Choc Addict

by Stephanie and Juliann
on Friday, July 24, 2009

It's a sticky sweet summer in Shanghai thanks to yet another wave of new cocoa cafes and dessert boutiques hitting the city and fuelling our chocolate addiction.

Hof on Sinan Lu is the latest addition to chocolatier and pastry chef Brian Tan's House of Flour empire. This time, the aim is to pair Tan's delectable desserts and artisanal chocolates with fancy cocktails in a stylish, intimate lounge. The menu concentrates on a small selection of sophisticated signature cocktails designed to be enjoyed with an array of decadent cakes, puddings, gelatos and truffles.

If you're in the mood for cupcakes, Choco Cupcake at Taikang Lu bakes moist iced beauties. The flavours change daily, but their namesake ultra-rich chocolate cupcakes made with 70% Valrhona chocolate are a mainstay. The bite-sized trio of cupcakes (RMB24) makes a perfect afternoon tea treat.

Also at Taikang Lu is new Vin et Chocolat. Confessed chocoholic Ferdie Aquino and wine aficionado Frank Li have combined their respective loves to create a wine bar with strong chocolate overtones. The wine list comprises almost 50 reasonably priced bottles, with a decent Malbec starting at RMB150. But the real stars are the chocolate drinks and desserts, like the Chocolate Banana (RMB36) cold drink, made with fresh banana from the market on the corner. The delicious drinks, laidback ambience and free wi-fi make this a great place to work and hang out - not to mention the clean toilets, a rare privilege in Taikang Lu.

Diva Life, one of our favorite spa spots, has also expanded into the chocolate business. Owner Yvonne Lo is selling imported hand-made Belgian truffles along with her facials and manicures. Book a service on Wednesdays to receive a free taste.

Talking about Belgian chocolates, international luxury brand Godiva - official purveyor of fine chocolate to the Belgian Royal Court - has finally entered the local scene with a boutique in Xintiandi. And the newest Belgian chocolate-driven venue, Mio Miko on Wulumuqi Lu, held its grand opening last week with a dashing party, complete with champagne and a band. The café's Belgian theme extends from fine chocolates to other national goodies such as waffles, crepes and ice cream.