The Salon du Chocolat is a yearly fête looked forward to by Parisians and visitors to Paris alike. It’s held in the Fall over Halloween and the Toussaint holiday and for chocolate lovers, it’s the signature event of the season. Go early to avoid the Toussaint weekend holiday crowds anxious to eat their way through the free samples of world class confections. It always takes place at the Porte de Versailles, a major convention center that’s easy to access by public transit. Chocolate is taken seriously in Paris and here you can taste the highest quality gourmet chocolates from around the world (France, Belgium, Switzerland, Tokyo, Madagascar and on and on). You’ll eat your bodyweight in free samples and more than make up the entrance fee.
You are surrounded by chocolate of all types and presentations.
This is an all-day affair in an enormous event space. There are samples galore, demonstration by chefs, informational stands, sculptures and even a fashion show of couture constructed from chocolate.
Beware: you’ll be stuffed full of samples and transporting more chocolate home, so plan a light evening meal.
Cynthia Tuttelman (aka "Tut") is a writer, family doctor and quilter who lives in Northern California and part-time each year in Paris, France. Follow along and explore the wonders of Paris.