Bay Area: Aida Opera Candies

A throw back to Grandpa Tony's 1947 business. This store is run out of Burlingame, Ca. I bought and ate the 8 oz sample box as well as several "foiled candies". It was all terrific. "Rocky Road" and "Crunchy Honeycomb" are worth the trip! (www.aidacandies.com)

Colts Bolts

Don't know is any of you have ever had one of these "peanut butter" cups, but the addition of almonds makes this a special treat. 2 oz is the perfect size for a mid-afternoon snack. Made in Nashville, TN., I found these in California. Sold in specialty stores. The website shoes other products I can't wait to try (www.coltschocolates.com).

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.