That’s Amore
If your relationship (with your sweetie or with chocolate) needs a jump start this Valentine’s, try one of these novel Texas-made gifts. Austin’s Dr. Chocolate (512-454-0555) promises to cure the Valentine’s Day doldrums with one of its Pizzas d’Amore, cleverly garnished with candied cherries (standing in for pepperoni) and nibbles of pecan. This pie comes in a red heart-shaped tin; special delivery plans are up to you. El Pasoans can declare their love with chocolate-dipped potato chips (for the person who can’t commit—to either savory or sweet) or chocolate-covered Twinkies , both courtesy of the Candy Bar (915-526-0622). In Houston, the Chocolate Bar (713-520-8599) tops its milk- or white-chocolate pizzas with nuts and candied fruit and a sprinkle of grated white-chocolate “cheese.” They are packed in real pizza delivery boxes, to complete the surprise. For a south-of-the-border treat, San Antonio’s On Main (210-737-2323) offers solid milk-chocolate tamales hand-wrapped in real corn husks. A greeting card reading “You’re One Hot Tamale” accompanies the confections, which are made in nearby Pleasanton. Will these silly sweets bring back the magic? Who knows, but they’ll definitely make Valentine’s Day
