MITCHELL'S FINE CANDIES
In this sparsely decorated and quiet, yet busy, little chocolatier, glass cases offer a feast for the eye with displays of hundreds of tiny dark truffles, milk chocolate nut clusters and coated bits of fruit.
OUR PICK: The Drambuie ($29.95 per pound)
2285 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-3200, mitchellschocolates.com
BELLA'S CHOCOLATES
While you can build your own custom box of soft centers, truffles and French chocolates, we like exploring the array of assorted boxes for a sweet surprise.
OUR PICK: Dark raspberry French chocolate ($17.95 per pound)
6933 Pearl Road, Middleburg Heights, 440-885-5500, bellaschocolate.info
LILLY HANDMADE CHOCOLATES
Stop by this cozy Tremont spot to peruse its rotating lineup of gourmet truffles and chocolate bars and tempting craft beer and wine selections.
OUR PICK: Old school truffle ($13 for six-piece box)
SWEET DESIGNS CHOCOLATIER
For the fashionista that loves her cocoa as much as Coco Chanel, its chocolate fashion collection features edible chocolate lipstick, chocolate high-heeled shoes and a chocolate purse.
OUR PICK: Mocha truffle ($9 for eight-piece box)
16100 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-4888, sweetdesigns.com
FANTASY CANDIES
A move into a new 4,500-square-foot space lets customers see where all the magic happens with an old-fashioned assembly line drenching treats such as Peeps and pretzels with melted chocolate.
OUR PICK: Tiramisu truffle ($24.50 per pound)
5338 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst, 440-461-4511, fantasycandies.com
