There is a dangerous stretch between Valentine’s Day and the winter holidays where Americans may not be eating enough chocolate. Fortunately, the San Francisco International Chocolate Salon is arriving this March, just in time to palliate the sweet-starved populace with a Wonka-factory’s worth of bars and bon bons.
For its 20th annual event, the salon has gathered dozens of “exceptional culinary artisans” who will hold various chocolate-themed activities inside Golden Gate Park. There is Formosa Chocolates and Godavari Chocolate, Sonoma Chocolatiers and Blue Canary Sweets, Brigadeiro Sprinkles and Hapa Chocolat, the Toffee Merchant and so many more. Many of these merchants will be offering tasting samples for anybody attending the salon, which also has a tea ceremony and (for adults) often a wine-and-spirits component, as well.
This being a big anniversary, participants can expect special giveaways and celebratory festivities throughout the day. There will be a food-themed costume contest and a baking-showpiece challenge. And don’t forget expert-panel talks on subjects like Asian-influenced chocolate and the rise of Indian chocolatiers. Persuade yourself that it’s a sweet feast not just for the palate, but for the brain, as well.
Details: Event takes place 11 a.m.-5 p.m. March 28 at the San Francisco County Fair Building, 1199 9th Ave., San Francisco; general admission $30 (children under 6 are free for first two, then $12.50 for each additional child; children ages 6-12 are $12.50), sfchocolatesalon.com