What follows is an extract from a Vancouver weekly's dining section. I'm blogging this as a public service, because oh my goodness, anything Thomas Haas makes is beyond delicious. Here's the start of Boxlets of chocolates.
Attached to the signature chocolate-brown ribbon overlaid with pale-green organza, a little tag reads: "These chocolates taste best before... " with a space for a handwritten date. It's a nice piece of knowledge, but academic. Or, to put it another way, fat chance. By the time their best-by date rolls around, the gemlike, preservative-free confections inside will have long gone. All that will remain is the memory of those exquisite fillings — passion-fruit ganache, cinnamon nougat, cream infused with freshly grated ginger — and a square willow-green container far too attractive to go in the blue box.
The tradition of chocolate box as keepsake is one that patissier Thomas Haas is reviving, as you already know if you've indulged in his treats at Sen5es Bakery downtown. You will still find Haas's creations there (as well as at five-star hotels and top local restaurants), but now he's opened a production facility and factory outlet on the North Shore. It's a destination place in a waterfront area best described as "emerging", which is no deterrent to chocolate lovers: a small ad in a local paper led to lineups on Valentine's Day. When the weather's nice, it's beautiful, says Haas, looking out at the Vancouver skyline from the door of his new shop. Inside, the crimson-brocade ceiling is angled at the corners to suggest you're inside a chocolate box. A marble counter extends the width of the shop and mirror-backed shelves, custom-made from German walnut, display chocolate boxes. A couple of tables invite you to enjoy a cappuccino and freshly made croissant, or a light panini-and-soup lunch. It's all happening... or at least it will be by now. [continue]
Next time I have free afternoon, I'll be heading over to North Vancouver just to eat some of these scrumptious chocolates. (Those of you who don't live nearby will have to settle for mail order — if you're desperate enough.)
Related links:
Sen5es
Thomas Haas Fine Chocolates