experience Archives - Lori Bruton

This is World Chocolate Day.

It is July 7^th. This date is significant for all chocolate lovers like me.

The observance of World Chocolate Day dates back to 2009. This annual celebration of chocolate marks the anniversary of the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550. I remember in my early working career, one of the engineers was from England and brought back chocolates from there. You didn’t have to guess which kind because they had a label key inside the box identifying each piece.

Chocolate Day is any day and every day in my book. Since it is globally recognized on July 7^th as I write this, I was inspired to share my experiences with you.

My travels from coast to coast have been sweet and satisfying.

It was truly a gourmet experience visiting Ethel M Chocolates Factory, Flagship Store & Cactus Garden in Henderson, Nevada.

Chocolate Tasting photo by Lori Bruton

Right now, through August 28, 2022, they have a perfect in-store summer experience called Chocolate & Mimosa Tasting. They also have online experiences and much to offer for those who are not able to visit on-site.

Tasting chocolate not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates an emotional experience.

The Signature Chocolate Tasting Experience I booked was well worth it. The journey was fascinating. What you learn is how chocolate is sourced, refined, produced, and how to properly taste chocolate and identify flavors.

Where else you can get your chocolate fix.

Chocolate Factory photo by Lori Bruton

Afterward, I became an honorary chocolatier and was awarded a certificate. It came with a 15% discount for that day, but I forgot to use the discount.

Closer to home is Oliver’s Candies in Batavia, New York. They are celebrating 90 years in business. This personal favorite is sought after not only by the locals but by people from all over the country. The candy they make is rich and delectable. It has a distinct discernible taste.

Oliver’s not only has a variety of chocolates, sponge candy, and nuts but also has ice cream. There are 18 hard ice cream flavors all year. During the summer season, their whipped cream is made fresh daily on-site.

A tour of Hershey’s Chocolate World in Pennsylvania, adds more sweetness to this story. They have workshops where you can create the dessert of your dreams. It reminds me of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, which is one of my favorite movies starring Gene Wilder. Hershey, PA, is a town full of thrills and attractions too.

I found these Hershey guys in Las Vegas. What a treat to get a chocolate kiss.

Hershey’s Chocolate World photo by Lori Bruton

When you walk into the Peppered Pig located at 1759 Empire Boulevard in Webster, New York, you’ll feel like you were transported to Paris, France.

The ambiance of this French American Bistro awakens all your senses.

Music whispers in your ears playing French songs that set the mood. It felt like I would be asked to dance at any moment. Since that didn’t happen, I discreetly swayed in silence at the table while enjoying the melodies and perusing the menu.

The décor is pleasing to the eyes with artwork carefully positioned on the walls. Soft-lit candles were placed on each table with silverware wrapped up in cloth napkins. Every seat offered an inviting, relaxing atmosphere.

Greeted with prompt, courteous service with a smile made me feel like family. I had the pleasure of meeting Geoff who made the experience extra special. Yes, I felt pampered.

Pleasant aromas wafted through the air as each dish was delivered to every guest. My hunger was stirring as I awaited my delicious dish.

While you wait for your food to arrive, enjoy wine, a cocktail, a mocktail, or craft beer. There are several varieties.

Get ready for your tastebuds to be tantalized. There is a wide range of choices from salads, soups, sandwiches, quiche, and crêpes just to name a few on the lunch menu. Everything is peppered with just the right seasonings.

Here is a little history from the Institute of Culinary Education. Crêpes are an ultra-thin pancake common in France that can be made sweet or savory, typically rolled or folded with a variety of fillings from jam or Nutella to ham and cheese to seafood. The specialty is served in crêperies, as street food and even in elegant settings as dessert, such as the most famous presentation, crêpes Suzette which is listed on the dessert menu at The Peppered Pig.

The beet salad is a mix of field greens, roasted beets, walnuts, blue cheese with lemon vinaigrette. You can add steak, chicken, or duck.

There is a Crépe with mushroom duxelles, blue cheese, balsamic onions with a petite salad.

Specials are offered, such as Steak Diane made with a 12-ounce Angus strip steak with a mustard Demi glacé cream, mushrooms, and a potato purée.

Wait, there’s more.

Their homemade desserts are to die for. A couple of known favorites are the Crème Brulee and Bread Pudding.

When the weather is warm there is an outside patio for a full Paris feel. Once you have dined at The Peppered Pig you will want to go back for more.

The Peppered Pig / 585-347-6479 / 1759 Empire Boulevard, Webster, NY

https://thepigroc.com

Lori Bruton

Travel Writer/Blogger

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Hi, I'm Lori.
Author, Speaker, Coach, Ghostwriter

A CHOCOLATE CELEBRATION

This is World Chocolate Day.

My travels from coast to coast have been sweet and satisfying.

Where else you can get your chocolate fix.

What is your favorite kind of chocolate?

Get Pampered at the Peppered Pig