Chocolate Shop Breakfast

What’s not to love about breakfast in a chocolate shop? Joined by friend Dianne, Dietrich’s Chocolates & Espresso was today’s breakfast destination. Dianne introduced me to Dietrich’s because it reminds her of the chocolate shop in her neighborhood when she lived in Belgium. After breakfast here I always wonder why we don’t go more often. The unassuming shop almost gets lost in the row of businesses with gaudy signage on East Evans near the University of Denver. Dietrich’s shouldn’t be overlooked.

Erich Dietrich apprenticed for 3 1/2 years under a master chocolatier in his native Germany.  In 1978 he opened his business in Denver, keeping chocoholics swooning over his smooth, rich creations.

Among the cases and racks of handmade candies, six tables await fortunate foodies arriving for breakfast. The menu is simple but when everything is perfectly prepared simple is all we need. I always order the American Breakfast of  two eggs (any style), potatoes, fruit, croissant, preserves and butter. Cost is just $6.25. and, every breakfast comes with a Dietrich chocolate. The large croissants are fresh from Trompeau Bakery right across the street. Don’t want a full breakfast? How about a totally decadent croissant with melted dark chocolate and cappusino!

With so few tables one sometimes has to wait anxiously for a table. I suggest going on a snowy Sunday when slugs are tempted to stay home. It’s hard to leave without picking out a treat to take home or to the office.

When You Go: Dietrich’s Chocolates & Espresso, 1734 E. Evans Avenue, Denver, 303-777-3358. Open Tuesday – Friday 8am – 6pm, Saturdays 8am  – 4pm and Sundays 8am – 2pm, closed Mondays. Breakfast is served until 1pm on weekdays, 2pm on weekends. A lunch menu of brats and a few sandwiches is available all day.