Chocolate isn’t just a guilty pleasure anymore. New research into its health benefits, and the emergence of single-origin and varietal chocolate, have lent the luscious sweet a cachet equaled only by fine wine. And as interest in fine chocolate grows, chocolate tours are also increasingly popular. For chocoholics who travel regionally or locally — or just from an armchair — this book is the ultimate West Coast tour, covering 13 cities and regions including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, Las Vegas, Portland, Seattle, and British Columbia. Featuring more than 50 of the West Coast's top chocolate spots, The Chocolate Guide is essential reading for anyone looking for a new chocolate experience: this includes chocolate lovers (of course) but also food writers, journalists, and gift-givers looking for unique presents for their favorite cacao connoisseur. Along with informative chocolate profiles, this beautifully designed and illustrated coffee-table book includes articles on tasting, storing, dining, and cooking.