Chocolaterie facts for kids
A chocolaterie is a special kind of shop. It's a place where people not only sell chocolate treats, but they also make them right there! Think of it as a chocolate factory and a chocolate store all in one. Many chocolateries are small family businesses. They often have just one location.
The word "chocolaterie" comes from France. You'll find many shops with this name in France and Belgium. But these types of chocolate shops are also in other countries. This includes places like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Germany. Sometimes, they even use the French name there.
It's important to know the difference between a chocolaterie and a regular candy store. A candy store sells chocolates and sweets, but they don't usually make their own. A chocolaterie, however, creates its own unique chocolate products. The person who makes these amazing chocolate creations is called a chocolatier. Sometimes, the word "chocolatier" is also used to describe the shop itself, like Godiva Chocolatier.
The Sweet History of Chocolate Shops
For a long time, people in Europe didn't know about the cacao tree. This tree is where chocolate comes from! It was first discovered in the New World (North and South America). Spanish explorers were the first to bring cocoa beans to Europe. They also brought the tools needed to grind them.
In the 1700s, new machines made it easier to make chocolate. The invention of the hydraulic press and the steam-powered chocolate mill helped a lot. These machines meant that chocolate could be made in much larger amounts. This was the start of chocolate becoming popular for everyone.
The very first chocolaterie opened in Paris, France, in the year 1659. Imagine being able to buy freshly made chocolate treats way back then!
Chocolateries in Stories and Movies
The word "chocolaterie" is sometimes used in books and movies. For example, the famous book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has a French title. In France, it's called Charlie et la Chocolaterie. This shows how important chocolate shops are in French culture.
Another popular story, the novel and 2000 film Chocolat, is also set in a chocolaterie. These stories help us imagine the magic and wonder of these special chocolate-making places.
See also
In Spanish: Chocolatería para niños
