Note: Sweet Marguerites closed in September 2013.

MP celebrated her birthday yesterday, and one of the stops on her wish included Sweet Marguerites in South Portland. The sophisticated artisanal chocolate shop and café is owned by Marguerite (Meg) Swoboda. The accomplished chocolatier sells her delicious treats to customers across the United States. Isaac Mizrahi, Real Simple magazine, and American Idol are among her growing list of clients.

MP visited for Sweet Marguerites European-inspired hot chocolate. Marguerite’s daughter, Anna Swoboda, used a ganache made of whole milk, milk chocolate, and bittersweet chocolate for this creamy, indulgent drink. The made to order hot chocolate is warmed using an Espresso machine, making for a frothy and delicious birthday treat!

Opt for traditional hot cocoa, pictured here, or salted caramel hot chocolate.

MP also shopped for the kids’ Easter gifts. Sweet Marguerites offers solid chocolate bunnies, chicks, and lambs. You’ll also find Anna’s beautiful, handmade Ukrainian eggs for purchase.

MP selected Fig & Port, Force Noir, and Strawberry Balsamic chocolates, to name a few.

It’s hard to leave Sweet Marguerites without a bag full of goodies. MP decided on colorful chocolate eggs filled with dark chocolate for the CP kids, and a box of chocolates to share with the family… or at least that’s what she told herself as she nibbled on a cashew square on the way home!

Pretty, chocolate filled eggs

Linzer tarts from Sugar Hill Baking.