As if the chocolate and general atmosphere weren't enough reason to go to Chow Chocolate, now they've added tango lessons to their menu on the first Monday of every month.
The warm glow of the chandeliers surrounded the 30 or so dancers that glided across the floor as I walked past last night. There was nothing to do but go inside, grab a hot chocolate (like you've never had before), a jasmine tea truffle and listen and watch as the dancers did their thing.
Some people remained spectators, others sat and admired the "pros" before getting up and trying a turn on the dance floor, while others of us, in boots and gloves, were happy to admire the artistry of movement from a tufted velvet chair.
The last time I happened into Chow Chocolate, my daughter picked up a guitar and started noodling, and then our friend behind the counter killed the music and joined her. Self-trained in the classical style, he thrilled us with a few songs in between dispensing chocolates, cappucino, sipping chocolate (like a whole demitasse cup full of liquid candy bar as described by Tali Wagner, below) and the biggest chocolate-dipped macaroons we'd ever seen. It was pure heaven.
The dancers, under the direction of Travis Michael Widrick, dance in the Argentine and Milonga styles, and as my friend Jozef pointed out, "Look, she buries her head in his shoulder and closes her eyes. That's how women tango. Look at her slide her foot up her leg. God, it's so sexy!"
It is a passionate dance, and coupled with the chandeliers and chocolate...well, it was entirely otherworldly.
Widrick brings the dancers to whatever space he can get on loan. They've ended up in church halls, empty 2nd floors of restaurants, and they typically came to the monthly dances at Klienhan's Mary Seaton Room to dance to the Jim Tudini Band. Chow seems to be the perfect place though, and when you get a chance, I suggest you try to witness. Bring your dancing shoes and leave room for dessert. This is a treat if ever there was.
Chow Chocolate
731 Main Street
716.843.4388