France 44 Events
From Bean to Bar: Chocolate 101 | October 29th | 6:00-7:30pm
From Bean to Bar: Chocolate 101 | October 29th | 6:00-7:30pm
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Instructor: Shela Usadi
Class type: Take Notes! | These are our classic "lecture-styled" classes, where you're given lots of in-depth information by a knowledgeable instructor. Anyone is welcome to attend, but these classes are geared toward folks with more than a passing interest in the subject.
WHAT YOU'LL GET IN THIS CLASS:
- A deep-dive, instructor-led tasting.
- A flight of 6 different chocolates.
- Beverage accompaniments.
- Special pricing on all featured items.
- Some lasting memories!
Chocolate is one of the most beloved foods in the world. Conjure up a comforting memory, and chocolate is probably in there somewhere. But what do you actually know about chocolate? From it's fascinating origins and cultivation in Mesoamerica where it was worshipped, to its conquest of the global economy as a commodity, to the revolution of ethical and sustainable chocolatiers, chocolate has a story to match its incredible flavors. In this interactive tasting-workshop, Shela will tell you all about how chocolate is made, what it means to be "bean-to-bar," how to taste it like a professional, the challenges chocolate faces today, and answer any questions you might have about chocolate. You'll taste through 6 different chocolates from some of our favorite chocolatiers domestic and abroad to develop an even greater appreciation for chocolate.
IMPORTANT STUFF:
- Participants must be 21 years old.
- Tickets are non-refundable. If you cannot attend a class you have registered for, registration may be transferable to another France 44 class if given a 48 hour notice.
- Please notify France 44 with any dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Parking in our lot is limited, however, parking is available on 44th Street, France Ave, and Drew Ave S.
- France 44 is wheelchair accessible.


MEET THE INSTRUCTOR:
Shela Usadi
Shela Usadi is a Twin Cities-based, IICCT–certified chocolate
sommelier and educator with a passion for delicious, ethical,
and sustainable craft chocolate. She has traveled extensively
to cacao farms, chocolate factories, and chocolate festivals
in search of the world’s finest chocolate and the stories
behind them. A recent graduate of the Ecole Chocolat
chocolatier program, she brings chocolate-making
experience, technical knowledge, and heartfelt curiosity to
her tastings and reviews. When not exploring the world of
chocolate, Shela enjoys reading fantasy and science fiction,
drawing and painting, attending yoga classes, and playing
with her cats. You can follow her adventures in chocolate at https://shelachocodiary.com!