Its consumption has been used as an aphrodisiac, a medical cure-all and an act of worship, but in more recent times it’s simply a divine and irrestistable treat. J K Rowling had not wandered too far into the depths of fantasy when she characterised chocolate as a magical, mood-boosting pick-me-up. There is, after all, something almost enchanting about the unfolding of foil, the snapping of squares and the melting on the tongue.
It’s no wonder, then, that we spend $8 billion a year on the sweet stuff, or that there should now be one glorious week in the clanedar devoted to our favourite snack. The 11th – 17th October this year will see themed events held all over the world in honour of chocolate.
It seems apt, then, that we in the fair city of York pay our respects to the substance that has supported York’s economy and built its identity. Since the middle of the twentieth entury, Nestle has played a key role in providing work for residents, indeed the eponymous Yorkie Bar still bears testament to the company’s local history.
Although Nestle have recently outsourced many of their jobs, it is undeniable that York’s history is inextricably bound up with cocoa. Areas of the town near the factory smell distinctly chocolatey (if with a slight overtone of gravy granules) and there is no shortage of suppliers paving out cobbled streets with sweet goodness.
Giftag Chocolate Box, on Fossgate, is a family run business creating delicious handmade chocolate gifts. It’s a brilliant stop to pick up fail-safe birthday or Christmas presents, or just something to indulge!
Toftly Treats is a North Yorkshire based company that craft beautiful ‘chocolate buttons with a twist.’ Each drop of scrumptious chocolate is painted with an exquisite design. Baubles or holly for Chsitmas, hearts for Valentines’ Day, or bells and starts for weddings. Available in gift wrapped boxes or glass jars for the full visual effect, these are not to be missed. Toftly even create bespoke designs, so if you have a party with a certain theme or colour scheme planned these could be your perfect party favours! Visit www.toftlytreats.com to find out more.
If you’re after something a little less pricey, pop down to the Cadbury store at the York Designer Outlet in Selby. Here you can pick up mis-shaped or discontinued chocolate at a fraction of the price. It is tempting to buy everything in sight, and in bulk, so we advise you don’t go on an empty stomach.
Throughout chocolate week Betty’s tearooms will be offering tempting tasters. Salted caramels, champagne truffels and raspberry ganache will be some of the beauties available for sampling in the shop. Also available is the extensive tasting plate, priced at £4.95, which includes a minitature mug of Betty’s famously luxurious hot chocolate.
Whether you’re a dark chocolate connoisseur, a milk chocolate muncher or a white chocolate lover, there’s never been a better excuse to chow down on your favourite treat.