La Dolce Vita

La Dolce Vita

Known by Italians as "cibo degli dei," or food of the Gods, Livorno's annual Choccolandia is truly heaven on Earth. Featuring over twenty Italian chocolatiers and pastry artisans, the festival is a treat to behold. For five euro, each visitor is equipped with a wine glass and an open invitation to taste as many chocolate creations as possible. Offerings range from flavored sweets, to chocolate wine, to intricately carved David statues. A highlight of this year's fair is the "Chocolate Lab," in which guests are invited to attend live chocolate productions. Conducted by master chocolatiers Roberto Molesti and Giorgio Grilli, the workshop gives the viewer a firsthand look at the divine creation of one of Italy's favorite pleasures. As if this weren't enough, the festival is also home to the "Cioco Beauty Farm"Ð'--a spa-style experience in which participants can receive such treatments as manicures, massages, and makeoversÐ'--all employing coco-based products.

A lesser known element of Choccolandia is the free wine tasting. Showcasing exclusive wines from such regions as Empoli, Orvieto, and Verona, the festival encourages its visitors to indulge in all that the Italian culture has to offer. Servers adorned in elegantly tailored suits conduct short questionnaires to determine customer preference. This survey, combined with the server's expertise, is nearly infallible in pairing each individual with a wine which perfectly complements their taste. Though not available for purchase, refills are plentiful and the staff is always willing to oblige.

Be it the "food of the Gods" or a glass of "bottled poetry," the chocolate festival has something to offer everyone. A genuine celebration of the Italian lifestyle, it is an unforgettable event dedicated to lovers of good taste. As the slogan of the event warns, "insieme cercheremo di farvi cadere in tentazione;" "together we make you fall into temptation."