I heart chocolate

(essdras m suarez/globe staff)

You can sip chocolate, read about it, long for it, and ultimately eat it. Ballotin Chocolates owner Lisa Bleicken describes the experience at her shop as "chocolate destination shopping." The chic spot boasts a color palette of Tiffany blue and brown; the flavor palate is chocolate with accents of liquor, fruit, caramel, espresso, even tea. You'll find domestic and imported artisanal bonbons. Bleicken doesn't make these chocolates, but rather works with chocolatiers who go "from the bean to the bar." Some beautifully molded pieces ($2.10 each) sport designs with edible transfers. Enjoy one of these intense bites while sitting on a contemporary white leather chaise lounge or take home an elegantly wrapped package. Fill half a hollowed heart with your own selection ($21.50). It will get a hearty welcome. Ballotin Chocolates, 16 Unicorn St., Newburyport, 978-465-3800, www.ballotinchocolates.com.