If you think that Hersheypark should have strong food offerings as a food-themed park, you’d be correct! A few years ago, the theme park redesigned their front entrance to become “Chocolate Town,” a mini-district with a gate closer to Chocolate World, as well as new shopping and dining options. While you’re immediately greeted by oversized, colorful, attraction-themed decor when you enter the main Chocolate Town building, which houses the gift shop and most of the dining options, the focus of primary appeal is to the back and up the stairs to the second floor: The Chocolatier.
Making your way upstairs, it’s hard to miss the charming carousel-themed bar, roller coaster inspired booths, or the old-fashioned stadium waiting area seats. The theming is classic Hersheypark, creating a full atmosphere for the distinct menu. Everything feels so whimsical and endearing. As you might imagine, chocolate is a centerpiece; what you can’t imagine is how it’s used in a majority of the dishes in creative, original approaches (including savory). It’s a tough decision to make and watching other tables’ entrees come out of the kitchen doesn’t make it any easier.
I was selecting my lunch entree, but an appetizer kept catching my eye. It may have been because the serving ware, a miniature replication of the iconic park ferris wheel, was noticeable by the kitchen. It also may have been because it was an assortment of my favorite snack foods- pretzel bites, chips and corn dip, chicken tenders, wings, and fried mozzarella. When it arrived at my table, the Ferris Wheel Sampler was larger-than-life and quite filling. Of the selection, I’d say the pretzel bites, corn dip, and fried mozzarella were my top three wheel items. If you’re looking to spice things up a bit, the pretzel bites in the corn dip were a pleasant but accidental surprise!
For my main entree, I opted for the grilled shrimp street tacos, featuring “hints of chocolate” in a cocoa & chipotle rub on the shrimp. When I tell you shrimp were massive, I’m not exaggerating! I had to ditch the tortilla by the end and still felt stuffed. Facing the carousel bar did have me tempted to try a drink, so I went for the seasonal peppermint hot chocolate martini. I’ve had several candy-inspired drinks at Hershey over the years, but this one had to have been my favorite! It wasn’t too sweet or too peppermint-y, but just the right balance for a cheerful winter drink.
By the time I was done with my meal, I was so full I couldn’t even begin to think about dessert, though there were several excellent looking options. The Chocolatier delivers on being a signature restaurant, balancing Hersheypark’s history and charm with the Hershey brand’s chocolate core. If you’re looking for a quick meal or lighter fare, the selections at Chocolate World may be up your alley. If you’re looking for a relaxing break with a great meal that keeps you immersed in the world of Hershey, The Chocolatier is for you.
Have you ever been to The Chocolatier? Let me know about your experience!
Have a terrific day!
