More than a chocolate shop, Bayside Chocolates is a folksy Down East hang-out for locals. On any given morning you'll find owner Eugene Greenlaw tempering chocolate and making, among other things, his truffles, chocolate patties, turtles and mints as a local reads the paper or chats with him. There's hot coffee and, during the busy season, assorted baked goods in addition to Greenlaw's chocolates.
The chocolates are classic, simple preparations - imagine pecans, almonds, or cashews covered in chocolate, or dry local berries in chocolate. Greenlaw's 72% chocolates are dark and smooth, though he offers milk chocolate for those who like their chocolate a little sweeter. Greenlaw doesn't try to follow fashion in chocolate-making, earning him a following amongst people like my mom, who adore the comfort of familiarity.
The peppermint patties are one of the most interesting versions I've tasted. Dark chocolate envelops flaky mint - they aren't smooth and creamy but enjoyably chalky with tiny flecks of salt that contrast the sweetness of the patty.
Bayside Chocolates are sold around Maine and are also available by mail order. read more