Sweet: Raleigh chocolate seller to start making its own goodies

In case the Krispy Kreme on Person Street was not enough of a sugar fix for you, you will soon be able to mosey just a few blocks away for locally-made chocolate, according to the News & Observer.

"The city is about to get its first chocolate factory, a confectionary workshop that will let visitors watch as raw cacao beans are transformed into gourmet bars and truffles.

"The Escazú artisanal chocolate factory, set to open on Blount Street this month, is the culmination of a business dream for Hallot Parson, a chef-turned-chocolatier. ..."

According to Escazú's website, the factory location is set to be 936 N. Blount Street.

"... About a half-dozen specialty stores in the area create their own products. But chocolate factories are another matter. Only about a dozen chocolate factories on a commercial scale are estimated to be operating in the country, according the National Confectioners Association in Washington.

"The concept fits in with Raleigh's downtown revitalization philosophy of promoting businesses that are local and unique, as a point of differentiation from shopping malls and national chains. ...

"Parson opened an Escazú chocolate store on Glenwood Avenue in 2007 and sells gourmet bars priced up to $6. The company is named after the Costa Rican town where Parson stayed on the trip that led to his chocolate awakening. Today Escazú chocolates can be found at dozens of locations, including Whole Foods, A Southern Season, Ornamentea and the Umstead Hotel.

"But at his retail site, Parson is limited to buying pre-made chocolate slabs, which he melts down to create his signature confections. At his chocolate factory, he will make chocolate from scratch to his specifications, starting with raw beans imported from Costa Rica and Venezuela.

"When Parson opens his chocolate factory on Blount Street near Peace College, he'll close the Glenwood Avenue shop less than a mile away. The factory is still a work-in-progress, with unhinged doors leaning on unpainted walls and equipment lying in disarray in the unfinished front section. ..."

I have to say it: Sweet.