The essential rendezvous for chocolate lovers

For chocolate lovers the Salon du Chocolate and the Choco Story Museum are simply unmissable appointments in Paris this autumn. Why not treat yourself to both while you’re staying at the Hotel Marais Bastille? 

The world’s leading trade fair for chocolate delights

All gourmets and lovers of chocolate delights await the Salon du Chocolat with eager anticipation. So much so that from October 28th to November 1st the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre may well be taken by storm when it hosts what is considered to be THE annual event dedicated to the world of cocoa and chocolate. Filling an area of almost 20,000 m2 and providing a platform for over 500 French and international exhibitors, this fabulous trade fair attracts professionals, chocoholics and the merely curious alike. Displayed in all its culinary splendour and even as an art form, chocolate is honoured as it deserves to be, given its worldwide popularity. Illustrious chefs-pâtissiers, chocolatiers, confectioners and catering professionals will present their latest creations in displays, exhibitions, participatory workshops, live demonstrations and even a fashion show in which all the couture is made from chocolate! Astonishing but true!

For this 22nd edition there will again be live performances of dances, songs and music presented by cocoa-producing countries, an attraction which has been immensely well received in recent years. Naturally, there will also be a programme of tastings. From the bean to the bar, the Salon du Chocolat helps to promote the knowledge of chocolate and the expertise involved in its creation. Over 100,000 visitors are expected this year and you can be among them. Come along and indulge yourself!

Discovering the history of cocoa and chocolate

Of course, the Salon du Chocolat is far from the only delight to be found in Paris for those with a sweet tooth and an inquiring mind. Devoted to the cocoa bean and all its delicious derivatives, the Choco Story Museum traces the long and fascinating history of this commodity that is now so popular throughout the world. For the simply curious who want more information or for dedicated chocolate fans, this museum located at 28 Boulevard Bonne Nouvelle, close to the Opera district, provides a fascinating insight into the world of chocolate.

Reaching some 4000 years into the past, the museum shows how the cocoa bean was first cultivated by pre-Columbian civilizations. From the discovery of the benefits of Theobroma cacao by the Maya to its export to Europe and eventual spread across the world, right up to its ubiquity in modern society, the story of chocolate is told in all its enthralling detail through more than a thousand original artefacts. Then the modern methods of cocoa and chocolate production are explained and visitors are invited to sample different varieties. While enjoying the hospitality of our hotel in the heart of Paris you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Choco-Story Museum as well as the many exhibitions to be held in September.

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Learn more: • Exhibitions halls at Porte de Versailles • Chocolate

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Hotel Marais Bastille, a 3 star Design hotel in the heart of Paris.