Vegan Chocolate Shop to Open on Valentine’s Day

Artisanal vegan chocolate shop Cocoa V Chocolat is slated to open for a VIP tasting on Valentine’s Day (February 14) in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood. The shop is a new iteration of Cocoa V, a similar establishment that operated in the space—which most recently housed vegan bakeshop Blossom Bakery—from 2009 until 2012. “You would never guess it was free of dairy or any animal product if we didn’t tell you,” Cocoa V founder—and restaurateur behind the Blossom group of eateries—Pamela Elizabeth says. “We want to promote awareness through food by offering an innovative product unlike any other in the industry.” Cocoa V will feature treats concocted by New York chocolatier and pastry chef Damion Badalamenti, which include handmade luxurious chocolates such as a new take on the classic cluster made with edamame, lime juice, cayenne, and sea salt. Cocoa V will sell chocolate gift boxes, pastries, hot drinks, and summer specials—such as ice cream sandwiches and Belgian waffles. The shop’s creations will be available for nationwide shipping, and Elizabeth plans to create a chocolate line to be sold at boutique hotels and retailers nationwide. Aside from Cocoa V’s new shop, the Blossom group continues to thrive around New York City with multiple locations currently in operation—including a Blossom Du Jour Express that opened last year in Columbus Circle’s “Turnstyle” 42-shop underground food court.