Local Love: Valentine's Day Sweet Treats For Foodies

Photo Poco Dolce

I Left My Heart in San Francisco... after I experienced the Poco Dolce Chocolate Ganache Hearts. Local Kathy Wiley discovered her love for these sweet confections in 2003. The name, Poco Dolce, translates to "not too sweet" which is a perfect description of these little delectables. It is a beautiful blend of sweet and savory and the perfect choice for your foodie Valentine.

I had the pleasure of sharing one of the Poco Dolce bittersweet chocolate bars while shopping at Heliotrope in Noe Valley two weeks ago. Our friend Don is quite the chocolate connoisseur and knows great chocolate so of course I tried it. I tried two of the bars; the olive oil sea salt bar and for some extra spice, I recommend the Mayan Chili bar. It packs some seriously sweet heat! Bars are $6 ea. and 9 hearts for $18.

*** Sugar NOTE: Tonight Poco Dolce is having Wine and Chocolate event you won't want to miss from 5-7 pm. Click here for more details. 

Fall In Love With Something New...

photo Kara's Cupcakes

Kara's Cupcakes: Her logo is pink but her standards are green. Chef Kara Lind, a local favorite, has recently opened a sixth location in Walnut Creek of which shares her green standards of sustainability and environmental responsibility. She uses all local and organic ingredients in her cupcakes and you will be sure to taste the difference. We stopped by her new location on our lunch hour to try one of her delectable little treats and my favorite is her vanilla with coconut cream cheese frosting (pictured on left). YUM!  For a new twist on the traditional Valentine's Day chocolates or truffles, you can order 4 cupcakes for $13 or a dozen for $36.

From Champagne to Chocolate? Naturally...

Photo WOODHOUSE Chocolate

Photo WOODHOUSE Chocolate

When my Mom came out to visit me, we took a trip to Napa Valley and stopped by St. Helena to stroll Main Street. We came across the  beautiful store front of Woodhouse Chocolates and had to go in and experience their fare. If you are looking for another alternative to tradition, I recommend the Caramels with Fleur de Sel (pictured on right) 6 for $9.


Dip then Sip...

Photo Golden State Fruit

Champagne and strawberries is a signature pairing and there is nothing like California fruit.  Golden State Fruit will send you hand dipped strawberries that are a beautiful display of delicious dark chocolate drizzled with pink and red white chocolate. $29.95 6 strawberries or 12 for $39.95 with overnight shipping included!

Tradition At It's Finest...

See's Candy: Nobody does it like See's. You know it, I know it.