The Belgians and the Swiss have long dominated the world of chocolate but a world-first afternoon tea collaboration running until Oct. 30 between St. Regis Osaka and American chocolatier Maribel Lieberman of Mariebelle New York fame puts that theory to the test.
A highlight of the partnership is a separate chocolate buffet dinner and talk event scheduled for Sept. 17 (¥10,000 per ticket, limited to 50 people) including an appearance by Lieberman herself.
Setting this afternoon tea menu apart from other such events is the use of chocolate in both savory and sweet items, the idea being that chocolate can partner, accent and foil various ingredients. A white chocolate caprese (Italian salad traditionally made with tomato, mozzarella and basil); beef pastrami and hazelnut cream sandwiches; foie gras opera cake; and potato and white chocolate mousse with caviar are just some of the more unusual delicacies on offer.