When I stepped into The Chocolate Lab, I thought I had a solid game plan: grab a couple of truffles, take a few sophisticated bites, and waltz out like a normal, self-controlled adult. Spoiler alert: That didn’t happen. What really went down was more like an episode of The Great British Bake Off, where I took one bite and went from “Oh, just a taste” to “How many bonbons can I fit into one box without judgment?”
First Impressions: Welcome to Chocolate Wonderland
As soon as you walk into The Chocolate Lab, you realise this isn’t your average chocolate shop. No, this place feels like a cross between an art gallery and Willy Wonka’s factory—if Wonka had gone to culinary school in Paris. The glass cases shimmer with glossy truffles, bonbons, and other chocolate creations so intricate, you almost feel bad eating them. Almost.
Growing up in Australia, I thought I knew good chocolate. But here? This wasn’t just Cadbury or Cherry Ripe. This was next-level, handcrafted, artisan madness. And like most Filipinos, I love a good indulgence, especially when it’s this sophisticated. It’s a long way from the Goldilocks bakery treats I grew up with, but hey, I’ve always been about that glow-up!
The Chocolate Lab Artisan Chocolates Experience: A Taste Test Gone Rogue
I’m not going to lie—when I started reading the bonbon descriptions, it felt like I was reading a wine menu. Something about “Venezuela dark chocolate ganache” and “a hint of yuzu.” Listen, all I needed to know was that it was going to taste amazing. And oh, it did.
There was this one called the Tropical Paradise. One bite of this decadent bonbon, and you’re instantly transported to a sun-soaked beach with the waves kissing the shore. The caramelised white chocolate ganache is smooth, like a cool breeze on a hot day, and it bursts with the zesty, juicy flavours of fresh pineapple, passionfruit, mango, lemon, and coconut. It’s like a tropical vacation for your taste buds—sweet, tangy, and totally irresistible. No passport required.
Canada vs. Chocolate: Who Wins?
Let’s be real—living in Canada means winter often involves shuffling between coffee shops just to stay warm. But there’s something next-level about grabbing a hot chocolate from The Chocolate Lab when it’s -10°C outside. It’s like wrapping yourself in a chocolate blanket, and suddenly the blizzard outside feels like a cute aesthetic instead of an actual threat to your survival. I ordered their dark hot chocolate, and I swear, for a second, I didn’t miss Australian summers (okay, maybe just a little).
What I Loved Most: Edible Art with No Guilt (Okay, Some Guilt)
The thing about The Chocolate Lab artisan chocolates experience is that it’s not just about eating chocolate; it’s about admiring the craftsmanship. These chocolates are art. Bonbons look like they belong in an exhibit at the Vancouver Art Gallery—except you can pop them in your mouth. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like a posh art critic while sneakily devouring truffles?
And while I’m not saying I totally blew my budget on artisan chocolates that week, let’s just say I may have chosen to eat toast for a couple of dinners after. No regrets.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try for Chocoholics Everywhere
If you’re ever in Calgary, or just fancy a luxury chocolate experience, The Chocolate Lab artisan chocolates experience is one you cannot miss. Whether you’re a fellow Filipino who grew up on the sweeter side of life, or you just need to indulge in a little chocolate escapism during those Canadian winters, this place has got you covered.
So, take my advice: Go for the chocolates, stay for the art, and definitely don’t plan on having “just one.”