15.08.a - French Chocolate Decoded: A Guide to France's Finest Chocolate Brands, Cafés, and Hot Chocolate

In this PAID le Bulletin: An delectable journey through French chocolate's artisanal magic from Valentine traditions to Parisian deep rich hot cocoa... cakes, desserts, tarts, chocolat chaud,& recipes

Image credit: © Delphine Michalak

Today at a Glance: your PAID weekly newsletter

Bonjour all you wonderful new and long-time supporters, and friends…

I’m thrilled you’re here with me again this week—bienvenue—welcome.

Once again, I thank you for your financial support, which enables me to continue producing these two newsletters weekly!

Here’s what you’ll find today:

1. We dive into the wonderful world of French chocolate.

2. What’s happening in MyFrenchLife Magazine - new articles to read.

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Warm regards
Judy - 22.2.2025

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1. Your Weekly French Life: French Chocolate Decoded - A Guide to France's Finest Chocolate + recipes

Image credit: Eight Five Zero via Flickr

I must confess something: I'm absolutely convinced there's something magical about French chocolate. Je ne sais quoi (that indefinable 'something'), if you will. Do you find yourself similarly enchanted?

As Valentine's Day just passed, I found myself pondering why chocolate and February 14th are so inexorably linked. The answer, as it turns out, is quite fascinating. The connection traces back to ancient civilizations—the Mayans and Aztecs considered cacao sacred, a symbol of fertility and romance. But it was the brilliant marketing minds at Cadbury who truly cemented this delicious tradition. In 1868, they introduced their "Fancy Boxes"—heart-shaped boxes of chocolates specifically for Valentine's Day. Et voilà (and there you have it), a tradition was born!

Is French Chocolate Truly the Best?

Pour être honnête (to be honest), while French chocolate consistently ranks among the world's finest, declaring any chocolate "the best" feels a bit like choosing a favorite child! What makes French chocolate special, though, is a dedication to excellence that's simply extraordinary.

Let me share what makes French chocolate stand out: