Experience the Art of Chocolate

With Halloween right around the corner, a lot of folks, kids and grownups alike, have candy on the brain. Whenever the subject of candy comes up – I recommend  local favorite, Aunt Nina’s Sweets & Treats on Division Street in Crest Hill.

Owned and operated by chef and master chocolatier Michael Tessone and his wife Christine, the store, formerly of Shorewood, has expanded to include over 7,000 squares feet of confectionary goodness. The bulk candy section alone is an amazing sight to behold with everything ranging from gumballs to gummies. It also houses a nostalgic section where even the hard-to-find “old-fashioned candy store” candy can be found.  

Care for something crunchy? The gourmet popcorn selection will delight and amaze you with over 35 flavors to choose from.

The full-service ice cream parlor features traditional ice cream as well as shakes, malts and smoothies. This area of the store is complemented by a full array of baked goods from Lezza’s Italian Bakery and has a seating area with board games where people are encouraged to enjoy their treats with the company of friends and family.

The most impressive part of this Wonka-like experience is quite possibly the vast selection of hand-crafted gourmet chocolate.  In addition to what you might typically find in any upscale chocolate shop, Aunt Nina’s has over 24 varieties of mouthwatering truffles, caramel apples that range from traditional to chocolate dipped with candy and nuts, and unique finds such as chocolate covered bacon.

Sweets & Treats hosts parties and events of all types for all ages and can create custom chocolates for any occasion.  From shoes to pianos, if you can dream it, it’s very likely that Mike and Christine can make it out of delicious chocolate.