Store-Bought Chocolates? Bless Your Heart.

Everyone loves a box of Whitman’s—it’s a nostalgic favorite. But sometimes, romance deserves more than a mass-produced red heart filled with factory-made chocolates. If you really want to impress (or just treat yourself like the absolute legend you are), go for something handcrafted, small-batch, and made with care—right here in South Carolina.

• CocoBon Chocolatier (Anderson) – If you like your chocolate with a little flair, CocoBon has you covered. Their Lavender Almond Truffle is a floral dream, Palmetto Paws (think Turtles® but better) will have you rethinking every candy aisle decision you’ve ever made, and Mayan Spice adds just enough heat to keep things interesting—kind of like a good Valentine’s date should.
  
  
• LaRue Fine Chocolate (Greenville) – These chocolates come with attitude in the best way possible. The Dora LaRue delivers peanut butter-graham cracker perfection, The Earl mixes dark chocolate with a sophisticated hint of Earl Grey tea, and Boca Grande is basically a margarita in truffle form. If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, grab one of their Valentine’s market boxes, which bundle chocolates, wine, and flowers into a romantic home-run.
  
  
• Christophe Artisan Chocolatier-Patissier (Charleston) – When only French-level luxury will do, Christophe is your guy. His pralines, chocolate bars, and dangerously snackable chocolate-covered almonds are what happens when Parisian expertise meets Lowcountry charm. Très délicieux.

So, what’s the game plan?

• For the die-hard romantic: A CocoBon truffle box with Raspberry Dark Chocolate, Crème Brûlée, and Starry Night (72% dark chocolate for dramatic effect).
  
  
• For the adventurous foodie: A LaRue selection featuring Boca Grande (tequila-lime chocolate, yes please) or Cherry Blossom (dark chocolate + sour cherry = perfection).
  
  
• For the “I only drink my coffee black” type: Christophe’s dark chocolate pralines, best enjoyed with an espresso or a glass of Champagne.
  
  
• For yourself (because self-love is important): One of everything. No regrets.

Whether you’re gifting, sharing, or hiding your stash from your kids, these local spots prove that good chocolate is always worth it.

Have a favorite South Carolina chocolate spot? Spill the cocoa—we’re always open to research (strictly for science, of course). Check out more must-try local eats at www.guidetosouthcarolina.com/food-drink.