In celebration of International Chocolate Day on 13 September, we did something extra sweet here at Dineplan to celebrate. We set out on a choco-quest, quizzing our team about their go-to spots when the chocolate cravings hit!
From pastries and cake to frozen desserts and decadent chocolate cocktails, here are 18 of our favourite chocolate treats, handpicked by true aficionados.
Chocolate cakes and pastries
When it comes to starting your day, there’s nothing better than a fresh, buttery pastry. And, when it comes to artisanal pastries, it’s hard to beat Coco Safar. With branches at the V&A Waterfront and in Sea Point, Ben swears by their chocolate croissant.
It was probably the best croissant I’ve ever had! – Ben McCabe
And for those afternoon cravings? The Sachertorte at Postcard Café in Stellenbosch is a bestseller (and Paige’s personal favourite) for a reason! Her words: “With layers of rich, dark Valrhona chocolate and almond cake, it’s the perfect teatime treat.” As for Mike R., he says the vegan chocolate brownie from Rachella’s Café & Venue in Menlyn, Pretoria is one of his favourites.
Chocolate desserts
At Dineplan, it seems that we’re united in our love for chocolate fondants. Catherine gives the chocolate fondant at Aubergine Restaurant her vote. Served with fruit and matcha ice cream, it’s rich, fresh and earthy. Meanwhile, Mike K. dreams about the fondant at Die Damhuis in Melkbosstrand.
The fondant is made with Belgian dark chocolate, delivering the perfect “chocolatey-ness”. The candied orange and orange reduction also pair beautifully with the rich cake. – Mike K.
And Mike R. says that when he’s in Pretoria he either goes for the chocolate volcano at Huckleberry’s or the gooey molten chocolate pudding at Doppio Zero.
As for Georgie, she says that the deep-fried bao at Bao Down in Green Point is her go-to chocolate dessert. While Paige says she always leaves room for the chocolate ganache pie at De Eetkamer in Stellenbosch. And Rory raves about the tonka bean churros at The Pot Luck Club.
Served with malted chocolate sauce, the tonka bean churros at the PLC are super rich and satisfying. The portion size is perfect! – Rory Newkirk
Another staff favourite is the classic post-dinner pick-me-up – tiramisu. Mia rates the tiramisu at Limoncello Ristorante in Noordhoek as one of her favourites, while Ben says the tiramisu for two at Club Kloof is not to be skipped.
Chocolate gelato, sundaes and milkshakes
Ice cream fans, we’ve got you! Maxine says she heads straight to Clarke’s for their chocolate sundae when the cravings hit.
It’s chocolate, toffee, nuts, ice cream and cherries, what’s not to love? – Maxine Sa Couto
While Nikita declares that the chocolate sundae at The Nines is her favourite feel-good treat. She recommends that you book a table outside and enjoy your ice cream with the best ocean views in Cape Town.
And for those in Durban? Warren says the chocolate milkshake at Burnedale Bistro (who won the title of “best milkshake” in the Best of Ballito awards earlier this year) is his ultimate indulgence. Topped with fudgy brownies and whipped cream, it really is a winner.
Chocolate and wine pairing
If you’re touring around Stellenbosch, heed Natalie’s advice and book a wine and chocolate pairing at the Waterford tasting room. “Chocolate and wine are pretty much the ultimate pairing,” says Nats, “and the selections at Waterford are wonderful.”
It’s great getting to taste the difference between sipping wines separately and then with the chocolates! – Natalie Munro
Chocolate cocktails
If you’re a chocolate lover and cocktails are your thing, you’re not alone! Both Nikita and Georgie are fans too. Nikita makes sure to order one of the famous chocolate martinis at Hussar Grill on date nights, saying how it’s the perfect chocolatey dessert cocktail. While Georgie says you have to try the Gin Alexander cocktail at StrangeLove. Made with white cacao, nutmeg and local gin from the Hope distillery downstairs, it comes with a nutmeg macaroon which “just makes it that much better” she exclaims.
This cocktail has no business being as good as it is. The only way to describe it is that it tastes like Christmas. – Georgie Jadrijevich
That’s it from us here at Dineplan!
Are you a chocoholic? We’d love to hear about your favourites too. So, don’t be shy – share your beloved chocolate desserts and where to find them in the comments below.
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