Hot Chocolate: Dark Desires

Bar 9 Belgian

2012-01-31T18:26:00.001+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Bar 9 recently for breakfast. Merkel ordered the Belgian hot chocolate and was served the drink in an elegant pottery mug. It was topped with with a brown forth and sprinkle of chocolate powder over one side of the mug. The chocolate could have been richer but was unmistakably Belgian. The cost was $4.80.

Fiefys Mug of Chocolate

2012-01-29T13:46:00.002+10:30

I returned to Fiefy's recently. The warm weather was good for sitting at the tables outside her hole-in-the-wall coffee shop at 45 Pirie Street. This time I had a Mug of Jaffa Hot chocolate for $4.90. The orange flavour was good and a marshmallow was provided. The drink combined dark Belgian chocolate with real orange zest.

The Ed Castle

2012-01-22T21:52:00.000+10:30

The Edinburgh Castle Hotel is its full name but it usually abbreviated to just Ed Castle on 233 Currie Street. It is another of the many historic hotels in Adelaide. Merkel and Myrtle were here with friends recently. While they have a reasonable meals menu, there is no hot chocolate. So Merkel had to go down the street to the C Coffee outlet on West Terrace and take his drink back to the Ed Castle.

The C Coffee outlets have been reviewed here before. They do a reasonable hot chocolate for a takeaway drink. It is reasonably rich chocolate topped with a creamy froth. The cost is $3.20.

Tasty Bakehouse

2012-01-17T21:24:00.001+10:30

We found a little bakery called Tasty Bakehouse in the backstreets Forrestville recently. It can be found at at 66 Leah Street. The Tasty Bakehouse is doing a trade as maker of cakes and buns but also does pies, quiches and hot beverages. It is not much of an eat-in venue but has one table outside overlooking the tram track.

The hot chocolate was only $2.50 but was served in a paper cup without anything the stir the drink. It was topped with a white froth and liberal sprinkle of chocolate powder. The drink was creamy enough and not too sweet but it should have been more chocolaty.

Galaxy

2012-01-16T20:59:00.001+10:30

Galaxy is small Café and Gallery on East Terrace just few doors away from the corner of Rundle Street. The Café is tiny with a few tables inside and out. Some impressive artworks hangs from the walls and if I you are willing to take the stairs I believe there is a gallery and lounge upstairs. The shop specialises in Frappes and smoothies and does a short menu of menu. The menu is written out on what seems to be scraps of paper. Merkel was accompanied by Mytrle and Miss Kimbers from the Fruit and Mixed Veg blog.

Hot chocolate did not seem to be on the menu but there was an iced Belgian chocolate which caught Merkel's eye. This came in a tall glass and was a deliciously cold drink. The chocolate was not completely liquid but included chocolate ground into bits so the texture of the drink was gritty. It mixed into a smoothie with a thick consistency. The iced chocolate was not much to look at but it was good to drink and cost $6.50.

Au Martin Calm, Raspberry

2012-01-15T21:32:00.001+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Au Matin Calme in Hutt Street to meet fellow blogger Miss Kimbers who does an excellent blog called Fruit and Mixed Veg. The Au Matin Calme in Goodwood Road has discontinued and is now is on the disappearing hot chocolate venues list but the Hutt Street venue still is going strong.

A new raspberry hot chocolate was on the menu. It was served in the normal "Un Tasse de Caffe". The raspberry flavour was good but like the orange flavour hot chocolate they do, the drink would have been better with darker, less sweet chocolate flavour. The drink is topped with a white froth and is a creamy Belgian chocolate drink. The cost was four dollars.

One Ate Five, Vienna

2012-01-10T21:32:00.002+10:30

Merkel return to One Ate Five on Victoria Square recently. The motto on the window is appealing "Think inside the Square". The normal busy trade from Eynesbury College was missing because of school holidays. Merkel tried the Vienna hot chocolate which had whipped cream and chocolate powder on top. It was served in a glass and had a dark chocolate favour which went well with the cream. The cost was $3.70.

American Candy Stand, Lindt

2012-01-08T21:09:00.001+10:30

A Lindt hot chocolate is on the menu at the American Candy Stand in Norwood Parade. I had to try it since the Lindt hot chocolate at Just Tickled Pink (JTP) had been wonderful. The hot chocolate came in a tall glass and saucer with a marshmallow and sprinkle of chocolate flakes on top. The drink was a good rich Belgian chocolate flavour but the presentation was a bit disappointing compared with JTP. The cost was $6.00.

Café Presto

2012-01-06T20:22:00.000+10:30

Café Presto is in the Arkaba Shopping centre and has a good view through the big glass windows of leafy Parkside. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch and coffees. I had an iced chocolate there on a warm day. The drink came topped with a scoop of ice cream, a squirt of whipped cream, a sprinkle for chocolate powder and a squirt to chocolate syrup. Chocolate syrup had been used to make the drink and it looked decorative through the walls of the tall glass. While white milk looks better through the glass walls I prefer the taste of chocolate milk and it is difficult to stir in the chocolate until the cream and icecream on top has been dealt with. Still, the chocolate syrup was not sickly sweet like many types of syrup. It was a refreshing drink for $5.50.

Lunch Club Iced

2012-01-04T16:21:00.002+10:30

Merkel returned to the Lunch Club at Unley Shopping Centre during the hot weather over the Christmas break. He had an iced chocolate for $5.50. It was served in a tall "CocaCola" glass and was topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla icecream and a squirt of whipped cream. There was some syrup as added to the chocolate milk which looked good through the glass but was a little sweet.

Impressa Café

2012-01-03T16:26:00.000+10:30

After extensive renovations to the Unley Shopping Centre a new Café has replaced the Lunch Cutters café. Impressa is more upmarket than Lunch Cutters and part of the serving bar has been replaced by an area for more tables. The décor is excellent and the menu includes some more substantial meals.

The hot chocolate comes in a white ceramic cup and saucer, topped with white froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The pink and white marshmallows served with the drink were a little more tasty and colourful than the usual marshmallows. The drink itself was creamy but could have been richer.

Ciobar Gusto Classico

2012-01-01T17:59:00.000+10:30

Merkel visited Rio Coffee in Stepney recently to do some Christmas shopping and found a packet of Cameo Ciobar hot chocolate. The writing on the packaging was in Italian, but the photo on the front and the phrase "denso e cremoso" suggested this was the thick Italian hot chocolate that Merkel enjoys at Cibo and some other good cafes. The packet was $4.95 and included 5 sachets.

To make the hot chocolate just add the sachet contents to 125ml of milk and heat. This makes a fairly small cup of chocolate but the result is a good viscous hot chocolate. The flavour is good and similar to the Cibo Cioccolato Italiana.

The Governor Hindmarsh

2011-12-31T18:05:00.002+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited The Gov recently to pit their wits against some of the finest Scrabble players in South Australia. This is one of Adelaide's older hotels and a great spot for live music. The dining room is spacious and decorative and adjoins the dance and stage area. Not unexpectedly the SA State Champion (501) defeated Merkel (237).

The hot chocolate came in a big glass mug with plenty of bubbly froth and chocolate powder on top. The drink was good and chocolaty and not too sweet. There was plenty of it for $3.40.

Stella

2011-12-28T10:56:00.001+10:30

Stella must have one of the best locations in Adelaide. It is in Henley Square and its big windows overlook the sea and the Jetty near Bacchus Bar. It is open for meals all day. Merkel and Myrtle visited for breakfast. There is plenty of seating inside, under the verandah or under the umbrellas outside. This is a table service restaurant.

The hot chocolate was $3.40 and came in a decorative glass and saucer. It was made with chocolate syrup and showed the syrup on the inside of the glass. A pink and a white marshmallow were provided in the saucer. The drink was creamy but unfortunately far too sweet as is often the case with hot chocolates made with syrup.

Hot Can

2011-12-26T19:49:00.002+10:30

Merkel got a self-heating can of hot chocolate for Christmas. This was a great present for someone on the leading-edge of hot chocolate drinking. The can was made by the hot-can company and is distributed through BP Reliance, IGA, Foodworks, Lucky Seven and Freedom fuels. This can however, was purchased from a specialty shop in Hahndorf.

The can heats up using an exothermic reaction in an inner chamber of the can. The drinker pushes a button on the bottom of the can which breaks a barrier between two chemicals inside the can and shakes up the can. It gets hot in about 3 minutes. A temperature setting on the outside of the can indicates when it is hot enough. To see this in action you can see the marketing video or a more true-to-life You Tube video. All this technology makes this an expensive drink for the serving of 210ml.

The chocolate is hot and the can comes with a plastic top so you can drink the hot chocolate straight out of the can without burning your lips. The drink however is too sweet and made with non-dairy creamer which makes it taste similar to the hot chocolates in the USA. There is no frothing of this hot chocolate. The can is great technology but the drink is a disappointment for a hot chocolate connoisseur.

Carrington Café, Iced

2011-12-22T19:29:00.002+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle ventured back to the Carrington Café for lunch in the week before Christmas. The Café was busy but the service was still friendly. Merkel ordered the Iced Chocolate which came in a tall glass and saucer with two large straws. The drink cost five dollars and was topped with vanilla icecream and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. An after dinner mint was provided in the saucer. The drink was cool and creamy but not particularly chocolaty. A spoon was not provided but the straws were strong enough to handle the icecream chop-stick style. In a kind Christmas gesture Merkel and Myrtle were given an additional after dinner mint.

Chocolate Bean, Macadamia

2011-12-21T21:08:00.000+10:30

Your review has his phone fixed so off he went to take a photo of a mug of hot chocolate at the Chocolate Bean. It was the usual creamy dark Belgian hot chocolate for which the café is renowned. This time it was the macadamia flavour which gave it a subtle nutty taste. Chocolate Bean has some new chairs and tables which made the seating a more comfortable.

Gillberries

2011-12-18T16:03:00.000+10:30

Merkel & Myrtle returned to Gillberries in Dulwich for breakfast recently. The hot chocolate is a good unsweetened Dutch-style hot chocolate. It is served in a glass and saucer with a pink and a white marshmallow. The cost is $3.80 and the table service is friendly.

Regular readers will notice the lack of photos in recent posts. The phone/camera is on the blink and will be taking pictures of hot chocolates again shortly.

Manga Manga

2011-12-16T19:30:00.002+10:30

Manga Manga has been a stall in the Citi Centre Arcade off Hindmarsh Square for many years. They have sold good pizza and pasta for the lunch crowds consistently all this time. The stall can be found between King of Sandwich and Yiros & Health Food.

Merkel recently noticed and espresso machine in the shop and so felt obliged to try the hot chocolate. The mug of hot chocolate cost $3.20 and was topped with a thin brown froth. It was too weak and watery for Merkel's taste. The cannelloni however was good.

Delish, Cinnamon

2011-12-15T19:00:00.002+10:30

I returned to Delish on Victoria Square recently and discovered they had added another hot chocolate flavour to their list. Previously I have reviewed their Golden Rough, Mint, Jaffa and Cherry flavour hot chocolates. Now they do a cinnamon flavour. I think this was probably their best flavour. It was the usual creamy rich chocolate for $3.40, served by the friendly staff.

Yum Delicious Organic

2011-12-12T19:12:00.001+10:30

Merkel returned to the Myer Centre food hall for some Christmas shopping but stopped at the Yum Delicious café off Rundle Mall at the base of the escalators for a bit to eat. He noticed that Organic Hot Chocolate had been added to the menu. This was serverd in a ceramic cup with a white froth and a liberal sprinkling of chocolate powder. The drink was creamy and rich and was not overly sweet. The cost was $3.60 for the organic hot chocolate and $3.30 for the standard hot chocolate.

Cibo Burnside Village

2011-12-11T17:06:00.001+10:30

Since my original review of a number of seven Cibo outlets the chain has continued to grow. The new outlet in the rebuilt Burnside Village is very impressive. It is located under a huge gum tree. The arcade seems to be built around and over this tree. There is plenty of comfortable seating around this tree.

Unfortunately the Cioccolato Italiana was not available at this outlet and I had to settle for the standard hot chocolate. It was topped with a white froth and a dumping of chocolate powder on top. This was reasonbly rich but not as thick as the Italian hot chocolate. The cost of the standard hot chocolate was $3.40

Funk with the Police

2011-12-09T21:32:00.001+10:30

The newest addition to the Funk Coffee chain is hidden away inside the new Police building at 100 Angas Street. This is another case of Café Foyerism with the Funk tucked away in the corner of the huge and fairly impressive Police headquarters foyer. There are only three small tables in the Funk corner but there is lounge seating as well in the foyer. This is a comfortable place for the public to eat if you don't mind waiting in line behind members of the constabulary. Unfortunately Funk they only serves takeaway here, so you have to eat and drink in paper bags and cups. However they do offer to fill up mugs if you bring them along.

The hot chocolate was a reasonable standard topped with a white froth. The cost was $3.40 but paper cups are not to Merkel's liking.

Chocolate Bean, Aniseed

2011-12-07T20:04:00.001+10:30

The Chocolate Bean in Union Street of Rundle Street is like a second home for Merkel. The creamy hot Belgian chocolate is always an attraction and there are so many varieties to choose from. You can find reviews on this blog of flavours such as Butterscotch, Caramel, Cherry, Ginger Bread, Irish Cream, Jasmin and Orange. This time Merkel sat upstairs and tried the Aniseed flavour which a subtle but distinct enhancement to the creamy hot chocolate. The mug, as usual came topped with a white froth, a sprinkle of chocolate powder and dollop of cream. The cost was $4.80.

Brown Dog Chilli

2011-12-04T21:41:00.001+10:30

As promised, Merkel returned to Brown Dog Café on Goodwood Road to try the Chilli hot chocolate. After the rather insipid hot chocolate last week, I specified that I wanted more chocolate in my hot chocolate. The drink came with in the Veneziano coffee cup topped with a white froth a semicircle of chocolate powder and a line of chilli powder between the white froth and the chocolate powder. A chocolate coated coffee bean was provided in the saucer. The drink was more chocolaty this time and the chilli packed a punch. This was a much better drink than was provided the week before.

Kappy's Cafe

2011-11-30T21:06:00.001+10:30

Kappy's seems to have had its ups and downs at its current location of 53 Flinders Street. There is seems to be less clutter in the Café now and also less wholesale tea and coffee. Its still a cosy and decorative place to have a light lunch.

The hot chocolate comes in red ceramic mugs these days and is rich and creamy. The prices are $3.50 and $4.00. Marshmallows are available upon request.

The ice chocolate with a scoop of ice cream is available for $4.50. It comes in a tall glass with no cream or chocolate on top. The chocolate flavour is good and not sickly sweet like some ice chocolates.

Brown Dog Café

2011-11-27T19:53:00.001+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle return to Brown Dog Café on Goodwood Road for a Sunday lunch. It was a pleasant day and we sat out in the back garden. The furnishings there are not particularly decorative or comfortable but the back patio area is covered and the garden is pleasant. A range of restaurant meals are available.

The hot chocolate came in Venziano coffee cup and saucer. The brand in outside drinker-facing orientation and the Veneziano motto "True to the Bean" appears inside the cup facing the drinker.There was a pink and a white marshmallow in the saucer. The drink was decorated with a white froth and chocolate powder over one side of the froth. The hot chocolate was unfortunately too weak. I might order their chilli hot chocolate next time but ask them to put more chocolate in the drink.

Jin's Churros

2011-11-23T21:43:00.001+10:30

The creamy hot chocolate at Patisserie Jin on Unley Road has been reviewed earlier. This is well presented and chocolaty for $3.50.

Your reviewer has reviewed churros and melted chocolate previously. At Jin's this dish is well presented on a dark rectangular plate. Jin's attention to detail is amazing. The six very dainty churros sticks, a small bowl of sweet chocolate sauce and another small bowl containing a sliced strawberry. The shop logo is rendered in castor sugar on the plate. The serving is small which is probably just as well because it would be tempting to eat too much of this food. The cost was $12.

American Candy Stand, Iceberg

2011-11-20T11:48:00.001+10:30

Merkel tried another hot chocolate at the American Candy Stand recently. This time he went for the hot chocolate "iceberg", which is a hot chocolate with a scoop of vanilla icecream floating in it. This is not an iced chocolate because the drink is mostly hot but there is the contrasting cold ice cream in it. The drink is topped with the normal froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The chocolate flavour was good and the ice cream made it extra creamy. The cost was $5.90.

Little Seeds

2011-11-19T16:39:00.001+10:30

Merkel spotted a new hot chocolate vendor recencly. It was outside of the Adelaide City Council building at the Colonel Light Centre, 25 Pirie Street. The council was selling off some of its books, providing information and provide some whiteboards for feedback. There a number of different styles of tables and chairs on the footpath which was painted in bright colours. Also on the footpath was a Churroz trailer and Little Seeds organic espresso bar. Little Seeds is a new venture but the proprieter hopes that they will start popping up everywhere.

The hot chocolate came in a paper cup and it was challenge to keep it under control in the windy conditions. Nevertheless it was well decorated and topped with a creamy froth. It was reasonably creamy and chocolaty and cost $3.50.

Hudsons, Currie St

2011-11-15T21:30:00.001+10:30

I returned to Hudsons on Currie Street recently. The hot chocolate cost $3.40 and was was served in a small coffee cup. The Belgian chocolate flavour was not as rich as I recall other Hudsons hot chocolates.

Passatempo Iced Chocolate

2011-11-14T19:57:00.001+10:30

Your reviewer returned to Passatempo recently to the pass the time. He ordered the iced chocolate which at $6.90 is one of the more expensive cold drinks around. The drink came in a tall glass with a straw and a long spoon. It was topped with chocolate gelati, whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. Chocolate syrup had been used and made the drink decorative but not too sweet. This was good chocolaty iced chocolate.

Lizzie's Iced Chocolate

2011-11-08T19:06:00.002+10:30

Merkel and Mytrle returned to Lizzie's recently for breakfast. This time Merkel tried the iced chocolate. This was available for $3.50 or $5.50. The large drink came in a tall glass topped with a scoop of ice cream and chocolate powder. The drink was made with syrup which made the drink too sweet but the syrup was used decoratively on the inside of the glass.

Nonna's Kitchen

2011-11-06T20:56:00.001+10:30

Nonna's Kitchen in Mt Barker has a reasonable presence on the net having a facebook page, a website and a blog. This is table service Italian restaurant that is available for casual meals. Mt Barker was a nice place to visit on a sunny afternoon.

The hot chocolate was $3.20 and came in a brown ceramic cup and saucer. It was a rich dark flavour and was topped with froth and a liberal sprinkling of chocolate powder.

Bean Bar, Jaffa

2011-11-05T13:14:00.001+10:30

Fortunately Choktober has extended into Chocvember at Bean Bar so the different flavours of hot chocolate are still on the menu. Merkel tried the orange flavoured "Jaffa" hot chocolate at the Waymouth Street venue. This came in a glass and saucer topped with a brown froth. It was not as chocolaty as the hot chocolate at Finders Street Bean Bar and did not have the sprinkle of chocolate powder on top. The orange flavour was good but would have been better with darker chocolate flavour. The drink came at the standard price of four dollars for a regular hot beverage.

Bean Bar, Cherry

2011-11-02T21:56:00.000+10:30

Merkel visited the Flinders Street Bean Bar which has a number of tables in the Credit Union next door. Bean Bar are having a "Choktober" promotion where they are selling a number of flavours of hot chocolate such as mint, orange and cherry. Merkel tried the cherry. This was four dollars and came in a glass and saucer. The chocolate flavour was good and was well-balanced with the cherry and coconut flavouring of the drink. There was a bit left over so the waitress gave Myrtle the leftovers in a small glass.

Marmalade Café, Italian

2011-10-30T19:50:00.004+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to the Marmalade Breakfast Café in Edward Street Norwood recently. The breakfast service was prompt and Merkel chose the thick Italian hot chocolate. The hot chocolate was served in a glass and saucer with a large marshmallow in the saucer. The drink was topped with a white froth. The hot chocolate was not as thick as a good Italian hot chocolate and the flavour was strongly of hazelnuts. While a hazelnut hot chocolate was on offer this was not what was ordered. The marshmallow tasted stale. The hot chocolate cost $4.50.

Steven ter Horst, Chilli

2011-10-29T20:53:00.001+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Steven ter Horst on Unley Road for a couple more of his special chocolates and a hot beverage. On one of the advertising cards available in the shop it recommended patrons try the chilli hot chocolate which was not on the menu board. Merkel did not need any more encouragement. The chilli hot chocolate was served in a black ceramic cup with a brown froth for $5.50. The Belgian chocolate flavour was unmistakable and the chilli had just the right amount of punch. This is now an excellent hot chocolate venue.

A'Vila

2011-10-26T20:36:00.000+10:30

A'Vila has recently taken over from De Luca's on the Park. It is still a little coffee shop between the Crowne Plaza and the Griffin's Head on Hindmarsh Square. The Décor has changed with som bold colourful murals on the wall. Focaccias and other sandwiches are available for lunch.

The hot chocolate came in a brown ceramic cup with the Campos coffee logo proudly emblazoned in drinker facing position. It was topped with with a froth and plenty of chocolate powder. The taste was creamy but not as rich as I would have liked.

Free

2011-10-24T21:22:00.001+10:30

Merkel visted Free recently This is the gluten free and sugar free shop with the motto "The best things in life are free". The hot chocolate came in a huge colourful mug for $3.50. It had a Bubbly froth and had a good chocolaty unsweetened taste.

Rosey's

2011-10-16T20:51:00.001+10:30

Abrieaux Café has been taken over by new management aftet its short run taking over from Serves You Right. The new Café is known as Rosey's and has only recently opened. The bookcases are gone and the décor has changed. The Café has a modern uncluttered look with some innovative design ideas such as lolly jar light fittings and flowers were in abundance. Your reviewer is not sure what the menu will look like but the focaccias apparently proved popular on the first day.

The hot chocolate was served in grey ceramic cups with a white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder on top. The chocolate flavour was good but not rich enough. The milk and froth were creamy and the costs was $3.50.

Aria

2011-10-15T19:51:00.002+10:30

Aria bar e ristorante is a fine dining restaurant serving the Air Apartments at 220 Greenhill Road Eastwood. This restaurant is the on the first floor and provides a view over the parklands and Greenhill Road if you sit near the big glass windows. They are open for Breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays which when Merkel and Myrtle visited.

The hot chocolate came in a ceramic cup and saucer and was topped with a white forth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. The drink was weak and watery and cost $3.50.

There was a time in Adelaide when instant coffee was popular and restaurants served coffee that was fairly poor by today's standards. There has been a transition over the last 30 years to better coffee pioneered possibly by the Italian restaurants. We can only hope that the same transition will occur for hot chocolates. This may then result in a drink that provides the richness and originality that a true hot chocolate lover enjoys served more consistently in Adelaide Cafes and Restaurants.

Caffe L'Incontro

2011-10-14T15:32:00.000+10:30

L'Incontro has got more popular over the last couple of years and its tables now take up most of the picturesque Gays Arcade just off Adelaide Arcade. It provides a range of authentic Italian meals and makes its own Focaccia bread.

Merkel returned to try the Cioccolata in Tazza which is the L'Incontro name for thick Italian hot chocolate. This is the most pleasant lunch venue in Adelaide to enjoy and Italian hot chocolate. The cost is four dollars and it is served in a ceramic cup and saucer with biscotti.

Do Duck Inn

2011-10-12T20:51:00.001+10:30

Merkel visited Do Duck Inn again to recently and discovered it has change much over the last couple of years and it has its own website. This Café is on Exchange Place next to Pranzo. The décor has changed and it has a modern, comfortable look. The standard hot chocolate has gone up in cost but it is still only three dollars and there was no wrapped chocolate this time. The drink was more chocolaty though.

Zedz

2011-10-11T19:28:00.001+10:30

Your reviewer returned to Zedz in the North East corner of the Adelaide Central Market. The Turkish bread sandwhich tasted good, no doubt made from fresh market produce. The hot chocolate this time came in a glass and saucer. Varied colourings of chocolate were evident through the glass walls. The drink was topped with a white froth and a dark chocolate button was provided in the saucer. The chocolate had a spicy flavour to it possibly cinnamon or chilli and was good and rich.

Mac Factory Revisited

2011-10-09T21:02:00.000+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to the Mac Factory upstairs at 190 Hutt Street. The shop has been open about six months now and a few more of the fixtures and fitting are in place than last time. There is now the option of sitting on the balcony overlooking Hutt Street. The Macarons are still the big attraction of this venue.

The hot chocolate has changed also. The hot chocolate is servedf from a mixer and is richer and not as sweet as last time. It is a rich dark flavour similar to other good Italian hot chocolates but perhaps not as thick as some. The cost was $3.50.

Festival of Ideas

2011-10-08T21:21:00.003+10:30

The festival of ideas is on again this year with a theme of planning for uncertainty. The festival organisers have put together a great programme this year. The venues are around Adelaide University and the Adelaide central business district. Merkel and Myrtle attended an entertaining discussion on "Every Marriage is a Minefield" by author and psychologist Christopher Ryan in the Town Hall. This was followed by a talk by Larissa Behrent, aborignal professor of Law at Swinburne University of Technology. This was a thought-provoking insight into the impact of legislative reform on aboriginal and other disadvantaged communities.

Merkel found a hot chocolate at Mind Food Café outside Bonython Hall at the front of the Adelaide University. The cup was compostable and biodegradable but the hot chocolate was also pretty disposable. It was too watery and there was not enough chocolate. Still it was nice to have somewhere to sit after a talk and view the books on sale from festival speakers.

QC Vienna

2011-10-05T20:46:00.000+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to QC on Angas recently. This time Merkel tried the Vienna chocolate for $3.80. The drink was served in a glass mug with plenty of whipped cream on top and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The trick with Vienna beverages is to drink them or take a photo quickly because the cream melts after too much delay. Merkel took long with this photo. The flavour was chocolaty and of course, creamy.

Semphore Music Festival

2011-10-03T19:57:00.001+10:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited the Semaphore Music Festival over the weekend. This had blues and country artists at many venues around Semaphore. One of the main attractions was the free entertainment on the foreshore. The stage was a large truck and a number of vendors were positioned around the grass area selling food and beverages. This was relaxing way to spend a sunny afternoon.

Merkel tried hot chocolates from two vans. One was selling fruit "jooce" and donuts. The hot chocolate was $3.50 and came with a dunked marshmallow but the drink was weak and inferior. The hot chocolate from the Fair Espresso van was much better. For $4.50 for a regular or $5.50 for medium, Merkel received a creamy rich hot chocolate that was apparently fair trade and organic. It had a good froth on top and was even decorated with a streak of chocolate powder. Merkel had the classic hot chocolate this time but recently the the van was at the Unley Oval for a football match where Merkel tried their Italian hot chocolate. This was also a good hot chocolate but not as thick as the best Italian hot chocolates.

83 on Currie

2011-09-28T19:36:00.003+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to 83 on Currie. This time Merkel tried the Jaffa Iced Chocolate. This was served, like the iced chocolate, in a tall glass with a scoope of vanilla icecream, a squirt of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate powder on top. The orange flavour was well balanced with the chocolate. This is a unique drink and was creamy and refreshing for $4.60.

Lizzie's

2011-09-24T21:36:00.000+09:30

There have been a couple of changes of business on Unley Road. Abrieux seems to have shut up shop with a promise to return soon. Across the road Duffy's Bakery has changed hands and is now Lizzie's. Merkel and Myrtle had breakfast there recently. It still sells pies and cakes, but also has a breakfast and lunch menu. There is plenty of seating inside and outside.

Hot chocolate and iced chocolate were on the beverage list but the flavoured syrups seemed to have disappeared. The standard hot chocolate came in a glass mug and saucer with a pink marshmallow. It was topped with a white froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. There was not enough chocolate in it for the seasoned hot chocolate drinker.

C'est Ci Bon Snack Bar

2011-09-23T21:52:00.001+09:30

C'est Ci Bon is an unassuming snack bar at 133 Waymouth Street. There are three small tables inside and a couple more on the footpath outside. It provides a range of sandwiches and snacks.

The hot chocolate was served in white mug on a saucer that did not quite fit the mug. It was topped with a white froth and plenty of chocolate powder. The drink was creamy and but the milk chocolate flavour was not particularly good. It cost four dollars.

Obun Chef

2011-09-20T19:45:00.000+09:30

The signature dish of this little shop on 118 King William Street is the "Obun". This is a little bun with various flavoured custards inside. They also do bubble tea. Obun Chef also has a short menu of Asian lunches and other beverages. There are only have five or six tables inside on this busy city corner so you have to be opportunistic to get a table. This place is on the corner between the Starlight Lunch Bar and New York Coffee Bar.

The hot chocolate comes in an elegant glass with a handle and is topped with a white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. The drink is creamy and has a reasonably good milk chocolate flavour. It was only $3.00 for the glass.

Steven ter Horst Chocolatier

2011-09-19T21:58:00.003+09:30

This is a retail outlet for Steven ter Horst's very special chocolates but they also provide desserts, coffees and hot chocolates for the dine-in customer.

On a previous visit the shop was not properly geared up for a good hot chocolate but recently the hot chocolate was creamy and nicely frothed to compliment the wonderful Belgian Chocolate taste of the drink. This was served in a ceramic cup and saucer and cost $5.50.

Beginners and Cocolat

2011-09-18T10:07:00.000+09:30

Merkel & Myrtle saw the movie "Beginners" recently. This was a melancholy film. The depiction of the relationships between the various characters in general was excellent but the themes of sadness put a dampner on the relationship between the two main characters. The relationship between the main character, played by Ewen McGregor and his dog had more electricity than his relationship with the character played by the georgious Melanie Laurent, which seemed inexplicable. This is a senstive and enjoyable film but a little slow in patches.

Merkel had the chilli hot chocolate in Cocolat at Rundle Street afterwards. This packed a good punch and went well with the jaffa chocolate cake.

Café Delicieuse, Iced

2011-09-15T21:34:00.000+09:30

Café Delicieuse is one of those is hidden away on Wyatt Street of Grenfell Street and does not seem to be as popular as it deserves to be. They furnishings have changed since last time your reviewer visited but it is still a comfortable place with plenty of seating inside and out.

The iced chocolate came in a tall glass topped with icecream, cream and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. Chocolate syrup decorated the inside of the glass and the chocolate flavour was still good. The drink probably cost about $4.50.

Yumalicious

2011-09-14T21:09:00.001+09:30

This is a new café on Victoria Square next to One Ate Five. It provides a range of salads, rolls and Asian meals and it seems to be keen to get the customers in with good introductory offers. Your reviewer enjoyed a complimentary plate of ground apple fritters for dessert.

The hot chocolate came in a Griffiths cup and saucer with the Griffiths logo hidden in thte inside drinker facing position and the middle of the saucer. The hot chocolate was finished with a light brown froth. The drink was reasonably creamy but could have had a richer flavour. The cost was three dollars.

Lime2 Mint

2011-09-13T22:01:00.001+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Lime 2 recently. It is always nice to enjoy the view for Light Square and the building works next door were not too disruptive. Lime 2 has good menu of meals and snacks.

This time Merkel tried the mint hot chocolate. This was served in a glass with a saucer and a marshmallow. The taste was appealing because it did not overdo the mint flavour. This was a better mix than at Delish and Ink. The cost was $3.60.

Au Matin Calme, King William Rd

2011-09-11T13:12:00.001+09:30

Au Matin Calm has opened a second shop in King William Road Hyde Park. It is over the road from Mulot's Pattisserie and not far from Spats. There are cakes and croissants available here but the omelettes and other food prepared on site are not available from this outlet.

Merkel chose the dark hot chocolate. It came in a tall ceramic mug. It was the same tasty blend of chocolate as was available at Hutt Street shop but there was more of it. There were sweeter flavours in this chocolate such as coconut or vanilla. The drink was topped with a brown froth and cost four dollars.

Funk, Mile End

2011-09-07T21:22:00.000+09:30

Funk Coffee and Food have seven outlets in the CBD and have a recent addition just outside the CBD in Mile End. The Mile End location serves a number of office buildings recently established in the area. The Mile End Café has a similar menu and decor as the other outlets. There is plenty of seating inside and outside.

The hot chocolate is frothy and creamy. It has a good chocolaty flavour although is a little sweet. It is topped with a white froth and served in a ceramic cup and sauce. The cost is $3.40.

Elephant Walk

2011-09-06T21:56:00.000+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited Elephant Walk this evening. This is a very popular place on Melbourne Street, North Adelaide. It has limited opening hours and limited seating so it is difficult to find a vacancy. It was third time lucky for your reviewer. The café is dark and intimate much like Spats on King William Road although with less of the ornate fixtures and fittings. The desserts and beverages also are more simple but still an adequate highlight to a pleasant evening.

Merkel enjoyed the Irish hot chocolate which was a mug of hot chocolate flavoured with Bailey's Irish Cream. The hot chocolate came topped with a white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. A pink and a white marshmallow were also provided. The hot chocolate was creamy with a milk chocolate flavour. The flavour of the Baileys became more evident as the level of the drink drew lower. The cost was $8.00.

The Haus, Hahndorf

2011-09-04T20:52:00.001+09:30

The Haus on the main street of Hahndorf is a big, friendly table service restaurant. It is a licensed venue that does meals all day and provides plenty of seating indoors and also outside on the decking with a view of the street.

The hot chocolate came in a tall glass with a handle and two marshmallows. The chocolate and milk had not been mixed leaving the chocolate and milk clearly visible in two layers through the walls of the glass. This was a nice decorative touch however a longer spoon would have made the mixing task less messy. The chocolate flavour was good and the drink, topped with froth and plenty of chocolate powder cost $3.80.

Caffe Casalinga, Hahndorf

2011-09-03T08:11:00.000+09:30

"Casalinga" is a popular name for Italian restaurants meaning "Housewife". A previous review has appeared here for a restaurant of the same name. Merkel and Myrtle dined at this restaurant in the main street of Hahndorf recenctly. It is a friendly Italian restaurant serving pizza, pasta and other meals and had a live band on a Thursday night. The walls were adorned with vivid works of local artists. The meal and the music were very pleasant.

The hot chocolate came in a ceramic Vittoria cup and saucer. The Vittoria logo was on the inside of the cup and middle of the saucer. A dark chocolate wrapped in foil also carried the Vittoria brand. The hot chocolate was topped with a white froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The hot chocolate and the wrapped chocolate were tasty and cost $3.60.

Chocolate @ No. 5

2011-09-02T13:10:00.000+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited Hahndorf again recently. One of the main attractions for Merkel is always Chocolate @ No. 5. This café, in an old stone cottage, is dedicated to high quality chocolate drinks and desserts.

Merkel chose the dark Belgian hot chocolate which was available in regular for $5.00 or large for $6.00. It was served in a colourful mug and saucer and was a good rich Belgian Chocolate flavour. The froth was decorated with "No. 5" on top marked with chocolate powder.

The King of Sandwich

2011-09-01T12:57:00.000+09:30

This is another stall in the Citi Centre foodcourt at 11 Rundle Mall. As the name suggests the shop sells a range of sandwiches that are freshly made or prepackaged. The store is closer to Hindmarsh Square than Yiros & Health Food and Donut King.

The hot chocolate came in a ceramic mug and cost only three dollars. It was topped with a heap of froth and plenty of chocolate powder. The chocolate flavour was a little weak but it was a creamy drink.

Yiros and Health Food

2011-08-30T20:47:00.000+09:30

This is a stall in food court of the Citi Centre arcade off Rundle Mall. Yiros and Health Food is few stalls south of Donut King. Yiros is available from the traditional vertical meat cookers which always look tempting. As well there is a range of healthy foods and sandwiches.

The hot chocolate came in a decorative ceramic mug and saucer with a napkin and paper spoon. The drink was topped with a white froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The drink was creamy but not particular rich, but was reasonable value for only three dollars.

Mulot's Patisserie

2011-08-28T20:59:00.000+09:30

Mulot's is a French patisserie at 143 King William Road, Hyde Park, south of Jones the Grocer. It does takeaway cakes and pastries but also runs cooking classes. This is a small shop with a couple of table inside and a couple outsided. Merkel and Myrtle were on King William Road for the closing function of SALA 2011 where many works were on display from various SALA artists.

The hot chocolate came in a glass with a wire handle and a brown froth and sprinkle of dark chocolate powder on top. The cup was served in a saucer with a paper doily. The drink was a good rich dark flavour. The beverage is cheaper with a cake or croissant but individually costs $4.15.

Kibbies

2011-08-27T21:34:00.000+09:30

Your reviewer returned to Kibbies on King William Road recently. He was hoping for one the the luxurious Fraus hot chocolates, but alas, they no longer serve them at Kibbies. The standard hot chocolate was nowhere near as impressive. It was served in a glass mug and saucer and was topped with a white forth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. The cost was $3.20.

There is a word puzzle on the blackboard at Kibbie's offering a glass of wine for the winner. The answer is five five-letter words. I would not want to give the secret away but if you readd an egger to an agile delta, your dream may come true.

American Candy Stand Cupcake Café

2011-08-26T22:11:00.001+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited the American Candy Stand recently on Norwood Parade. It was hard to imagine what be included in an Amercian themed Café as the US culture seems to have infused itself so much into our everyday life. However this café did a good job. Frank Sinatra was singing on the TV screen and there were flavours like oreo cookie, cherry cola and peanut butter & jelly. Fudge and brownies were there but also more standard types of cake and biscuits were available.

There were six small works for SALA 2011 festival. The works by Ben Nicholls and Victoria Highet were decorative without making any statement or pushing any boundaries.

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups are a peculiarly American confectionery. They have peanut butter inside with a thick covering of chocolate. The American Candy Stand offer a Reese's hot chocolate which of course has a strong peanut flavour. It was served in a tall glass and was topped with froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The peanut flavour was good but fairly overpowering. This was probably consistent with the Reese's recipe. The listed price was $5.90. The Café also had a standard hot chocolate and the Lindt hot chocolate on the menu like Just Tickled Pink.

The Real Hot Chocolate

2011-08-25T14:38:00.004+09:30

Anyone claiming to be The Real Hot Chocolate will attract the attention of Merkel Marmaduke. A friend found these instant hot chocolates at Wheel & Barrow in Norwood. They are simply a block of chocolate on the end of a spoon much like the concept of Chau Colat. You just warm up the milk and put your chocolate on a stick, or a spoon in this case, in the milk and wait for it melt.

The Real Hot Chocolate is made in New South Wales and available in flavours of milk, lime, dark, white, orange, caramel and strawberry. I went for the Dark which produced a good flavoured dark hot chocolate. The chocolate softens and mixes reasonably quickly but some restraint is required to avoid eating the chocolate off the end of the spoon before it has fully melted.

Other places that apparently stock "The Real Hot Chocolate" are Jones the Grocer, Alfonso's Continental, Wild Thyme, Shankers Authentic Indian Cuisine and Udder Delights Cheese Cellar in Hahndorf.

Dragonfly

2011-08-24T21:45:00.000+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited Dragonfly on Victoria Square again today. It is another SALA 2011 exhibitor. This time it was the vivid and imaginative oils of Greta Laundy. These were large brightly coloured works with a theme of nature and complexity.

The hot chocolate was served in the same chunky glass as last time with a marshmallow in the saucer. The hot chocolate had a good dark flavour and cost four dollars.

Muffin Break, City Cross

2011-08-23T19:57:00.001+09:30

Muffin Break is now at six locations in South Australia and many more in the rest of Australia. Your reviewer has been to Muffin Break outlets at Marion and Golden Grove shopping centres and today ventured to the new outlet at City Cross. Muffin Break provides a large variety of muffins, some savory meals and hot beverages.

The hot chocolate came in a ceramic mug with the Muffin Break logo on both sides and the saucer. The mug was topped with a creamy froth and a sprinkle of cocoa. The chocolate was creamy, but not particularly rich and was lightly flavoured with cinnamon or coconut. The cost should have been $3.60 for the standard drink plus 50 cents for the larger size but your reviewer was charged $4.30. The proprieter tried to explain that this was because it was a hot chocolate but all hot beverages were listed at the same price. I am not sure whether he accepted my point or just did not want to waste time arguing, but he returned the 20 cents.

Villi's Café

2011-08-21T21:41:00.003+09:30

Villi's are a well known Adelaide bakery and they run a 24 hour Café at 2/14 Manchester Street, Mile End. The Café offers all the Villi's bakery specialties as well as café meals. The Café is well equipped, clean and bright despite being in the backstreets. The other 24-hour bakeries I have reviewed are Bakery on O'Connell and Enjoy Cafe Bakery and all do good inexpensive meals.

The hot chocolate comes in a big Villi's mug. The mug promotes the company well , as the Villi's logo is on the outside viewer facing position, the Villi's motto is on the outside drinker facing position and the Villi's website is on the inside drinker facing position. The hot chocolate is creamy, light and chocolaty and is topped with a bubbly froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The cost is $3.20.

Jam the Bistro

2011-08-19T22:10:00.001+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle visited Jam the Bistro at 64 Wright Street approximately a year after Merkel last visited this restaurant. Last year this was an exhibitor in SALA 2010 and this year Jam the Bistro continues with SALA 2011. They are exhibiting the works of Shannon Poulton. The exhibition is series of nudes using stencils and boldy applied oil colours reminiscent of the series of nudes by David Bromley.

The hot chocolate came in a custom decorated coffee cup and saucer. It was topped with a white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. The flavour was a lighter swiss style milk chocolate and cost $3.40.

Lunch at Ritz

2011-08-18T20:25:00.000+09:30

The signage outside still proclaims this café as the Ritz Café Espresso Bar. It is a busy lunch place at 180 Gawler Place. The regular hot chocolate still costs only three dollars and comes in glass and a saucer. A marshmallow was also provided. This is still a creamy hot chocolate with a good froth but the chocolate is not particularly rich.

Higher Ground Café

2011-08-17T20:05:00.000+09:30

On previous visits to Higher Ground Art Café there had been not much available for lunch but this time the waiters were ready and willing to provide baguettes and crepes together with a variety of beverages. Higher Ground can be found at 9 Light Square and its central function as Gallery means that it is always a key venue for Fringe and SALA festivals. For the SALA 2011 festival it is exhibiting a range of artists who call themselves the "Super Friends". I liked the white ceramic gloves by Ebony Heidenreich distributed randomly around the corner of the room. I also enjoyed the colourful skateboards by an artist I cannot recall and the realistic watercolour portraits by Piyarat Mukura.

The hot chocolate was available in a cup for $3.20 and a mug for $3.80. The mug was topped with a white froth and a liberal sprinkling of chocolate powder. The milk chocolate flavour was not particularly rich but was still comforting on a cold day.

National Wine Centre

2011-08-16T21:39:00.001+09:30

The National Wine Centre on the corner of North Terrace and Hackney Road is an impressive build and has a fairly swish Concourse Café. The Centre is also an exhibitor for the SALA 2011 where they are showing the work of Kangaroo Island artists with a theme of the Glossy Black Cockatoo. The work of over 20 artists is on display using a range of media. The colourful Cockatoo is an excellent theme for the artwork. Your reviewer's favourites were the vivid glasswork of Llewelyn Ash and the detailed etchings of Janet Ayliffe.

The hot chocolate came in a glass and saucer with two homemade marshmallows. The chocolate was a delicious dark rich flavour. It was creamy and was topped with a froth and dark chocolate powder. The hot chocolate cost three dollars. This was an excellent place for a hot chocolate and a look at the art, even if you had no interest in wine.

Chocolate Bean, Butterscotch

2011-08-15T20:47:00.000+09:30

Your reviewer returned to Chocolate Bean for another of their multitude of flavours of hot chocolate. This time it was the butterscotch flavour being reviewed. The butterscotch flavour went well with the Chocolate Bean creamy style of Belgian hot chocolate. The flavour did not overpower or over-sweeten the chocolate flavour. The drink was served on the usual mug on a square saucer and cost $4.80

Delish Golden Rough

2011-08-14T13:05:00.000+09:30

I returned to Delish on Victoria Square for another of their flavoured hot chocolates. This time the flavour was called "Golden Rough" which was a bit of mystery because I do not ever recall consuming one of the Nestle biscuits of the same name. The taste was of caramel and coconut and did not seem as sweet as the the other flavours at Delish. The hot chocolate came in the normal glass with decorative froth and cost $4.60.

Bar 9 has Moved

2011-08-13T11:17:00.004+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle ventured to Bar 9 to discover it has moved across the road to 96 Glen Osmond Road. It is now in a bigger, renovated stone building and offers an expanded the menu. It is also one of the exhibitors in the South Australian Living Arts Festival (SALA) 2011. On show were works by Nicholas Thomas which were realistic paintings of dolls and other toys which left an eerie and unsettling impression on the viewer.

Since last vist Bar 9 has added a Begian hot chocolate to their list of beverages. The drink came in a big black and white mug and sacucer. There was a thin froth on top with a sprinkle of cocoa. The Belgain chocolate flavour was great but could have been richer. The cost was $4.80. For coffee drinkers, the Bar 9 baristas still display great skill in Latte Art.

Price's Bakery & Coffee

2011-08-10T20:46:00.000+09:30

Just next to Eurolls in the Southern Cross Arcade is Price's Bakery & Coffee. This stall provides a good range of pies, pasties and buns to take away or eat in the food hall.

The hot chocolate cost $2.80 and came in fancy looking mug. The drink was topped with a bubbly froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. This was a little more chocolaty than the one at Eurolls and not very expensive, but still not a great hot chocolate.

Eurolls

2011-08-09T21:17:00.000+09:30

Eurolls is located in the Southern Cross Arcade of King William Street near Cafe One. It provides a range of inexpensive sandwiches and rolls. Food is available for take away or for eating in the food hall.

The hot chocolate only cost $2.60 for cup and and $3.00 for mug. Merkel was served a mug topped with a heap of white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. The drink was weak and watery but certainly not the worst he has tasted.

Delish Mint

2011-08-08T21:42:00.000+09:30

Mint hot chocolates are somewhat challenging to get right. They can too easily turn out tasting like chalk or toothpaste. The Mint Hot Chocolate at Delish Espresso at 195 Victoria Square was recommended to me. Around the same time one of my readers criticised the Mint Hot Chocolate at Ink Café a few doors South of Delish.

The hot chocolate came in a glass with a dark froth and a dollop of white froth covered with a semi-circle of chocolate powder. The hot chocolate was on the Delish blackboard as "Mint Slice" which possibly infringes the Arnott's trading name for their biscuit of that name. However the drink was reminiscent of this biscuit exhibiting a good balance between the mint and chocolate flavours. The taste of Delish hot chocolate was better than Ink Café, although at $4.60 it was a more expensive drink for a smaller glass.

Just Tickled Pink

2011-08-07T12:58:00.002+09:30

Just Tickled Pink is a specialist cupcake shop opposite Patisserie Jin on 247 Unley Road, Hyde Park. As you enter the store you are stuck by the many portraits of Audrey Hepburn and in particular photographs of her role in Breakfast at Tiffanys. This is reminiscent of the Marilyn Monroe adoration displayed in A Café Etc. The effect in Just Tickled Pink is shop devoted glamour, femininity and good cupcakes.

Your reviewer chose the special Lindt Hot Chocolate that was on the menu. It came in a stemmed glass with handle. It was topped with a white froth and a syrup design. Two chocolate flowers were delicately balanced on the edge of the glass. These sunk below the surface as they were being photographed. There were a number of pink and white mini-marshmallows served in the saucer and there were syrup designs visible through the glass. This was the most elaborate of presentations. Fortunately the taste of the Lindt hot chocolate lived up to this presentation. It had a rich distinctive Lindt Swiss milk chocolate flavour and cost $6.50.

Puccini's

2011-08-06T10:49:00.002+09:30

309 Fullarton Road used to be the location of Savior and Camellia Tea Rooms. Now the place has had a sophisticated makeover and is a fine table service restaurant called Puccini's. This restaurant has been open about six weeks and got its liquor license last week. Despite focussing on the lunch and dinner market it was open on Saturday morning when Merkel and Myrtle enjoyed a hearty breakfast.

The hot chocolate came in a tall glass that was too hot to touch with a dark brown froth. It contained a deliciously rich, distinctive tasting Haighs hot chocolate. The hot chocolate cost $5.00.

Chocolate Bean Caramel

2011-08-02T21:17:00.001+09:30

It was time for another hot chocolate at the Chocolate Bean. This time it was the Caramel Hot Chocolate. It came in its usual generous mug with a bubbly froth and a small dollop of whipped cream in the middle. There was some trepidation as I tried the Caramel as this can a fairly sweet flavouring but it worked well with hot chocolate giving it a chocolate bar flavour. The cost of the medium mug at Chocolate Bean is $4.80.

Adelaide Coffee Bar

2011-08-01T21:10:00.001+09:30

Merkel returned to the Adelaide Coffee Bar for lunch. This is long surviving specialty coffee shop.

The main attraction for keen hot chocolate drinkers is the the Italian Hot Chocolate. As the chocolate mixer was hidden away Merkel tried their standard hot chocolate. This was was served in a white ceramic cup and saucer with a white froth and semicircle of chocolate powder on top. The chocolate flavour was good with out being outsanding. The standard hot chocolate was $3.40.

Merkel returned a couple of days later for the Italian hot chocolate which was $4.50. This was great drink. It was unmistakably Italian hot chocolate although not as thick as some. It was served in a ceramic cup and topped with whipped cream and sprinkle of cocoa.

The Croyden Store

2011-07-31T12:14:00.000+09:30

Elizabeth Street Croydon boasts two great eating places. They are the Queen Street Café and the Red Door Bakery. Nearby is the a Café called The Croydon Store which has also got signage suggesting it is Ye Olde Croydon Deli. Inside there is a range of different styles of table and eclectic memoribillia like old vinyl LP covers and old books. The service and food is not quite as slick as the Cafes down the road the Croyden Store probably still can count on the overflow from these popular venues.

The hot chocolate came in small glass and saucer. The drink was topped with a dollop of froth and a dunked pink marshmallow. The drink was not particular creamy or chocolaty but only cost three dollars. The recommendation for hot chocolate lovers visiting this group of shops is the Red Door Bakery.

Café One

2011-07-30T13:17:00.000+09:30

Café One is near the entrance to Southern Cross Arcade not far from BreadTop. It provides a number of continental café style meals and provides a good range of hot beverages. Merkel chose the Vienna hot chocolate for a change. It came in a ceramic cup topped with whipped cream and a dusting of chocolate powder. This was a creamy drink but Merkel would have preferred a darker, richer chocolate. The cost was $3.50.

Manna Café e Ristorante

2011-07-28T21:04:00.000+09:30

It had been some time since Merkel and Myrtle visited Manna Café for lunch. It is now Manna Café e Ristorante and is bit more up market than a couple of years ago. It provides attentive table service and a full menu of Italian style meals.

The hot chocolate came in a big mug and saucer. A marshmallow was provided in the saucer and the drink was topped with a white froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. This hot chocolate was easy to drink. It had a good milk chocolate flavour and was not too sweet.

BreadTop, King William Street

2011-07-27T21:42:00.000+09:30

This oriental bakery is amazing shop for inexpensive buns, rolls and cakes. The creations are tasty and fresh. Most people takeaway but there are a few tables and bar stools for eating in. Merkel and Myrtle visit BreadTop in Grote Street some time ago. This time it was the outlet at the King William Street entrance to Southern Cross Arcade.

The hot chocolate came in a mug and probably cost $3.20. The mug had BreadTop's own logo. It was topped with a white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. It was not a great hot chocolate but on a cold day it disappeared quickly before Merkel thought to take a photograph of it.

Delish, Orange

2011-07-26T21:34:00.001+09:30

I have been identified for the second time in the history of this blog. As I entered Delish there was a portable computer on the counter. The waitress turned the screen to reveal that it was logged into "Hot Chocolate: Dark Desires" and asked me whether I was responsible for this blog. Fortunately, I enjoy visiting this little Café on Victoria Square and look forward to sampling the different flavours of hot chocolate they have available.

It was time to try the Delish orange hot chocolate, creatively named as "Chocwork Orange". This was nicely presented with a froth pattern and a semicircle of chocolate powder. The orange flavour was in better balance than the orange hot chocolate at Au Martin Calme but the Jaffa at Fiefys made with dark Belgian chocolate is still my favourite.

The waiter at Delish said that he envied me my quest of trying as many different hot chocolates in Adelaide as possible. It is true that this is a somewhat enjoyable pursuit but I am not without a sense of duty to my loyal readers.

Cibo, Melbourne Street

2011-07-25T19:15:00.000+09:30

A new Cibo has been established at the corner of Melbourne Street and Jerningham Street in North Adelaide. It has plenty of seating inside and outside and makes an excellent Cioccolata Italiana for $4.50. It was served with a dollop of whipped cream which is the way your reviewer likes it.

Au Martin Calme, Orange

2011-07-24T17:40:00.001+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Au Martin Calme on Saturday morning for an omelette and a hot chocolate. This time Merkel tried the Orange Hot Chocolate. The drink was served with the same mug and same brown froth as before with a small dollop of white froth in the middle. The flavour of the chocolate and orange was good but the drink became too sickly sweet towards the bottom. A darker flavour chocolate is more suited to Orange chocolate drinks.

Grace the Establishment

2011-07-22T16:08:00.004+09:30

Lachlan Colwill wrote an opinion piece on page 40 of the July edition of The Adelaide Review discussing the relative merits of food bloggers and journalists. He suggests that for reviewers "an expansive knowledge of classic and modern fine dining should be on the resume". He also suggests that bloggers receive "freebies for good reviews, basically bribes" and this extends to bribes from producers and suppliers. I am obviously missing out! The article was peppered with unedifying rhetorical questions such as, "who deserves more respect, the journalist or the blogger?". Given the standard of Lachlan's journalism, by his own argument his culinary skills must be excellent, so I wandered along to Grace where he provides his expertise as a Chef.

Grace is split into two areas "The Bar" has bar seating and "The Establishment" is a naturally lit area at the back with restaurant style dining. There are different menus for both areas but patrons can order from either at the bar. The emphasis is on grazing style meals. I will not comment on the barramundi or the beef tortilla because my fine dining resume does not pass muster. I think I should be permitted to discuss the hot chocolate as I have reviewed more than 700 of these drinks and this humble reviewer is the most viewed food blogger in South Australia on Urban Spoon.

The hot chocolate came in a glass with saucer. While there was nothing to stop the fingertips from burning, the beverage was not so hot that this was a problem. The hot chocolate was delivered without the adornment of froth but the chocolate flavour was good without being too sweet. The texture was smooth and was better than your standard powdery hot chocolate. The hot chocolate cost $3.80.

The donuts with aerated chocolate sauce were also nice as a dessert. I compare these with the churros that I reviewed elsewhere. I prefer the dark dense chocolate sauce which generally comes with churros. The star cross-section of churros helps pick up good quantities of chocate. Grace's cinnamon donut balls were fresh and tasty though.

So Lachlan, that was not such a bad review. Do I get a free steak next time I vist one of your restaurants?

Delish, Cherry

2011-07-22T11:48:00.000+09:30

Merkel returned to the friendly staff at Delish Espresso because of tip-off that they were serving flavoured hot chocolates. He chose the "Cherry Ripe" hot chocolate. The combination of dark chocolate and cherry fruit works well in the chocolate bar of that name. The hot chocolate came in a glass with a dark froth and a dollop of white froth covered with a semi-circle of chocolate powder. The chocolate and cherry flavours were rich but the combination was too sweet for Merkel's taste. There was enough merit in the beverage to look forward to return to try another flavour. The flavoured hot chocolate was $4.60.

Essential Café, Iced

2011-07-20T19:58:00.001+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Essential Café. This time Merkel had the iced chocolate for $4.50. It was topped with vanilla ice cream, cream and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. It came in a tall glass and had a good dark colour. This was well-presented iced chocolate and it was richer and less sweet than many iced chocolates around town.

Ink Café, Mint

2011-07-18T18:50:00.000+09:30

Merkel and Myrtle returned to Ink Café and were pleased to see a small blackboard on the counter advertising Mint Hot Chocolate. Mint hot chocolates last appeared in this blog for ETC and Stax. While Mint is not Merkel's favourite flavouring of hot chocolate it can provide an interesting contrast to a dark chocolate flavour. The hot chocolate was served in a glass and a saucer and was topped with a brown froth and a line of chocolate powder. It was a good dark chocolate flavour although the mint was a bit overpowering for Merkel's taste. The drink cost $3.50.

The Little Fig

2011-07-17T17:23:00.001+09:30

This little coffee shop at 90b Winston Avenue, Melrose was once Coffee Time. The décor has changed a little and there are a few more items on the menu, but it is still a shop for coffee and cake with plenty of reading material available.

The hot chocolate came in a stemmed glass with a handle served on a saucer with a pink marshmallow. It was topped with a white froth and sprinkle of chocolate powder. The chocolate flavour was good and the price has dropped to $3.30 since Coffee Time.

Thyme

2011-07-16T10:11:00.002+09:30

I noticed that the venue I recently new as Brunch had changed its name to Thyme. This was puzzling until I noticed the big sign on the wall that said "Open for Dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday". Brunch probably is not a good name for a dinner venue. The normal lunch and breakfast menu had been extended to include dinners and there was stronger focus on table service. A pot of aromatic thyme was placed on each table which was a nice touch.

The hot chocolate came in a glass with a saucer. The drink was creamy and chocolaty and topped with a brown froth and a sprinkle of chocolate powder. The syrup design has disappeared over the last couple years and the price has risen to $3.20 but the quality of the hot chocolate is still good.