Champagne & Chocolate brings its historic indulgences to Reno.
There’s something timeless and romantic about the combination of Champagne and chocolate. The rich pairing is both decadent and balanced. It’s also the creative inspiration that led to the opening of Champagne & Chocolate in South Lake Tahoe and its new sister location in Old Southwest Reno.
This bubbly-focused business is presented by the folks who own the original Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory in Washoe Valley. But Champagne isn’t the only beverage on offer; owner Cesar Acosta developed a menu of specialty cocktails highlighting the legendary sweets, as well as a dining menu filled with fun, modern dishes, in a vibrant space in Reno.
Tickled Pink
The new Reno location is all about embracing pink — vibrant, bold, and undeniably fun. With walls bathed in playful pink tones and a neon pink sign greeting guests, Acosta designed the space to exude a sassy, energetic vibe that mirrors the personality of the menu. The color pink brings a sense of excitement, and offerings reflect this same lively spirit.
One of the most popular menu items that the owner carried over the Sierra from his Tahoe location is the Champagne-tasting flight featuring selections from the Champagne region of France, prosecco from Italy, cava made in Spain, and sparkling rosé crafted in the United States. Each glass is rimmed with perfectly paired, made-from-scratch melted and hardened chocolate.
“It’s the purest form of chocolate, and it gives a unique twist to your bubbles that is unforgettable,” Acosta says.
Acosta received feedback from customers who had tried to rim their glasses with chocolate from other brands, but they said it just wasn’t the same. Now, he offers chocolate made by the Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory, available for purchase both on site and online through Champagne & Chocolate’s website.
Tasty Tapas
At the Reno location, Champagne & Chocolate offers a menu comprised of smaller plates prepared with a lot of spice and flair.
All the bites are fresh and light to elevate the experience. Acosta originally wanted a location where he could have a full kitchen and full bar, and the Reno location was the perfect fit.
“We have an ahi tango tuna, crabcakes, and watermelon ceviche (which is my favorite),” Acosta notes.
Acosta says he wants to grow beyond the Lake Tahoe and Reno locations and one day turn the business into a franchise opportunity.
“There would be nothing better than taking this chocolate we’ve been making since the 1930s and seeing how big we can get,” he says.
For details, visit Champagnechocolate.shop.
Chocolate Nugget History and Future
Ed Feriance is a third-generation candymaker, and his family is the original owner of the Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory. Upon his retirement, Feriance recognized Cesar Acosta as his protégé — bringing him into the fold and naming him the new owner of the famed candy empire. It’s a real-life Willy Wonka story.
