Washington, D.C. - October 17, 2006

Raise the Bar

Artisan Chocolate Classes

You and your BFF are the Lucy and Ethel of your crew. Always jumping on stage with the band (you’ve been banned from the Black Cat), gawking at celebs (the stakeout at Cafe Milano was a little much), and don’t even think of putting you within arm’s length of a pie (mmm, Reeves).

And now that Artisan Confections is offering private chocolate classes (with conveyor belt and all), there’s no doubt you two will want in on the action.

The boutique candy company, run by chocolatier Jason Andelman, is opening up to small groups for hands-on candy making lessons — everything from individual treats to big ol’ candy bars.

No experience necessary; Andelman walks you through every step. Just schedule a time, throw on an apron, and let the fun begin. You’ll work with top-of-the-line ingredients (French chocolate, fresh cream, European butter) and house flavors (bittersweet ganache, sea salt caramel, Ancho chile). And, yes, yes, you’ll learn to use the enrobing machine that your idols made so famous. Just be careful not to break it.

Otherwise, you’ll have some ’splainin’ to do.

Artisan Confections, 4815b Lee Highway, Arlington (703-239-0616 or jason@artisanconfections.com).