Shabbir Kanorewala : We want to make Pune as the chocolate destination of India

Pune, Thursday March 24, 2016: Spread over 3500 Sq. Ft ,this is a one of a kind chocolate experience store born out of one man’s vision to treat India to the best variety of chocolate money can buy.

Shabbir Kanorewala (SK) the brain behind Brugge La chocalaterie started his chocolate journey in 2007 by opening his first store in Dhole Patil Road. 2 other stores followed in quick succession in Paud and Aundh.

It is then that S .K thought why not make Pune the chocolate destination in India. There was a big youth population plus the well-heeled who travelled extensively all over the world and had tasted some fine chocolate indeed. He thought why not bring this fine experience to India and to Pune to begin with.

With this thought in mind he undertook the arduous task of transforming the existing store concept to an all new experience. The first step was to find a new location. A whole building spread over 3500 sq.ft. carpet area was chosen off Dhole Patilroad . Then the very exacting work of design, overall brand experience, products,a cafe was planned and executed.

Sk along with his brand and design consultants were clear from the beginning that it would be a chocolate experience store. A store where adults could become children again and children could enjoy their childhood with a play area filled with chocolates.

The all new Brugge, La Chocalaterie is a chocoholic’s dream come true.

The chocolate philosophy at Brugge is very clear. Only the finest ingredients make the best of chocolates. Almonds, Pistachios, cashews, raisins are procured from the very best across India and the world. Over the years Belgian chocolate making techniques have made the chocolates luscious with a good ‘mouth feel’.

The variety of chocolates available include Praline, ganache, bon bon, truffles etc. all inspired by the recipes handed down from generations of chocolatiers from Belgium and France.

A matter of great pride is that today, Brugge La Chocolaterie is recognized by the Belgian High Commission for the fine quality of its chocolates and the role it plays in popularising ‘Belgian’

SK has ambitious plans for the chocolate experience store. He plans to open 50 more stores all over India in the next 5 years in metros and mini metros. 2 more large format stores is expected to roll out in this financial year.

The whole experience at Brugge La Chocolaterie is one of a kind and has to be seen to be believed. Spread over 3 levels, each level is dedicated to one aspect of chocolate.

Level One is the concourse, which houses the Kids’ Zone. This is where you hear delighted kids pointing to, demanding and relishing the products specially made for them. Right next to that is a space where they can spend many hours drawing, colouring or simply running around. Adjacent to the Kids’ Zone is the flavours-of-the-world section, where renowned brands from across the world vie for shelf space. At the far end of this level is a signature flower bouquet section where customized bouquets are created as per customers’ needs and occasions.

Level Two is the gourmet section where signature chocolate like praline, nougat, ganache, and bars of exotic flavours are displayed. This level also has occasion-based gifting options…be it birthdays, baby showers, parties or celebrations, Brugge has a suggestion. Moreover, the store also has a consultancy corner where customers can come for tasting prior to a wedding or a big occasion and understand the different kinds of chocolates available, and get correct advice on what chocolate will suit the occasion, the quantity required and the packaging options.

The piece de resistance of the entire experience is the Chocolate Cafe on Level Three. Done up in vibrant, youthful colours, it is a cafe where people can indulge in all their favourite cuisine from around the world – with a delightful twist.

There is an exquisite hot and cold ‘chocolate bar’ as well, where customers can get their chocolate mixed to their taste.

Besides indulging your own sweet tooth, Brugge reminds you at every level that gifting is a virtue and givers gain! The store has colourful packaging cartons in various shapes and sizes.

Says SK “This store is a labour of love for me. It is bringing to life my passion for chocolate, which took me around the world in search of the perfect recipe, blend and ingredients. I felt that India should have an outlet that matches up to the best boutiques in Europe – specifically, Belgium – and I have tried to live up to those high standards.”

“Brugge is my tribute to the beautiful city of Bruges in Belgium which is home to the best architecture, art and of course, chocolates.