Chocolate aficionados, rejoice! Al
and I have found the best chocolate truffles in the world here in the state of Texas.
More precisely, here in Calvert, Texas. Calvert is a small town north of
Bryan-College Station on Texas highway 6. Last Friday, Al and I were wondering
how we should enjoy the incredible weather we were having here in Texas. A few weeks ago, a dear friend of mine had
pointed out that great handmade chocolate treats were available just north of
Bryan, so I mentioned to Al that I thought it sounded like the perfect daytrip.
What could possibly make a beautiful day any better than eating chocolate? Fantastic rich chocolate that melts in your
mouth like water from an oasis in the desert!
In my world, there’s absolutely nothing that can’t be made better by
chocolate. Al broke my train of thought
with lewd words. “But what about our New Year’s Resolution to lose weight?” he
asked. We looked at each other and started laughing. I knew we were headed to
Calvert to find this emporium of chocolate called CocoaModa!
Calvert is a little sleepy town
with a large historical district situated along Texas 6 (Main Street). As we
parked our car and scanned the businesses, we could see a few tourists like
ourselves meandering along Main Street.
It was pretty clear that the primary destination for most of these tourists
was CocoaModa, the Chocolate Boutique and French restaurant owned and operated
by Chef Ken Wilkinson. Walking into the
beautifully restored Victorian building we were greeted by Chef Wilkinson
himself. A classically- trained British
chef, he was gracious and energetic in classic British voice. It was clear that
he had a passion for chocolate and willingness to share his knowledge with
all. Sharing a sample of his product
didn’t hurt either!
As we mulled over our selections,
Chef Wilkinson waited patiently with box in hand and a clear understanding of
our frustration over the choices. We finally made our selections but needed one
more to complete our box. Without hesitation, Chef Wilkinson picked up one of
his favorites to complete our box, confident in his decision. We were as excited
as two young children getting our Christmas gifts a day early! Knowing that he brings
in the finest ingredients from all over the world to create incredible
chocolate truffles in Texas added to our anticipation. Later I learned that unlike many more
traditional truffles, the centers of these fine confections are very liquid,
creating a burst of fresh flavor in each delicious bite.
I’m a bit of a chocolate
connoisseur and I’ve had the privilege of having chocolate from the best of Belgium
and Switzerland as well as many of the brands you find typically in the United
States, but I have never had an experience quite like this. These truffles are unquestionably the finest
I’ve ever tasted. The CocoaModa goal is to put Texas on the map for great
chocolate, and in my opinion, Ken Wilkinson has met that goal!
In addition to the chocolate
boutique, CocoModa serves a multi-course dinner on Friday and Saturday
evenings. These French dinners are by
reservation only and the menu is chosen by the Chef and published on the
CocoaModa Facebook page. Diners are
encouraged to bring their own wine/liquor for dinner. The great food and a lovely setting combined
with the charming and energetic chef is sure to make for a memorable dining
experience.
So far, Al and I
have enjoyed the raspberry, passion fruit, key lime, rum, and hazelnut
truffles. I’m saving the lavender and
espresso for another day. CocoaModa has
made a lasting impression on us. Who knew that some of the best chocolate in
the world could be found in Texas Thru My Back Door!
Note: Here's a link to a video with information on how these truffles are made: CocoaModa Video
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