ALONG COMES MARY

When Chuao Chocolatier contacted me about trying their 4 new flavors of chocolate bars, I hesitated. Just because, I have been trying A LOT of awesome candy & foods lately…but, then when I read what the new bars entailed, I knew they were perfect for both me & Mike….& they did not disappoint 😉

Chuao Chocolatier was founded in 2002 by Master Chef Michael Antonorsi and his brother Richard Antonorsi – the company’s Chairman of the Board; Chuao Chocolatier is pioneering “fusion chocolate” through a commitment to creating unusual, unexpected and delicious flavors using their secret blend of premium chocolate and fresh natural ingredients.

The Venezuelan born brothers, now San Diego residents, named the company Chuao Chocolatier after the legendary cacao-producing region of Chuao (pronounced chew-WOW) located in central Venezuela. The Antonorsi’s decision was a reflection of their commitment to both high quality and their Venezuelan family heritage. Chocolate is part of their roots, as their ancestors once ran a small family farm that was an important part of the criollo cacao plantation industry.

I also loved when I discovered that each square of the  bar has awesome words on them! Tickle, Dazzle, Crave…how fun is that?!

With unique flavors like Maple Bacon & Potato Chip, their 4 new flavors for Spring & Summer might be their best yet….

Meet the newest bars to arrive from Chuao! Sweet & Salty, Ooh Ahh Almond, Oh My S’more’s & Pretzel Toffee Twirl. While Mike enjoyed the S’mores & Pretzels, since, alas, they were not gluten-free, I devoured Sweet & Salty & Ooh Ahh Almond! I did sneak a bite of a marshmallow off the S’mores bar since they were Vegan. Unlike the usual recipe of such ingredients just inside the bar, the marshmallows & pretzels are also baked right on the back of the candy.

As a big almond fan, I love the texture & taste of Ooh Ahh Almond….it nearly tastes like its good for you….which, it just may be since almonds & dark chocolate are in the health news more & more 😉

(Mike wants to enjoy his chocolate in peace…)

Ask anyone, I am a huge salt fan! So, of course, my first go-to was the Sweet & Salty. It did not disappoint my expectations & its made me want to order the Potato Chip bar…stat!

If you find yourself in San Diego, they have 2 storefronts you can visit. Otherwise, they’re in most major grocery stores, including Ralph’s & Whole Foods (LEGOLAND, too!). I cannot wait to order more from Chuao & hope you check out their web-site HERE & psst, they might just have a FREE chocolate bar with your name on it if you sign up for their newsletter 😉 xo

(*Disclosure: I received samples of Chuao bars on behalf of this feature. As always, all opinions are my own.)