Chicago's River North neighborhood provides the smell of chocolate greatness due to its proximity to the Blommers Chocolate Plant, residing in Chicago since 1939. Chicago basks in sweet aromas throughout the city thanks to its designation as “Candy Capital of America” with more than 100 candy companies, ranging from the local mom and pop retail stores to large international confectionery manufacturers.
Each year more than 19,000 delegates discover thousands of new products from more than 500 exhibiting companies at the All Candy Expo held at Chicago's McCormick Place. This thriving industry event boasts more confectionery and snack buyers in more trade channels than any other U.S. show.
Unfortunately this isn’t a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory dream come true for the public as the show is private, with the goal of connecting candy buyers with sellers. But there are two unique chocolate experiences you can take advantage of once you’ve arrived in Chicago.
Indulge in a chocolate bar like no other! “Chocolate at The Pen" is Chicago’s premier chocolate bar located in The Lobby at The Peninsula Chicago Hotel. This weekly event promises sweet satisfaction for those looking for a little indulgence after dinner, or for those who are seeking that perfect accompaniment to “Jazz at the Pen,” weekly performances by a jazz trio. The chocolate bar and music by the jazz trio takes place Fridays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Due to the popularity of “Chocolate at The Pen,” reservations are recommended and are accepted for 9 p.m. and later at a cost of $33 per person ($20 for children under 12). The price includes unlimited coffee, cappuccino or espresso and a selection of petite chocolate delicacies. For just $42, guests can indulge in the full chocolate bar and receive a delicious Chocolate Martini! Reservations can be made directly with the hotel at 312-337-2888 or by e-mail: pch@peninsula.com.
Taste some delicious morsels of chocolate with Hershey's Chicago weekly chocolate tasting. Trained chocolate professionals guide guests through an interactive chocolate tasting experience. Hershey’s Chicago enhances the interactive chocolate experience by providing an in-depth review, including origin, history, production methods, and the unique characteristics of the tasting samples. The tour costs $6.95 per person, runs for thirty minutes, and includes samples of six different types of chocolate and bottled water to cleanse the palate. Each guest also receives a special gift. Tasting these delectable chocolates takes place at 1pm Monday through Friday.