'Cocoa Cabaret' kicks off Toronto Chocolate Festival 2012 Special

Toronto - Chocolate lovers were in for a special treat at Roy Thomson Hall on Friday, with a gala dedicated to their favourite sweet. The event, called "Cocoa Cabaret" kicked off the celebrations for the annual Toronto Chocolate Festival.

To put the gala's size into perspective, more than 150 feet of chocolate filled stations were on stand to feed the senses. At every turn, there was something for everyone, whether guests favoured something sweet or savoury. Some of Ontario's finest chefs, chocolatiers and pastry chefs were on stand to serve guests an array of sweet and savoury foods infused with, (you guessed it), chocolate.

Alexandra Christopoulos

Chocolate.

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Alexandra Christopoulos

A chocolate display.

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Alexandra Christopoulos

Chocolate hazelnut soup with goat cheese relish and orange oil; white chocolate and avacado cheesecake, lump crab salad, roasted tomato and micro cilantro salad. Served by Culinary Adventure Company.

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The evening also featured entertainment by the Toronto All Star Big Band, along with the Sisters of Swing and more guests.

Alexandra Christopoulos

Swing band performs at Toronto Chocolate Ball.

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Alexandra Christopoulos

Band.

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Now in its seventh year, the Toronto Chocolate Festival is a city wide event, devoted to the decadence and splendour of all things chocolate. It is in town until Nov. 4, and several of its attractions feature charity fundraisers, including a breast and prostate cancer initiatives fund.

Alexandra Christopoulos

Chocolate bar.

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Recently, the chocolate ball, one of the festival's main events, was featured on Food Network's "Sugar Stars," and also appeared on W network's "Undercover Boss Canada." Chocolate festivals are common in other parts of the world, and with another making big strides in the country, Toronto finally has a similar feat to call its own.

Alexandra Christopoulos

Erica Liane welcomes guests to the seventh annual Toronto Chocolate Ball.

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In the midst of it all, those looking for a bit of relaxation were encouraged to visit the 'chocolate spa,' which offered complimentary hand massages.

Alexandra Christopoulos

A woman receives a hand massage at the chocolate spa, Toronto Chocolate Ball.

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Alexandra Christopoulos

The Chocolate Spa.

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A full listing of events can be found on the festival's web site.