A sweet treat in Cortona: Alessio Burroni’s Cocoa
At just about any time of any day of the week, you can walk into Cocoa on via Guelfa in Cortona and find Alessio Burroni with his hands in some chocolate or dough. You enter into his lair through a little door in a stone building (just across from the Church of Sant’Agostino), where the smell of chocolate permeates the air. Intense red walls, modern lighting, and an excess of sweets almost overwhelm your senses… in a positive way. There must be over 200 products here, all hand made with quality ingredients. The sweet tooth will be hard-pressed to choose between the fresh miniature tarts and chocolate cups, the assorted dark and milk chocolate creations, and the refrigerated delicacies individually segregated in transparent containers. Coffee is also served. Prices are ridiculously reasonable – it’s worth the trip to Cortona.
This successful young chocolatier, artist, and businessman opened his doors just over a year ago in January 2008. Besides running the store (with help from his girlfriend and parents when necessary!), he actively participates in chocolate and dessert fairs in the region. He clearly has a passion for chocolate and sweets as he never seems to stop working… but he always has time to chat! At Valentine’s day, easter, and for special occasions he has prepared special orders for me with the utmost care.
WHERE: COCOA, via Guelfa 45, 52044 Cortona (AR), Italy. Tel: +39 0575/613710
Website (he says he’ll work on it as soon as he finds time): www.cocoadolceria.it
