Hey Thrill Seekers,
We recently reported that Universal were in the midst of creating a new chocolate inspired restaurant at CityWalk, it was set to be called The Toothsome Chocolate Factory. However Universal via their blog have confirmed that the name has been changed before launch and will now be known as The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen.
Here’s Universal’s explanation for the alteration;
As part of the creative process, we are always refining the experience we create for our guests and how we talk about it. We realized we wanted more focus to the name. And so we landed on making “emporium” more prominent because that word conveys what we want to create for our guests – a place filled with a fun atmosphere and a large variety of food and retail opportunities.
Perhaps the use of the word “Factory” conjured too many similarities with Willie Wonka and his Chocolate Factory, who knows? But what we do know is its now an Emporium and not a factory, here’s what else we know;
Universal started this project in 2013, the idea was always to do something with chocolate – something that would elevate everyone’s favourite confection to the next level. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium does just that by combining the incredible storytelling from Universal Orlando’s Creative and Entertainment teams with the high quality service and delectable dishes of the Food & Beverage team.
Universal took inspiration from the Steampunk era really stood out with its rebellious spirit of creation and industrial influences. After delving deeper into the genre and its design elements, Universal found the structural shapes and rich colour palettes evoked the exact type of experience that they wanted to create.
Even from afar, you’ll see the Steampunk influence with working gears and smokestacks. Once you step inside, hosts dressed in alternative fashions will greet you. The sights and sounds of brass gadgetry and manufacturing will immediately surround you.
The Steampunk influence has also had its say on the menu here’s what Ricardo Galbis Senior Director of Attraction Development for Universal Creative had to say;
And of course, you’ll be able to indulge in all of the delectable creations – from the decadent milkshakes to the eclectic savory dishes, there’s plenty to choose from. I tried to think of my favorite menu item to share with you, but it was all so good – I can’t possibly choose just one! You’ll have to discover your favorite later this year.
I can’t wait to visit this, although my waistline might disagree!!!
Smiles included…
Jamie
