Local Epicurean adds chocolate lounge to downtown pasta shop

Once housed in the funky Eastown building shaped like a windmill, The Local Epicurean has outgrown its location and is now a recognized storefront on the Division Avenue coridor. Not only is the new building much larger than its previous locale, it has enough room to for a full pasta kitchen plus space for a chocolate lounge, a full service restaurant and an alley bar.

Let's back up to chocolate lounge. What is this?

"The Local Epicurean is opening the world's first chocolate lounge that features our hand curled organic chocolate truffles and a menu full of original chocolate recipes," says owner Ryan Raredon.

Since the relocation, The Local Epicurean had suspended its handmade chocolate production. But come November 1, they will be offering the cocoa sweets in a lounge at the west end of the shop. Raredon has has hired a cheesemonger that will pair different chocolates and cheeses. The space will seat about 40 people, including a bar serviced by a barista with espresso and a chocolate menu of up to 30 varieties to choose from.

Raredon is also planning on opening an Italian/Mediterranean restaurant in the same building just next door. It will feature handmade pasta and other local ingredients. The restaurant will be a casual atmosphere with a kitchen on the main level and approximately 90 seats. The lower level will seat 80, including three private dining rooms, each with its own fireplace.