Are you the type of person that orders dessert before the main course? If so, you’ll absolutely love the sweet-minded menu at French Broad Chocolate Lounge. Every item from this impressive menu is a sugar-lover’s dream!
Nestled on an elegant corner in downtown Asheville, this restaurant has an exterior that is just as impressive as the delightful menu. Step inside the door and you’ll instantly be greeted by a line of people probably wrapping throughout the seating area (if the line isn’t already out the door!). Yes, this place is popular, so we heartily recommend dedicating at least 45 minutes to getting your chocolate fix.
Once you make it to the counter, you can place your order for there or to go. Sit down at one of the many tables to enjoy the bustling ambiance, or head outside to enjoy the sunny weather at their pleasant outdoor seating area.
The menu itself provides a number of choices. Their cakes are simply to die for, while their cookies and brownies are served fresh and decadent. Custards and creams are great for a light treat. Other specialties include the handcrafted ice cream and drinking chocolates. If you’re not in the mood for sweets (then what are you doing here?), there’s also a fine selection of locally sourced coffee, tea, beer, and wine.
A few of our favorite treats at French Broad Chocolate Lounge included:
Chocolate Creme Brulee
Fancy French dessert meets American overindulgence in this delicious take on the traditional recipe. Creamy chocolate custard is singed with a torch to create a cripsy and delightful top layer. Underneath, the smooth cocoa taste is just waiting to assault your tastebuds.
Highland Mocha Stout Cake
Like beer, coffee, and cake? Why not combine it all into one with the Highland Mocha Stout Cake? It’s a potent combo of chocolate cake made from Highland Mocha Stout, buttercream made from PennyCup Coffee, and a drizzle of chocolate shavings and sauce. If your mouth isn’t salivating right now, it should be.
Liquid Truffle
One of the most popular items on the menu, the Liquid Truffle is just what it sounds like — chocolate chunks that have been melted down into a thick, velvety mixture for a decadent concoction. You can choose from six different flavors, but our personal favorite is the salted caramel.
Coconut Macaroon Brownie
There’s nothing much better than the combination of coconut and chocolate, which is why the Coconut Macaroon Brownie is so delicious. It features dark chocolate paired with an organic coconut cookie for a little treat that’s perfect for an after-meal snack.
The thing that really sets French Broad apart from other chocolatiers in Asheville is their dedication to using locally sourced ingredients. All of their chocolate is produced in their Asheville factory that’s just a few blocks away from the lounge. Their key goal in producing desserts is to do so sustainably to lessen their impact on the environment.
Once you’re done eating, you can also stop by the attached shop to grab a few chocolates to take home. Better yet, if the line is too long at the main Lounge counter, stop over here to grab your ice cream, truffles, and caramels to go.
So whether you’re looking for a little dessert after dinner or some dessert for dinner (we won’t judge), French Broad Chocolate Lounge is a great spot to find it.
Insider Tips:
-Unfortunately, if you’re lactose intolerant, you may have a bit of trouble here, as they don’t carry any milk substitutes. However, there are several vegan and gluten-free options if you follow those dietary restrictions.