Grapevine just got a little sweeter. The scent of cocoa once again drifts through the air along Main Street, leading straight to Kate Weiser Chocolate’s newest boutique. Once home to Dr. Sue’s Chocolate, the space has been transformed with Weiser’s signature blend of whimsy and precision.
Known for her hand-painted bonbons that are equal parts beauty and flavor, Weiser has become one of Texas’ most celebrated chocolatiers, named among Dessert Professional Magazine’s Top 10 Chocolatiers in North America and featured on Oprah’s coveted Favorite Things list. For the Dallas-based chocolatier the location was a long-held dream.
“Grapevine Main Street has always been on my ‘stop everything you are doing and open a store if a space becomes available’ list,” Weiser says. “As soon as I heard this space was vacant, I had to jump at it.”
Inside, the shop promises an atmosphere that’s as nostalgic as it is modern. With an inviting balance of warmth and polish, the glass cases glisten with meticulously hand-painted bonbons and truffles that look almost too beautiful to eat.
“It’s been so fun figuring out how to blend my modern brand with the charm of Grapevine,” Weiser added. “This store has such a warm and nostalgic environment.”
One of its star attractions is the all-new Lil’ Carl Melting Experience, an interactive ode to Weiser’s cult-favorite creation, Carl the Snowman – a hollow chocolate snowman filled with cocoa mix and marshmallows. Guests can watch as Lil’ Carl melts into a steaming mug of hot chocolate, releasing ribbons of rich cocoa and sweet vanilla into the air.
“Carl belongs in Grapevine,” Weiser says. “He’s all about families celebrating the holidays together and sharing those core memories.”
This winter also marks the debut of Lil’ Carla, a pink, peppermint-flavored version of the beloved Carl. Alongside her, Weiser’s new collection of cookie-inspired holiday bonbons — think Snickerdoodle, Gingerbread Cookie and Sugar Cookie — will round out the menu in dazzling, edible colors.