Araya Artisan Chocolates: Halloween Chocolates for Grown-Ups

For kids, Halloween is mostly about dressing up, trick or treating, and getting CANDY. As we get older, many of us continue with the dressing up, but the trick or treating switches to parties, and the candy switches to booze. Now don't get me wrong, this is a pretty decent trade, but what if you could have it all: costumes, parties, alcohol and deliciously gourmet chocolates that you would never dream of throwing in a plastic pumpkin carryall?

If you're like me, then this is your ultimate fantasy, and the wonderful chocolatiers at Araya Artisan Chocolates (2030 West Gray) are the ones making those dreams come true. Their handmade, impeccably presented chocolates have always been divine. But right now, you can get them in a very cool, spooky-themed art box. My favorite design is the bone-colored Dia De Los Muertos box designed by Mexican artist Fernando Robles. If you're feeling more playful, choose the cartoonish Grim Reaper Design by Chilean artist Cyro Pintos. Or if you're not totally sold on the whole Halloween thing, but still want something dark and autumnal, opt for the close-up photograph of a bench designed by Houston artist Kelly Gale Amen. Whichever one you choose doesn't really matter, because they're all filled with ridiculously good chocolate.

If you're thinking more in terms of party snacks, rather than a box of chocolates, check out the other sweet treats from Araya. They now import French macaroons from my other favorite sweet shop, Sucre in New Orleans, which means I no longer have to drive six hours to get my fix. Set out a few dozen of the orange and chocolate varieties to give partygoers a true fall indulgence. And if, despite all the delicious grown-up goodies available, you're still looking for some more kid-friendly treats, they even offer festive chocolate-dipped Oreos and marshmallows adorned with Halloween sprinkles.

With Halloween candies like this, you'll remember why October 31 was your favorite day when you were growing up.