Chocolate Day at Eve's - 15th May 2009

The afternoon saw a bright lovely sunshine - gone were the rain and clouds. I bet I was not the only one whose mood was lifted - especially when entering Eve's Chocolate Shop in Magazine Road. A nice bunch turned up and we started with a short overview of Eve's start in the chocolate business. She was trained in the traditional way of chocolatiers in Switzerland before bringing her talent to Cork. She explained the history of chocolate and how it is grown and harvested. It was very interesting to learn about the different chocolates, the methods of roasting and flavouring it and how it is changed into the chocolate we all know and love.

Just a small fact - Ireland is the 3rd biggest consumer of chocolate with 9 kilo per head (yeah, I can say I always achieve the quota).

Eve was able to answer all questions - and there were quite a few, so basically chocolate is good for you (never had any doubt anyway).

Eve lead us then into her workshop where all the magic happens (we all looked very stylish in our coats and hats). She explained all about tempering the chocolate and why this is so important. And then the best part of the evening - we were allowed to mould our own chocolates - owls, beetles, turtles, hearts etc etc, the choice of moulds was almost never ending.

And last but not least we all got a goodybag with samples of chocolates - and of course, nobody needed any excuse to leave the shop with some more chocolate from the shop.

Eve is a very charming and generous lady who shared with us her knowledge and expertise. Thank you very much.