THE FINER THINGS IN LIFE >>>

Lately, it seems that my discussions with foodies about chocolate are sounding more and more like conversations about wine. To begin with, every chocoholic I know has memorized data from recent research studies indicating that chocolate is good for you. Supposedly, it supplies a chemical to the brain that provides a sensation similar to love, or at least lust. This is comparable to the French paradox with red wine, wherein wine drinkers felt liberated by studies showing the health benefits of moderate wine consumption.

That explains why I lust for Caffe Dei's hot chocolate. L-U-S-T. It's the real deal.

I applaud the efforts of Caffe Dei owners Shane Siegfried and Shuanna Holt to raise chocolate appreciation in Tacoma to the level of that for fine wine, scotch and cheese. After all, chocolate makes you feel good and, compared to, say, a Chivas Regal Royal Salute (50-year-old), it's very cheap.

Caffe Dei pours 100 percent pure dark Dutch chocolate - melted down into liquid form - into a cup, then adds the customer's choice of milk: whole, soy, hemp, rice and so on. No sugar. No Styrofoam with plastic flip-up tab. Just a velvety smooth, rich concoction with an amazing mouth feel. And that's without Caffe Dei amping up the pleasure with a touch of their homemade Mexican chocolate to the mix, which I imagine would sweeten it a bit.

The price for their hot chocolate is $2 for 8 ounces, $2.50 for 12, and $2.95 for 16-ounces. The 12-ounce option in a mug is optimal. I left without feeling full - just happy.

Caffe Dei

Monday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2607 Sixth Ave., Tacoma
253.572.2550

LINK: Previously on Spew