Venchi had a very warm welcome in New York. Our flagship store is a few steps from Union Square, in the heart of Manhattan, and it has very quickly become a point of reference for all chocolate lovers and people who like to enjoy a relaxing time with friends or family while tasting our delicacies. The American media was very supportive as well, from The New York Times to NBC, they all gave us a lot of visibility helping us to start off on the right foot.
We are lucky because we are located in one of the most beautiful areas in Manhattan, where it is still possible to walk around without being immersed in traffic, and even shop for farm-to-table products at the Union Square Market. Going up on Broadway there are also the iconic Flatiron Building and the Eataly store, where all the best flavors and products of our country can be found, including our brand.
(photo courtesy of Venchi)
What sets Venchi chocolates apart is the perfect combination of tradition and innovation. The pairing of new flavors and new recipes has always distinguished us, as well as the use of ingredients of the highest quality. In addition, the fact that it does not use artificial additives allows one to fully enjoy the most delectable chocolate without feeling heavy afterwards, or having the sensation of eating something to feel guilty about.
Our store’s best-sellers are the Mini-Book with assorted chocolates because of their very original packaging and the “book covers” with a variety of signature Venchi designs that are great collector items. They also make the perfect gift. Other more traditional items are the Chocaviar** **and the Hazelnut Dark Chocolate Bar, for hardcore chocolate enthusiasts. My personal favorite is the Suprema XV Chocolate Spread. Working in Venchi, I know how much attention is given to product quality, but this is on another level. There are no artificial ingredients and it contains extra-virgin olive oil to make the cream smoother and easier to spread. On its own or on a slice of bread, the cream is like a comforting cuddle.
(photo courtesy of Venchi)
What might seem surprising is that we sell gelato all year round, which is not the case in Italy. With the cold weather, however, people’s preferences change, with less demand for fruity flavors and more requests for classic ones. You can always find around 5-6 varieties of chocolate flavors, a winter favorite, for our takeaway gelato cones and cups.
(photo courtesy of Venchi)
We will also start the new year with exciting surprises. I can’t reveal much yet but for dessert and classic Italian sweets lovers will have a lot to look forward to. If you like tiramisù, baci di dama, and crème caramel, you have to come to the store and be amazed!
As told to Carole Hallac
Michele Sbarigia
Michele Sbarigia’s portrait
Michele Sbarigia is the young store manager at Venchi's flagship store in the United States. He joined the Italian chocolate company in 2016. Before moving to New York, he worked in the Milan flagship store and collaborated on Venchi store openings in the Milan area gaining extensive experience and knowledge on the brand. He has a true passion for chocolate and he is the smile that welcomes you when you enter the Venchi store on Broadway. He answers all the customers' questions about the Venchi products and helps them find the best gift possible.