Godiva chocolates

Chocolate is a thorny issue. This creamy brown, 2000 year old substance provokes a huge number of arguments ranging, from the required level of cocoa content and the acceptability of high street chocolate as opposed to ‘high end’ to possible health benefits and whether it can actually make you happier.

However, the main point of anxiety surrounding it, probably relates to women and the urge we seem to have to constantly consume it, regardless of the fact that it has the potential to make you very fat and unhealthy – which let’s face it is unlikely to increase your levels of happiness.

In light of the fact that, in terms of weight gain, chocolate is actually the devils food, I have recently taken the approach of quality over quantity and started sampling various different luxury chocolate brands in order to establish which one is worth the calorie and fat intake. I can’t afford to buy more than a little at a time and therefore will avoid the pitfalls of the chocolate binge.

The brand which comes up time and time again is Godiva.

I first discovered this glorious purveyor of fine chocolate treats, via a little shop they have on Russell Street just off Covent Garden Piazza when I wandered in to buy an Easter egg for my mum and then quickly wandered out after seeing the enormous price tag!

According to their website, the ‘enrobing’ chocolate is specially prepared to a strict Godiva formula that covers everything from the degree of roasting of the cocoa beans to the purity and homogeneity of the chocolate paste. Perhaps that does justify the price tag. It certainly explains the magnificent taste! Godiva specialise in pralines and truffles and I would highly recommend their advent calendars as a way to really enjoy your Christmas run up.

You can also buy Godiva at Selfridges, Harrods or at their stores at 192 Kings Road, Fenchurch Street and 141 Regent Street. Pop in and sample their wares. It’s special. (www.godiva.com).