Bittersweet Cafe: Rockridge

Chocolate Club Meeting This Thursday the 22nd!

2010-04-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

It is that time again. The moment you all have been waiting for....Chocolate Club Meeting! This Thursday, April 22nd, we will be meeting to discuss all things chocolate, not to mention a few tastes and pure enjoyment.

Please join us for the fun from 8:00-9:30 PM. Seneca Klassen, reknown chocolatier, will be again running the event. It is $5 for all non-member attendees, so please sign up early as spaces are limited. You will also, be able to become a member of the club at the meeting if you wish.

See you this Thursday!

Lower Your Belly Fat By Eating Chocolate?

2010-04-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

This just in....

BellyFatAnswers.com reports:

According to Prevention Magazine and Web M.D. there are 5 food groups that fall into the category, “Flat Belly Foods” that will help you lose belly fat.

One serving of these foods, each packed with monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA's), at each meal will help reduce excess weight in your mid-section and protect you from various diseases.

Nuts and seeds, olives, avocado, dark chocolate, and healthy oils (olive oil, safflower oil, and sunflower oil to name a few) are all included on their belly fat busting list. Make an effort to include these foods in your daily diet plan.

Now if you just pick up a bag of our Almond Bark, made with 61% Dark Chocolate and Almonds, you are set to bust the fat.

The list as to why I need to keep chocolate in my diet just keeps growing longer. Oh darn, I will just have to force myself to continue with my chocolate habit.

I have a regular customer of the Danville Bittersweet to thank for turning me on to this.

Have a great weekend!

There's More...Coffee Facts!

2010-04-08T14:06:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few of the facts on the CocoaJava.com website. Enjoy! I found them pretty informative.

"Cowboy coffee"? It was said they made their coffee by putting ground coffee into a clean sock and immerse it in cold water and heated over campfire. When ready, they would pour the coffee into tin cups and drink it.

Caffeine is on the International Olympic Committee list of prohibited substances. Athletes who test positive for more than 12 micrograms of caffeine per milliliter of urine may be banned from the Olympic Games. This level may be reached after drinking about 5 cups of coffee. Ouch! Any coffee athletics out there?

The word "coffee" was at one time a term for wine, but was later used to describe a black drink made from berries of the coffee tree. This black drink replaced wine in many religious ceremonies because it kept the Mohammedans awake and alert during their nightly prayers, so they honored it with the name they had originally given to wine.

Turkish bridegrooms were once required to make a promise during their wedding ceremonies to always provide their new wives with coffee. If they failed to do so, it was grounds for divorce! (Ouch!)

Espresso has 1/3 of the caffeine of a regular cup of coffee.

During the American Civil War the Union soldiers were issued eight pounds of ground roasted coffee as part of their personal ration of one hundred pounds of food. And they had another choice: ten pounds of green coffee beans.

Cafe Procope was the first true Paris coffeehouse. It was opened in 1689 by a former lemonade vendor, Francois Procope. The cafe faces the Theatre Francais, where it drew the artists and actors of the day.

Ugandans mix green beans with sweet grasses and various spices, dry them, and then wrap these in grass packets, which were then hung in their homes. It serves as talisman and as decoration.

Coffee most exacting rite of passage is known as "cupping" or cuptasting. It is the act of assessing the qualities of a particular batch of beans by freshly roasting, brewing, and tasting it. It is the work for serious and talented professionals.

There is a difference between the strength and body of the coffee? The strength of the coffee refers to how much coffee is there in the brew, whereas the body is a measure of the richness (or heaviness) of the coffee taste.

In the old days in Constantinople, the first coffeehouses were called qahveh khaneh (schools of wisdom) because they were the meeting places of men of arts and literature.

The requirements for making of good espresso is summarized by the 4 "M"s: Macinazione (the correct griinding of coffee blend), Miscela (coffee blend), Macchina (the espresso machine) and of course, Mano (barista).

Beethoven who was a coffee lover, was so particular about his coffee that he always counted 60 beans each cup when he prepared his brew.

When coffee supplies became scarce during the American Civil War, soldiers desperate for a cup of coffee used roasted sweet potato and Indian corn as a substitute!

Have a great weekend!

Easter Is Upon Us!

2010-04-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

Easter is this Sunday, April 4th! Wow, time flies. We still have some great and very cute items in the store, but time is running out. Stop in today to pick up your favorite treat before they are all gone. We still have Solid Chocolate Bunnies in all sizes and in both milk and dark, little gift collections and various Chocolate Pops and Eggs. I picked up the cutest little Bunny Ears for place settings at the Sunday Easter dinner table.

Items are disappearing, so please don't delay. Your little chicks and honey bunnies deserve the best chocolate in their baskets.

Happy Easter and Happy Passover to all!

Dogs vs. Chocolate

2010-03-30T08:31:00.001-07:00

When we were kids, we loved to slip Fido our broccoli under the table. Do not worry, I won't tell your parents. ( But something tells me they already know.) But BE CAREFUL!!! Giving your dog human food is not always a bad thing but letting them get into chocolate can be very dangerous and even deadly.

Chocolate contains Theobromine, a stimulant that occurs naturally in cocoa beans. It affects the central nervous system and heart as well as increased urination. They cannot metabolize chocolate. Although it depends on the type of chocolate, the size of your dog, and the amount ingested; it is good to know the signs and symptoms that your pup has been digging into the chocolate drawer.

Dogs get upset tummies too. But there may be more indications.
*Unusual nervousness or trembling
*Vomiting and/ or diarrhea
*Excessive thirst
*Muscle spasms
*Seizures
*Coma

Do not give your dog even the smallest piece of chocolate. Like humans, it only leaves us wanting more. Keep all chocolate out of your pets way. We all love our pets, and we want to continue to love them.

More Coffee Facts

2010-03-29T14:54:00.001-07:00

I have been having fun scouring the internet to bring some fun and insightful information to you. Here is another site with some fun facts about coffee, whose trading at one time ruled commerce.

* When shopping for perfume, take some coffee with you in your bag and have a good sniff in between smelling each perfume to refresh your nose!

* Sprinkle spent coffee grounds around the base of your garden plants and it will stop snails and slugs from munching them!

* A mixture of coffee grounds and sugar, fed to a pot plant and watered regularly, will revive houseplants that have turned yellow in winter.

* Some of the worlds most powerful business, including Lloyds of London and the New York Stock Exchange, started life as a coffee houses.

* The aromas in coffee develop at the 10th minute of roasting.

* Coffee increases in volume during roasting by 18.60%.

Coffee is...

The second most widely used product in the world after oil.
It was worth 6 million tonnes per year in the mid 90's.
It is worth €30 billion per year to the producing countries.
It is a living to more than 100 million people.
It is consumed at the rate of 1400 million cups per day.
The world's second most popular drink after water.

Check the justaboutcoffee.com site for more fun facts.

Have a great week!

More Fun Facts For You

2010-03-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

Try and say that 5 times fast....I'm waiting... No really....

Well, Easter facts were fun, so here are some really fun coffee facts. Stop by the oatmeal website. They have some great cartoons and facts. You can enjoy yourself while learning something new.

Now wasn't that fun? Go to the oatmeal website for more...

Have a great day!

Fun Easter Facts

2010-03-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here are some fun Easter/Passover Facts and Traditions that I found on a website. It is neat to find out why we do some of these things. Enjoy!

- Many pagan traditions have found their way into Christian religious observances. Rabbits are one such symbol. Rabbits symbolize the fertility of springtime. The rabbit is also the symbol of the Egyptian moon — and the moon is used to determine the date of Easter each year.

- The hare (rabbit) is a very important Easter symbol in Germany, almost as important as Santa Claus is in the United States for Christmas. The hare is responsible for laying eggs and hiding them. This probably evolved from children hunting for Easter eggs and scaring away rabbits which happened to be in the area. The hare and egg provide a link between the pagan faith's welcoming of spring and Christianity's Easter celebration.

- The custom of decorating eggs goes back many thousands of years. When you add a few strokes of icing to the surface of a chocolate Easter egg, you are carrying on an age-old tradition. Long before the Bible was written, the egg was a sacred object and it was ornamented as part of numerous religious and superstitious practices.

- The word "Easter" is derived from Eostre or Ostara - the Anglo-Saxon goddess of the dawn. The festival in her honor was celebrated on the first day of spring. It was she who changed a bird into a rabbit, and thus this four-footed little creature joined the egg as another Easter symbol. In our Easter baskets we always include delightfully decorated eggs and rabbits. At the beginning of the 19th century, the first sugar and pastry Easter bunnies became popular in southern Germany.

- In France, children carry eggs to their churches on Holy Saturday at their first confessions for the priests' blessings. Other children hunt for eggs in the church garden, for it is said the eggs had been dropped by the church bells that were silent from Maundy Thursday.

- Although there are no records of Easter eggs as a general custom in Western Europe before the 15th century, there is a tribe in Africa that colors eggs at Easter. They are Mohammedans now, but were once Christians hundreds of years ago. It is also recorded that in the year 1307 King Edward I of England had 450 boiled eggs dyed and covered with gold leaf.

- Like Easter, Passover is celebrated in the spring. The Seder, the traditional meal celebrated in Jewish homes on the first day of Passover, includes the eating of hard-boiled eggs as a symbol of the hope and joy that things are to grow again. It is likely that Jesus' Last Supper was a Passover meal.

- While candy and confections are not identified with the Jewish celebration of Passover the way they are with Easter, many Seders are ended with the eating of chocolate products that are "Kosher la pesach" — Kosher for Passover. No corn syrup or lecithin can be used in the preparation of this chocolate that can be either dark or light — Kosher dairy. Passover confections include chocolate bars with nuts, raisins and dried fruit. Recently, Matzo bread (an unleavened flatbread), dipped or half-dipped in chocolate, has become a popular product.

- Every time you purchase, make or consume chocolate eggs and rabbits, or give Easter baskets or Passover chocolates, you are joining with your ancestors in helping to welcome the arrival of spring — and the joyous Christian and Jewish festivals of hope, rebirth and deliverance. Be proud of your glorious traditions, which link you to an ancient and honorable past.

The Easter Bunny Has Arrived!

2010-03-18T18:19:00.001-07:00

It is that time of year again and on April 4th, the Easter Bunny officially does his duty, but until then, swing by Bittersweet to get all those little gifts that you need.

Looking for a cute little something to give to a coworker or friend? We got it! That special little gift that shows you care? We got it! Or the tasty treat for a loved one? We got it!

Spring has definitely sprung. The beautiful weather is the perfect time to get your garden back into shape. Bittersweet has the gifts for the gardening gurus in your life.

We even have a fun Bunny Hunt Game with chocolate rewards. This one is fun for the whole family to play together. And for the little baker in the bunch, a cute bunny or chick filled with cookie cutters and chocolate.

You may not see any chocolate bunnies in this post but we have them aplenty in the store, milk and dark. Every size and shape you are looking for, including the cute little placesetting ones that are so popular.

And in this time of sun and warmth don't forget to drop by for a fabulous milkshake or sundae. The perfect way to cap of a lovely day in the park.

See ya soon!

How much caffeine is in chocolate?

2010-03-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

I recently came across a posting by the California Academy of Sciences, in conjunction with the Chocolate Exhibition, about some interesting chocolate health facts. Here are a few excerpts. Feel free to follow the link to get all the information.

"Does chocolate cause cavities? Not necessarily. According to a recent study, cacao contains antibacterial agents that actually fight tooth decay. However, most mass-produced chocolate contains sugar, which probably counteracts the benefits of these agents."

"Will the caffeine in chocolate make me jittery? Probably not. Cacao does contain a number of stimulants, such as caffeine and theobromine, but in small amounts that are diluted even further when processed into chocolate. In fact, one ounce of milk chocolate contains about the same amount of caffeine as one cup of decaffeinated coffee. Interestingly, one study has shown that the smell of chocolate may actually relax you by increasing theta waves in the brain."

"Will I live longer if I eat chocolate? Perhaps. A Harvard University study found that men who ate chocolate lived one year longer than those who didn’t. Scientist think that chocolate contains chemicals that help keep blood vessels elastic and increase beneficial antioxidants in the bloodstream, but research is underway and no conclusive results have been found. "

Enjoy!

Follow Our Coffee Blog

2010-03-08T11:15:00.001-08:00

We are proud to announce Bittersweet's new Coffee Blog! Ian Riley our roaster extraordinaire is blogging about his exploits and discoveries in the world of coffee roasting.

If you would like to learn more about how it is done, check it out and follow along.

Chocolate May Make Some Strokes Less Likely

2010-03-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

Yet again another health benefit to eating dark chocolate.

In news, reported by HealthDay, that's sure to delight chocolate lovers, a Harvard study finds that a couple of squares of dark chocolate a day might reduce the risk of a hemorrhagic stroke, by 52 percent.

"There are several possible mechanisms, but the effect of rich cocoa on cardiovascular health seems to be through its effect on blood pressure, and the capacity to improve the flexibility of the blood vessels," said study author Dr. Martin Lajous, a doctoral candidate at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.

"In the context of an appropriate intake, eating small amounts of cocoa could be beneficial," Lajous said. "There are several possible mechanisms, but the effect of rich cocoa on cardiovascular health seems to be through its effect on blood pressure, and the capacity to improve the flexibility of the blood vessels."

Wow! Good for your brain and for your heart. Why wouldn't you eat dark chocolate daily?

Breathable Chocolate?

2010-03-02T10:01:00.000-08:00

Who would have thought they would come up with this one? NPR reported yesterday on a new product available online. It is called Le Whif and it has gotten some favorable reviews. It definitely is new and interesting. It is chocolate in the molecular form and placed in a tube. Open the tube and inhale, you get all the smell and flavor of chocolate without eating it. There are 8-10 "whiffs" per tube.

But does it really satisfy?

Check it out and decide for yourself. I still prefer the edible kind.

Test your knowledge!

2010-02-27T13:29:00.000-08:00

Question 1: What kind of chocolate is also called "brut" chocolate?
A: Semisweet
B: White
C: Bitter
D: Milk
Question 2: About how many beans does an average cocoa pod contain?
A: 1
B: 10-20
C: 30-40
D: Over 50
Question 3: What is the minimum amount of cocoa that chocolate must contain to be considered "dark"?
A: 22%
B: 43%
C: 62%
D: 85%
Question 4: What does "theobroma," the botanical term for "cocoa," mean in Greek?
A: Food of the gods
B: Foreign tree
C: Acidic bean
D: Brown fruit
Question 5: Besides cocoa and water, what did xocoatl -- the original drink brewed from cocoa beans -- contain?
A: Alcohol
B: Salt
C: Animal fat
D: Corn
Question 6: What continent produces the most chocolate?
A: Africa
B: Asia
C: North America
D: South America
Question 7: Which country consumes the most chocolate per person per year?
A: Belgium
B: Switzerland
C: United States
D: France
Question 8: In what film was chocolate syrup used for blood?
A: "Citizen Kane"
B: "The Day the Earth Stood Still"
C: "The Maltese Falcon"
D: "Psycho"
Question 9: In 1659, where did chocolate first become available to the masses?
A: London
B: Vienna
C: Paris
D: Salzburg
Question 10: When was the first Hershey bar made?
A: 1900
B: 1905
C: 1926
D: 1929

1.C 2.C 3.B 4.A 5.D 6.A 7.B 8.D 9.A 10.A

Blood for Chocolate?

2010-02-18T09:40:00.000-08:00

Bittersweet Cafe is proud to be teaming up with the American Red Cross on March 25th at our Danville location. You can click on the link to set up an appointment time to donate.

Blood is such a valuable commodity these days and needed by so many. Please stop by and take the time to give the gift of life.

Shopping For Quality Chocolate in the East Bay

2010-02-17T15:09:00.000-08:00

The Monthly, East Bay's Premier Magazine of Culture and Commerce, has posted a wonderful and informative article about finding great chocolate not far from home. Of course we are proud to be mentioned among some other local favorites.

Valentine's Day may be over, but the love of chocolate continues. This is the perfect Chocophile's "Cacao Crawl". Take a day and discover what amazing chocolate is near you. The article lists some of my favorites and, who knows, maybe you can show your someone special where to shop for you next year.

Chocolate and Salted Caramel - A Match Made in Heaven.

2010-02-16T09:53:00.001-08:00

Pizza and beer.
French fries and ranch dressing.
Beans and rice.

All great flavor mixes, but I can't think of a better combination of two flavors than chocolate and salted caramel; and now we have a drink that brings the best of both together!

Our hand-made caramel uses all natural ingredients with an ever-so-slight touch of fleur de sel to compliment its sugary sweetness. Combine that with our already awesome chocolate and what you get is divine goodness in a cup.

(It's even MORE awesome on ice...)

The caramel is not limited to this drink though! Now you can have our artisan caramel in ANY of our drinks for an additional $1.00! Stop by today!

Posted by Jay, Manager at our Danville store

Valentine's Goodies Are Here!

2010-02-01T15:15:00.000-08:00

Now in the stores are those unique chocolate gifts that can only be found at Bittersweet Cafe. It is that time of year again. Really, the day that is for gifting chocolate, Valentine's Day, the day to celebrate love.

We have some very cute gifts for everyone you know and those little unique collections for your special Valentine. As you can see, there are beautiful Chocolate Hearts, and fun Conversation Pops, then we have amazing Truffles to choose from and more.

Come in and find that perfect gift for everyone on your list, from grandchild to life partner. We select only those chocolates that we ourselves would be proud to give, quality chocolate that will satisfy the most discerning palates.

We look forward to seeing you in Bittersweet and helping you find your perfect gift.

Chocolate & Beer!!!

2010-02-01T14:59:00.000-08:00

Come join us on February 6th for a classic but underexplored combination! Tickets and more information here...

Chocolate Club Mention

2010-02-01T13:57:00.000-08:00

Diablo Magazine came by for a little talk and gave a nice mention in their recent issue. It is about our fabulous Chocolate Club (meeting coming up this week!). This is an event that is so much fun and a great way to get together with friends to have a good time while eating and learning about chocolate. What could be better?

We are meeting this Thursday at the Rockridge store from 8:00-9:30 PM. Be sure to sign up early as space is limited for each meeting. We look forward to seeing you here!

Did you know?

2010-01-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

The word "Chocolate" comes from the Aztec word "xocolatl", meaning "bitter water."

Some of the earliest European cocoa-makers were apothecaries seeking medicinal uses of the plant.

Each pod is about the size of a pineapple and holds thirty to fifty seeds - enough to make about seven milk chocolate or two dark chocolate bars.

The seeds of the cacao tree grow not on the end of its branches, but directly off the branches and the trunk.

3.5 - million pounds - the amount of whole milk used every day to make chocolate by U.S. chocolate manufacturers

3.3 - billion lbs. - The amount of chocolate eaten in the U.S. in the year 2000!

51% - the percentage of Americans who choose what chocolate they eat by the shape of the piece

40% - the percentage of women who regularly crave chocolate

15% - the percentage of men who regularly crave chocolate

5, 026 - pounds - the weight of the largest chocolate bar ever made, According to the Guiness World Book of Records. It was produced by Elah-Dufour United Food Companies at Turin, Italy, in March 2000.

Because Life is Bittersweet!

2010-01-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

Thursday, January 21st marks our 5th Anniversary! Please come in and join us as we celebrate this wonderful occasion. We will be sampling all day as well as special events from 5-9.

We will be offering:
Chair massages
2 Classics for $5.55
And many other great surprises.

Can't wait to see you there!

Puerto Plata Bars for Haiti!

2010-01-15T15:37:00.001-08:00

We here at Bittersweet want to do our part to help the people of Haiti. Our own Bittersweet Origins Puerto Plata Bar comes from the Dominican Republic and that is why, starting tomorrow and for the next week, we are donating all of the profits from the sales of that bar, both 65% & 75%, to the International Rescue Committee's Haiti Fund.

The International Rescue Committee has deployed its Emergency Response Team to Haiti to deliver help to the devastated city of Port-au-Prince. Their team includes experts in emergency health, shelter, and children’s welfare. They will be working with local aid groups to provide vital help to survivors of the massive earthquake that struck Haiti January 12. Meanwhile, the IRC has committed to raising $5 million for reconstruction work in Haiti over the next year.

Please help us help others in their greatest time of need.

Patric Chocolate Event at Fillmore Store!

2010-01-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

Hello Chocolate Lovers!

We are excited to announce an upcoming event with Alan McClure, chocolate maker and owner of Patric Chocolate. Alan will be visiting with us at Bittersweet in San Francisco, and we'd like to invite you along to chat about his bars, unique sourcing, processes and the profusion of interest in fine chocolate!

Bittersweet San Francisco
2123 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
Monday, 1/18
7:30 pm

Space for this event will be quite limited, so if you'd like to attend, email us at info@bittersweetcafe.com as soon as you can. Hope to see you there!

Alter Eco and the El Ceibo Cooperative

2010-01-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

We are carrying a delicious new deep milk chocolate that tastes good and is good for farmers in developing nations. The bar, called Dark Chocolate Velvet, is a 46% milk chocolate made from organic fair trade cane sugar from Paraguay and organic fair trade cocoa from Bolivia. It is the result of a collaboration of Alter Eco in France and the El Ceibo Cooperative in Bolivia. As one of my new favorite chocolate bars here at Bittersweet, I am glad to read about the sustainable practices that go into making this chocolate. That and the bar is our only one from Switzerland and its velvety texture is truly a testament to the centuries of chocolate craft tradition in the region.

Alter Eco is a fair trade organization based in France. It started in 1998 and quickly built up its name in the Fair Trade Movement thanks to its unique marketing and extensive product range. Considered to be one of the strongest Fair Trade brands on the market, Alter Eco offers over 100 products that are sourced from 42 cooperatives in 37 countries. The organization took the Fair Trade Movement forward in 2006 when it approached Brazilian retailers to sell Brazilian products under Fair Trade terms, hereby creating the first South-South Fair Trade arrangement. All Alter Eco products are Fair Trade Certified by TransFair USA.

The El Ceibo Cooperative formed out of the ashes of the Brazilian government's cocoa coop, which went bankrupt in the 60s. After its bankruptcy, farmers were forced to sell to local middlemen because of the difficulty of transportation to La Paz coupled with their lack of knowledge of market prices. In the early 70s, farmers in the Alto Beni region in northeast Bolivia formed small cocoa coops, and in 1977, 37 of these small coops united to form the stronger El Ceibo Cooperative. In 1988 El Ceibo became the first certified organic cocoa cooperative in the world. Since then, the coop has reinvested its profits into its community: they provide allowance for school fees to their members, give out yearly bonuses to members over 65, reinvest in trucks and improvements in their processing facilities, operate a technical assistance program in agroecology and forestry, research alternative cultivation methods, and provide all members with health and accident insurance. Today, El Ceibo is responsible for 70% of the organic cocoa production in Bolivia.

Staff pick of the week!

2010-01-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

Jake, one of our wonderful baristas has chosen his favorite chocolate bar. He picked the 65% Puerto Plata of Bittersweet Origins. This bar is made by our very own Seneca Klassen. It is from the Dominican Republic but roasted and created all in-house. Earthy tones bring out the subtle flavors of dried berries, sour cherries, and wlanuts. Come on in and ask for a sample!

Time To Get Healthy In The New Year!

2010-01-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

It's that time again. Time for resolutions and changes to keep healthy and stay on track. This recent article by RealAge.com spouts, yet again, the health benefits of chocolate and why we should be making it a part of our regular diets.

Apparently there are 3 new reasons to keep eating dark chocolate.

Chocolate makes you smarter. Ample research suggests that the flavonols in dark chocolate increase cerebral blood flow, which in turn may trigger the creation of new blood vessels and brain cells. And a new study showed that older adults performed better on cognitive tests after eating small portions of the sweet stuff. Talk about a nourished noggin! (Here's why opting for semisweet or unsweetened chocolate may be even better for your brain.)
Chocolate weakens heart attacks. Although more research is needed to confirm this one, a new study showed that regular chocolate eaters who had heart disease were less likely to die following a heart attack compared with the people who didn't treat themselves to the dark and dreamy stuff. (Here's more on chocolate's heart-smart qualities.)
Chocolate has a cavity-fighting compound. Okay, so you don't necessarily want to trade in your toothbrush for a chocolate bar. But some interesting new research shows a compound in chocolate -- theobromine -- may be just as good as fluoride at hardening tooth enamel. So the compound could find its way into toothpastes and mouthwashes one day. Until then, keep in mind that most commercially prepared chocolate has lots of sugar in it. Get healthier teeth and gums with these three easy dental tricks.

Most of us knew it was good for your heart, but fighting cavities and making us smarter? There is no reason not to eat dark chocolate, in moderation. That is the key. Anything you eat can be overdone and it is easy to do with the delectable taste of chocolate, but keeping it to a daily moderate level will still give you all the health benefits you need.

Happy and Healthy New Year!

Happy New Years!

2009-12-29T09:52:00.000-08:00

Bittersweet will be closing at 4 P.M. on Thursday December 31st and we will re-open on Saturday January 2nd at 9 A.M. Have a wonderful night and be safe!

Our New Look!

2009-12-16T10:58:00.000-08:00

Our Bittersweet Origins Bars have a swanky new look! No need to look for the inconspicuous brown paper wrapper anymore. We are colorful now and each bar has artwork from the stores as well as artwork from the region the cacao comes from.

Come in and check out the beautiful new wrapping and if you haven't tried the bars that we make in house, this will give you the chance. And while you're here you can pick up a few for your friends. They make a great gift, especially since they are totally organic and vegan.

Looking For That Gift To Send?

2009-12-11T15:01:00.001-08:00

Are you looking for that perfect gift to send to a client or maybe your best friend? We have a wonderful selection that is not in our stores, but available to you to order. Just pop on over to our Bittersweet Corporate Gifts file and all the information you need to pick the perfect gift is available to you. From wine and chocolate to your favorite Bittersweet Drink Mix or Bittersweet Origins Coffee. It is here ready to send.

These are gift selections that you can't get anywhere else and have all of the quality you have come to expect from Bittersweet Cafe.

Holiday Shopping Night Tonight from 5-9!

2009-12-10T07:53:00.001-08:00

Don't miss it! We have some great deals and treats for you to enjoy!

Stop by and stock up!

We have all your holiday chocolate needs.

Nice Mention!

2009-12-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

It's nice to find out that people actually do read our A-Frame sign on the sidewalk. We got a mention in and inspired the latest post by the Saturday Poetry Series. Bittersweet has several wonderful Baristas that know their poetry and like to share. Stop in and talk to Melanie who made the drawing and Pablo Neruda reference on our sign. She has a great love of Poetry and all art.

Holiday Shopping Night This Thursday!

2009-12-08T07:24:00.001-08:00

I wanted to remind all of you to make your list and bring it in this Thursday, December 10th for our annual Holiday Shopping Night, from 5-9 PM. We will have treats and goodies for you to sample and will have 20% off all purchases. We are excited to be a part of your holiday and share our fine products with you.

Thank you for helping to make Bittersweet the place to go for chocolate and coffee!

Holiday Goodies!

2009-12-03T08:20:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again. Where did the time go? We are coming up on our 5th Anniversary next month! Wow!

Bittersweet has some great treats and stocking stuffers in the stores perfect for all your gift giving needs.

These are just a few of the fabulous items that we have. The ever popular Crispy Pop, Marshmallow Fellow, Placesetting Tree and Snowman, and the tastiest (and cutest) ornaments ever done in chocolate!

Also, for that one of a kind gift please ask our friendly Baristas to help you put together a gift box or bag.

This is the time of year for Hot Chocolate as well and we
have ours ready to go home with you. A gift of Hot Chocolate or Bittersweet Origins Coffee will keep your loved ones warm this winter.

Everyone loves to receive chocolate. This is your opportunity to please even the most distinctive Chocophile this holiday season.

Happy holiday and we will see you soon!

Holiday Shopping Night Thursday, Dec. 10

2009-12-01T12:47:00.000-08:00

Here it is! The night you all have been waiting for! It's Holiday Shopping Night! Come by on Thursday, December 10th, from 5:00-9:00 PM for 20% off your purchases and some treats and sweets for your enjoyment. This is the night to get all of your shopping done! We have the cutest stocking stuffers, amazing coffee, and the best gifts for friends and family. There is something for everyone on your list.

We look forward to seeing you here!

This Thursday - Postcards From Paris!

2009-12-01T09:31:00.000-08:00

"Paris Postcards" is a new book written by Leonard Pitt.

He will be joining us this Thursday, December 3rd, from 7-9PM, to discuss his new book and show some of the postcards, as well as, discuss his favorite chocolate, Pralus.

“The book has almost 200 stunning postcards, many hand tinted, from the early 1900s. The history of the early postcard is full of drama. Deplored by many, it became a world-wide craze that revolutionized communication just like email today and with many of the same problems. The photos in the book show a Paris that no longer exists. The messages written by Americans to loved ones back home evoke the American experience of Paris at the turn of the century.”
-Leonard Pitt

Come and join us for some fabulous chocolate and a "guaranteed good time."

Closed Thanksgiving Day

2009-11-24T11:08:00.001-08:00

So that our family can be with their families Bittersweet will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. We will reopen at our normal time on Friday.

Please have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

Our Own Micro Batches Now In All The Stores

2009-11-19T09:27:00.001-08:00

Bittersweet Café Introduces Its Own Micro-Batched Bittersweet Origins Coffee

New Hand-Crafted, Locally Roasted Coffees Join the Bean-to-Bar Micro-Batched Bittersweet Origins Chocolate Bars

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwire - November 17, 2009) - Bittersweet Café, the Bay Area's bean-to-bar Bittersweet Origins chocolate maker and chocolate cafés, announced today the introduction of its own Bittersweet Origins micro-batched coffees. The coffees -- espresso, drip blend, single bean and decaf -- are locally roasted by Bittersweet's own coffee expert in micro-batches and use beans from Kenya, Brazil, Ethiopia, Guatemala and Sumatra.

The Bittersweet Origins coffees join the company's own Bittersweet Origins micro-batched, hand-crafted chocolate bars. The coffees and the chocolate bars are for sale at the three Bittersweet Cafés in Danville, Oakland and San Francisco as well as online.

"Our coffees follow the same hands-on approach we use for our Bittersweet Origins chocolate bars," explains Penny Finnie, co-owner of Bittersweet Café. "This is another amazing varietal product and we are taking the same interest in the farms and cooperatives where the coffee beans are grown as we do with our cacao sourcing."

The Bittersweet Origins coffee is light roast. Light roast coffee, though it tastes less strong than some darker roasts, actually contains a stronger caffeine "dose."

The micro-batched Bittersweet Origins coffees include:

--  "Long Day's Journey" Espresso -- named in honor of Danville's own
Eugene O'Neil's play.   The Espresso is a blend of Kenyan and Brazilian
beans now which will change depending on the season.
--  "Faultline" drip coffee -- this will always be a blend; today it is a
mixture of Sumatra, Ethiopia and Guatemala.
--  Single bean drip -- this coffee will change seasonally. Right now it
is Guatemala Finca Florencia.
--  Swiss water process Decaf coffee is also available from Bittersweet
Origins.

"Bittersweet has developed its bean-to-bar chocolates. Moving into roasting our own coffee beans is a logical next step," explained Finnie. "We are very motivated to take control of our products so we can provide our customers with an outstanding taste experience."

Seneca Klassen, Bittersweet Café's chocolate maker, makes the "bean-to-bar" chocolate in 50-pound micro-batches, making each bar unique. He uses cacao beans from the Dominican Republic, Bali and Madagascar for the Bittersweet Origins chocolates and roasts and prepares the beans in Bittersweet's Berkeley production facility. The coffee beans now join the cacao beans, roasting in the Berkeley facility, under the supervision of a Bay Area coffee roasting expert.

About Bittersweet Origins and Café

Bittersweet Origins is a manufacturing and retailing company which creates craft chocolate and coffee in handmade, micro-batches to engage the senses and the mind. Bittersweet Café retail stores' ambience and furnishings reflect the one-of-a-kind nature of its chocolate bars, chocolate drinks and coffees. The warm and welcoming spaces furnished with unique tables, benches, carts and artwork from local craftspeople and artists create a gathering place for the community to savor locally made chocolate delicacies, coffee and tea. The Bittersweet Cafés are located in San Francisco on Fillmore Street, College Avenue in Oakland and the Rose Garden Shopping Center in Danville. For more information, visit www.bittersweetcafe.com or call 510-705-1860.

Plaid Friday, November 27th.

2009-11-17T10:43:00.000-08:00

Wear plaid while you shop on November 27th to show you support for local and independent businesses.

About Plaid Friday

The name Plaid Friday celebrates the diversity and creativity of Bay Area independent businesses. Envisioned to be the independent business alternative to the big box store "Black Friday", Plaid Friday is designed to help raise awareness about shopping local and supporting the local economy.

Although the designation of this day is a new concept, the movement towards supporting the independent spirit and "Indie" Businesses of the Bay Area has been growing and expanding year by year. In early 2009, The East Bay Express launched a monthly guide to shopping local called the Indie Resolution, where patrons pledge to spend money at local establishments. Other local movements include Buy Local Berkeley, Oakland Grown and Oakland Unwrapped. Plaid Friday was created by two local independent businesses, Blankspace Gallery and the Compound Gallery, as a way to tie into this movement and elevate the awareness of the abundant and thriving independent businesses located in neighborhoods throughout the East Bay.

Help us celebrate by supporting participating shops on Friday, November 27th and throughout this Holiday season.

Wear plaid on November 27th to show your support while shopping at participating businesses. Look for the special plaid placards at your local shops. Many of the participating businesses are offering specials for Plaid Friday. Go to the participating businesses page to find out.

Postcards from Paris

2009-11-12T12:54:00.000-08:00

"Paris Postcards" is a new book written by Leonard Pitt.

He will be joining us Thursday, December 3rd, from 7-9PM, to discuss his new book and show some of the postcards, as well as, discuss his favorite chocolate, Pralus.

“The book has almost 200 stunning postcards, many hand tinted, from the early 1900s. The history of the early postcard is full of drama. Deplored by many, it became a world-wide craze that revolutionized communication just like email today and with many of the same problems. The photos in the book show a Paris that no longer exists. The messages written by Americans to loved ones back home evoke the American experience of Paris at the turn of the century.”
-Leonard Pitt

Come and join us for some fabulous chocolate and a "guaranteed good time."

Bittersweet Origins Espresso Now Being Served!

2009-11-10T09:44:00.001-08:00

It is finally here and we are so excited. After months of talk and hard work we have come up with a wonderful espresso blend that will know your socks off. It has some great citrus notes with a wonderful chocolate finish.

Bittersweet Cafe is now exclusively serving Bittersweet Origins Coffees and drinks.

Come in today and try it for yourself. It is amazingly good, especially in a Mocha.

Canned Food Drive In Full Swing

2009-11-05T13:06:00.000-08:00

Bittersweet: Rockridge is a drop off location for the Alameda County Foodbank Holiday Canned Food Drive.

When you bring in a donation you will receive 10% off your drink purchase.

Please bring in your canned food to help those less fortunate get back on their feet and to have a full table during the holidays.

We are in the news again, and what a nice article!

2009-11-05T09:14:00.001-08:00

This article came out a few days ago in the Oakland Tribune. The picture of Seneca is quite nice. It is a really good article explaining about fine chocolate and what we, Bittersweet, do.

Opening Later Tuesday the 10th.

2009-11-03T10:23:00.000-08:00

Bittersweet will be opening at 9:15 AM on Tuesday, November 10th, instead of our usual time, due to staff training. We are excited to be rolling out our very own Bittersweet Origins Espresso and want to make sure that every cup is served perfectly. Our knowledgeable staff will be training to serve you better.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to bring you the quality you expect from Bittersweet Cafe.

Closing Early!

2009-10-29T11:36:00.000-07:00

This is a reminder that we will be closing the store early tonight for the Chocolate Club Meeting at 8:00 PM. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Also we will be closing the store at 6:00 PM this Saturday for Halloween.

Have a great holiday!

Thank You!

2009-10-27T15:43:00.001-07:00

I would like to say "Thank You" to everyone who helped make the Lafayette School Mentoring Project Fundraiser last night a huge success. Every little bit helps and this will help them continue their good works.

Again "Thank You" for joining us!

Support Lafayette School Mentoring Project Today!

2009-10-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

Today is the day! Come in and mention the Lafayette School Mentoring Project and 20% of the proceeds go to them. We are open extra late today to accommodate your wishes to support such a great cause!

So, come in today anytime before 9:00 PM and you can help a great cause flourish for another year.

New Halloween Items In...

2009-10-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

and they are going fast. If you are looking for that special little gift for your little ghostie, stop in soon before they all disappear.

We have a nice selection of little gift bags filled with all kinds of treats. Perfect for a co-worker or friend who you wanted to find "a little something" for.

We will see you here and have your favorite drink waiting for you.

Another Rainy Day

2009-10-19T08:54:00.001-07:00

It is sprinkling yet again. What a perfect day to curl up with a good book and stay in bed all day. What would make it even better? Why a cup of amazing hot chocolate made with real chocolate, no syrups or flavorings added. Then on top of that add a housemade raspberry marshmallow to complete the picture.

Your chocolate is waiting for you at Bittersweet. It will brighten your cloudy day.

The Halloween Parade is Coming!

2009-10-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to come out this year to see all the little ghouls and goblins on parade in the Eighteenth Annual Rockridge Children's Halloween Parade. It is held on Halloween this year and runs from noon to 2:00. They are meeting at the Presbyterian Church, 5951 College Avenue, at 11:45 AM.

Be sure to swing by Bittersweet for your little treat.

See ya here!

Fundraiser For A Good Cause

2009-10-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars....Bittersweet Rockridge is doing a fundraiser for a wonderful non-profit, Lafayette School Mentoring Project, on Monday, October 26th. Just mention their name when you order and 20% of the proceeds will go to LSMP for the day.

We are very happy to support the community and those who are helping and supporting others.

The store will be open until 9:00PM on that day to accommodate those who wish to show for the cause. Please stop by, purchase a drink, and help Lafayette School Mentoring Project continue their good works.

Chocolate Club To Start This Month!

2009-10-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Clubs are forming now, are open to the public, will meet once per quarter, to teach the ‘art’ and nuance of chocolate tasting

Seneca Klassen, chocolatier for the Bay Area’s three renowned Bittersweet Cafes, will host once per quarter chocolate tastings through newly formed Chocolate Clubs. Each of the three Bay Area Bittersweet Cafes will have its own club.

The Rockridge Chocolate Club will kick off on October 29 from 8:00-9:30 PM, the Danville store’s first meeting will be November 19 and the San Francisco’s Club will enjoy its initial meeting on December 17.

Forming now, the Chocolate Clubs at each store will be limited to 18 regular members plus seven open spaces reserved for on-the-spot sign-ups for each meeting. Annual memberships cost $20 which includes four chocolate tasting meetings (one per quarter) and a ten percent off discount card for Bittersweet purchases. Individual meetings will cost $5. The first Chocolate Club meeting at each store will cost $5 so people may attend and see what’s in store before making a full year’s commitment.

"Focused chocolate tasting is a great experience and offers a new way to really appreciate the amazing palate you find in chocolate," explains Klassen. "Like any other fermented varietal food, chocolate is affected by factors ranging from genetics to soil, climate and microbiology. We look forward to exploring this territory with our in-store chocolate clubs."

“The initial club meetings will introduce members to the various aspects of chocolate tasting so people will have an opportunity to see what the concept is all about, and the chocolate club membership might be a great gift for your favorite chocoholic,” says Bittersweet co-founder, Penny Finnie.

Klassen will guide members through the chocolate tastings at each store. He is the creator of Bittersweet Origins chocolate and makes the “bean-to-bar” chocolate in 50-pound micro-batches, making each bar unique. He uses cacao beans from the Dominican Republic, Bali and Venezuela for his Bittersweet Origins chocolates and roasts and prepares the beans in Bittersweet’s Berkeley production facility. Klassen spent this summer in Oahu, planting a 15-acre 7000-tree cacao plantation.

Sign ups for each Chocolate Club are available at each Bittersweet location. The first meeting is $5 to reserve your seat. Space is limited, so please act early.

Cloudy skies have gone.....

2009-10-15T09:38:00.001-07:00

and the bats are once again flying in anticipation of Halloween. We are quickly selling out of our limited edition Halloween items, so if you are looking for that little something special you will want to drop in soon.

Also, we will be introducing our Single Origin drip coffee on Monday. It is a Guatemalan bean, Finca La Forencia. This is the primary bean of our Faultline blend and has a wonderful aroma. This is the perfect introduction to a Single Origin Coffee or if you are a well seasoned coffee aficionado, it is sure to please. Stop by and try a cup next week or take a bag to try at home.

Halloween Is Here!

2009-10-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Boo! Did I get you?

Treats and sweets for all your little ghosties, ghouls, and goblins have skipped into the store. If you are looking for the perfect chocolate treat we have things you won't find anywhere else. The ever popular Crispy Pop is back along with fall flavored chocolate caramels and gift bags filled with chocolate eyeballs. Bittersweet is the perfect stop for your Halloween Party gifts or satisfying munchie.

We even have a fun interactive Haunted Hunt Chocolate Game. Enjoyable for kids of all ages and filled with fun chocolate game pieces.

Stop in and check out the treats for yourself.

Wooooo, don't be scared. Our Ghouls are sweet!

Open Earlier!

2009-10-05T10:13:00.001-07:00

Bittersweet is now open one hour earlier during the week. Starting today we are open at 8:00 AM Monday-Friday.

Now you can get your coffee and chocolate even earlier.

See you at 8:00 AM.

Looking for something special to do this Friday?

2009-09-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

This Friday, October 2nd from 9:00-1:00, please take the time to visit our Danville store. It is another Free Massage Friday in Danville and we would like to treat everyone.

Leilani and Jessica from D'Jour Massage Thereapy will be there again to help improve your day. Their talent in massage is not equaled and I know I am looking forward to the opportunity to start my weekend off right.

Great Coffee, Amazing Chocolate, and a Relaxing Massage to boot! Stop by the Danville Bittersweet this Friday to take advantage of our hospitality.

See ya there!

Out & About Rockridge - This Weekend!

2009-09-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, September 27th, College Avenue will be closed to traffic while we celebrate Out & About Rockridge! Bittersweet will be open and ready to supply you with all your chocolate, coffee, and milkshake needs for the day. Enjoy the fashion show, food, and games along College Avenue and then swing by Bittersweet for a real treat.

Last Hot September Night - Tonight!

2009-09-23T16:16:00.001-07:00

It's the last one! Stop in tonight from 6-9 PM for 20% off drinks!

It just won't be the same without you!

Chocolate Club to start....

2009-09-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

Bittersweet Cafe is finally getting their own Chocolate Club. We will have our first meeting in October. More information will follow, but keep it in the notes on your calendar. There will only be a select number of memberships available, so keep an eye out for more news to come.....

TCHO is Here!

2009-09-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

It has been a long wait, but we finally have TCHO on our shelves!

TCHO is a local chocolate company out of San Francisco. They are free trade and doing some really great things. The following is a piece of their story:

"It’s a story of hunting down flavor itself. Sourcing beans after jolting rides by Sourcing Director John Kehoe up-country in Peru. Or personally selected by our co-founder in Ghana. Or from the plantation of a friend in Madagascar. Then cut tested, roast-tested, and melanged in hundreds more tests before a particular lot was even accepted. Then enumerable formulation trials begin, including sugar tests, to even get the earliest 0.1 Beta to put out a bar to tasters. Moving to factory production, large-scale bean batches are roasted to lab-determined profiles, then ground, refined, and conched as they are heated and cooled at specific intervals; and finally the chocolate is tempered to perfection. Behind it all: Chief Chocolate Officer Timothy Child’s genetically-blessed mouth and its over-abundance of taste buds obsessively searching for peak flavor.

1.0 is also a story of reimagining what it means to taste chocolate. The wine conventions currently used, like varietal, origin, and percentage, can be misleading — the same varietal, for example, grown on the same farm in the same growing region can taste radically different depending on the season, how the beans were fermented, or how they were dried. We suggest there’s a better way to discover your chocolate — namely the flavors that are inherent in cacao. Our flavor wheel is our attempt to make chocolate that is the purest expression of the flavors inherent in cacao, in this case, so far, “Chocolatey”, “Fruity”, “Nutty”, and “Citrus.”

"Much like our counterparts in the California wine community revolutionized the industry, TCHOSource works with farmers and cooperatives to improve fermentation and bean drying methods, which is where making good chocolate actually starts—in the field. TCHOSource also partners with leading research organizations in cacao producing countries to deploy “Flavor Labs,” allowing farmers to make small batches of chocolate with their own cacao beans to better understand the core principle of TCHO chocolate: flavor."

We are carrying their four 1.0 dark chocolate bars: Fruity, Nutty, Citrus, and Chocolatey. All four bars run around 70% Cacao. My favorite of the bunch is the Fruity.

Stop in and find out which is your favorite and help support another local company.

Another Mention in the Paper.....

2009-09-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

If you remember when I first started blogging and wrote about the Amadei Porcelana Bar and it's mention on NBC's "30 Rock", well it has brought us even more fame.

The Examiner's, Oakland Food Editor, Lisa Cecconi, has explored the idea of the most expensive chocolate in the world. Discover her thoughts in this recent article.

Then stop by Bittersweet Cafe and see if it is worth it for yourself. I think it is. Life is too short for cheap chocolate.

New Item On The Weekends!

2009-09-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

We started a little experiment last weekend, and it worked!

Bittersweet Rockridge will once again be baking it's own bread pudding Saturday and Sunday mornings. There will only be one pan available each day, so servings will last until we sell out. Hot from the oven each weekend day when we open, there is nothing like it. Chock full of wonderful ingredients like pecans, coconut, chocolate (of course), and lovely croissants, it is absolutely amazing.

Make Bittersweet your weekend tradition with fresh baked, housemade, bread pudding. Don't forget the whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top.

Coming Oct. 5th, New Hours!

2009-09-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

Due to high volume and demand we will be opening an hour earlier during the week beginning October 5th. We are happy to be serving you great coffee and chocolate an hour earlier.

New Hours: (As of October 5th, 2009)

Sunday: 9:00-7:00 PM
Monday-Wednesday: 8:00-7:00 PM
Thursday-Friday: 8:00-9:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00-9:00 PM

Thank you for making Bittersweet Cafe a wonderful experience and place to be.

Tonight - Hot September Nights!

2009-09-10T10:37:00.001-07:00

Every Thursday Night in September, Bittersweet Cafe is Hot!

From 6:00-9:00 PM tonight Receive 20% Off Drinks.

Celebrate the coming of Fall, the kids being back in school, life, and chocolate on Thursday Nights.

See ya here.

Seneca to Speak at Conservatory of Flowers!

2009-08-31T10:57:00.001-07:00

Our own Seneca Klassen, who spent the summer planting his own Cacao Plantation in Oahu, Hawaii, will be speaking at the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park Thursday, September 17th, from 6-7:30 PM.

Please join Seneca as he shares information about the botany and cultural history of chocolate. You’ll also experience a “behind the scenes” visit to a hidden treasure – a fruiting cacao tree in a Conservatory greenhouse. And then… you’ll enjoy tasting of 5 origin chocolates while gaining an understanding about the importance of post-harvest processing and quality finishing.

This is part of a Chocolate Event that they are hosting as an Evening of Chocolate. You can visit the Conservatory site to learn more and purchase tickets. Space is limited.

Back to School Event This Friday!

2009-08-24T09:42:00.001-07:00

Save the date! Friday, August 28th, from 4-7 PM we are having a Back to School Event! Bring your school ID and Buy One Milkshake and Get The Second for 1/2 Price! We love teachers too, so you too can cash in on the event.

Write this one down, because you won't want to miss it!

See you this Friday and enjoy your new school year!

Hot September Nights!

2009-08-20T14:32:00.001-07:00

Every Thursday Night in September, beginning September 3rd, Bittersweet Cafe is Hot!

From 6:00-9:00 PM Receive 20% Off Drinks.

Celebrate the coming of Fall, the kids being back in school, life, and chocolate on Thursday Nights.

See ya here.

Back to School!

2009-08-17T14:39:00.001-07:00

Save the date! Friday, August 28th, from 4-7 PM we are having a Back to School Event! Bring your school ID and Buy One Milkshake and Get The Second for 1/2 Price!

Write this one down, because you won't want to miss it!

See you then and enjoy your new school year!

New Chocolate Bar In from Madagascar

2009-08-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

For all of you Madagascar lovers we now carry Madecasse 67%, 70%, and 75% Dark Chocolate Bars from Madagascar.

There are many things about this chocolate to like. Not only is it really very good, but it is fair trade and organic. Something that is important to all of us.

	A NEW APPROACH…
				We make our chocolate from scratch (bean to bar) in Madagascar. This means every step of our process happens close to the source and our cocoa beans only spend a month between harvest and manufacturing.

				It also means the people of Madagascar profit more (400% more) from their own natural resources.

				In addition to working closely with farmers, we equitably source sugar, packaging materials and transportation, all in Madagascar. And skills, market knowledge, profit and ownership are shared with the people of Madagascar.

-from the Madecasse website

They are doing great things as well as making great chocolate. Come in and try some today.

You Like Us, You Really Like Us!

2009-08-03T09:40:00.000-07:00

Once again we are being featured by another chocoholic.

The Chocolate Manufacturer's - Guide for Chocoholics is out and we are a big part of it. You can check out what they wrote about us on 100cafestreet.com's Dessert Blog. It is quite a nice write up.

I would like to thank @1happyblogger for the info and support.

Some More Fabulous New Items!

2009-08-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

One of our best sellers, Frans Caramels, now come in a handy three piece box. Great for those little "thank you " gifts and the perfect size if you haven't had the opportunity to try them.

Frans Gray and Smoked Salt Caramels are a harmonious blend of complex flavors - rich smooth chocolate, soft buttery caramel and the unexpected boldness of the gray and smoked salt. All of Frans caramels are made with organic ingredients.

And new to the collection is Frans Gray Salt Thins. These area rich blend of Venezuelan and Caribbean dark chocolate enhanced with gray sea salt and comes in a ten piece box. Perfect for those little dark chocolate cravings, versatile and sophisticated, Frans Chocolate Thins are wonderful when paired with espresso or dessert wine.

Come in to Bitttersweet Cafe and try some for yourself and see what everyone is talking about.

Exciting New Items!

2009-07-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Introducing "Amella, the world’s first Artisan Cocoa Butter Caramel. Our team at Artisan Cocoa has created an exciting and new taste sensation for you to enjoy. Amellas are an all-natural buttery caramel made using pure cocoa butter, real fruits, nuts, and vegetables all hand dipped in the finest chocolate."

- Amella website

We are so proud to have this great confection in our stores. Not only is it unique in using cocoa butter, but all natural ingredients, no preservatives, and amazing flavors. We currently offer the passion fruit and carrot cake for your choosing. They actually look like tiny carrot cakes.

Stop by today to try our newest find!

This Coming Thursday Night, July 23rd, Ian Huddleston Performs!

2009-07-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

This is a reminder to save the date next week, because you won't want to miss this!

Ian Huddleston a renown musician will be performing acoustically on the guitar for your listening pleasure from 7:00-9:00 PM. His tastes run across the board so you never know what he will play next, but you know it will be good. Grab a loved one and enjoy some live music and chocolate bliss.

Now there is no excuse!

2009-07-16T09:13:00.001-07:00

New to Bittersweet Cafe is Adora Chocolates. They have an all natural way to get your calcium, through chocolate! Adora chocolates are delicious and good for you.

They come in both milk and dark chocolate and you will never forget to take your calcium again.

"Adora Calcium in premium chocolate will change the way you think about calcium supplements. If you've been choking down calcium pills or chews that are chalky, sticky, or simply too big to swallow, then you are in for a real treat! Adora Calcium is made from all-natural chocolate - not a fake chocolate chew, but real, premium chocolate produced by a 129-year-old chocolate manufacturer. The flavor is rich and creamy with just a hint of sweetness and no bitter aftertaste. MMMM!!! Adora will make you Crave Your Calcium™."

-Adora website

Not only do you get antioxidants, but Vitamin D and Vitamin K. These really are good for you and thoroughly enjoyable. Come in and try one today! Believe me the price is right.

10 facts about chocolate!

2009-07-13T09:47:00.001-07:00

This list comes to us from InfoBarrel.com. I found it to be fun and informative. These are but a few of the many chocolate facts available.

1. It is a known fact that chocolate has caffeine in it. But did you know that you would have to eat more then a dozen chocolate bars to get the same amount of caffeine from a cup of coffee? There are about 5 to 10 mg's of caffeine in one ounce of bitter chocolate, 5 mgs in milk chocolate, and 10mgs in a six-ounce cup

of cocoa.

2. Chocolate is actually a valuable energy source. A single chocolate chip can provide enough energy for an adult human to walk 150 ft.

3. Chocolate has great health benefits. It helps with depression, high blood pressure, Tumors and Pre-menstrual syndromes.

4. Chocolate does not cause or aggravate acne, this is a myth.

5. One ounce of baking chocolate or cocoa contains 10% of the daily recommended intake of iron.

6. Chocolate can be deadly for dogs. Chocolate contains an ingredient called "Theobromine" which can be toxic to a dogs central nervous system and cardiac muscles.

7. People spend more than $7 billion dollars a year on chocolate.

8. The per capita consumption of chocolate indicates that each person consumes 12 pounds of chocolate each year.

9. Milk Chocolate is the most preferred type of chocolate, however dark chocolate is especially popular among men.

10. In Alfred Hitchcock's movie "Psycho" chocolate syrup was used to indicate blood in the famous shower scene.

See us on mentioned on TV!

2009-07-09T11:36:00.001-07:00

Yesterday on "View from the Bay" on ABC, Diablo Magazine revealed some of their Best of the East Bay winners and we are among them. This is a handy link if you missed the live show.

We are proud to be voted as one of the Best and want to thank everyone who voted for us.

Please stop by and check out the items mentioned in the episode.

Again Thank You for helping us to be the Best!

Once again mentioned in the Chronicle

2009-07-06T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here we are a quiet little chocolate cafe, but people keep finding and writing about us and our products. The latest little blurb was in the San Francisco Chronicle this weekend.

The main mention was of the Poco Dolce Tiles that we carry in each of our stores. We have individual tiles that come in four flavors Aztec, Burnt Caramel (one of the most popular), Sesame Toffee, and Almond. These nice little tiles are covered in Dark Chocolate and topped with Sea Salt for a fantastic flavor that is rich and satisfying. They are also sold in an eight piece and sixteen piece boxes. We also carry a great little bag of Espresso Toffee and Sea Salt Toffee tiles. These are covered in dark chocolate as well. Poco Dolce toffees are a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Come in and see why everyone is talking about them.

Chocolate as an Antidepressant

2009-07-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

Here's a tidbit that may lift your day.

"Prone to irritability and worrying about rejection? If so, new research suggests a bar of chocolate could lift your mood and calm you down.

While you may be using chocolate as an energy booster, a study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry has found a link between chocolate cravings and personality.

Results suggest certain personality types are not only more likely to crave chocolate, but it may also improve their mood.

Researchers from the Black Dog Institute correlated results from an online survey completed by nearly 3,000 people. Of the respondees, 54 percent reported food cravings when depressed, of which 45 percent specifically wanted chocolate and 61 percent of these said chocolate improved their mood."

- Taken from dietblog.com, written by Kathryn Elliott. Click on the link for more of the story.

Closing Early July Fourth!

2009-07-02T15:35:00.001-07:00

Bittersweet will be closing early this Saturday, July 4th in observance of our country's Independence Day! We will be open until 7:00 PM and will regain our regular business hours the following day, Sunday, at 9:00 AM.

Please have a safe & sane Holiday weekend!

Ice Cream Social Tonight!

2009-07-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

This is the night to go out and enjoy yourselves. It is Ice Cream Social night at Bittersweet Cafe from 7-10 PM and you'll receive 20% OFF our Ice Cream Treats!

Grab the family and come on down for the best milkshakes in the area and if you haven't tried the affogato yet, this is the perfect opportunity. Yummy!

See you tonight!

Tempering Chocolate Can Be Nice!

2009-06-29T11:11:00.001-07:00

If you have ever melted chocolate and let it set up again only to find that it now has white streaks and is no longer shiny, then you need to know about tempering. There is nothing wrong with the chocolate when it gets that way or "out of temper" and it still will taste good, but the texture has changed and this can be fixed. Tempering chocolate is necessary to make the crystals align, so that you get a nice smooth shiny chocolate that is pretty with a good "snap" when broken.

The Exploratorium Magazine got together with Angela Arzave, from EOS Restaurant to make this handy guide. You may find it is something you can do with your kids as a fun scince experiment.

If you would like to make chocolate dipped strawberries or confections this guide will help you make beautiful works of art and you can pick up some great quality chocolate for baking and confections right here at Bittersweet.

This could be a great summer activity for the whole family.

Now you can find us easier.

2009-06-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Facebook has allowed us to set up our own username and now you can find us easier than ever.

We are now at www.facebook.com/BittersweetRockridge.

Check us out and become a fan today!

Looking to learn more about chocolate?

2009-06-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

I discovered a great Educator's Resource put out by the Field Museum in Chicago and tied to their Chocolate Exhibition. This exhibition is touring the country over several years. Some of you may have seen it when it was in the Bay Area in 2005, the next time it comes close to us is Anaheim 2011.

But, if you are looking to learn more now and can't wait until it is in your area check out their education page. There are also some great pictures and overview sections.

Closing Early Tonight for Event!

2009-06-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the Chocolate Tasting Event with Seneca Klassen and so many people signed up we are closing early to accommodate them. I am sorry to say that the event is full and for one night only we will be closing at 7:00 PM.
Thank you for your patience and understanding and we will see you bright and early on Friday morning!

Chocolate Bar Pick o' the Month

2009-06-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

This month I am going out of my normal realm of dark chocolate and picking a milk chocolate bar. There are just a handful of milk bars that I like and one of them is on the dark side.

This month I am picking the Chocolat Bonnat Java 65% Milk Chocolate Bar. This bar is darker than your average 33% milk, by far, and is so creamy with this caramel tone that is so nice. It is easy to savor and yet not so milky that you feel it coats your mouth. The strongest of Bonnat's strong milks-this bar offers a delightful blend of the Java white smokiness with the sweet cream of the milk. A great introduction to darker chocolates for milk chocolate lovers (or vise versa)!

Bonnat is out of Voiron, France and make a number of the bars that we carry. They have a long history in the chocolate business, established in 1884, that dates back to the drinking chocolate of early Europe.

It can also be found in our shop online, but if you have the chance please come into the store and try it for yourself.

REally?! Chocolate Stamps?!

2009-06-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

Leave it to the French to think of this one, Chocolate Scented Stamps. Who would have thought?

Actually, they are really kinda pretty and each frame represents a different time in chocolate history. Could make a fun, but not very useful, gift. They were minted to commemorate the 400th Anniversary of chocolate's arrival in France in 1609.

Chocolate Tasting Event is Full!

2009-06-18T12:13:00.001-07:00

Our Chocolate Tasting Event being held on June 25th is now full. Thank you all for your interest and we will try to have another one soon.

Father's Day this Weekend!

2009-06-18T11:13:00.001-07:00

Along with our new Askinosie Bar we have a some new items in the store just for Dad!

A few of the items include a Scotch Pairing Box with 3 chocolate bars that go great with a nice glass of scotch and a Father's Day Gift Box with several nice chocolates and a Bittersweet Gift Card, and my favorite; the Wine & Spirits Truffle Box. What a treat for Dad! Who wouldn't like to receive some fabulous chocolate just for being you?

Stop by today, supplies are limited. Show Dad he's someone special with a Bittersweet Gift Box.

New Askinosie 77% Davao Dark Chocolate Bar

2009-06-18T11:11:00.001-07:00

Askinosie is one of our most popular chocolate bars. It is fair trade and organic and just plain yummy. We are proud at Bittersweet to carry one of their newest dark chocolate bars, the Davao 77% Dark Chocolate Bar, a single origin from the Philippines.

"The first cacao brought to Asia in 1600 was grown in the Philippines and we are the first chocolate maker to export Filipino cocoa beans in nearly twenty-five years. The beans used to make this tantalizing bar are very exclusive, making the Davao, Philippines chocolate bar uniquely exotic. There has never before been a single origin bar from the Philippines. "
- Askinosie website

It really is a nice and rich dark chocolate that is gently intense with a long earthy finish and falls in line with the quality of the other Askinosie bars. Stop by today to check out our newest family member, Askinosie Davao 77% Dark.

Tonight! - Customer Appreciation Night!

2009-06-18T08:04:00.000-07:00

This is our opportunity to say "Thank You" for helping Bittersweet Cafe be the place to be! Stop by tonight between 7-9 PM and we will have treats and tastings and specials on all our merchandise. Let us pamper you! I will see you tonight!

New Summer Hours!

2009-06-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

Beginning next week, Sunday, June 21st, Bittersweet Cafe, Rockridge will be sporting our new summer hours and will be open an hour later. Now you can enjoy your favorite drink later!

New Hours:
Sunday-Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday-Saturday: 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Remember, this all begins Sunday, June 21st.

Have a great summer!

Thursday, July 23rd - 7-9 PM - Ian Huddleston Performs!

2009-06-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

Ian Huddleston, a renown musician, will be performing acoustically on the guitar for your listening pleasure. His taste run across the board so you never know what he will play next, but you know it will be good. You may have met him already behind the counter here at Bittersweet and we would like you to get to know his other talents. Bittersweet will have a special on his favorite drink all night.

Grab a loved one and enjoy some live music and chocolate bliss.

Thursday, July 2nd - 7-10PM - Ice Cream Social!

2009-06-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

As I promised, more events are on the way! This next one is Thursday, July 2nd, from 7-10 PM, is a celebration of Summer and everything good about it, our Ice Cream Social!

Come and join us for specials on our ice cream treats and help us bring in warm weather and days of no school. It's July and the heat is on. What better way to cool down and celebrate the coming Independence Day than with ice cream!

Grab the kids and stay out late at Bittersweet Cafe.

This Thursday is Customer Appreciation!

2009-06-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars, this Thursday, June 18th, from 7-9 PM is Customer Appreciation Night.

We are planning on having some treats and tastings, and maybe a special item or two, so be sure to stop by and meet your friends. Bittersweet wants to say "Thank You" for being such great customers and helping us be the "hot spot" in the neighborhood. We have been going strong for 4 1/2 years and are looking forward to many more.

Customer Appreciation Night, this Thursday from 7-9 PM. See ya here!

Poetry Reading This Thursday from 7-9PM

2009-06-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder of our Poetry Reading this Thursday, June 11th, from 7:00-9:00 PM, featuring our own Chelsea Martin and some of her friends. We will also be having a special on her favorite drink, Chocolate Milk. For more information just click on the link on the left hand side of this page.

See you here!

New Amano Montanya Bar

2009-06-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

Many of you know about Amano and their amazing chocolate. Their Occumare Bar was voted "Best Bar in America" by NPR and their Madagascar Bar was voted "Best Bar" of the Chocolate Salon 2007 in San Francisco. Well, now they have a new bar out and we have it.

"The Montanya 70% Dark Chocolate Bar has been released as a "Limited Edition" due to the rarity of the cocoa beans used to produce it. The rare cacoa is grown in the mountains, most all cocoa is grown in secluded valley's or in flat areas. This chocolate is made from cocoa beans that break that mold. They come from deep within the mountains of Venezuela. the only way to reach these secluded farms is either to hike or by horseback. Similarly, the cocoa beans are brought out after the farmers have carefully harvested, fermented, and dried the beans to bring out their most beautiful flavor. These rare cacoa beans produce a chocolate like no other with a complex deep and rich flavor that is sure to make chocolate lovers swoon."*

"The flavor is enchantingly complex and it will create a passionate lover of this beautiful chocolate out of each person who tries it."*

I must say that I agree, it is another hit for Amano Chocolate. It is a limited edition, so supply is short. Some in to Bittersweet today to try it for yourself.

*Information provided by Art Pollard, Amano Founder, Head Chocolate Maker.

New Event Addition - June 18th

2009-06-04T11:48:00.001-07:00

Another addition to our Summer Events series is our Customer Appreciation Night on Thursday, June 18th, from 7-9PM.

Be sure to mark your calenders and bring your family for some treats and tastings and fun goings on. We will have some specials and it is a chance for you to enjoy Bittersweet as we say "Thank You" for helping to make Bittersweet Cafe a success and the place to be.

Keep your eye on this blog as more events are on their way!

Thank you and come join us for the festivities.

More Chocolate Health Facts...

2009-06-04T08:53:00.001-07:00

Here is an article that I just came across giving us even more reasons (or excuses) to eat dark chocolate.

This story from the UCSF website, sites a study examining "chocolate's effects on the blood vessel function of healthy people. They report that small daily doses of flavonoid-rich dark chocolate consumed over two weeks improved the blood vessels' ability to dilate, or expand. They also report that a particular flavonoid thought to be beneficial for blood vessel function, epicatechin, was absorbed at high levels in the blood."

The study was funded by the UCSF School of Nursing. Chocolate for the study was provided by the American Cocoa Research Institute, Vienna, VA.

Click here to view the entire article.

The Hot Chocolate Effect!

2009-06-01T12:57:00.001-07:00

Hot chocolate science fun

Funny posting here about the so-called 'Hot Chocolate Effect'. Something for you to try at home. Who knows maybe it'll open up a whole new Chocolate Sciences division.

Thanks to Lisa at talk.dnadirect.com for the link!

New Poco Dolce Tiles Are In!

2009-05-29T09:28:00.001-07:00

If you aren't familiar with Poco Dolce, then you need to try these toffees. They are so amazingly delicious you won't be able to stop! Come check out the new Double Shot Espresso Toffee Squares and Sea Salt Toffee Squares and find out for yourself!
For the Double Shot, they brew their own coffee and cook it directly into the toffee, then dip each individual toffee square in rich dark chocolate. And who doesn't love a little sea salt in their toffee? All in all, their are about 15 squares of chocolate dipped toffee heaven in these little packages just waiting to be eaten!