PRELUDE SWEETHEART FEBRUARY 2006

Norman Love Confections

Pastry chef extraordinaire Norman Love’s Fort Myers-based chocolate shop produces beautiful, consistently award-winning cocoa concoctions. Decorated with colorful design fl ourishes, the pieces are quite simply edible works of art. $39.75 for 20-piece box, www.normanloveconfections.com

La Maison du Chocolat

The Chanel of chocolatiers, La Maison du Chocolat offers some of the world’s most exquisite (and expensive) treats from its two New York boutiques. Limited edition Valentine’s Day assortments, inspired by luxurious jewelry, are sure to woo your true love. $64 per 275 grams, www.lamaisonduchocolat.com

Jacques Torres

Highly-trained French chocolatier Jacques Torres has set up shop in New York, with locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, and brought with him some of the most delicate treats imaginable. Be sure to try the “Alizé Hearts of Passion.” $26 for 25-piece box, www.mrchocolate.com

 

Dagoba Organic Chocolate

Certified organic, and often Fair Trade Certified, these delicious bars made from sustainably farmed cocoa aren’t just for health-conscious hippies. Flavors like lavender, lime and “roseberry” are not to be missed. $36 for a 12-bar sampler, www.dagobachocolate.com

 

Recchiuti Confections

This San Francisco-based artisan chocolate shop prides itself on the use of only the finest ingredients, and it is known for producing some truly unique fl avors, including “star anise and pink peppercorn” and “tarragon grapefruit.” $40 for 16-piece box, www.recchiuticonfections.com