Stepping into Chocolatine in Denville feels like being whisked away to Paris. The moment you enter, the enticing aroma of sweet and savory pastries greets you, drawing you toward the beautifully arranged treats in the showcase. A mural on the back wall depicts the city of love, prominently showing the Eiffel Tower and Sacre-Coeur.
Beckoning you to give them a taste are treats like macarons, croissants, apple tartlets, St. Honore Éclair and Madeleines, and even Croque Monsieur. They are baked by Cedric Hosy, who owns the shop with his wife, Elaine Castro. Hosy infuses every creation with authentic French technique, elevating them with top-tier ingredients, like the luxurious richness of French butter.
A native of France, Hosy has over 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He received his training in Baking and Pastry Arts at Lycee Francois Rabelais in Lyon, France.
“Cedric is passionate about what he does, the love he puts in really shows - he’s the real deal,” Castro said.
As for Chocolatine, it is the name used in southwest France for the pastry also known as pain au chocolat or chocolate croissant.
“Our name is Chocolatine Patisserie & Viennoiserie. Viennoiserie are French baked goods, such as puff pastries, that are savory. Patisseries are sweet stuff,” said Castro.
“We carry everything French, except our coffee, which is Italian,” Castro said.
For special occasions, additional items are added, such as red hearts and macarons geared towards Valentine’s Day.
The shop will celebrate its second anniversary in March and will soon have a second location in Morris Plains, which offers seating.
“We want to give it a French cultural feeling and have people sit, not just grab and go. We’re thinking of afternoon tea on weekends,” Castro explained.
As for being in Denville, Castro is grateful for the support from residents. “People are very happy we’re here. I always say, once you know the difference between good and bad, you can’t go back," she revealed. “There are no bad mood customers. Even if they’ve had a bad day, the moment they walk in, you see them smile."
Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a baked with love pastry from Chocolatine! Indulge in sweetness, share the love, and make this Valentine’s a deliciously unforgettable one.