There is always time for chocolate.

I stumbled upon this charming little chocolate shop (or “chocolaterie” to the cool kids) and instantly fell in love. Any place that does one thing and manages to do that one thing really well makes me many shades of happy.

Photo by Jessica Bardosh

Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France is a nice addition to Main Street. Proprietor Anne-Geneviève Poitras has a background in pastry-making from her native Quebec and opened in Vancouver when she noticed a distinct lack of proper French chocolate in the city, saying she “had to do something about it.” Ask her about what makes her confections so different and her eyes will widen with affection as she discusses cocoa butter mass, properly sourced ingredients and the importance of handmade craftsmanship. It is hard to pay attention as the smell of the store is somewhat distracting, and my eyes kept wandering over to the squares of 72% Venezuelan with chili bean and 66% Mexican with lavender flowers.

Anne-Geneviève is hiding behind the jar. Photo by Jessica Bardosh

I decided upon a square of chocolate with fleur de sel but went back for a caramel, also with fleur de sel – which blew my mind. It was one of the best things I’ve tasted in ages and if I had to eat one a day for the rest of my life I would not get bored.

Or, at the very least, anytime I find myself wandering around Main St.

Photo by Jessica Bardosh