Poetic Hot Chocolate

While strolling in North Beach, I stopped at my favorite North Beach hot chocolate spot - Caffe Roma. A beautiful coffee grinder adorns the front window, I have been told this is the sign of a good coffee shop. They are know for their coffee, but I only know about the hot chocolate. I sipped my favorite North Beach hot chocolate from the tall glass mug and felt inspired to write the great Italian novel. Buttercup played on the sound system. The atmosphere is relaxed, with free wi-fi. The perfect place to hang-out and dream. For all you budding poets, Friday night is now open mic night.

Truffle Love

North Beach is known for the delectable Italian restaurants and bakeries. In true San Francisco fashion, tucked in the heart of Italian North Beach is a chocolate shop with a French attitude. XOX Truffles was voted one of the Top 10 Artisan Chocolatiers in the country. The tiny shop is located at the south end of Columbus Ave, just past Washington Square. The bite size truffles are made on site. I had a truffle of my favorite chocolate/caramel combination. It was creamy and light, incredible combination. I also tried the hazelnut and strawberry - yummy. XOX Truffles is a must stop when in North Beach.

Belgian Chocolates at the Creek

A trip to Walnut Creek usually conjures up visions of strip malls and national retailers. I must confess, I enjoy the occasional trip to the 'burbs. I stroll along the quaint streets of downtown Walnut Creek, ducking into Urban Outfitters and Pottery Barn. I browse through Barnes and Noble and make a stop at Starbucks. I recently stumbled upon a chocolate treat in Cafe Leonidas. A tiny shop nestled on North Main with fresh chocolates imported WEEKLY from Brussels. I tried a dark chocolate truffle. The menu also includes coffee, brownies and what they claim is the best hot chocolate in the East Bay. Next time, I'll pass Starbucks by and head straight to Leonidas to experience the hot chocolate.