A sweet experience at the Royal Botanical Gardens

February 2nd, 2012 by Michelle Gatien Comment button

A sweet experience awaits residents who visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and take in “Chocolate: The Exhibition”. Open now until April 15th, 2012, visitors have the chance to discover everything they ever wanted to know about chocolate… from the tree to treat.

“The Chocolate exhibit at the Royal Botanical Gardens serves up a wonderful opportunity for Ontarians of every age to indulge and explore,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

Starting with the origin of the cacao tree and how it affects it’s habitat, “Chocolate” takes visitors on an interactive journey through the history of chocolate. From the Mayans and the Aztecs to Europe and the New World, visitors will discover how chocolate became the cultural phenomenon we know today.

“Royal Botanical Gardens’ unique educational and interpretive programming adds to the depth of this exhibit, creating a truly remarkable experience,” said RBG CEO Mark Runciman. “Add to that the astounding line-up of public programs and special events, we are the go-to destination for the chocolate lover of any age.”

Visitors can explore a bustling Mayan marketplace to touch, smell and taste the ingredients used to make chocolate. They can also collect cacao beans by following clues and then trade them in for rewards and ultimately take home a cocoa creation.

ChocoSol’s Michael Sacco will be on site each weekend to demonstrate horizontal trade and sustainable cacao. Visitors can indulge in authentic Mexican hot chocolate after bicycle grinding the cacao beans used to make it.

To round out the “Chocolate” experience, the Royal Botanical Gardens has planned a full roster of public programming.

Sundae Sundays at The Garden Cafe give visitors a chance to indulge their chocolate obsession at the Sundae Station (available with a purchase of an entree).

Chocolate Mondays will offer a variety of chocolate discoveries, from making chocolates for Valentine’s Day and Easter, to pairing chocolate with wine or whiskey.

Tuesday are Seniors’ Sweet Tuesday, with a special chocolate-themed meal is offered in the Garden Cafe. The menu features a special chocolate entree and dessert along with tea or coffee. The luncheon costs $20.00.

February 10th is Fondue Friday at The Gardens Cafe, with a variety of dainty delights available to dip in a chocolate fountain. The Garden Cafe can also help pair wine or spirits to complement. Beginning at 6pm, Fondue Friday costs $20.00 per person and reservations are required. Call 905-527-1158 ext. 302.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a loved on at “Romance in Bloom”, the RBG’s Valentine’s dinner and dance. Starting with champagne and strawberries, the evening includes dinner and sensual chocolate desserts to dance the night away. Reservations are required, please call 905-527-1158 ext. 513.

Even Family Day will be a chocolate event with activities and programming that will immerse them in the world of chocolate. The Garden Cafe will offer a special Family Day menu.

The Choc Hop! on March 24 will bring chocolate lovers back to the 1950s and 60s with a buffet dinner and a chance to dance the night away to popular oldies. Prizes are available for those who dress in their best 1950s and 60s wear. Reservations are required. Call 905-527-1158 ext.513.

The RBG will once again host their famous Easter Brunch on April 7th and 8th, with additional chocolate features.

“Chocolate: The Exhibition” runs at the Royal Botanical Garden main interpretive centre until April 15th. Admission is $12.00 for adults, $10.00 for students/youth, $7.00 for children aged 5-12 and families for $30.00 (2 adults, 2 families). For more information about the exhibit, visit www.rbg.ca/chocolate.

Tags: Royal Botanical Gardens