Strategically placed next to the cash register is a tray of delicate bite sized truffles inviting you to enjoy with a decadent bottle of red wine. Off to the left are three cake stands with grand fluffy angel food cakes in different flavors. Within a well lit case is a variety of cakes, not just any kind of cake, but rich, mouth watering, french style cakes. Just beyond the counter is where the real treats are – chocolate covered caramels. As I decipher which caramel will go best with my Syrah the sophisticated detailed aromas of espresso fill the air. Heaven. I must be in heaven… but when I snap back to reality I smile because I’m at The Elegant Truffle; one of San Diego’s best kept secrets.

Jennifer Marie, the owner, is bustling around the open kitchen, doing what she does best, creating exquisite chocolates. Her passion is evident in every savory taste. Before becoming a professional chocolatier Jennifer had a successful career as a CPA in international finance, but felt as if she was missing something, unfulfilled. So she decided to make a change. Being actively creative in a kitchen was the love of her life, so she quit her corporate job and pursued that drive. After completing four years of culinary school in southern California she convinced pastry chefs in London and Paris to let her study under them. Once she had molded her vision it was time to put it into play. She settled in the Point Loma neighborhood of America’s finest city – San Diego. “People are scared to change, but if you’re unhappy – change it. I was always taught if you want something, you just do it” Jennifer says. So she pursued her dream.

Also known as the “truffle lady”, Jennifer doesn’t keep a menu. The options are ever-changing and always made each morning. Truffle choices range from champagne to espresso, milk chocolate, and countless others, making the decision of which truffle to try tedious. Because of her extraordinary skills with the french style desserts Jennifer made all the chocolates for the Prince of Monaco when he was in town. Her greatest compliment is when a french tourist wanders in and recognizes her french recipes.

As delectable as the chocolates are, it’s the caramels that stand out. The recipe is Jennifer’s great great grandmothers recipe, and dates back to 1847. When she cleaned out her great grandfathers house Jennifer came across a 200 year old copper pot, she took it home, only later to discover her great great grandmothers recipe book. Now days that recipe is in a safety deposit box, but the old copper pot is still used to make the caramel. My vote: go with the dark chocolate sea salt caramel – Oh. My. God.

Starting on Valentine’s Day she will sell chocolate covered long stem strawberries. They are picked fresh each morning, delivered to The Elegant Truffle by 7 a.m., and hand dipped in dark chocolate by 9 a.m. What a perfect gift idea for your loved ones!

Her latest project? Jennifer has been working hand in hand with a coffee roaster to create the perfect Chocolate French Roast, made with her very own, and no chemicals or additives. She plans on preparing the Chocolate French Roast coffee by the ever popular french press. A coffee fanatics dreams just came true.
When asked if she was happy with her decision to leave her high paying, secure job, she grins from ear to ear and her energy exudes happiness. “This journey evolves like a child, I’m not terrified anymore, it’s been this fabulous experience,” she exclaims.

The Elegant Truffle is located on 1111 Scott St, San Diego 92106
Open Tuesday- Sunday.

You’ll thank me later ~

XO, Shannon