The fifth annual AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s (AFC) holiday extravaganza known as World of Chocolate did more than fill bellies—it also set records.
The event, held on Nov. 30 in the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker, saw more attendees and raised more funds than ever. More than 1,500 chocolate enthusiasts indulged in mouth-watering creations from 26 of Chicago’s finest restaurants, helping the gala raise more than $150,000 for the fight against AIDS.
Guests sampled white chocolate mashed potatoes, chocolate spaghetti and a variety of other similarly-inspired treats. Guests also admired creative displays, including the Guinness World Record holder for the tallest chocolate structure—a 20-foot, 8-inch chocolate skyscraper created by Executive Pastry Chef Alain Roby of the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
Awards were presented by local celebrity judges in four categories: the Hot Chocolate Award went to Chocolate Gourmet for its Damn Good Cookies and Ugly Truffles; the Loco Cocoa Award for most creative use of chocolate was presented to Stained Glass Bistro for their chocolate-infused empanadas; the Sweetbooth Award for best overall presentation went to Peninsula Chicago and the Chocoholic’s Dream Award went to the Hyatt Regency Chicago for their aforementioned building.
In addition, luxurious prizes were raffled off including an American Airlines tickets to any U.S. destination and a weekend at the Hotel Orrington in Evanston. A silent auction offered items such as paintings done by local artist Erik Sosa.