Having survived a truly awful day, I found myself mindlessly running errands. Up on the right, I see the sign - Cerreta Candy Factory. Seriously my luck must be changing!
Cerreta's has been in operation for over 70 years in the bird and I was one of the lucky few that grew up close to their old location. I remember tottaling through the aisles at my mothers apron strings and being mesmerized by the gigantic machines and huge vats of candies. It was like being in my own version of Willie Wonka (sans creepy blueberry girl and cowboy kid - ok I was always intrigued by the Oompa Loompa's, but I digress).
As an adult, I resurrected my relationship with Cerreta's when I found myself in need of "you can't find this everywhere" gifts for clients. The staff is super friendly, are always willing to answer questions and will throw together the most scrumptious gift baskets in no time flat.
Their chocolate doesn't rival Maison du Chocolat (but seriously nothing in this world compares to that standard), but it is decent and supporting a local business that has such a remarkable history is always a good thing.
Twenty minutes after entering a beaten woman, I re-emerged with a smile on my face, a spring in my step and one of Mr. C's Praline Patties hanging from my lips -- life is good!
Oh and before anyone jumps to conclusions of judgment, I checked and Cerreta's doesn't use any trans-fat in their products. Three cheers for healthy chocolate... ahem... well relatively speaking. : )