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| - Little more than a refrigerated display cabinet with a couple chairs and fold-up tables behind it sits what just might be the most artistic chocolate shop in all of Charlotte. But don't be deceived buy how it all "looks too pretty to eat" as there are some huge flavor combinations at work here.
The most prevalent option here are the truffles, each flavor having a distinctive shape and or design on top, usually so shiny as to make you wonder whether they are not really made of glass. But just below that glossy exterior is a deeply satisfying chocolate shell with filling that is as complex as it is rich. The bee pollen truffle has a hazelnut praline crunch that both surprises and melts away into a finish that is deep and more than just a chocolate bomb, due to the local bee pollen in the mix. Even the basic honey truffle is deep in flavor but allows the signature ingredient to shine through. The same for the sea sale caramel, or the raspberry balsamic ganache. Just one is enough to be appreciated, but I crave another consistently.
But the skillful confections don't stop there at this smallest of display counters. The macaroons, when in stock, are also worthy contenders. Having tried both the chocolate hazelnut and the key lime versions, I can say both are excellent. The exteriors were both fluffy and soft in the middle, but had a very satisfying exterior crunch. The fillings were both rich and the flavors balanced but vibrant. Yeah, count this guy as a fan.
These handmade treats are made by artisans and the per piece price will reflect that, but don't let that throw you off. The difference is in the taste and quality, and it easily shows here. These guys are food artists and make a very nice addition to the 7th Street Market and it's focus of putting locally sourced products into the public's hands. Well done.
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