Monday, July 5, 2010

Road Tripping in CT Volume 1


One of my favorite things to do is to take mini road trips around my state to explore new places or visit old favorites. I took advantage of the long holiday weekend to visit an old favorite, the amazing patisserie and chocolatier, Belgique! The shop is located on Bridge Street in the town of Kent. I first found this shop a few years back through my wonderful sister, Sugar Bear. Belgique is a good hour or more drive from where I live but trust me it's worth it. I just love the adorable little yellow building with the red awning. The second you walk through the door you are greeted with the most wonderful aroma of chocolate. The chocolate is made in the traditional Belgian style, contains all natural ingredients, and best of all is 100% preservative free! Because of this the shop owner will politely tell you to consume the chocolates within two weeks. I just nod and smile because they'd never last that long at my house!
Here's a snap shot of the goodies I picked up. Of the ones I tried so far my favorites are a white chocolate seashell with a coffee buttercream filling and a dark chocolate cup filled with vanilla buttercream. I actually think I moaned with pleasure when eating the vanilla one (blush)! The shop also has a case with some delicious looking chocolate cakes, fruit tarts, and pastries. Their iced chocolate drink is rumored to be out of this world. I have yet to try it so I can't weigh in on this one. Although just say the word and I will happily go back and taste test it for you.
Another thing I love about quaint little shops like Belgique is that they tend to pay careful attention to the details. The box my chocolates came packed in is absolutely adorable and tied ever so lovingly with a black ribbon printed with Belgique in gold. So if you live in Connecticut or ever find yourself visiting, I definitely recommend checking out Belgique!