Chocoholics with a penchant for pralines are in heaven at this gourmet boutique.

by Contributor

The Scene
This small chocolatier has drawn the faithful to its Evanston locale for many years. With stark, white walls and a few sparsely scattered chairs, owner Bob Piron keeps the emphasis where any true chocoholic would want it--on two large glass cases with dozens of handmade delicacies. On weekends, lines go almost out the door. Expect to wait, as salespeople wrap goodies just so.

The Goods
Piron, who oversees the backroom kitchen, takes culinary cues from his Belgian roots. The proof is in the ingredients he uses, like Grand Marnier and real butter. Pralines of all kinds reign here, including dark or milk chocolate varieties and pâté aux noisettes (milk pralines with hazelnut). Purists stick to simple white or milk chocolate or indulge in a "strip" of cashew bark for a chunky change.