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Melbourne, VIC Koko Black Chocolate. This is not an ad or official website for Koko Black. I think it is the result of some sort of creative impulse perverted by a chocolate-caffeine rush. I haven't sampled all the chocolates available in Melbourne or anywhere else. Koko Black chocolates are certainly lovely, but my favourites so far are Haigh's chocolate truffles. However, I find the idea of a lounge offered for the express purpose of indulging in all things chocolate highly appealing, decadent, kinky, wicked, etc. Chocolate, caffeine and alcohol are currently the most easily procurable and socially acceptable ways to get a buzz. Koko Black offers something out of the ordinary: the opportunity to gratify all of these addictions at once without self-restraint, in surroundings that are luxurious, elegant and cool.GK and I sipped cappuccinos topped with Koko Black chocolate shavings while we sampled Belgian chocolates. [See the photo of the opened box, bottom right for some of the available choices.] It is also possible to try rich chocolate desserts, chocolate cocktails, liqueurs, ice creams, or endless combinations. The arched windows in the upstairs lounge look out onto the striking Royal Arcade. Koko Black is a popular spot, so it may be difficult to get a table. GK and I first wandered by on a Sunday afternoon, and the queue was substantial. We came back on Monday morning at about 11, and there were only a couple of tables available in the lounge. The winged dude with the scythe in the arcade above the chocolate shop elicits the inevitable 'Death by Chocolate' reference, but I think he represents Time (upon closer inspection, he appears to be holding an hourglass). So, kill time until you die by doing drugs. Resistance is futile. You might want to comparison shop, especially as there is no shortage of high quality chocolate in Melbourne. I highly recommend a visit to Haigh's. Not far from Koko Black is a dazzling Haigh's store in the gorgeous Block Arcade. You can't eat in, but if you're lucky will be offered a free sample when you visit. Actually, I think the Sydney and Melbourne stores have a policy of only offering samples to those who have made purchases or who are standing in the queue looking intent on purchasing. If you happen to be in Adelaide, check out the Haigh's Chocolate Factory, go on a free tour, and you will definitely receive free samples. Koko Black and Haigh's chocolates are approved by the possums Cocoa, Blackbeard, and Kulfi.
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