How do you introduce the best chocolates on this planet to the right audience? In the Twin Cities the answer is undoubtedly La Belle Vie. As one of the Twin Cities most lauded restaurants, it has earned Awards of Excellence by both Zagat and Wine Spectator Magazine while providing an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. The chefs were quite reserved at the beginning but gradually in the course of our chocolate tasting warmed up and eventually fell for Amedei and Domori chocolates. A week later they proposed a chocolate dinner. After all it was meant to happen when the names are Chocolate Bonavita and La Belle Vie and the philosophy and passion are so similar.
I wish you were with us last Thursday…at La Belle Vie for this special five-course tasting menu that highlighted the versatility of chocolate in both savory and sweet dishes. Anna Bonavita first introduced the chocolates and their stories. Bill Summerville led us through each course by pairing not only wine, but also liqueurs and beers. Steve Appelhans was on site filming so stay tuned for more.
My favorite was the Crudo of Orange Marlin with Madagascar 70%, Taggiasca EVOO and Sea Salt, which was made unforgettable by the flavor enhancement with Amano’s Madagascar. And the dessert - Chuao Cremeux with Chocolate Souffle Cakes, Cola Sherbet and Crispy Cherry Meringues – left me in awe of pastry chef Diane Yang. 
