Not again DC…

While following a hot chocolate trail through the Adams Morgan district to Mixtec, I observed the after work activities of the local population. Some played basketball, ran or strolled down these historical streets. Others dined the evening away at one of the many quaint restaurants that lined the main street. In my eyes, the area was clear representation of having a nice work/life balance. But then again, who am I? I don’t even live there…

At last, I arrived at Mixtec for my third and last hot chocolate tasting of the evening. The restaurant was small and split into two sides. But the best thing of all, was that both sides of the restaurant were filled with occupants. Clearly, this meant the food must be good! Although I was really there for the hot chocolate, I was starving for “real” food by that time. Since Mexican food is my favorite, I thought I would partake in a complete dining experience. Unfortunately, it was getting dark outside and I was a little too far from my hotel to try and get back in the dark. So, I opted to order two chicken tacos, one quesadilla and a hot chocolate “to go”.

After taking seat at one of the few open tables, I proceeded to dream about what was going to be in store with Mixtec’s Mexican hot chocolate. Did it have a hint of cinnamon? A dash of chilies? Did the beans come from Oaxaca or from one of the local Meso-American bean growing regions? My poor stomach growled so loudly it snapped me in to reality and the fact my order wasn’t ready. Hmmm! They are very efficient with serving other people. What is going on? Low and behold, the server came back and explained he was on batch number two of trying to make my hot chocolate. He stated the “milk was curdling or something” and it was not working out. If time wasn't an issue I would have said, “Please try again.” However, father time was not allowing me the option to stay any longer.

With my order in hand, I was off to the Metro to return to my hotel. My second hot chocolate disappointment this trip. Although the food was delicious, the experience couldn't erase my disenchantment with another failed hot chocolate trip in Washington, DC. To ease my sadness I ordered Creme Brulee from the hotel restaurant. It was definitely a nice surprise!

Yelp.com sent me here!

Both air conditioners decided to crap out on me in the middle of the Texas summer so I am way behind in sharing my experiences from DC. Nonetheless, while I was sweating to death down here, I was reminiscing of my hot chocolate experience at Locolat.

After enjoying a splendid yet bug interrupted dining experience at L’Enfant, I made my way to Locolat. Located on 1781 Florida Ave NW in the Adams Morgan district, Locolat is tucked back on Florida Ave. As another Yelp.com recommendation, I placed Locolat on my list to experience their hot chocolate for myself.

The storefront was amazingly open to view the culinary geniuses inside from the sidewalk. If you do not have the money to enjoy one of their confections, at least you can watch the masters hone their craft. Upon entering the store, I was greeted by a lovely case of colorful chocolate delicacies. Although I had hot chocolate on the mind, I had to take a little something home to my husband. A few seconds later a friendly face welcomed me and provided insight on the various candies and truffles. I selected the 5 piece box consisting of a Raspberry Chocolate Candy, a Mojito Chocolate Candy, a White Chocolate Truffle, a Passion Fruit Candy and a Pistachio Chocolate Candy. All were neatly placed in a cute pink and brown “to go box”. For myself, I ordered a round of dark hot chocolate. After I asked the type of milk I wished to have with my order, the Locolat associate whipped up my hot chocolate.

Upon being served, I struck up a conversation with the associate only to find out she and her husband owned Locolat and they both lived in California for a period of time! I knew there was something special about that place. While a having wonderful conversation about love, life, relocating and the American way, my hot chocolate lost it’s froth and optimal temperature. She offered to reheat, but I declined. I sipped it anyways and it was FABULOUS. Locolat uses only Belgian chocolate for their confectionery delights. Whole milk, in my opinion, makes it full-bodied, so it was a perfect pairing.

The husband/chocolatier/culinary confections guru, provided me a sample of pure Belgian chocolate and it was amazing. It was smooth and lacked the acidic snap you receive with some pure chocolates. Personally, I wish I had more Belgium hot chocolates on my shelves after that. So, now I have another action item when I get home.

I still had one last stop before I returned to the hotel, Mixtec. The husband/chocolatier/culinary confections guru graciously provided me with walking directions to my next hot chocolate stop. With my pink and brown chocolate box and a belly full of hot chocolate, I took off for my next adventure.

As for the chocolate candies for my husband, he gulped them down in one sitting. I asked him what his favorite was; he just said “they were good”. Trying to pull some feedback out of him, again all I received was, “they were good”. Geez, I wanted to have a dialogue about the flavors, variations and what his palette experienced with each bite. What was I thinking…

Let them eat crepes!

Initially, I was going to eat at Mixtec. However, I decided to add another location to the mix, Locolat. Yelp.com recommended Locolat for their chocolate experience, so I was following the Washington trail to the Adams Morgan area and DuPont Circle to try Locolat and Mixtec.


Since I exited the Metro a few exits too soon, I was able to enjoy and walk the bustling streets of Washington during the end-of-work-day-hours. I strolled past DuPont Circle and made my way to 18th Street with the assistance of a nice local man. My first stop was going to be Locolat on Florida Ave NW, however a little café at the corner of 18th street caught my eye. Although a huge bus was blocking the café, I saw “crepes” peeking out from the awnings. Everyone who knows me is aware the next best thing to a fabulous cup of hot chocolate are CREPES!

Quickly I switched directions and I was off to the French café across the street called Cafe L'Enfant on 18th. A few people were dining outside and enjoying the beautiful sunny weather. After reviewing a menu, I took a seat outside. For a minute there, I felt I was back in Paris on the Champs-Elysees at a true Parisian café.

Wishing to dine outside of the norm, I ordered a Grand Marnier and Caramel crepe and hot chocolate (of course!). As I waited for my meal, I enjoyed watching the busty streets of 18th and Florida Avenue. The friendly server delivered the hot chocolate arrived first. He must have known what I really wanted! Whipped cream was overflowing this huge café mug! I was wondering if there was actually any hot chocolate underneath there? Quickly I took a sip to determine the texture and flavor of the hot chocolate with the hopes the cream hasn’t influenced the hot chocolates flavor yet. First, impression….it’s a slight hot chocolate and not very chocolately. Next, the little stir spoon provided with the hot chocolate was put into action. I slowly mixed the frothy cream and chocolate together with the hopes the consistency would thicken a little. It helped, but I prefer deep chocolate hot chocolates.

The server returned a few moments later with a simple crèpe surrounded by a light brown liquid….the Grand Marnier. Finally, a crepe made properly. Lately restaurants have been making crepes very thick and loaded with crap. I dislike that immensely. Nonetheless, I took a bite. Whoa! Good thing I was walking because I definitely would have to take a breathalyzer test after this bad boy. A nice thin later of caramel peered between the crepe’s folds. The pairing of L’ Enfant’s hot chocolate and crepes made for a wonderful before dinner luxury.

I wish I could have stayed longer, but the local bugs were eating me alive. So, I was off! Now, I am back on the trail to Locolat and Mixtec.

The Loss of a Top 10

After a disappointing morning trying to find Café Sureia, I was ready to dine at Ceiba (701 14th St NW). My friend/co-worker, who previously resided in DC prior to relocating to Texas, was ready and willing to accompany me on this dining excursion. With her in tow, I know I wouldn’t get lost this time. We arrived for our 7:30 reservation a few minutes early and were seated immediately.

My dining selection for the evening was their Jalisco Spiced Softshell Crabs “Ala Plancha”. Our dinner was delicious, but my appetite could only be quenched after experiencing Ceiba’s legendary Mexican hot chocolate shooter and churros. With great anticipation, I placed my order with our server.

To my surprise, only the churros arrived with a small bowl of dark dipping chocolate and two marshmallows. Assuming the hot chocolate would arrive at any moment, I opted to immerse myself in the hot pastries rolled in cinnamon and sugar. Since I am partial to thick textured dipping and sipping chocolates, I found Ceiba’s dipping chocolate on the thin side. The hint of almond in the mix was nice addition.

By this time, I decide to stop ask the server on the status of the hot chocolate. We were told they no longer served the hot chocolate. My heart dropped and I became annoyed. We inquired as to why a top ranked hot chocolate by USA Today with PR recognition would no longer be served? The server went on to explain with the arrival of a new pastry chef, the Mexican hot chocolate was removed from the menu. Although the server explained the hot chocolates transition professionally and gracefully, I interrupted this as “another ego arrived on the scene and didn’t want to whip up someone else’s award winning item, so they decided to scrap it all together.” With that said, I ceased eating my churros and chocolate as disappointment took over.

Strike One (1) Washington, DC on the hot chocolate trail! I hope I have better luck with Mixtec…

Hot Chocolate, DC Style

I arrived in Washington, DC, yesterday afternoon hoping to embark on another hot chocolate adventure. A savory cup of hot chocolate is definitely needed after leaving Houston, Texas in the midst of Eduard. I must say, I could have kissed that Continental pilot after we landed out of that mess!

Besides working, I hope to visit Ceiba on 701 14th NW. Ceiba is one of USA Today’s top 10 best places to enjoy hot chocolate. Along the way, I hope to try a few local jaunts for some hot chocolate- DC style.