It seems that chocolate bars are popping up all over town.
Watch the Video: Chocolate Spots
Ethel's Chocolate Lounge is the new ultimate women's hangout. There are already several locations, including one on Michigan Avenue and in Lincoln Park. Chocolate lovers can relax and savor the delicious new Ethel's chocolate collection. These morsels of chocolaty goodness are served in a cozy atmosphere where folks can linger and savor these sweets. There are also chocolate drinks and a creamy chocolate fondue.
"This is a place to bring a friend meet a date have a party. We had people propose to their girlfriends to get engage and then have the back patio out their with their whole family waiting," said Matt Kohan, Ethel's Chocolate Lounge .
The new Ethel's chocolate line is handmade and appeals to all palettes -- there are truffles, and chocolate covered nuts and fruits. They are one dollar each or four pieces for six bucks. Cocktail inspired treats, like Mojitos, Margaritas, and Cosmopolitans, make this a true chocolate bar!
But don't be totally fooled by the small town family-owned boutique feel. Ethel's is actually owned by Mars, Incorporated -- the folks behind M&Ms and Snickers!
And who is one of their direct competitors? Hershey's chocolate of course! So, the timing was just right for them to open up a store on Michigan Avenue!
Who doesn't love kisses? Reese’s? We all grew up eating Hershey's chocolate and now Chicago has its very own Hershey Headquarters.
"Well, you know, this is a town that just loves its candy. And they’ve been given us the most gracious welcome. We have a wonderful mix of tourist traffic, as well as a great local residential population -- particular with our cafe. They really seem to enjoy making us their last stop on their way home from dinner," said Anne Findley, Hershey's.
Hershey's Chicago opened its doors in Chicago this past summer. This is a chocolate lover's dream. You'll find a 3,600 square foot interactive retail experience like no other!
This is the ultimate spot for families, kids and really anyone who loves Hershey's chocolate!
"Kids in candy stores, right. Who doesn't want to feel like that? We are obviously a natural destination for families and certainly young children have a terrific time here at the store. Our brands, we have such a wide array of brands that really appeal to both the very young and significantly older consumer. There is really something here for every body," said Anne Findley, Hershey's.
There is even a case full of yummy baked goods like brownies and cupcakes. You can even get a cupcake customized just for you.
Hershey's Magnificent Chocolate Works machine lets me create my own mix of Hershey favorites!
Ethel's Lounge is available for parties or for a fee they can be closed and used for special events. And by the end of the year they plan of having 10 stores open in the Chicagoland area.
For more information:
Ethel's Chocolate Lounge
520 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 464-9330
819 West Armitage Avenue
Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 281-0029
527 Davis Street
Evanston, IL 60201
(847) 424-0790
www.ethelschocolates.com
Hershey's Chicago
822 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-7711
www.hersheysgifts.com