The dark heart of Melbourne

How true.

Koko Black was still a novelty act in 2004 and I remember visiting their tiny store in the Royal Arcadet and staring at rather overpriced (but worth-a-treat-tasty) chocolates sold in a jewellery-style glass enclosure. Quite the experience. Back then it was the only Koko Black (as far as I'm concerned).

Within 18 months a string of chocolateur chains sprung up all over the city. Max Brenner is probably the most famous. Then to my surprise, Koko Black opened in coffee-culture Lygon Street. I had no doubt it will do well as it caters to a different market altogether. Unlike *cough* Starbucks *cough*

Koko Black's doing pretty well now, as judged by the expansion of the Royal Arcade shop.

I do make it a point to purchase Koko Black's choc mocha every time I head into the CBD. At around $6 a cup, it's not cheap. If you can afford it, the chocolate infused coffee (a pleasant coconut aftertaste, you gota try it to believe it!) doesn't disappoint!