Local Hot Spot: Chocolate, Gifts and Whimsy in Old Town

Looking for that perfect quirky gift for your hard-to-buy-for friend or family member?  I had almost forgotten that Artfully Chocolate has two locations - 2003A  Mt. Vernon Avenue in Del Ray and a more spacious and bright Artfully Chocolate and Gifts on John Carlyle Street near the Patent & Trademark Office in "New" Old Town.

The newer gallery location is open until 8 pm Tuesday through Saturday (and until 5 pm on Sunday). They offer a host of summer pleasantries and gifts -- my favorites include the colorful paper plates and matching napkins.  And if you want to grab the perfect hostess gift on the way to a party, the bon bons will be most appreciated.  (The salted caramels -- I am told -- are a shop favorite.) 

They also offer a range of unique cards ranging from very touching to LOL funny.  If you wonder where that person found just the right card to send to you, this might be the place. 

In the heat of summer, we're not thinking too much about hot chocolate (and this is the kind you find in Paris...no Swiss Miss here), but as an alternative, try attending one of the chocolate and wine pairing classes on alternate Thursday evenings for $60. This might also be the perfect gift for the wine and chocolate lover.  Or maybe just cool off with some Gifford's ice cream (perhaps a milkshake?) while you write your card out at the colorful cafe tables.  

While you're there, browse the gallery of items painted and painstakingly crafted by local resident and owner Eric Nelson.  Colorful and full of energy (just like Eric), you'll love the hand-crafted mosaic cafe tables (where you can sip your beverage and nosh on some hand-made chocolates) and whimsical paintings. You can even commission Eric to do something more personal, should the desire strike.  

It's a can't miss place -- and plenty of on-the-street parking is a plus.  

Please email me at kay@kayblemker.com with your comments. Thanks!