Let’s talk chocolate, shall we? Cacao, Specifically.
But not just any chocolate – no offense to the Hershey’s, Nestle’s and Mars of the world – specially curated chocolate; the best of the best, the robust in flavor, the smooth in finish, the chocolate you’ll find when you step through the doors of CACAO Buckhead. When you purchase chocolate from Cacao Atlanta, you can rest-assured that you are receiving only the finest. The company’s founder, owner and master chocolatier, Kristen Hard, has quite literally made it her life’s mission to identify the world’s most elite purveyors of cacao beans, partner with them and jointly cultivate their beans to create an experience for her customers that is tastebud-blowing and simply unforgettable.
During my years living in the Highlands, I’d periodically stroll through the quaint and historical neighborhood, popping into local shops and cafes. Along my route I’d pass by Cacao, trying desperately to divert my attention to something, anything, less tempting. More often than not I’d fail and end up inside the shop, adolescently asking myself “How did I get here?” when in reality, I was painfully aware of my lack of self-control when it comes to good chocolate. You see, Cacao Atlanta is just one of those places. Passing a candy shop, a Mrs. Fields concession stand at the Georgia Dome, even standing in line at the register having had nothing to eat in the last 10 hours, I experience little to no temptation to indulge. But, when I look through the window of Cacao, I can’t help myself.
Now, to my waistline’s detriment but my sweet tooth’s satisfaction, Cacao has opened another location in the city’s most sought-after, upscale shopping area, The Shops Buckhead Atlanta. To walk into this boutique is to experience the epitome of white glove chocolate service. Yes, I’m aware of how much of a physical oxymoron that is but trust me, I’m speaking both literally and figuratively and they pull it off beautifully. Set up much like a fine jewelry store, this location may not boast expansive square footage but how much space does chocolate need anyway? It features a stunning shopfront right on Peachtree Road and an interior layout that is equal parts chocolate and art.
Their selection of chocolate flavors we sampled ran the gamut – limoncello, white-chocolate & strawberry balsamic, dark chocolate & salted caramel, dark chocolate & hazelnut, and espresso & black truffle. Arguably their most popular (and identifiable) item is their Salame di Cioccolato (or “Chocolate Salami”). Fear not as there is no actual meat used in this sweet. Instead, a clever coating of confectionary sugar and white string surround a cylindrically-shaped combination of chocolate, shortbread and amaretti cookie, creating the appearance of an italian cured meat.
In addition to the distinctly remarkable chocolate offered, this location showcases the abstract artwork of ever-changing local artists. For example, sisters Kristen Giorgi and Laura Naples’ art is inspired by the flavors and colors of Italy and their artwork is featured for a limited time on the wrapping of select chocolate sold at this location only.
Future plans for the store include the display and sale of specialty wines that are scarcely available in most other local liquor and wine stores.
If you’re looking for a uniquely high-end chocolate experience, a sweet Valentine’s Day gift for your significant other, or the perfect excuse to impress a budding love interest, I truly recommend you look no further than Cacao in The Shops Buckhead Atlanta.
For more information about Cacao:
Search: www.cacaoatlanta.com
Call: 404-228-4023
Or visit: 3035 Peachtree Rd NW, Suite A150, Atlanta, GA 30305
