The best hot chocolate I’ve ever had was at the foot of the Rialto Bridge in Venice. I think it was made from scratch. It was served with a deep ladle from a huge vat.
It came in a bowl and was thick and creamy, piping hot, with Amaretto biscuits on a saucer.
I recall a mildly spicy essence to the rich chocolate, which lent extra warmth on that slightly chilled autumn evening.
...cinnamon ?
...chilli ?
I don't think it was either... or maybe it was a blend ...just a touch, a hint to give an exotic undertone.
If I knew the place was still there, I would go back just for that chocolate experience.
....It must have made an impression
It was a little bowl of heaven ...enjoyed whilst watching the gondolas glide by, and when I dunked the Amaretto biscuits, the chocolate coated them rather than soaking in.
The mind slips back to that moment in time...
A light breeze rustles the trees and there is a slight chill in the air but the spiced chocolate keeps it from penetrating my skin.
As my fingers wrap tightly around the warmth of the bowl, a hint of mist huddles the base of the bridge and autumn leaves flutter softly to my feet.
Periodically, the Gondoliers calls, echo in the bends of the canal ...........hola!
Suddenly, the soft patter of feet descend the steps of the bridge and a scruffy dog in a green cravat appears by my side and gazes at me with lovely brown eyes ...he gets my last amaretto.
The joy is evident, as a look of utter bliss and gratitude crosses his face.
Moments later his owner appears ....The dog looks at me. I look at the dog and put my finger to my lips ...shhhhh! He wags his tail and then turns slowly, looking back over his shoulder, until finally he follows his owner and I watch as he disappears into the shadows of dusk.
