22-25 Dixon Street, Haymarket NSW 2000
Celebrating Aussie sweetness
At first I wasn't quite sure what a Belgian chocolatier, Miss Universe Australia, UGG boots, a Lion Dance and a Souvenir Shop all had in common but finally discovered it was a celebration of all things Australian (except the Lion Dance). Thanks to Igor Van Gerwen for inviting me to the launch of his new chocolate cafe located inside the Harbour City Group two level souvenir shop in the heart of Chinatown. Probably the first launch I've ever been to where no alcohol was served but the abundance of chocolates, Parker's Organic Juices, Brasserie Bread cakes and the easy-on-the-eye Miss Universe models certainly provided enough distraction and sent me into a sugar overload topped up with a hot chocolate to wash it all down. I loved the illustrative menu where it's noted all hot drinks are served with a complimentary chocolate. Now that sounds like a pretty good deal for only $3.80 to come back to. Lyndey Milan did a wonderful job in eventually rounding up the guests and keeping the momentum going for the launch while introducing the official speakers. The chocolates I managed to try were enjoyable and the Green Tea & Ginger one was most memorable. If I'm ever in the market for some Crocodile, Beef, Emu or Kangaroo Jerky I'll certainly know where to visit along with Duck Creek Macadamias I spotted on the shelves. I'm not sure about the bottled Tasmanian Rain Water but apparently the bottle says it's 'captured from the purest skies on Earth' — I'm sure the Swiss might have something to say about that.
SNAPSHOT REVIEW:
PROS: All hot drinks are served with a complimentary chocolate, Quality chocolates, If you're looking for a touristy Aussie gift then you'll probably find it here
CONS: If you're not a fan of UGG boots then beware as you enter
MUST TRY: Revisiting to try the Chococcino Marocchino
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Miss Universe Australia Scherri-lee Biggs and her Miss Universe contestant entourage sporting Shearers UGGs — If my legs looked this good I'd probably get away with wearing them too
Scherri-lee Biggs and me showing the guests how to crack a paparazzi smile
Official speakers and Parker's Organic Juice stand
Cutting the red ribbon to officially open the chocolate café
Lion dance
Speech time
Igor Van Gerwen (left) and Alpha (right) who was responsible for illustrating the menu boards
Cafe service counter
Menu board
Sweet treats
If you hate Sydney rain water then perhaps check out the Tasmanian Rain water
Cakes from Brasserie Bread, Fudge from Anvers and cute chocolate kangaroos and koalas for the kids
Jerky anyone?
Downstairs shopping level
Upstairs shopping level
Australian merchandise
UGGs on display
Official Harbour City Group photographer — I think?
Goodie bag — some Anvers chocolates to enjoy
Flowers for opening launch
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