charles Chocolates "Poire Williams Circle"- Caramel and Poire William Liqueur
Amedei's "Vin Santo"- Vin Santo infused Ganache in Dark Chocolate

Ask for Michael Freeman, the proprietor. I can't wait to get back to SF to experience his next "find"!

Bay Area: Scharffen Berger

Scharffen Berger- Took a tour of the factory in Berkeley. What a terrific opportunity to see how chocolate if made. Go on-line and book your tour in advance. They give samples and really discuss the whole process from cacao to the stores. Also, make time to eat at the Cafe', there are some great treats made with "fresh" chocolate.

I bought several items at the Company Store. I particularly like the Chocolate Sauce and the wooden sample box with plenty of sample size mini bars to last awhile.