tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60744387791353155702024-03-13T05:51:12.058-07:00Eclipse Chocolat: Chocolate-making as AlchemyExploring the wild meanderings of an exotic chocolatier one titillating pastry at a time...Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.comBlogger233125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-58772116169855441562011-03-24T12:22:00.000-07:002011-03-24T12:26:27.689-07:00New Site, New Blog!Dearest Choco-friends and -philes...<div><br /></div><div>If you are reading this, then you likely live under a rock. But at least its a chocolate-covered rock... but seriously, I digress...</div><div><br /></div><div>We launched a new site and apparently you missed it! Not only does the new site boast better online ordering, better company profiling, and improved communication, but it is pretty much pure awesomeness all around. And the it hosts the new blog internally!</div><div><br /></div><div>So close this window and bookmark this instead:</div><div><a href="http://eclipsechocolat.com/blog/">http://eclipsechocolat.com/blog/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Cya on the flip side,</div><div>-Will, and the Eclipse Chocolat Tem.</div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-36072628009956279402011-02-05T10:35:00.000-08:002011-02-05T10:53:31.397-08:005-Course Valentine's Day Dinner<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; ">We've been cooking up a storm in the last few days finishing the last of our recipe tests for next weekend's Valentine's Dinner. One of the more exciting aspects of running these special event dinners is that each month is a new theme and therefore new food! That means lots and lots of recipe testing and lots of eating. Rest assured, no one seems to have a problem with the eating part! Take a look at two of the shots we've prepared... and prepare yourself for salivation:</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; font-family:'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 376px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TU2cHQlnaSI/AAAAAAAAA-w/fTi-vfxbZIM/s400/salad.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570279962652928290" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TU2cDe0QytI/AAAAAAAAA-o/qJ57qgK6j3A/s400/love.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570279897752980178" /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">We've still got some space, but don't wait as all good things come to and end... Call the cafe to make an RSVP at 619.578.2984.</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Small Plate, Valentine's Dinner with Eclipse Chocolat</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Exclusively, February 12th & 13th, seatings at 4, 6, and 8pm</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">$95.00 a couple, rsvp required</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Enjoy 5 plates of chocolate, vanilla, and caramel-infused savory food perfect for the romantic couple.</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Guests will enjoy:</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Baked Crab Dib with Bacon & Herbed Flatbread (optional appetizer)</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Amuse Bouche of Two Exclusive Savory Chocolate Truffles, including:</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">72% dark chocolate raspberry-mustard & 31% white chocolate lemon-thyme</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Roasted Beet & Green Apple Salad with Goat Cheese and Candied Cocoa Nib</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">French Onion Soup with White Chocolate Lemon-Thyme Croute</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Choice of Entree: Beef Bourguignon or Baked Brie en Croute</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">both served with blackberry-mustard jus & hasselback potato</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Rose Petal-Burnt Caramel Creme Caramel</span></div></span>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-31445540315247609412011-01-06T14:20:00.000-08:002011-01-08T09:54:14.032-08:00Valentine's Day with Eclipse Chocolat<div style="text-align: left;">Today is January 6th. For you chocophiles out there that might not mean much, but for myself and the other 10 cocoa-clad kids here in the shop its already full-steam ahead for Vday! The big holiday may be 5 weeks away, but a few thousand pounds of chocolate doesn't make itself. Thankfully, our staff has nearly doubled since this time last year so I have plenty of help.</div><div><br /></div><div>Don't let the big day creep up without proper planning! Each year we host guests at various heart-warming events and each one sells out. So here comin' atcha is all the first-hand information you need to make your loved ones feel extra loved this Valentine's Day. Take a look at all the fun things we've got going on:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">New Chocolates:</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="text-align: center; display: inline !important; "><b><br /></b></div></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="text-align: center; display: inline !important; "><b>The Sweet Heart Collection</b></div></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; ">$30 set. Over half a pound of heart-warming chocolates including:</div></div><div style="text-align: center; ">1 Large Blackberry Sage 61% dark chocolate bar</div><div style="text-align: center; ">1 Small Macadamia Ginger 31% white chocolate bar</div><div style="text-align: center; ">1 Small Chile Hazelnut 38% milk chocolate bar</div><div style="text-align: center; ">1 Small Orange Peel Anise 61% dark chocolate bar</div><div style="text-align: center; ">9 Creme Fraiche Caramels in dark and white chocolate, topped with pink peppercorn, merlot-infused sea salt, or candied rose petals</div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TSZO5adgguI/AAAAAAAAA-c/lCtO2Qs9DNY/s400/sweetheart.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559217538298053346" /></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="text-align: center; display: inline !important; "><b><br /></b></div></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="text-align: center; display: inline !important; "><b>Exotic Artisan Truffles, New Seasonal Infusions!</b></div></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center; ">In boxes of 2 ($5), 10 ($20), or 28 ($50), we will continue our tradition of Valentines-specific flavors featuring the following new infusions for the holiday:</div></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b>Champagne Violet (rose champagne+violet confit+candied violet+31% white)</b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b>Raspberry Chipotle (chipotle puree+desiccated raspberry+38% milk)</b></div><div style="text-align: center; ">and the return the of the popular:</div><div style="text-align: center; "><b>Cardamom Rose Petal (cardamom+rose petal+61% dark)</b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div></span></b></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Special Events:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div><div style="text-align: center; "><b>Chocolate, Cheese, & Wine Threeway</b></div><div style="text-align: center; ">Exclusively, February 14th, at 6 and 8pm</div></div><div style="text-align: center; ">$25 per person, rsvp required, seating very limited</div><div style="text-align: center; ">Enjoy a formally-seated hour-long guided tasting with Eclipse owner, Will Gustwiller. Guests will enjoy 3 exotic chocolate truffles paired with 3 artisan cheeses paired with 3 exquisite wines.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Small Plate, Valentine's Dinner with Eclipse Chocolat</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Exclusively, February 12th & 13th, seatings at 4, 6, and 8pm</div><div style="text-align: center;">$95.00 a couple, rsvp required</div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy 5 plates of chocolate, vanilla, and caramel-infused savory food perfect for the romantic couple. Guests will enjoy:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Baked Crab Dib with Bacon & Herbed Flatbread (optional appetizer)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Amuse Bouche of Two Exclusive Savory Chocolate Truffles, including:</div><div style="text-align: center;">72% dark chocolate blackberry-mustard & 31% white chocolate lemon-thyme</div><div style="text-align: center;">Roasted Beet & Green Apple Salad with Goat Cheese and Candied Cocoa Nib</div><div style="text-align: center;">French Onion Soup with White Chocolate Lemon-Thyme Croute</div><div style="text-align: center;">Choice of Entree: Beef Bourguignon or Baked Brie en Croute</div><div style="text-align: center;">both served with blackberry-mustard jus & hasselback potato</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rose Petal-Burnt Caramel Creme Brulee</div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-12555444102301340922010-12-18T08:33:00.000-08:002011-01-06T14:20:31.562-08:00Latin Tamale Dinner<div style="text-align: left;">It's been a long time since my last post... in fact, its been a long time since I've posted anything other than upcoming dinners. Once upon a time when I first opened the cafe, I clocked in at 9am six days a week and staffed my own cafe and made all my own chocolate until I was relieved each evening by 6pm by my only barista. Oh... those were the days:) Plenty of time for blogging those days.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Ignorance is bliss, no? Don't get me wrong, I'm still very happy and very proud of my career, but with 11 employees and counting now there is so much chocolate flying around here these days that my life seems more comical than ever (or dramatic if you know me well!). With Xmas only a few days away, things around here are busier than ever!</div><div><br /></div><div>If you were disappointed about not seeing a dinner in December, well those are the times. Xmas is all consuming! But don't fret, my cocoa-crazed friends... January and a brand new year is just around the corner! Take a look at our first special event of the new year:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Join us on January 15th, with seatings at 2, 4, 6, and 8pm for a full-service chocolate-infused dinner featuring the best of Latin America! For just $30 a person, guests will enjoy three courses of chocolatey-goodness including:</div><div><br /></div><div>Shrimp Quesadilla with Serano Sea-salt Guacamole (optional appetiser)</div><div>Black Been Soup with Caramelized Shallot, White Chocolate Crema, & Poached Egg</div><div>Choice of Two Pollo Asado or Green Chile-Cotija Tamales (or one of each!)</div><div>served with House-made Dark Chocolate Mole & Herbed Rice</div><div>Milk Chocolate Empanada with Vanilla Bean Gelato, Chile Hazelnut, & Smoked Sea Salt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>This will be the second time we've featured a house-made mole. If you're not familiar, it is undeniably the most famous application of chocolate in savory food. And mine is not to miss! Traditionally, mole is made from roasting a variety of chiles with various herbs, seeds, spices, and even toasted corn and peanut... all with cacao of course. But we can never leave "good enough" alone here at Eclipse, so other surprises are in the works. This one is not to miss!</div><div><br /></div><div>Heads up on this one, cocoa-kids, our Latin Dinner sold out faster than any other last year and we expect the same response this time. Make your reservation by calling the cafe at 619.578.2984!</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 383px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TQzmSNqEwPI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/MztmMkKQod8/s400/_MG_2480.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552065641219145970" /></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-1364752657975567432010-10-28T14:26:00.001-07:002010-10-28T15:38:40.809-07:00Sunday Brunch with Eclipse Chocolat!!!<div style="text-align: left;">So this weekend is our Third Year Anniversary Party and while we are all very excited to begin another year of deliciousness, there is one other tiny thing that is capitalizing on our enthusiasm. You may have heard already, but if not prepared to be excited! Starting on Sunday November 7th, we will be serving an Eclipse-style brunch complete with various options for only $12!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For those of you who attend our monthly dinners, you will know the extremes of the foodie-foods that we like to serve. Our brunch concept is certainly no exception, but in honor of affordability, we are toning down the service size: hence the new name for our dining concept" Small Plate". For just $12, guests can choose three small plate from a selection of over 15! Creating your own three course brunch for only $12??? What more can you ask for?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Many of you have asked for a copy of the menu, so I'm finally posting it here (if its too small to read on your screen, right click and save it as a picture and you can zoom in on it on your desktop).Commence salivation:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TMn7VavVhMI/AAAAAAAAA-I/2wc9-KSaFw8/s400/Brunch+Menu.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533229962575054018" /></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-35923104421633218772010-10-22T13:20:00.000-07:002010-10-22T14:04:04.880-07:00Autumn Harvest DinnerIts just around the corner, folks... my favorite time of year... Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away! While Tday isn't as busy as its other holiday counterparts (Xmas, Vday, and Mday), its certainly still a busy time for us. After all, what food spread would be complete without our famous Pumpkin Muscavado??? Its pure deliciousness in holiday format.<div><br /></div><div>But myself and the rest of the Eclipse Chocolat Team and beginning early this year. How else can you get enough gluttony packed into the holiday season? Check what we've got goin' next:</div><div><br /></div><div>Join us Saturday, November 13th, at 4, 6, or 8pm for four courses of holiday deliciousness... and all for just $35 a person. Guests will enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div>Caramelized Shallot Tartletts with Goat Cheese Brulee (optional appetiser)</div><div>Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Candied Cocoa Nib and Lavender Sea Salt</div><div>Savory Root Vegetable Bread Pudding with Cocoa-Brown Sugar Gravy</div><div>Open-faced Brioche Sandwich with Rosemary Turkey & Parmesan Mornay Sauce -OR-</div><div>Butternut, Ricotta, & Chile Burnt Caramel Hazelnut Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce</div><div>both served with Sweet Potato Souffle with Bruleed Vanilla Bean Marshmallow</div><div>White Chocolate-Cranberry Creme Brulee</div><div><br /></div><div>Call the cafe ASAP to reserve your space: 619.5778.2984</div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-42456275087285888482010-10-22T13:06:00.000-07:002010-10-22T13:20:04.284-07:00Eclipse Third Annual Anniversary Partee<div style="text-align: left;">Its that time again, cocoa babies! In just one week, we will be one more year older!!! And that means one thing... lotsa chocolate-covered celebration. Strangely enough, the big date for this year happens to fall on Halloween. Even more fun for everyone!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>Join us Sunday, October 31st, from 3-6pm to celebrate another year of everything chocolate. And since its a holiday already, show up in costume and we will treat you to a free small chocolate bar of your choice. We have a few more goodies in mind including:</div><div><br /></div><div>Samples of our upcoming holiday truffles including: Goat Cheese & Fig, Pomegranate Sage, and Pumpkin Muscavado... AND samples of our upcoming Chocolate Brunch including: Grilled Fruit Skewers with Milk Chocolate Curry Sauce, and Sausage Gravy Biscuit Bites.</div><div><br /></div><div>We're even extending our Happy Hour (enjoy a free truffle with every wine or beer purchase) in case you havent had enough yet.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>ALSO... have you seen the new Salty Dulce De Leche bar? Its delicious, but only available in a small size until Xmas. But in honor of the happy occasion, we will be previewing it for sale in the large size... but only for the day, so stock up!</div><div><br /></div><div>Looking forward to seeing you all then, </div><div>Will & the Eclipse Chocolat Team.</div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 186px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TMHxwCg-j8I/AAAAAAAAA9o/9C-8DSrkFew/s400/salty+dulce+de+leche.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530967624998883266" />Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-23139788597309417612010-09-21T14:30:00.000-07:002010-09-21T14:53:24.412-07:00Eclipse and Oktoberfest!<div style="text-align: left;">The temperatures are falling here in San Diego which means its almost that time again! The past few days my German roots have been showing as Susan, Autumn, and myself have been pondering the chocolatey possibilities of our next dinner: Chocolate Oktoberfest!</div><div><br /></div><div>This will be our third year in a row we've celebrated all things Kraut, and we're up to more delicious beer-related dishes again. If you joined us last year, we featured a house-made cocoa nib-infused sauerkraut, but this time around we're taking a different route. As it turns out (and this was new to even me!) Germans are famous for their fetish with everyone's favorit</div><div>e albino vegetable the white asparagus! They have even been known to devote entire dinners to it! Well, we're happy to feature our version of a multicourse Oktoberfest dinner, but white</div><div>asparagus is only one of our guests stars. Here's the whole line up:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Join us Saturday, October 16th, at 4, 6, and 8pm for a three course celebration of delicious beer & chocolate! For just $30 a guest, you can enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Soft Baked Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese-Bacon Dip (optional appetizer)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Root Vegetable Soup with Cream Cambozola Cheese & Cocoa Crouton</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Cheesy Bake Spaetzel with Caramelized Shallot -or-</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Smoked Gouda-Stuffed Brautwurst with White Chocolate Mustard</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>both served with</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Roasted White Asparagus & Chile Burnt Caramel Hollandaise</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>White Chocolate Apple Struedel with Whipped Creme Fraiche</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Sounds good, eh? Well don't wait, because these babies sell out. Make an RSVP by calling the cafe at 619.578.2984. Until then, here's the yum-yums from our last event:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TJkn-gEOwwI/AAAAAAAAA9g/-KG0DNSbsyc/s400/biscuits+and+gravy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519486773032305410" />Starter: Cheddar and Chive Biscuits with Maple Sausage Gravy</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TJkn-MEwvkI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/C7lkF7RumWo/s400/crepe.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519486767665823298" />First Course: Cocoa Buckwheat Crepes with Caramelized Shallot-Creme Fraiche Filling and Mushroom Marsala Sauce.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TJkn9_-_q1I/AAAAAAAAA9Q/a7k6TUOQGvA/s400/quiche.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519486764420410194" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TJkn9XCIxgI/AAAAAAAAA9I/66xUk6pV7Tk/s400/waffle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519486753427736066" /></div><div>Entree: Spinach-Parmesan Quiche -or- Chocolate Glazed Bacon and Chive Waffle with Rosemary Potatoes and Chile-burnt Caramel Hollendaise Sauce.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TJkn9Ne547I/AAAAAAAAA9A/RR6Sumh8TfA/s400/biscuit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519486750864040882" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Dessert: Blackberry Merlot White Chocolate Shortcakes with Vanilla Bean Creme Fraiche.</div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-81794128669056794842010-08-27T10:52:00.000-07:002010-08-27T11:16:40.491-07:00Brunch for Dinner Dinner!<div>Another dinner came and went, and if you missed it... well that means you're a sucker. Why? Because we never repeat dishes! So shame on you. How are you going to explain that to your taste buds???</div><div><br /></div><div>Fret no more, we do one every month! So while you may have missed out on the past deliciousnesses... you need not miss more. Take a look at what we're dishin' up next:</div><div><br /></div><div>Join us Saturday, September 18th, at 4, 6, and 8pm for a Three Course Prix Fixe featuring everyone's favorite meal for dinner: Brunch! Guests will enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sausage Gravy & White Truffle Biscuit Bites (optional appetizer)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Cocoa-Buckwheat Crepe with Mushroom Marsala Sauce</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Spinach-Parmesan Quiche with Caramelized Shallot -OR-</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Chocolate-Glazed Bacon & Chive Waffle with Chile Maple Syrup</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>both served with Roasted Rosemary Potato & Chile Burnt Caramel Hollandaise</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>White Chocolate Blackberry Shortcake with Whipped Vanilla Bean Creme Fraiche</b></div><div><br /></div><div>This menu is epic! I don't think we've served so many delicious carbs in one meal before! While its still 3 weeks away, don't wait because we sell these babies out! Call the cafe for reservations: 619.578.2984. Until then, check out the plates from our last date!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7yqBLsmI/AAAAAAAAA8s/V8lC_acv9XY/s1600/securedownload.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7yqBLsmI/AAAAAAAAA8s/V8lC_acv9XY/s400/securedownload.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510149516802372194" /></a>Appetizer: Chocolate-glazed Bacon-wrapped Dates<br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7yPWngGI/AAAAAAAAA8k/apZY7KCveKY/s1600/securedownload-1.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7yPWngGI/AAAAAAAAA8k/apZY7KCveKY/s400/securedownload-1.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510149509644517474" /></a>First Course: Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Brulee with White Chocolate Balsamic Sauce</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7xwzxtZI/AAAAAAAAA8c/csa-Eud_c4M/s1600/securedownload-2.jpeg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7xwzxtZI/AAAAAAAAA8c/csa-Eud_c4M/s400/securedownload-2.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510149501445322130" /></a></div><div>Entree: Heirloom Veggie Ratatouille with White Chocolate Bechamel</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7xKuE5DI/AAAAAAAAA8U/3PIRFKqQM0c/s1600/securedownload-3.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7xKuE5DI/AAAAAAAAA8U/3PIRFKqQM0c/s400/securedownload-3.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510149491220866098" /></a>Entree: Hickory Smoked Chicken Salad with Cocoa Nib and Kiojo Grape</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7w-iOrNI/AAAAAAAAA8M/D049oP37sG0/s1600/securedownload-4.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 358px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/THf7w-iOrNI/AAAAAAAAA8M/D049oP37sG0/s400/securedownload-4.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510149487949950162" /></a>Dessert: Grilled Stonefruit Cobbler with Cocoa Nib Crust and Whipped Creme Fraiche</div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-39602993472384288092010-08-06T12:16:00.001-07:002010-08-06T12:40:41.832-07:00Summer Garden Feast<div>We've got another Prix Fixe Chocolate Tasting Dinner comin' at ya... and its only two weeks away! Tuck in cocoa kiddies, this one's all deliciousness, because we're celebrating the bounties of heirloom vegetables grown here in our own Golden State. Take a look:</div><div><br /></div><div>Join us on Saturday, August 21st, at 4, 6, or 8pm, for a bounty of chocolate-infused vegetarian faire! For just $25, guests may join us to enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Cocoa-glazed Bacon-wrapped Dates (optional appetizer)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Heirloom Tomato & Goat Cheese Brulee with White Chocolate-Balsamic Drizzle</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Heirloom Vegetable Ratatouille Timballo with White Chocolate Bechamel -or-</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Kyoho Grape and Herb Roasted Chicken Salad over Grilled Brioche with Candied Cocoa Nib</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Seasonal Stonefruit Cobbler with Lavender-Vanilla Bean & Cocoa Nib Crust and Whipped Creme Fraiche</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>And if you missed the last dinner, well you missed out! Take a look at these yum-yums:</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgcrXiOqI/AAAAAAAAA8E/ArVkRyr7gVw/s1600/Meatball1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgcrXiOqI/AAAAAAAAA8E/ArVkRyr7gVw/s400/Meatball1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502378890533943970" /></a>Starter: Beef Albondigas with White Wine-Tomato Sauce<br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgcUrHkmI/AAAAAAAAA78/mXCNdf-nvvk/s1600/Gazpacho4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgcUrHkmI/AAAAAAAAA78/mXCNdf-nvvk/s400/Gazpacho4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502378884442067554" /></a>First Course: Roasted Tomato Gazpacho with Green Apple and White Chocolate-Olive Oil Crostini</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgb-Arj1I/AAAAAAAAA70/yc-RyIOh-Dw/s1600/Paella2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgb-Arj1I/AAAAAAAAA70/yc-RyIOh-Dw/s400/Paella2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502378878358490962" /></a>Entree: Smoked Gouda Sausage and Shrimp Paella with Burnt Caramel-Paprika Sauce</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgbcnbigI/AAAAAAAAA7s/LuxfopoXoT0/s1600/Dessert3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TFxgbcnbigI/AAAAAAAAA7s/LuxfopoXoT0/s400/Dessert3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502378869394213378" /></a>Dessert: Blood Orange Olive Oil & Almond Torte with Dark Chocolate Olive Oil Sauce</div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-3436825825661406502010-07-20T11:52:00.000-07:002010-07-20T11:56:10.347-07:002pm Seating Added for Spanish Saffron Dinner!Our 4, 6, and 8pm seatings are sold out! So we've added a 2pm seating. Call the cafe quickly (619.578.2984) to make reservations or forever be without the deliciousness. BTW, we did a recipe test on the entree and MAN OH MAN... this one is definitely in the top five entrees we've ever made!<div><br /></div><div>In case your scrolling finger is broken, here's the link to the original post about our July dinner.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://eclipsechocolat.blogspot.com/2010/06/spanish-saffron-dinner.html">Check it!</a></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-46926717617131446792010-06-24T14:48:00.000-07:002010-06-26T13:40:35.050-07:00Third Annual Cupcake Extravaganza Weekend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCZllVkFKsI/AAAAAAAAA7k/c1WFf2gU2Hs/s1600/cupcake_week.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCZllVkFKsI/AAAAAAAAA7k/c1WFf2gU2Hs/s400/cupcake_week.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487184888115571394" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; font-family:'Trebuchet MS';font-size:13px;"><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Its just over a week before our </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Third</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Annual Cupcake Extravaganza Weekend</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and I've got some exciting updates to share! Tuck in cocoa-kiddies and listen up...</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In case you're new to San Diego (because why else would you have missed the big event from the previous two years) our big </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Cupcake Extravaganza Weekend </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">is July 3rd, 4th, and 5th! We will be featuring 28 exotic flavors of cupcakes in a wide array of fantastical flavors and conceptions! To celebrate the holiday weekend,</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> a </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Box of Nine</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> is discounted to just $20 (normally $27). Nine cupcakes, eh? I hear you say... perfect for </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">4th of July</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> picnics and bar-b-ques, no?</span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; ">Well it gets better, because every </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; ">Box of Nine</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; "> purchased is a raffle entry to win the </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; ">Eclipse VIP Pass</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; ">, which two lucky people will win. Even better, one more lucky cupcake will contain a </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; ">Golden Medallion</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; "> tucked under the cupcake lining that will be instant winners for another pass!</span></span><br /></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">But what's an </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Eclipse VIP Pass</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> good for? Why... how does a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Box of Nine</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> every week for two months sound? That's enough cupcakes to share with everyone you know for the rest of the summer! That's three passes we're giving out altogether and if you're doing the math, $800 dollars in fabulous cupcake prizes!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The past two years were great fun, but nothing is forever... alas we have retired some previous flavors. But only to make room for more! This year we will be debuting 9 new exotic cupcake flavors:</span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Maple Bacon Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Salty Dulce de Leche</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Roasted Banana Butterscotch</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Cherry Cheesecake</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Rosemary-Cashew Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Vanilla Bean Lemon</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Apricot Peach</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Roasted Corn & Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Blueberry Lemon</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">And of course, filling out the remaining 28 flavors, we will be featuring the return of some of our all-time favorites:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Marshmallow Almond</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Bergamot Orange Peel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Strawberry Rhubarb</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Kentucky Bourbon Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Lavender Vanilla Bean</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Goat Cheese & Fig</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Burnt Caramel Marshmallow</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Sea Salted Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Muscavado Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Salty Smores</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Peanut Butter and Banana</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Toasted Coconut Caramel</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Double Espresso</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Raspberry Pink Peppercorn</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">But don't wait!!! We are baking away on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday mornings... but flavors will disappear as quickly as people buy them. Cya all then!</span></span></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-67387108626999292010-06-24T10:05:00.000-07:002010-06-24T11:16:27.797-07:00Spanish Saffron Dinner<div>We hosted our third annual <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Father's Day Chocolat Bar-B-Que</span> dinner last weekend here at the cafe, and much deliciousness was enjoyed by all who could attend! The beginning of summer denotes the beginning of our slow season (since most chocolate is enjoyed at<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Xmas</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Vday</span>, and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mday</span>) and the timing is ripe to delve deeper and deeper into savory chocolate exploration. Not that I don't enjoy our <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Prix Fixe Chocolate Tasting Dinners</span> during our high-holiday months, but somehow mid summer they always seem to be more exciting to me!</div><div><br /></div><div>And since each new month brings another opportunity to explore a new theme, there are always exciting variations around corner. Next up is a cuisine I've been hungry to do for months, but have never gotten around to it until now: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Spanish</span>!</div><div><br /></div><div>No, not <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">New-World Spanish,</span> but authentic <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Castillian Spanish</span>... or rather, as authentic as <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Spanish</span> cuisine can be after mutilating centuries of culinary tradition by chalking it full of chocolate! But, hey... where's the fun without it? So here we go cocoa-babies... check it:</div><div><br /></div><div>Join us July 31st, with seatings at 4, 6, and 8pm for our three course <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Spanish Saffron Dinner</span>. For only $25, guests will enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Roasted Tomato Gazpacho with White Chocolate-Oil Crostinti.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Saffron Paella with Smoked Sausage & Shrimp</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">or<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Roasted Veggie and Crispy Potato Fritata</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">both served with Smoke Paprika-Saffron Burnt Caramel Sauce.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Blood Orange Olive Oil & Almond Torte with Dark Chocolate-Citrus Drizzle</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">There is also an optional appetizer of</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Beef Albondigas with White Wine-Tomato Sauce!</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Call the cafe early to save your space as our dinners usually sell out! 619.578.2984. Until then, check out the yum-yums from our last menu:</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORH1r7-oI/AAAAAAAAA7c/v-4d1jbsGio/s1600/_MG_4002.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 383px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORH1r7-oI/AAAAAAAAA7c/v-4d1jbsGio/s400/_MG_4002.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486388334923872898" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Starter: Smoked Gouda-Stuffed Bratwurst with Mustard Dipping Sauces</span></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORGu9L1sI/AAAAAAAAA7U/kgGVzAC6Ae0/s1600/_MG_4011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 294px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORGu9L1sI/AAAAAAAAA7U/kgGVzAC6Ae0/s400/_MG_4011.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486388315937298114" /></a><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">First Course: Chile Maple Lime Corn on the Cob with Cocoa Nib-infused Butter</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORE2OZqlI/AAAAAAAAA7E/MG64ONWmzWw/s1600/_MG_4031.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 396px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORE2OZqlI/AAAAAAAAA7E/MG64ONWmzWw/s400/_MG_4031.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486388283528817234" /></a><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Entree: Beef Sloppy Joes over Grilled Rosemary-Buttermilk Focaccia, Twice-baked Potato with Panko Chive Crust, and Chocolate Bar-B-Que Sauce.</span></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORDxgnB4I/AAAAAAAAA68/OrM5snGKG_4/s1600/_MG_4038.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/TCORDxgnB4I/AAAAAAAAA68/OrM5snGKG_4/s400/_MG_4038.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486388265083144066" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Dessert: Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with White Chocolate Lemon-Thyme Sauce.</span></div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-88989691772113346652010-05-25T11:17:00.000-07:002010-05-25T12:02:50.351-07:00Father's Day Chocolate Bar-B-Que!<div>Summer is upon us and the first thing that comes to my mind is all of the delicious glory of a roaring bar-b-que. And what's better than that... Why, a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">chocolate</span> bar-b-que, of course! In case your mind skipped a beat, trust me when I say this is among my favorite times of year to be experimental with my cocoa-companion. This will be the third year in a row that we have served up a chocolate bar-b-que dinner, and on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Father's Day Weekend</span>, nonetheless, and the vittles will once again be tasty! Last year, we amused our guests with the <a href="http://eclipsechocolat.blogspot.com/2009/05/chocolate-caramel-cheeseburger.html">Chocolate-Caramel Cheeseburger</a> and this year I have racked my mind as best I could to come up with the next greatest summertime treat apropos for all the Dads out there.</div><div><br /></div><div>So you heard it here first, kids... anyone and everyone joining us this time will be mawing down on an <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Open-faced Beef Sloppy Jo</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">e</span> nestled atop a slab of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Grilled Rosemary Brioche</span>, complete with our house-made <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Bourbon-Chocolate Bar-b-que Sauce</span>. Make your RSVPs early to get the best seats! Here are all the details:</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday June 19th, with seatings at 4, 6, & 8pm, guests may join us for $25 each and enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Smoked Gouda-stuffed Brautwurst with Champagne-Garlic Mustard (optional appetizer)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Chile-lime Grilled Cord on the Cobb with Cocoa Nib-infused Butter</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Open-faced Beef Sloppy Joe</span> -or-<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Blue Cheese-Stuffed Quinoa Veggie Burger</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">both served with Bourbon-Chocolate Bar-b-que Sauce and Twice-baked Potato with Caramelized Shallot & Crunchy Panko-Chive Crust</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with White Chocolate Lemon-Thyme Sau</span>ce</div><div><br /></div><div>This dinner is not to miss! Personally, I think this is among one of my best menus yet! Call the cafe direct at 619.578.2984 to make an RSVP.</div><div><br /></div><div>Until then, here are pics from our last dinner, courtesy of Nino Camilo, guest photographer and Musubi aficionado (that's Hawaiian for yumminess). Check out his blog <a href="http://ilovemusubi.com/">here</a>!</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVL_1oamI/AAAAAAAAA60/JojLB4Ugo54/s1600/IMG_0098.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVL_1oamI/AAAAAAAAA60/JojLB4Ugo54/s400/IMG_0098.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475274542834805346" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Appetizer- Chocolate-glazed Bacon-wrapped Water Chestnuts<br /></span><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVLoEEguI/AAAAAAAAA6s/hfnTSorxAbc/s1600/IMG_0143.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVLoEEguI/AAAAAAAAA6s/hfnTSorxAbc/s400/IMG_0143.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475274536452915938" /></a><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">First Course- Wakame Seaweed Salad with Green Apple, Enoki, and Candied Cocoa nibs</span></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVK37M0sI/AAAAAAAAA6k/-e9Ak5o0bf4/s1600/IMG_0208.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVK37M0sI/AAAAAAAAA6k/-e9Ak5o0bf4/s400/IMG_0208.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475274523530810050" /></a><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Entree- Coconut-Fried Shrimp with Miso-Buckwheat Noodles and Chile Burnt Caramel Peanut Sauce</span></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVKaUNiNI/AAAAAAAAA6c/zR1t8KgyKZ0/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S_wVKaUNiNI/AAAAAAAAA6c/zR1t8KgyKZ0/s400/IMG_0217.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475274515582650578" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Dessert-Grilled Pineapple-Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding with Milk Chocolate Curry Sauce</span></div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-70839868029682992012010-04-28T13:19:00.000-07:002010-04-28T14:15:04.700-07:00May Chocolate Prix Fixe DinnerI usually start a blog post with a quirky joke or quip, but I've been pondering over this one for a few days and apparently I'm all fresh out of hilarity. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">May 15th</span> is our <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Hawaiian Chocolate Luau Dinner</span> and at the moment my mind is filled to capacity playing the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Mele Kilikimak</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">a</span> song over and over again. You know, the funny one from <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation</span>? Yep... that's all I got. Should have planned a Xmas Hawaiian Dinner, I guess.<div><br /></div><div>I promise to find something more entertaining with which to promote the June dinner, but at the moment my mind is occupied with the upcoming<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "> Mother's Day Dessert</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Decadence.</span> Haven't made your reservations? I'd hurry... it's sellin' out!</div><div><br /></div><div>But I digress! I'm here to announce the details of the next monthly chocolate dinner. And two weeks ago at our monthly chocolate pow-wow, the team decided on a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Polynesian</span> theme. I think mostly because we all love shrimp and pineapple! Take a look:</div><div><br /></div><div>Join us May 15th at 4, 6, or 8pm for a full service chocolate-infused meal from the Pacific Islands! For just $25 a person, guests will enjoy the following:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Cocoa-glazed Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts (optional appetizer)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Seaweed-Green Apple Salad with Candied Sesame and Cocoa Nib</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Fried Skewers of Coconut Shrimp & Snow Peas</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">-or-</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Grilled Veggie Skewers of Maui Onion, Tri-Color Bell Peppers, & Cheese Curds</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">both served with</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Miso-Buckwheat Noodles & Chile Burnt Caramel Peanut Sauce</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Grilled Pineapple Bread Pudding with Milk Chocolate Curry Sauce</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">RSVP required. Call the cafe at 619.578.2984 to reserve your space!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Until then cocoa-kiddies, take a look at what we served last month. Open wide... cause here's your yum-yums:</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S9ifZtLIY-I/AAAAAAAAA6M/cVibfWmoxOg/s400/_MG_0427.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465293411785925602" />Appetiser: Cripsy Fried Creamy Crab Samosa's with Mango Chutney.<br /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 284px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S9ifacAGVSI/AAAAAAAAA6U/aHWHz1mS7bE/s400/_MG_0421.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465293424356119842" />First Course: Curried Carrot Ginger Soup with White Chocolate Creme Fraiche and Garlic Flatbread.<br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S9ifZYRbApI/AAAAAAAAA6E/qNlzRZvRTK0/s1600/_MG_0434.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S9ifZYRbApI/AAAAAAAAA6E/qNlzRZvRTK0/s400/_MG_0434.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465293406175167122" /></a>Entree: Duo of Curries: Creamy Spinach with Cheese Curds & Spicy Potato-Tomato with Toasted Cashews. Served with Candied Cocoa Nib & Pumpkin Seed Basmati Rice.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S9ifY_I0x2I/AAAAAAAAA58/6XFghIlTx_A/s1600/_MG_0442.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 366px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S9ifY_I0x2I/AAAAAAAAA58/6XFghIlTx_A/s400/_MG_0442.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465293399428220770" /></a><div>Dessert: Toasted Indian Pudding with Cocoa, Chile Burnt Caramel Hazelnuts, Bruleed Banana, & Vanilla Bean Gelato.</div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-57725360906639866242010-04-20T09:20:00.000-07:002010-04-20T10:24:09.451-07:00First Annual Mother's Day Dessert Decadence<div>Mmm... freshly baked scones. And <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Lavender-Blueberry Scones with Cocoa-nib Butter</span> at that! Who doesn't want a mouth-full of that kinda goodness? Come on... just take a look:</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S83eH63_qmI/AAAAAAAAA50/K8qGjtaiwZQ/s1600/blueberry.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 293px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S83eH63_qmI/AAAAAAAAA50/K8qGjtaiwZQ/s400/blueberry.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462266150714845794" /></a><br /><div>Well, cocoa babies, you'll be missin' out unless you join us for our first annual <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mother's Day Dessert Decadence</span>! That's right, on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">May 9th</span>, we're pullin' out all the stops and treating all who dream to a tasting experience perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon. For $20, guests will enjoy a tasting flight of 10 different petit fours that every mom unlucky enough to live away from San Diego will envy. And if that's not enough, participants may even requests seconds on any dessert they desire (dine-in only, of course).</div><div><br /></div><div>But wait... we're not done! Since the day is dedicated to her, we're even including a complimentary <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Rose-Nectar and Champagne Bellini</span> to everyone beautiful enough to have graced the world with her maternity (that is, all Mothers, of course).</div><div><br /></div><div>Reservations are required, with seating available at any time between 11 am and 5pm on Sunday, May 9th. Call to cafe to save your space 619.578.2984. Wanna see the whole menu? Take a look:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Warm Lavender-Blueberry Scones with Cocoa-nib Butter</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Chocolate-stuffed Balsamic Strawberries</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Burnt Creme Caramel</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Rich Brioche Coffee Cake</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Meyer Lemon & Vanilla Bean Curd Crepes</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Brute Cocoa Macaroons</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Dark Chocolate Whiskey Torte</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Cabernet Poached D'anjou Pear</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Rose-Almond Tea Cake</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Vanilla Bean Gelato Croquembouche</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Nice, eh? Seriously... what are you waiting for. Mom or no, mom... call us and reserve your space today!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-47568850009052825732010-03-21T20:41:00.000-07:002010-03-21T21:02:53.834-07:00Indian Delight Dinner<div style="text-align: left;">We just completed our 18th dinner (with a unique menu each month) and the time has come to pass the reigns to my assistant (if only for the next thirty days). Autumn, decade-long vegetarian and life-long foodie, has been encouraging me to consider an Indian-themed dinner for some time now. Well... quickly stated, while I love Indian cuisine, I haven't the slightest clue on how to begin making it, let alone adding chocolate to it! But thankfully this is where she fits in. Having had her India food many times in the past, I feel quite comfortable switching roles this time around. You heard it here first, kids... young grasshopper has become the master. Well, at least for the moment.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And sometimes you gotta go all the way, no? Well check it... an Eclipse first... four delicious chocolate-stuffed platings designed by our very own assistant chocolatier, Autumn Teemsma. Don't forget to place your reservations early... she's got a lotta friends:)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Exclusively for Saturday, April 17th with seatings at 4, 6, and 8pm, join us for three courses of chocolate-infused Indian Fare for only $25 per person. You heard me right! Take a look:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Creamy Crab-filled Samosas with Mango Chutney (optional appetizer)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ginger Carrot Soup with White Chocolate Creme Fraiche and Indian Flat Bread</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Choice of Either Entree or Both:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Spiced Creamy Spinach Curry with Pan Fried Cheese Curds</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">or</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Tomato, Potato, & Zucchini Curry with Toasted Cashew</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Each served with Cocoa Nib and Pumpking Seed Basmati Rice</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Sweet India Pudding with Cocoa, Roasted Hazelnut, and Vanilla Bean Gelato</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">To make a reservation, call the cafe at 619.578.2984. Until then, as always, drool over what you served last time:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn_omBI4I/AAAAAAAAA5k/JZJ_Ckv1Ppk/s400/mussels.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451299479393215362" /><br />Starter: Mussels with Smoked Bacon, Roasted Garlic, and Stout.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn_yKXKrI/AAAAAAAAA5s/S2VlUXb0qdE/s1600-h/soup.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn_yKXKrI/AAAAAAAAA5s/S2VlUXb0qdE/s400/soup.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451299481961573042" /></a><div><div><div><br />First Course: Roasted Leek and Potato Soup with Pale Ale, Cocoa-glazed Bacon, and Creme Fraiche.<br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn-td5_OI/AAAAAAAAA5c/F-t71VBQrv0/s1600-h/entree.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 321px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn-td5_OI/AAAAAAAAA5c/F-t71VBQrv0/s400/entree.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451299463521500386" /></a><br /><div>Entree: Beef and Lamb Shepard's Pie with Potato-Parsnip Crust, Cocoa Brown Sugar Gravy, and White Chocolate Soda Bread.<br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn-PVq90I/AAAAAAAAA5U/S4hwEcLNyMw/s1600-h/torte.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S6bn-PVq90I/AAAAAAAAA5U/S4hwEcLNyMw/s400/torte.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451299455433897794" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Dessert: Chocolate-Stout Torte with Ginger and Vanilla Bean Cream.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-39412476912533110622010-02-23T16:54:00.001-08:002010-02-24T19:35:50.441-08:00Saint Patrick's Day Beer Dinner<div style="text-align: left;">Valentine's Day has come and gone and I, for one, and enjoying a much-needed vacay. Well, if you can call sitting around at home catching up on my personal life a vacation, then that is exactly what I am happiest doing at the moment! And for all of you who tried to get ahold of me during the big week, try again now... I'm fresh outta excuses as to why I can't answer the phone.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Rest assured, in between my long-overdue cat naps things are still on the up and up around the chocolate shop. Post Vday is one of my favorite times of year as it is both a time to look back on a completed season and look forward to the next one, and I promise there are great things a comin'!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But a girl has to keep some of her secrets, right? At the moment I'm only divulging one: the March Chocolate Tasting Dinner!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That's right... move over Saint Valentine, its time for Saint Patrick to wiggle his bum, because comin' up next is the Saint Patrick's Day Beer and Chocolate Dinner!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Leave the shamrock sweaters and metallic necklaces at home and join us to indulge in all things indulgent. And who needs virtue when you've got vice, cause we're servin' up all the chocolate and beer you can take. Take a look:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Exclusively March 13th at 2, 4, 6, and 8pm, for $30 a person, we're showcasing 3 courses of Irish faire drenched in chocolatey brew. Guests to enjoy:<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mussels with Garlic and Stout (optional starter)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Potato-Leek & Beer Cheese Soup with Cocoa-glazed Bacon Crumble</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Shepard's Pie (beef and lamb OR all veggie), with Roasted Root Veggies & Mashed Potato-Parsnip Crust, served with Cocoa-Brown Sugar Gravy and White Chocolate-Chive Irish Soda Bread</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Chocolate-Stout Torte with Ginger Vanilla Bean Cream</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Meal comes complete drenched in plenty of beer, but if thats not enough (and when is enough, enough?) we will be featuring an optional 3-course beer flight matched with the dinner for an extra $12.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">RSVP ASAP by calling the cafe at 619.578.2984. Space is limited!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Until then, here's what we enjoyed last time for Vday:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S4R5L1bz4dI/AAAAAAAAA4s/x2prQJHr4G0/s400/_MG_7626.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441607493999649234" /><br /><div>Appetizer: Baked Bacon and Crab Dip with Herbed Flatbreads.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 376px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S4R5MXfXtaI/AAAAAAAAA40/WGy5q9TMYIU/s400/_MG_7633.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441607503141385634" /><br /></div><div>First Course: Roasted Beet and Green Apple Salad with Candied Cocoa Nibs and Lavender-herbed Grey Sea Salt.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S4R5MnyhgPI/AAAAAAAAA48/6eP8LXBZJEA/s400/_MG_7639.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441607507516686578" /><br /></div><div>Soup Course: Charred Tomato Bisque with White Chocolate Poached Lobster and Tarragon.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S4R5NJVj5lI/AAAAAAAAA5E/vNa_xIXQm-4/s400/_MG_7647-Edit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441607516522014290" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Entree: Beef Wellington with Cocoa-Mushroom Pate and Cocoa-Balsamic Jus served with Rosemary Fingerling Potatoes.</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S4R5NXGDYcI/AAAAAAAAA5M/ThKi6SfiM38/s1600-h/_MG_7657.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S4R5NXGDYcI/AAAAAAAAA5M/ThKi6SfiM38/s400/_MG_7657.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441607520215065026" /></a></div><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Dessert Course: Tasting Flight of Four Limited Edition Truffles Infused with Artisan Cheeses- Salted Gjetost, Gorgonzola Cherry, Apricot and Brie, Tarragon Goat Cheese.</div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-2687464098882732612010-01-05T21:29:00.001-08:002010-01-06T18:05:31.714-08:00Xmas, San Francisco, and BeyondWell cocoa-babies... the holidays have come and gone and though it's my fifth season with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Eclipse</span>, I am time and time again surprised by the lingering excitement of it all! I believe it was sometime mid-month, while I was half-covered in couverture in the kitchen with chocolates comin' outta my ears, I said to myself: "This has GOT TO BE the last batch to truffles before the holiday". If only! My staff found me in the same scenario four more times before <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">December 24th</span>. No complaints here, though.... <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ray</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Dan</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Autumn</span>,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> August</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Susan</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Nicole</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Jess</span>, and I all had a lovely holiday season filled with lots and lots of excitement... thanks to you all!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>So today is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">January 6th</span> and I am finally catching my breath. But only just long enough to prepare for my national launch of the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Eclipse</span> brand! That's right kids, we're leaving on a jet plane in a week bound for <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">SFO</span> and the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">International Fancy Food Show</span>! Hooray! And if you're reading this, you can rest assured that you got in on the ground floor, baby. Get ready with all those "I knew him when"s. And as exciting as our lives may become, we promise there will always be a place in our chocolate-covered hearts for you all. You always remember your first:)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>But just in case international fame isn't knocking on my door before my retirement age, we're conducting business as usual. And I am sure you're wondering why I have yet to post pics from the last dinner or tell anyone what's comin' up next. Well, historically <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">January</span> is my month off from dinners and I have just enough time to pull out all the stops for the next dinner on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">February 13th and 14th</span>! That's right, next up is our annual <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Valentine's Sweetheart Dinner</span>. Take a look at the details... because there are many:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Exclusively <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Saturday February 13th</span> (at 4, 6, & 8pm) and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday February 14th</span> (at 11, 1, 4, 6, & 8pm join us for a romantic dinner for two with all the flair. For $95 per couple, our guests will enjoy <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Four Courses of Surf & Turf </span>accompanied by a<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Live Violini</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">st!</span> What a deal, eh? All you need do it place your reservation, show up, and we will do the rest.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Menu includes (full vegetarian options available):</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Salade Frisee with Roasted Beet Trio, Garlic Croutons, and Candied Cocoa Nibs</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Charred Tomato Bisque with White Chocolate-Poached Lobster</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Beef Wellington </span>or<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Brie Wellington Baked En Croute with Cocoa-Mushroom Pate</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">served with<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Rosemary Fingerling Potatoes and Cocoa-Balsamic Jus</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">and for the finale, a first ever exclusive (!), a tasting flight of<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Four Limited Edition Truffles</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">each infused with an artisan cheese including:<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Chevre, Camembert, Gjetost, & Gorganzola Dolce.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>We will also be featuring an optional starter plate for $12 of:</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Artisan Cheeses and Dried Fruits with Violet Blossom Confit</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">or</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Baked Parmesan and Crab Dip with Roasted Garlic Flatbreads</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">AND! Am optional tasting flight of three wines for $15 paired specifically with the dinner!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now while your eyes are rolling to the back of your head and your open maw is dripping with salivation, now is the time to get yourself together and call us before its too late. Last year our Valentine's Sweetheart Dinner sold out a full two weeks in advance. Don't wait! Call us now at 619.578.2984 and reserve your table with a credit card. We will do the rest! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And if you haven't heard of our dinners before... well get out from your cave and join the rest of the world! Here's what we enjoyed last time:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 341px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S0U_guGDqwI/AAAAAAAAA4U/fMcXhZDEz4c/s400/_MG_7376.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423811157599431426" />Starter: Sawmill Sausage-Peppercorn Gravy over Buttermilk Chive Biscuits.<br /><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S0U_hJDJEzI/AAAAAAAAA4c/0-MVv8u79H0/s400/_MG_7382-Edit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423811164834960178" /><div style="text-align: left;">First Course: Wilted Greens with Lavender Sea Salt and Candied Cocoa Nibs.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 322px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S0U_hnC8rsI/AAAAAAAAA4k/jvm5YvvvF3Q/s400/_MG_7385-Edit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423811172887211714" />Entree: Fried Green Tomatoes or Coconut Fried Shrimp with Cocoa Butter Grits and Chile Burnt Caramel Peanut Sauce.<br /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 292px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/S0U_Xv7VHnI/AAAAAAAAA4M/FcGNNghKIvI/s400/_MG_7386.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423811003472486002" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Dessert: Baked Cranberry Cobbler with White Chocolate Biscuit Topping and Whipping Creme Fraiche.</div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-87634105868199902892009-11-18T17:59:00.000-08:002009-11-18T18:24:17.754-08:00Southern Fried ChristmasMmm... Just a quick jaunt around any mall these days reminds me that the holidays are already here! The smells of pumpkin lattes, roasted nuts, and peppermint candies are ripe around every corner and I, for one, am in full holidays cooking mode. And had you joined us for dinner at the cafe this past weekend, you would have been treated to a full holiday feast. Yes, friends... we celebrated T-day a full week and a half early this year and 95 of you joined us! If you missed all the tasty vittles, don't fret, you've got one more chance!<div><br /></div><div>Join us Saturday, December 12th at 4.5, 6.5 or 8.5pm for an Xmas feast from the deep South. For just $30, you can enjoy 3 courses of seasonal faire two weeks before the big day. Make a reservation today and help us bring in the holiday with our Southern Fried Christmas dinner! Guests to enjoy:</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheddar and Chive Biscuit Bites with Sawmill Sausage Gravy (optional starter)</div><div>Wilted Greens with Candied Cocoa Nibs</div><div>Fried Coconut Shrimp -or- Fried Green Tomatoes</div><div>with Cocoa Butter Grits, Coddled Egg, & Chile Burnt Caramel Peanut Sauce</div><div>White Chocolate Cranberry Cobbler with Vanilla Bean-Peppercorn Cream</div><div><br /></div><div>Space is limited so RSVP today at 619.578.2984! Until then, check out the deliciousness from the last dinner:</div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SwSq7S8MluI/AAAAAAAAA3s/ohVn9m_XT6o/s400/1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405633388424763106" /><br />Starter- Fried Bacon, Mac, & Cheese with Bacon Fat Drizzle<br /><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SwSq7pi1pKI/AAAAAAAAA30/qYrx93ST0J8/s400/2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405633394492417186" /><br /><div>First Course- Roasted Veggies with Frisse & White Chocolate-Lemon Dressing<br /><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SwSq7ykD1eI/AAAAAAAAA38/YV-K7eJHQAU/s400/3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405633396913460706" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Entree- Rosemary & Lavender Sea Salt Crusted Cornish Game Hen with Cocoa Butter-Smashed Potatoes & Savory Bread Pudding with Cocoa-Brown Sugar Gravy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SwSq735UMII/AAAAAAAAA4E/UclFP2dUnn0/s400/5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405633398344790146" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Dessert- Ginger Pumpkin Cheesecake with Brownie Crumb Crust & Vanilla Bean Ginger Cream</div></div></div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-72563145341293664882009-10-27T10:04:00.000-07:002009-10-28T14:04:15.359-07:00Autumn Harvest DinnerWe finished up this last weekend with one of our biggest <span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Three Course Prix Fix</span>e dinners yet! If you missed it... well shame on you, as I don't repeat menu items. You'll just have to live with the chocolately shame. <div><br /><div>This last one sold out pretty fast so we added a 2.5pm seating, but that's not typical for us. We're back to 4.5, 6.5, and 8.5 seatings this time around so don't hold off to make reservations. Here's what we're cookin':</div><div> </div><div>Join us <strong>Saturday, November 14th</strong> to indulge in the three courses of a chocolate-Thanksgiving feast at our <span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Autumn Harvest Prix Fixe Dinner: </span> Menu includes:</div><div><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Fried Mac & Cheese with Smoked Bacon (0ptional appetiser)</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Salade Frisee with Roasted Root Veggies and White Chocolate-Balsamic Drizzle</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Rosemary and Lavender Sea-salted Roasted Cornish Game Hen</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">or Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">both served with</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Cocoa-Brown Sugar Gravy, Cocoa Butter Smashed Potatoes, & Savory Bread Pudding</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Ginger-Pumpkin Cheesecake with Dark Chocolate Brownie Crumb Crust</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold"><br /></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">To make an RSVP, call the cafe at 619.578.2984. Space is limited! Until then, get your mouth watery with the pics from this past weekend. Check it:</div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397329290148376930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SucqZKMa8WI/AAAAAAAAA3E/Iv3L1UPb2nc/s400/1.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div>Appetizer- German Meatballs with Creamy Dill-Shallot Creme Fraiche.</div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397329294799412466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SucqZbhUHPI/AAAAAAAAA3M/FDjgWAQ4lA8/s400/2.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div>First Course- Beer Cheese Soup with White Chocolate-Dill Mustard and Black Sea-salted Soft Pretzel</div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397329304072732594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SucqZ-EPv7I/AAAAAAAAA3c/sJ7BeMsv4YE/s400/4.jpg" border="0" /> <div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">Entree- Smoked Gouda Bratwurst with Cocoa-nib Infused Sauerkraut & Toasted Pumpernickle</div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397329309879038386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SucqaTsk8bI/AAAAAAAAA3k/tPDCHz8YxY8/s400/5.jpg" border="0" /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><div><br /></div><div>Dessert Course- Black Forrest Torte with Beer-Soaked Cherry Ganache Filling and Burnt Caramel Beer Reduction.</div></div></div>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-24598980718878730062009-10-13T10:15:00.000-07:002009-10-13T10:48:13.643-07:00Second Anniversary Party!It's officially fall in <strong>San Diego</strong> and while that doesn't mean a degree of cooler weather like the rest of the country enjoys, it does mean we're coming into the season of holiday treats and eats. <strong>Halloween</strong>, <strong>Thanksgiving</strong>, and <strong>Xmas</strong> are very busy times around here, but before any of that can happen, we need to celebrate our <strong>Anniversary</strong>!<br /><br />That's right, cocoa-babies! On <strong>October 28th</strong> we will be parting it up. Join us from 7pm-9pm on that <strong>Wednesday</strong> evening to indulge in all things <strong>Eclipse</strong>. If you've been into the cafe recently you will have noticed our new line of 8 exotic rocky roads we've coined <strong>Chocolat Rococo</strong> and we're ready to feature the lot. All evening we will be sampling all 8 flavors for you all to try.<br /><br />But what's this <strong>Rococo</strong> I'm speaking of? If you were around this time two years ago, I created my first rocky road confection that was named <strong>Marshmallow Almond Rococo</strong>, which featured marcona almonds, cocoa nibs, and sea salt. It's been so popular that we've renamed it after our signature chocolate bar (<strong>Sea Salt Nib</strong>) and added 7 other flavors. Check 'em out:<br /><br /><strong>Salty Dulce De Leche (31%)</strong><br /><strong>Peppermint Almond (31%)</strong><br /><strong>Toasted Coconut Toffee (38%)</strong><br /><strong>Chile Burnt Caramel (38%)</strong><br /><strong>Sea Salt Nib (55%)</strong><br /><strong>Gingerbread Spice (55%)</strong><br /><strong>Espresso Toffee (61%)</strong><br /><strong>Citrus Honeycomb (72%)</strong><br /><br />Each is nearly a half pound of vanilla bean marshmallows, rich couveture chocolate, and a healthy slathering of exotic fixins'. For only $10 or 2 for $18.<br /><br />Can it get any better? Yes! During our <strong>Anniversary Party</strong>, any guest will receive a free <strong>Rococo</strong> with any purchase of $50.<br /><br />We're also extending our happy hour until 9pm, so all wine and beer purchases will come with a free truffle, as well! Cya then.Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-87911723772659338592009-09-22T11:15:00.000-07:002009-09-22T12:09:22.976-07:00Chocolate & Beer OktoberfestPictures are in from our dinner this past week, and WOW it was a good one. Obviously its my job to describe the eats at our dinners with such scintillating detail that you all can't wait to make a reservation for the next one... but I am making no over-exaggeration when I write that this was the tastiest menu yet. And at 17 dinners and counting... well that's saying a lot. If you missed it, you're outta luck; we don't repeat menus. But if you're brave enough to trust me on the next one, call us ASAP (619.578.2984) to reserve your space for October! This past dinner sold out a week before the event so don't wait.<br /><br />What's for dinner? Check it:<br /><br />Join us Saturday, Oktober 24th, at 4.5, 6.5 or 8.5 for three courses of savory chocolate deliciousness. And yes, I said Oktober! This time the theme is <strong>Chocolate & Beer Oktoberfest</strong>! For just $25, guests can enjoy:<br /><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><strong>Beer-Cheese Soup with Soft Pretzel & White Chocolate-Mustard Sauce</strong></div><div align="center"><strong></strong> </div><div align="center"><strong>Gouda-Stuffed Bratwurst or Sweet Onion & Cheese Spatzel</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>both served with Baked Gouda, Cocoa Nib-Infused Sauerkraut, & Crusty Bread</strong></div><div align="center"><strong></strong> </div><div align="center"><strong>Black Forrest-Dark Chocolate & Cherry Torte</strong></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Also enjoy our appetizer:</div><div align="center"><strong>German Meatballs with Creamy Dill Sauce ($12)</strong></div><div align="center">and a first for us:</div><div align="center"><strong>Three Course Beer Pairing (one beer with each course for an additional $15)</strong></div><br />If all of this is too hard to comprehend, just take a look at the pics from our last dinner. Commence mouth-watering now:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384357538335759010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 374px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SrkUp1AzGqI/AAAAAAAAA2k/mLRQwKuBflU/s400/1.JPG" border="0" /><strong></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Appetizer: Goat Cheese-Stuffed Figs Wrapped with Proscuitto</strong><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SrkUqcU9MdI/AAAAAAAAA2s/CETcbDGqb50/s1600-h/2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384357548889289170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 372px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SrkUqcU9MdI/AAAAAAAAA2s/CETcbDGqb50/s400/2.JPG" border="0" /></a><strong><br />First Course: Ribollita Soup with White Chocolate Olive Oil Crostini<br /><br /></strong><div> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384357557175275090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 339px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SrkUq7MfTlI/AAAAAAAAA20/Pu9faLWr1V8/s400/3b.JPG" border="0" /><br /><strong>Entree: Rosemary-Crusted Roasted Lamb Chop or Gorganzola Aranici with Stuffed Tomato and Cocoa-Balsamic Sauce.<br /></strong><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384357560560348834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/SrkUrHzjbqI/AAAAAAAAA28/qOgOGL87src/s400/4b.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div><br /><p> </p><p><strong>Dessert: Tiramisu with Burnt Caramel Espresso Sauce and Milk Chocolate Coffee Toffee</strong></p>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-38775452176153906962009-09-01T09:56:00.000-07:002009-09-01T10:18:59.109-07:00Rustic Tuscan DinnerListen up, cocoababies! Our next <strong>Three Course Prix Fixe Dinner</strong> is only three weeks away! Silly old me decided to take a few days off for my bday and I forgot to post the announcement before I left. Those of you who are in the cafe often have already reserved space from seeing flyers around... but the rest of you might be a little behind. Allow me to catch you up.<br /><br />Exclusively <strong>Saturday, September 19th</strong>, with seatings at <strong>4.5, 6.5, & 8.5pm</strong> we will be hosting three enticing courses from the <strong>Italian North</strong>! Our <strong>Rustic Tuscan Dinner</strong> is as follows:<br /><br /><div align="center"><strong>Goat Cheese-Stuffed Roasted Figs Wrapped in Prosciutto</strong> (optional starter)</div><div align="center"><strong>Ribollita Soup with White Chocolate Olive Oil Crostini</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Roasted Baby Lamb Chop or Fried Gorganzola Risotto Cake</strong></div><div align="center">both served with<strong> Cocoa Balsamic Sauce and Parmesan-Stuffed Tomato</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Espresso Bean Tiramisu with Milk Chocolate-Toffee Crunch</strong></div><br />Seatings are $25 per guest (plus gratiuty and tax, of course) and we plan on selling out. As always, we are holding RSVPs with a valid credit card and have a 48hr cancelation policy. Don't wait to call us or you might lose out! 619.578.2984<br /><br />Until then, here's the yum-yums from last dinner:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376544159310005618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 399px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/Sp1SbT7fxXI/AAAAAAAAA2E/0jYeNLp3QZY/s400/_MG_5885.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>Starter: Spinach-Articoke Dip with Cocoa-Glazed Bacon and Garlic Flatbread<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/Sp1Sgjbnb2I/AAAAAAAAA2M/fln7UqHTpF4/s1600-h/_MG_5899.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376544249370603362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 374px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/Sp1Sgjbnb2I/AAAAAAAAA2M/fln7UqHTpF4/s400/_MG_5899.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div>First: Caprese Brulee Salad with Cheroke Heirloom Tomatos and White Chocolate Balsamic Glaze<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376544357476594530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 388px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/Sp1Sm2KF82I/AAAAAAAAA2U/_uGlTl5_hMM/s400/_MG_5906.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>Entree: Ricotta-Mascarpon Ravioli with Chile-Burnt Caramel Hazelnut, Sage Brown Butter Sauce, and Lemon-Vanilla Bean Fennel Salad<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376544439549152546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 348px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KDnJnqmwZR0/Sp1Srn5tzSI/AAAAAAAAA2c/-kZKBqllzs4/s400/_MG_5913.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div><br /><p> </p><p>Dessert: White Chocolate Summer Berry Bread Pudding with Cocoa-Nib Creme Anglaise</p>Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6074438779135315570.post-6763975410718763002009-08-30T10:19:00.000-07:002009-09-01T10:32:56.521-07:00September Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate ThreewayOur <strong>Threeway </strong>last week was such a sexy time, we decided to push our calendar up a bit and schedule another one in two weeks. Usually these events come every month, but we sold out for the last one and with our dance card filling up so quickly, we're spreadin' the love more frequently these days.<br /><br />If you have yet to check our <strong>Threeways</strong> out, I'm sure you're wondering what the heck I'm blogging out. So check it:<br /><br /><strong>Main Entry: three·way<br />Pronunciation:</strong> \ˈthrē-wā\<br /><strong>Function:</strong> noun<br /><strong>Definition: Threeway-</strong>A form of group se...<br /><br />Opps, wrong dictionary. Let me grab the chocolate-covered one!<br /><br /><strong>Threeway-</strong> A tasting event involving exploring three different gastronomic pleasures at the same seating.<br /><br />Ahh! Much more appropriate, no? Well it's true, while our <strong>Threeway </strong>events make for a fun and possibily sexy evening, the focus is on enjoying and exporing nine different tastes (three artisan cheeses, three satisfying wines, and three exotic truffles). The tasting is complete with an open discussion of how our palates appreciate the process of taste and how one taste can effect and change the taste of another.<br /><br />Our next event is September 16th from 7-8pm and we sell out at just 22 people! Call us for RSVPs at 619.578.2984. Cya then!Owner, Eclipse Chocolathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17210260853123760271noreply@blogger.com2