Crave

SOUT HEA STERN PEN N S Y LV AN I A

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CRAVE PENNSYLVANIA

F I N E S E R V I CE S , D I N I N G , S H O P P ING , U NIQ U E D ES T INA T IO NS , A ND M O R E

September 8-9, 2018

33 rd Annual

Mushroom Festival SATURDAY & SUNDAY • Street Festival • Growers’ Exhibit • Mushroom Sales • Cooking Demonstrations • Live Music • Children’s Stage • Cute-As-A-Button Baby Photo Contest • Painted Mushroom Silent Auction • Over 200 Street Vendors SATURDAY ONLY • National Fried Mushroom Eating Championship • Amateur Mushroom Cooking Contest • Antique and Classic Car Show SUNDAY ONLY • Mushroom Run/Walk • Soup and Wine Event • Mushroom Judging Please leave your pets at home.

mushroomfestival.org

V ISIT DELICIOUS K ENNET T SQUA R E

historickennettsquare.com historickennettsquare.com/dine @historickennett

CONTENTS 6 Father and Son, Carving A New Path

By Kerry Brown, Photos Jason Bleecher and Zack Miikana

LIFE IS BETTER IN COLOR

8 Exploring The Shops of Historic Centreville, Delaware

By Karen Myers, Photos by Jason Bleecher

12 Bringing French Wine Making To Pennsylvania Article and photos by Lele Galer

14 The Fauchére Legacy, Since 1852

By Karen Myers

16 48 Hours in Paris

By Chloe Johnson

20 Trio of Taste: The Birchrunville Store Café, Thai L’Elephant, and Butterscotch Pastry Shop

By Karen Myers, Photos by Jason Bleecher

27 The Art of Chocolate

By Karen Myers

M A G A Z I N E S | C ATA L O G S | P O S T C A R D S | C A L E N D A R S | B R O C H U R E S

4 9 5 4 S PAC E C E N T E R D R .

SAN ANTONIO, TX 78218 210.804.0390 WWW.SHWEIKI.COM

35 Baking With French Flair

By Estelle Tracy, Photos by Jason Bleecher Published by Volare Publishing Editor in Chief: Maria Santory Graphic Designer: Ryan Scheife CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Karen Brown Lele Galer Karen Myers Estelle Tracy Travel Editor: Clohe Johnson

CRAVE PHOTOGRAPHERS Jason Bleecher Zack Miikana Peggy Woolsey Albert Yee Cover photo by Ruth Black Baking with French Flair title photo

by Light Field Studios

© 2018 Crave Magazine Pennsylvania. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Crave Magazine is not responsible for any errors or omissions. Crave Magazine does not endorse or recommend any article, product, service found within articles. Opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of Crave Magazine or its staff.

Published by Volare Publishing

Two-Tier Open Cuff Bracelet in Gold, Silver and Diamonds

by Lika Behar

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Father and Son, Carving A New Path

Written by Kerry Brown Photography by Jason Bleecher and Zack Huberty

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aul and Zack Huberty are the craftsmen behind every piece of furniture at Miikana Woodworking in Downingtown. The father/son duo designs and builds artisan-quality wood furniture from locally sourced hardwoods.

The Miikana aesthetic reflects the elegant simplicity of Shaker, Mid-Century Modern, and Scandinavian furniture designs. They use time-honored craftsman-style woodworking techniques including traditional wedged mortise and tenon joinery.

The word miikana means trail or path in the language of the Ojibwe tribe of Minnesota. The business name reflects the Huberty’s Native American heritage, and a change in career paths. After working in the healthcare industry for more than 25 years, Paul rediscovered a passion for woodworking.

He switched gears and started building furniture.

Zack followed his father’s lead. Together they create fine handcrafted furniture in innovative designs. Their sofa tables, console tables, end tables, chairs, and signature spindle-back benches represent a minimalist approach allowing the fundamental beauty of the wood to shine.

“Our customers gravitate toward high-quality fine furniture. Each piece is made from start to finish in the shop. We focus on traditional furniture making techniques that ensure our products will last for generations,” Paul said.

“We seek customers’ input during the design process and stay in touch with them throughout the build. We often send photos at each stage to make the customer experience stronger

and more memorable. From start to finish, we handle every aspect of the build process. It all starts with hand-selecting rough sawn lumber from Pennsylvania mills and then milling it to the desired specifications. For example on our benches, we shape the seat and then carefully sand it for comfort and aesthetic. Each leg and spindle is created on a lathe in the shop. We handcraft every component, and use woodworking joinery rather than screws and nails,” Zack said.

“Working with my son makes me feel proud. We are partners and work on every piece very carefully. We take the time necessary to build furniture to our high standards. We communicate with the customer throughout the process to provide an understanding of all the steps we take to build a custom piece of furniture just for them. This helps customers develop an appreciation for the level of care that goes into creating their piece,” Paul said.

Miikana Woodworking Valentine Edge’s Mill 930 Bondsville Road Downingtown, PA 19335 610-357-4656 / By Appointment Only

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Written by Karen Myers Photography by Jason Bleecher

Exploring The Shops of Historic Centreville, Delaware

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ocated in the center of Brandywine Valley, historic Centreville is the perfect place for a stroll where you can enjoy the eclectic mixture of independent businesses offering unique and thoughtful products. The shops are located in historic buildings from the 1800s that have been repurposed into stores that allow shoppers to enjoy the historical architecture while browsing.

Hardcastle Galleries is located in the Frederick Country Center, behind a yellow house that has been own by the

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Frederick family since it was built in the1840’s. Hardcastle occupies the former butcher shop and is surrounded by shops housed in former barns and outbuildings. The gallery features local artists in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In addition to paintings, photography and sculptures are also available for purchase.

“We have five or six shows a year, including a miniature show at Christmas time,” the owner Mike Brock explains.

“We take all the artwork out of the gallery and only hang works by the featured artist.” In addition to providing a feast for the eyes, the gallery also offers competitively priced custom framing. Mike delights in providing a showcase for local artists and is an artist himself. His works can be viewed locally at Buckley’s—or the next time you are at the White House, check out his painting Lower Brandywine Presbyterian Church.

Across from the gallery is Found Antiques, an antique and home design shop that caters to customers looking for furniture that is beautiful, functional, and unique. Owner Karen Helme brings over twenty years’ experience as an interior designer to the shop. She’s been here for eight years, offering period antiques like a chest of drawers from the late 1700s and vintage pieces like a pair of club chairs by Baker—so comfortable, you can’t help curling up in them. In addition, she displays artwork by contemporary local artist.

“I think it helps customers to see the works in room settings, in groupings or displayed on easels.”

“I look for pieces that will stand the test of time.” Karen tells me. The store features classic pieces like wing chairs, sofas, occasional tables, and chests of drawers, along with unique accessories and lighting. She also works with people who are downsizing. “People have attachments to things, it’s easier to let go when you know the beloved item is going to a good home.”

Next to Found is the eclectic Grooves and Tubes selling, buying and trading vintage electronics and LP records.

Groove and Tubes has wide selection of vintage turntables,

[1] The Beehive [2] Adorn [3] Wild Thyme Flowers [4] Crystal's Vintage

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receivers, amplifiers, tape decks as well as large selection of vinyl records. Offering equipment tune-up and repair services, owner Gerry Young shares his favorite part of his business, “I enjoy getting people started into listening to and re-building vinyl collection and giving advice on audio systems.”

Gerry started the business because he always enjoyed “tinkering” with electronics and listening to all types of music. His picked this historic landmark to open his shop because it is off the beaten path.

A few doors down, Gerry’s wife Crystal indulges in her passion for jewelry. Her store features vintage jewelry and she loves nothing more than helping someone find just the right piece for a formal occasion. Crystal is a fan of brightening your life with unique pieces of jewelry.

Take a few short steps down Kennett Pike to Adorn Goods, a modern day general store that specializes in a wide range of distinctive tableware, unique gifts, timeless home accessories and gourmet food. Owners Bree Wellons and Jennifer Steiner’s specialty is well-edited events, like cooking classes with local chefs, community events and fashion trunk shows. As the owners explain, “It’s a joy to see happy customers when they find a new product they love at Adorn Goods.”

Bree and Jennifer are passionate about creating warm and nurturing home environments. “We love having a store front where we can share creative combinations.”

Wild Thyme is located across Kennett Pike in an historic red brick building. Started 26 years ago by flower lover Laurie de Grazia whose passion for making quality custom-made floral arrangements led her here. A full service flower shop, Laurie specializes in beautiful arrangements using high-end flowers. “We don’t sell everyday flowers like carnations or mums. Higher-quality flowers make my arrangements very special.”

Originally just planning to sell flowers and accessories like vase and pots, Laurie soon branched out into selling other items. She found unique items while traveling across the country and to foreign locales. “It’s a collection of interesting, modern or classic, funny, sometimes delicious and always useful things.”

A staff of designers is on hand to consult for weddings, funerals, parties, corporate events and daily deliveries. As Laurie tells it, “I love to listen to what my clients envision and take great pleasure in filling them up with a floral picture that takes their breath away and lasts a lot longer than a bottle of the very best champagne!!!”

Strolling northward on Kennett Pike, pass a few more

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historic buildings before arriving at The Beehive, which features a diverse selection of merchandise. As owner Kim Reynolds is eager to share, “We have one of a kind hand painted pieces of furniture, home décor, lamps, seasonal gifts, candles, jewelry and so much more! Not only do we sell Farmhouse Paint (the only furniture paint with the wax already in the paint), we also paint and renew our customers’ own pieces.”

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repurposed, repainted and reinvented. Kim is quick to add, “Inventory changes daily, so don’t miss out on these one of a kind pieces of art.”

Situated between Longwood and Winterthur, just five miles north of downtown Wilmington, Centreville has plenty of other wonderful shops to explore as well as two places to sit down, relax and have a bite to eat. An ideal place to spend a few hours soaking in history, browsing through diverse assortment of shops and meeting this community of business owners, Centreville is a great place to soak in the ambiance while letting time go by lightly.

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www.centrevillede.info/ www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=shopsofcentreville

[5] Found [6] Hardcastle Galleries [7] Grooves and Tubes

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Article and photography by Lele Galer

Bringing French Wine-Making to Pennsylvania The search for the perfect French grape for Pennsylvania red wines

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hen Brad and I started plans for Galer Estate, we realized that our terroir would direct which grapes to plant. We also knew our personal taste.

We were drawn to the French wines. We needed to find a French red grape varietal that could grow well and reliably ripen so as to retain the aromas and flavors of a beautiful French red wine. We started our quest in Chinon, France.

Chinon is in the Loire Valley, 140 miles southwest of Paris. It has a similar climate to ours and famous for Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Franc is a wonderful medium-bodied red wine with a distinct spicy flavor profile. All the winery owners were very welcoming, sharing their knowledge and experience. While we were intrigued by their age-old techniques, they were actually a jealous of our being wine pioneers. In France, strict laws dictate all that happens in the vineyard and winery, so our artistic freedom was appealing.

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The French have a passionate dedication to their specific “terroir”, which is focused on the soil. In French wineries you see a proudly displayed glass case with the soil composition. I remember our viticulture consultant Lucy Morton’s first visit to test out our vineyard site; she enthusiastically jumped into our ditches, grabbed a handful of dirt, smelled it and tasted it! Clearly Lucy was trained in France.

Following the wise council of the Chinon vineyard owners, our vineyards are densely planted with varietals and clones chosen specifically for our terroir. After two years of soil cultivation, acquiring the best Cabernet Franc vines, and planting them, we then waited three years to harvest our first Cabernet Franc. While every year the wine has been delicious in its own way, our 2015 Cabernet Franc recently won the most coveted prize in the USA- Double-Gold in the 2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Thanks to meticulous viticulture practices by Jan Grimes, vineyard manager, and our extremely talented wine maker Virginia Mitchell, the French red grape Cabernet Franc was the perfect choice for our Chester County terroir. We had found the perfect French red wine grape!

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Written by Karen Myers

The Fauchère Legacy, Since 1852

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he meticulously restored Hotel Fauchère in historic Milford is named for French-speaking Louis Fauchère, “the crazy Frenchman.” Born in Vevey, Switzerland in 1823 to a family of chefs and hoteliers, he immigrated to the U.S. and became a Master Chef at New York’s famous Delmonico’s.

In 1852, he took over the “French Hotel” and brought the elite Delmonico’s clientele to Milford each summer. In addition, Milford attracted French emigrés and became a vacation haven for the French community in New York. The hotel became a sensation, attracting guests from around the world.

Fauchère maintained personal charge of the hotel until his death in 1893. The hotel was owned and managed by Fauchère descendants until it closed in 1976 after a 124-year run.

In 2006, after a five-year historic restoration, the hotel was reopened by Richard Snyder and Sean Strub. Its exalted culinary reputation earned admission to the prestigious Paris-based Relais & Chateaux in 2007.

The hotel’s three restaurants continue Fauchère’s culinary innovation and excellence. Condé Nast Traveler called Bar Louis’ signature dish, Sushi Pizza, a “culinary thrill”; 403 Broad’s fresh-baked croissants rival any Parisian boulangerie; The Delmonico Room features French-inspired classic cuisine against a backdrop of Hudson River School paintings.

The hotel’s “wall of fame” of celebrated guests includes Mary Pickford, Rudolph Valentino, Mae West, and Charlie Chaplin; Presidents Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt,

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Warren Harding, John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton; Robert Frost, Andrew Carnegie, Zane Grey, “Babe” Ruth, Rex Reed and Gloria Steinem.

Visitors to Milford can soak in the community’s French roots by touring Grey Towers, the Pinchot family’s 1880s French chateau-style mansion, now a National Historic Site.

Or admire Raymondskill Falls when hiking nearby in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Named after another early French settler, Remy Loreaux was the first in the U.S. to bottle beer for home consumption. In the center of the village, a carved stone bas relief plaque memorializes the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit to Milford on his last trip to the US. A stay at the Hotel Fauchère allows guests to bask in history, relax in luxury, and indulge in culinary excellence.

Parfait!

Hotel Fauchère, Milford, PA Hotelfauchere.com

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Written by Chloe Johnson

48 HOURS in PARIS P

aris, mon amour. Enchantment runs deep in the city of light. From the prestige of the architecture to the pristine gardens, the French know how to live a beautiful life and make food that is finer than anywhere else in the world. With only 48 hours, and with ample choices in hand, one must choose well.

Erin, a Parisian expert from Chloe Johnston Experiences, a Philadelphia-based travel and lifestyle company that offers custom luxury travel and elite lifestyle opportunities, shares an insider’s guide to Paris eats.

The city is divided up into arrondissements (neighborhoods) based on a pattern shaped like escargots, as it was explained to me by a Frenchman many years ago.

The cuisine is a cornerstone of many things in this city.

To discover it properly, let your mouth be your guide. The arrondissement numbers begin with 1 in the center and spiral out in a circle up to 20. They even have pastries named after this shape that swirl in circles decorated with raisins and cinnamon or pistachios. To indulge in one of these delicious treats start your adventure in the bohemian neighborhood of the 10th near the Canal St. Martin at Du Pain et des IdĂŠes. This shop is a delight for the eyes as well as

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the soul, where an ex-fashion executive decided to give shape to his emotions through baking and is committed to time-honored practices in the craft.

I can assure, you will not be disappointed with the love that is poured into each sweet treat.

The 10th arrondissement is an area that has changed a lot in the last few years. It is young and vibrant with lots of new experimental restaurants, something that seems shocking in a city where tradition is a flag they fly high. At nights along the canal, young people sit out with a bottle of wine and baguettes against a backdrop of graffiti and take in the long summer sunsets. Have a stroll along the canal and check out the boutiques that line the streets with eclectic young designers and

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sale outposts for high street French brands. Pop into Ten Belles for an artistic coffee and a sandwich that makes the word almost contemptible considering the highbrow flavor combinations. The menu changes frequently, but look for the pulled pork and kimchi on the list.

Head up the hill to Montmartre. A little world of its own, it was only annexed by Paris in 1860. Many artists had ateliers in this area. Artists and writers met in cabarets and danced the nights away with their champagne and ideals.

Learn more about its history at the little Museum of Montmartre, and then enjoy tea and a madeleine in the Renoir’s garden on the premises. Stroll by the Sacré-Cœur Basilica as the evening arrives. Listen to artists playing their guitars on the steps and take in the view overlooking Paris as the sun sets and casts a pink light over the city.

For dinner head to one of the oldest restaurants in Paris, open for over 100 years, on Rue Lepic à la Pomponette.

They have very traditional French dishes, such as roasted bone marrow or veal sweetbreads if you dare. “Be sure to try the escargot and foie gras, and hope that you come on the monthly music night that will surely end with the hosts picking up the tables and twirling you around,” recommends CJE. It is that kind of place. The old artists in the area meet there on Sundays for Champagne and sing-alongs. It is authentic and truly wonderful to catch a glimpse of this Belle Époque holdover.

In the morning, head to the left bank and start the day with a literary breakfast at Shakespeare & Company gazing out at Notre Dame. Bob’s Bakery has set up shop in their cafe and has a daily mix of baked goods, crumbles, juices

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and smoothies along with their signature hand-rolled bagels. Wander upstairs to the second floor and discover their library with unique literary classics for a little reading time while taking in the spectacular view. Hopefully, you’ll be lucky enough to have the resident cat come and jump on your lap or have artists living in the writer’s apartment above, serenade you with the piano.

Stroll along the Seine or wind back through the 6th’s maze of cobblestone streets, antique stores, and lovely boutiques until you reach the stately 7th arrondissement. Start at Maison Chadun, one of the rare chocolate shops in Paris that makes their creations in-house. Try the signature chocolate pavé inspired by the truffle but shaped like a cobblestone, one of Chloe, owner of Chloe Johnston Experiences, favorite chocolate spots in Paris. They are delectable, and you will probably have them finished before rounding the corner to sample another type of truffle. Truffles Folie is a shrine to this rare and robust delicacy. It is both a small grocery shop and restaurant that has lines down the street at lunch. Stop in and at least taste the truffle cheese that will have you addicted after the first bite, trust us, and don’t forget to pick up some truffle oil as a gift or a treat for yourself.

Head on up to Rue Du Cler to continue your gastronomic indulgences at the market shops lining the street full of the most beautiful berries you have ever seen; à la Mere de Famille for actual sugar plums and assorted confectioners dreams, and finishing at Francois Pralus for the epic Praluline. It looks bizarre, but with a little bit of butter, this praline packed brioche is a little piece of heaven.

Lunchtime awaits; here, in Paris, it is the most important meal of the day, and so it’s time to have a real one.

Make reservations in advance for the Mini Palais inside of the Grand Palais, after walking over the stunning Pont Alexander III with its gold angels heralding you along. Request a seat on the terrace amidst the grand pillars to get the full experience and a good dose of people watching.

Their fish and seafood dishes are always top notch and pair well with a crisp Sancerre. You might need to take a nap before dinner or have a snooze in the park after reading your new book. But one final dinner awaits, and no Parisian experience is complete without a meat and cheese board paired with some great red wine. Have your final apéro at La Palette in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This iconic establishment is the ultimate in Paris cafés society. Get the charcuterie and the cheese plate with a rich St. Joseph and spend your last evening swapping stories with your neighbors on the terrace.

Paris is a movable feast, take her with you as you leave.

More Information on Chloe Johnston Experiences Chloe Johnston Experiences is the perfect pairing of luxury travel and elite lifestyle opportunities. Chloe and her global team of experts provide clients behind-the-scenes access to arts & culture, gastronomy, fashion, interior design & architecture, wellness, luxury toys, soft adventure, niche sports and more, in their desired destination. www.chloejohnston.com Instagram: @chloejohnstonexperiences Twitter: @bychloejohnston

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Written by Karen Myers Photography by Jason Bleecher

Trio of Taste Un.) The Birchrunville Store Café Deux.) Thai L’Elephant Troix.) Butterscotch Pastry Shop

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ulinary trained in France and Italy, Chef Francis Pascal is the owner and creator of the well-known Birchrunville Store Café. At the crossroads of Hollow and Flowing Springs Road in northern Chester County, the ‘store’ in the name honors the history of the building. Originally built by the Dewees family in 1898 it was a creamery, post office, hall, and store. The décor references the building’s past as a general store, including an actual scale that was once used here. A whimsical wall features a collection of corkscrews, both antique and current designs. A BYOB, the bottles and corks in the windows honor the many wines that have complimented dinners here over the past seventeen years. The post office is still in operation and shares a part of the building.

“I wanted this building for my restaurant as soon as I saw it,” confides Francis. “It felt like home in Provence—a small village where everyone knows everyone. Life is slower here.”

After years working in fast-paced main-line restaurants, he

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purchased this rural property. His customers followed and with reviewers like Craig LeBan calling it “one of the single most charming dining experiences in the region,” success followed.

Reservations are needed for this French-fusion cashonly restaurant, usually for about three months ahead of time for the weekend crowd. With seating for forty, the intimate restaurant is bathed in candlelight in the evening, lending the room a glow of warmth. Each menu is created the day before, and features the freshest of available ingredients. “To get the right taste for a dish, I use fresh ingredients, such as golden chanterelles.” Customers linger over meals, savoring the freshly made food. A favorite after dinner activity is requesting the reservation book in order to book their next visit.

For a special treat in the summer, reserve a table on the back porch and spend your meal enjoying the Birchrunville countryside, complete with horses and the sound of the stream trickling through the property.

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A few miles down the road in Phoenixville on the corner of Gay and Bridge Streets, Francis’ wife Nui Kullana is chef and manager of Thai L’Elephant. She creates the BYOB’s menu, which features Thai spices and flavoring.

“But that doesn’t mean all the food is hot.” She is quick to point out, “Our dishes range from mild to hot and satisfy all tastes.” Hailed as a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, customers rave about her Crispy Duck and Drunken Noodles. The menu features a large selection of vegan dishes, as well as mouth-watering appetizers and traditional soups. “Many of our customers are repeat customers,” Nui says, “so many of them try it and then return again and again.”

Like her French husband, when she found the building in Phoenixville nine years ago, she knew it was the right locations for her because “it felt right for me.” Her menu features the food she enjoyed during her childhood in Thailand.

Also a proponent of fresh ingredients, Nui incorporates fresh herbs like lemon grass, basil, mint and cilantro in her dishes.

A popular spot for private parties, Thai L’Elephant also

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features a private room with seating for up to thirty-five. So, whether you choose to soak in the relaxing Asian-influenced ambiance and enjoy your beautifully plated meal at the restaurant, in a private room or take advantage of the extensive take out menu, you will love the delicious and authentic food.

A new venture between these two successful restauranteurs is the ButterScotch Pastry Shop. It is named after the signature warm butterscotch dessert cake served at The Birchrunville Store Café across the street. The food is make fresh daily and results in buttery delicious pastries like their flakey croissants.

The collaboration of these two chefs with talented pastry chef Jane Urban has made ButterScotch a mustgo-to destination. Francis oversees the breakfast and lunch options, creating customer favorites like the Homemade Crispy Breakfast Wrap featuring house-made sausage and Egg Soufflé to start the day. For lunch, customers rave about the Quiche Lorraine and Poached Fresh Lobster Salad. Jane is also the pastry chef at the Birchrunville Store Café and

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creates the pastries and desserts for the shop. Nui calls this her happy place and can usually be found in the front of the house. “I love to talk to the people who come here.” She is interrupted by a pair of regular customers stopping to introduce their new granddaughter to her. She bends and delightedly welcomes the infant.

Local residents walk to the shop, often bringing their dogs and settling down at outdoor tables to enjoy their meals.

Some arrive on horseback, leaving the horses to graze in the field next to the building. Many more take the road less traveled and drive here to indulge in a decadent breakfast, light lunch or pick up dessert. When you go, make sure to give a warm hello to staff members Jessica and Robert. With Nui, they create the friendly atmosphere of the shop that keeps it feeling like home. Both are local residents who worked as wait staff at the restaurant as teenagers.

Located in a historic building, the shop was originally a home built in 1750. In the early 1900s it was converted to a steam bakery. The décor is a rustic nod to the building’s history and provides a coziness that keeps customers coming back again and again. After savoring your breakfast or lunch, be sure to pick up a decadent dessert or two to compliment your dinner. In addition to the warm butterscotch cake, try the signature banalfi—a tart with bananas and smoked caramel or a salted chocolate tart. These desserts will ensure a perfect ending to an intimate family meal or a larger dinner party. And yes, they are worth the calories.

www.birchrunvillestorecafe.com www.thaielephant.com www.butterscotchpastry.com About 40 miles west of Philadelphia near the Downingtown exit of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

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P H O T O : E C L AT C H O C O L AT E

The Art of Chocolate

WRITTEN BY K A REN M Y ERS

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É CL AT CHO COL AT E

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ocated on High Street in West Chester, The Éclat Chocolate shop is both perfect for an indulgence while strolling through this historic town and a destination worth the trip to sample these works of art. Éclat is also home to the factory where these artisanal chocolates are created.

The creator of these works of chocolate art, Master Chocolatier Christopher Curtin, learned his craft in Europe, living and training at the House of Les Compagnons du Devoir, the esteemed guild for pastry chefs in France. At a chocolate factory in Cologne, he fell in love with chocolate making, “You can use chocolate for so many things!”

“I love that making chocolates is design and detail driven.” Chris says. He has the honor of being the first American awarded the title of German Master Pastry Chef and Chocolatier. Through his European training, he learned the discipline and detail required to excel at making chocolates.

His chocolate confections are an artful ménage created from the finest sustainably-sourced chocolate, innovative

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flavor combinations, and perfectly executed products that are beautifully packaged. On top of that, Chris adds a Michelin star level of service to his customer interactions. He prides himself on creating an environment in his shop that is both friendly and world class.

His unique chocolates include the Peruvian Nacional truffle that Bon Appetit calls “the best in America.” His blend of traditional and innovation create such delicacies as the perfect caramel which bursts with soul-soothing buttery goodness or his mondiant, an inventive update of the classic French mendiant - the peanut butter mondiant is bliss in every bite of the thin chocolate disc.

Chris’s work includes collaborations with culinary innovator Anthony Bourdain and Chef Eric Ripert, who calls Éclat “the best chocolate you can find in the world.” Together they produced the ‘Good & Evil Chocolate Bar,’ named for the goodness and the ‘evil’ indulgence of the rare Peruvian cacao beans.

Available online, these world-class chocolates are the perfect indulgence for a life well-lived. Packaged to perfection, they are a coveted gift, although after tasting Éclat, you may find it hard to give away.

eclatchocolate.com

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F R EDER IC L A ROSCH I CHO COL AT E

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Master Chocolatier and artisan, Frederic Loraschi distinguished himself early in his career by painting with chocolate. His beautiful creations are an artful working of unique flavor combinations and gorgeous execution. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Harrisburg, Frederic Loraschi’s shop and factory are worth the drive.

A graduate of the French school system, Frederic chose to be a chef at age fourteen. After a three year apprenticeship with a Meilleur Ouvrier de France, a chef awarded as best in France, learning both the sweet and savory side of cooking, Frederic was hired as a pastry cook at The Bernard Loiseau, back when it had just earned its third Michelin star. Originally intending to move over to the savory side, he fell in love with the precision required of pastry chefs.

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“Chocolate was not love at first sight,” he shares. “It was very difficult to master.” He used his passion for getting the details right to master his craft. After France, he worked in Singapore and then at Ritz Carltons in California and Boston before coming to Pennsylvania to work for The Hotel Hershey. Feeling at home in the country, he decided to open his own shop, “I wanted my own kitchen, my name on the door and the freedom to use any ingredients.”

His ingredients include integrating black currant, violet and lavender honey into different chocolates which creates a unique taste. “To me, flavors, form and color must go hand in hand. Shape and color attract you, but the taste has to complete the sensory experience. I layer the flavors—it is a bit like creating a perfume. You experience with your eyes, your nose and your taste buds.”

“Most of the time, I serve the customers. I enjoy sharing my experiences making chocolate.” His attention to detail is evident in the beauty of his packaging and the minimalistic design of his shop. His artful and delicious confections are available at the shop or online. On Saturdays, he adds pastries to his offerings, so good, that as one customer lamented, he never can make it home before eating them.

www.fredericlaroschichocolate.com

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LE SA INT FRENCH CHO COL AT E

A

n artisan chocolatier located in Bucks County, Stéphane LeSaint makes very high-end chocolates with exquisite flavor. A virtual chocolate boutique, his creations are exclusively available online and pay homage to his memories of the specialty chocolates of his childhood.

Growing up in Normandy, France, he attended fashion school and eventually opened his own custom evening and bridal-wear shop in New Jersey. While working in Hong Kong, he took a pastry class for fun. The class reignited his childhood dream of becoming a chef, leading him to attend the French Pastry School in Chicago. He was trained by Meilleur Ouvrier de France—French pastry masters. Six years ago, he moved to Pennsylvania and established his kitchen and virtual store.

His training in fashion developed his critic’s eye and his knowledge of pallet, both of which he uses in the design of his chocolates. For taste, he draws on his French upbringing to create chocolates using only the finest ingredients. “It is a short shelf life because there are no preservatives. This makes a better flavor.”

Using only the best ingredients means sourcing his butter solely from Europe where the fat content is higher. He uses only the highest caliber European cocoa to create the richest flavor possible.

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His French Turtles, a twist on the classic American Turtle, are a customer favorite. The confection of pecan chunks and caramel is dipped in decadent dark chocolate. His special mold makes them both crunchy and wonderful—sometimes inciting family fights between his customers!

With such a large product assortment, there is no need to fight. In addition to turtles, Stéphane makes bon-bons and pavés, truffles, barks and brittles, and mendiants, all are beautifully packaged in a ballotin. This traditional French packaging, a wedge-shaped box, allows for the storage of an assortment of chocolates in all shapes and sizes. This packaging brings to American customers that typically French experience where the chocolatier fills the ballotin with your heart’s desire.

“Chocolate goes with the mood,” Stéphane advises when pressed on how to make a selection. But with chocolate this good, every choice is sure to please.

www.lesaint-chocolate.com

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34 C R A V E PHOTO BY LIGHT FIELD STUDIOS

W R IT T EN BY E ST ELLE TR AC Y PHOTOGR APHY BY JASON BLEECHER

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La Baguette Magique

I

t’s a typical weekday morning in a French bakery: the air smells of sugar and butter, the sound of the mixer is lulling early risers into daydream, and, back in the kitchen, a baker readjusts a white apron around her waist. At the communal table, a young mother hands a small brioche to her child, while a suited attorney bites into a baguette sandwich. The scene could be set in Paris but make no mistake, you’re at La Baguette Magique, an artisan bakery located in the heart of West Chester.

Three years ago, owner Catherine Seisson left the pharmaceutical industry in her native France to open La Baguette Magique on Market Street. She envisioned it as a classical French boulangerie where local francophiles and artisan food supporters would connect and gather over their love of fresh breads. “My vision was to create a very open space. I wanted the bakery to open onto the street and for the customers to walk in and see the production.”

If you peeked through the window at night, you’ll see doughs rising while the city’s asleep. The breads are made

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daily using sourdough starter, which imparts a deep, complex flavor. With its soft interior hiding under a golden crust, the baguette carries a strong appeal to the French expats yearning for a taste of home. You’ll also fall for the nuttiness for the spelt bread, the slight sourness of pain de campagne, and the many variations around the bread of the month.

The close contact with customers fuels Catherine and her hard-working staff. That’s why, in addition to hosting monthly French story time and French conversations, she recently started hosting baking classes for small groups. “Bread kept me grounded at a time when I needed something to hold on to,” she explains. “I want to provide that to people.”

Weekend mornings are the perfect time to taste the magic of the bakery. Sit at the counter and indulge in people-watching as you sip your black coffee. As the croissant dissolves into a million buttery flakes, close your eyes and pretend you’re in Paris.

La Baguette Magique 202 W Market Street, West Chester, PA 19382 magicbaguette.com 610-620-4729

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Aux Petits Delices

F

ounded by pastry chef Patrick Gauthron of Le Bec Fin fame, Aux Petits Delices has been redefining French pastry in the Main Line for the past three decades.

In October of last year, Marqessa Gesualdi took over the award-winning pâtisserie and, proud of carrying the sweet legacy, she kept all the staff and left the pastry menu unchanged.

“Some people drive 15 miles for one of our pastries,” Gesualdi says, “I want to respect that.” After digging your fork in one of the shop’s creations, you’ll be grateful she did.

Aux Petits Delices offers a selection of individual and full sizes pastries, which will turn any day into a small celebration. To first timers, Gesualdi suggests the Delice, the pastry shop’s flagship pastry, a combination of hazelnut crunch and creamy chocolate mousse topped with a white and dark chocolate curl. Other popular options include the chocolate Pyramid and the Marivaux, a brightly flavored, gluten-free combination of moist almond hazelnut meringue and creamy Cointreau mousseline. For a more casual affair, consider the coffee éclair or one of the brightly colored macarons, both of which rival any of their Parisian counterparts.

In true French style, all pastries are made from scratch in the kitchen and are very lightly sweetened.

As hinted by the storefront display, Aux Petits Delices is also known for the elaborate custom cakes. “It’s an offering I’d like to expand on,” Gesualdi says. Whether you’re celebrating a kids’ birthday party or a wedding for 120, the pastry shop will have an elegant dessert for you. In addition to the classical, multi-layered cakes, Aux Petits Delices offers croquembouche, a tower of cream puffs held together by a thick layer of crunchy caramel. In France, the show-stopping dessert is traditionally served at weddings alongside flutes of bubbly Champagne.

When questioned about her favorite dessert, Gesualdi closes her eyes and smiles. “The Napoleon. I love how the creamy mousseline and buttery, crunchy puff pastry come together in each bite.” She opens her eyes and laughs. “It’s like eating a cold Boston cream donut. It’s really perfection.”

Aux Petits Delices 162 East Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087 www.auxpetits.com 610-971-0300

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Yo’R So Sweet

E

lizabeth Davis-Cerami isn’t afraid of taking risks.

“I’m the kind of person who jumps right in and figures things out,” says the founder of Yo’R So Sweet, a globally influenced creperie based in Chester County. In 2001, she traded the bustle of New York City for the quiet of the Brandywine Valley. Later, she left a brilliant corporate career to start a custom furniture company in Philadelphia. In 2013, with no prior restaurant experience, she opened Yo’R So Sweet in Kennett Square. “I’ve always wanted to make something with my hands,” she says, “and crêpes are something that my two boys and I loved, so I went for it.”

At Yo’R So Sweet, the thin, French pancake is a vehicle for both traditional and inventive fillings inspired by Davis-Cerami’s travels. For lunch, take a trip to Asia with the spicy peanut dressing lacing the Thai Chicken crêpe or stay local by planting your fork in the mushrooms and spinach of the popular Kennett. With its lime-marinated shrimp in a savory coconut custard, the Tropical Thunder is a Caribbean vacation on a plate.

With playful names such as Yo’R So Peachy or S’more Please, the sweets menu will convince you to save room for dessert. Filled with house-made lemon custard and fresh berries, Yo’R So Berry Sweet and Tart is a lemon lover’s dream.

Purists will rejoice in finding the crêpe Suzette, a classic of French cuisine flavored with orange butter sauce and orange liqueur. “I have a customer from France who keeps coming back for it. To me, that’s the best measure of success,” Davis-Cerami says.

Today, Davis-Cerami is expanding her operations to serve even more adventurous eaters. She’s transitioning her

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kitchen to the Artisan Exchange Market in West Chester, while looking for a yet-to-be-disclosed dining space in Chester County. While the menu will include the beloved crêpes, smoothies, and chicken and waffles, it will also feature French breads. The self-described obsessive baker has been shaping dough every day, rewarding early risers with fresh slices of babka to dunk into coffee. Once again, she’s embracing the new challenge head-on.

Yo’R So Sweet yorsosweet.com Check website for current location

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A Taste of Britain can serve all of your catering needs, from showers to corporate events to memorial services, at your work place or your home.

We serve Afternoon Tea along with a full lunch menu by reservation seven days a week. Come in for a cup of tea or browse our market for unique gifts and groceries. We'll put the kettle on.

Delighting guests on the Main Line for 27 years.

Open Monday-Sunday, 10am-5pm • Eagle Village Shops 503 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087 • atasteofbritaininwayne.com • 610-971-0390

The Provence Collection 233 E. KING STREET M A LV E R N PA 4 8 4 . 3 1 8 . 7 1 0 9

Sleeping Beauty

Wed-Sat 11am-6pm

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or by Appointment

Owner and Curator

Postcard from Eden, oil on canvas SANDR A SEVERSON

2 0 0 E A S T S TAT E S T R E E T

·

K E N N E T T S Q UA R E , PA 1 93 4 8

4 8 4 - 8 8 3 - 5 4 2 9 • S Q UA R E P E A R G A L L E RY@ G M A I L .C O M S Q U A R E P E A R G A L L E R Y. C O M Square Pear Fine Ar t Galler y formerly Mala Galleria

GALER ESTATE VINEYARD AND WINERY is a beautiful boutique winery located just behind Longwood Gardens. With a deck overlooking the Chardonnay vineyards, Galer Estate offers wine tasting and wine sales of its award winning dry wines.

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www.innatwhitewingfarm.com

INN at

Whitewing Farm Adjacent to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA 370 Valley Road, West Chester PA 19382

610-388-2013 • innkeeper@innatwhitewingfarm.com

MEGHAN BERGMAN

CERAMICS

A bakery specializing in custom cakes and cake stands for events.

Meghan Bergman is a ceramic artist from Kennett Square, PA. Meghan has been creating ceramics for over 15 years, and has participated in firings and workshops around the country and internationally. Her handcrafted pottery and ceramic sculptures bring the beauty, texture, and movement found in nature to the surface of her artwork.

208 Carter Dr. Suite 13B West Chester PA 19382

www.meghanbergman.com | mvbceramics@gmail.com Studio: 610-466-5294

Let’s connect: @mvbceramics

www.renaissancepastry.com

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120 Woodcutter Street, Exton, PA 19341 • 484-387-5559

A local family owned business who provide 24-7 service for any water-fire-mold-storm damage disaster cleanup/remediation situation.

No damage is to small or large for us to help you.

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246 W Orange St, Lancaster

Mon-Fri 9-4:30 | Saturday 9:30-2 | First Fridays akinteriorsllc.com | Follow us! @akinteriorsllc | 717-872-6966

I AM LANCASTER I started this business with my husband Bob in 1954 with a passion for good food and great hospitality.

Today Kitchen Kettle Village is a third generation family business filled with friendly shopkeepers that bring the best of Lancaster County to you with over 40 unique shops, restaurants and lodging. —Pat Burnley, Co-Founder Kitchen Kettle Village P.S. Book our Spring Fling Shopping package, through May 31st and redeem by June 30th to enjoy the best of Kitchen Kettle Village! Visit kitchenkettle.com for all the details!

Open Monday-Saturday, 9am-6pm; closed Sundays.

3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA 17534 kitchenkettle.com • 800-732-3538

Tradition with a

Twist

S I M P L Y

S T U N N I N G

36 Chestnut Road | Paoli, PA 19301 | 610.644.5347 walterjcookjeweler.com