September signals the official start of fall and the end of summer dieting. Stop sucking in your stomach, step off the StairMaster and celebrate by indulging in International Chocolate Day on Thursday, September 13th. Not only is cacao linked to lower blood pressure and a lowered risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease, this magic bean also elevates levels of mood-boosting serotonin, which makes you feel like a million bucks. Check out some of the local restaurants offering special treats in honor of Chocolate day!
Quit the calorie-counting this September 13 and head to these hotspots to sample some melt-in-your-mouth masterpieces.
1108 South Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA 92024
760-230-2337
http://www.localunion101.com
Quench your cocoa cravings with Union’s phenomenally fluffy, drool-worthy Chocolate Pudding Cake. This classic crowd pleaser is even better than mom’s homemade mix and is sure to satisfy the sharpest sweet tooth. Served with a scoop of Valrhona chocolate gelato, this rich and delicious dish is a serious treat for the taste buds.
4990 North Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
619-226-2103
http://www.j-fat.com
For a true taste of chocolate nostalgia, look no further than JFAT’s Hot Fudge Sundae. Slip back in time and savor a twist on a childhood favorite with creamy vanilla ice cream, honey-roasted peanuts, warm chocolate chip cookies and hot fudge. This fresh take on a sweet classic will certainly have you screamin’ for seconds.
1236 University Ave.
San Diego, CA 92103
619-241-2710
http://www.uptowntavernsd.com
Want a trendy take on a traditional treat? Take a trip to Uptown for their mind-blowing Molten Chocolate Cake. This power player is packed into a nifty mason jar, topped with loads of sweet honey whipped cream, then garnished with fresh fruit for a triple dose of decadence.
204 N El Camino Real, Ste H
Encinitas, CA 92024
760-942-4663
http://www.2good2b.com
Hooked on chocolate but always on the go? Stop by 2GOOD2B Bakery and Café for an outstanding array of cocoa confections, including their out-of-this-world-wonderful cupcakes. Choose from a variety of chocolaty combinations and flavors to enjoy at your convenience. Plus, thanks to their gluten-, corn-, corn syrup-, and soy-free guarantee, these babies are guilt-free, too.
600 5th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
619-255-7373
http://www.barleymash.com
Add a little heat to your chocolate habit with barleymash’s Car Bomb Cake. A healthy portion of Guinness chocolate cake pairs perfectly with two layers of Bailey’s Irish Cream buttercream. Garnish this goodie with Jameson chocolate drizzle and candied walnuts and you’ve got a dangerously good dessert worthy of a true chocolate connoisseur.
On September 13th, ditch the diet and order one of these scrumptious desserts instead. Your sweet tooth and your serotonin levels will thank you!
