Chocolate Bar event a sweet benefit for the Cultural Trust

The Place: The Benedum Center for Performing Arts, Downtown, on Saturday night.

#AllChocolateEverything: “I like my chocolate like I like my men ... rich!” said hostess Thea Trix. And with that, the Chocolate Bar began. Chocolate, chocolate everywhere! From the sweet — such as my favorite coffeeinfused chocolate treat from Altius Pittsburgh — to the savory, like Lidia’s chocolate ravioli with lobster, there was something there for everyone. And that was the message that the Cultural Trust was hoping to get across as 800 guests flooded the space. “We also have something for everyone,” said co-chair Mark Cibulka. “No matter what kind of event you are looking for, the Cultural Trust is sure to have something you will enjoy.” As I perused the chocolate vendors from the obvious, such as Sarris Candy, to the more obscure (chocolate covered scorpions, anyone?), it was clear that allthings chocolate were welcomed as Amanda Wright sculpted chocolate and DJ SMI spun some tunes to keep the energy high. Not that you needed it, as everyone was on a sugar rush! Mask making, painting and signature cocktails were just part of the fun. It was one of the most indulgent nights of the year and by far, one of my favorite events of 2017. Here’s to all the lovers out there ... well chocolate lovers, that is!

#SEEN: President of the Cultural Trust Kevin McMahon, Vivien Li, Richard Parsakian, LaShawna Russ, Briana L. White, Grace and Falcon Villarreal, Leslie Ogden ( who was recovering from eating the second hottest pepper in the world dipped in chocolate!), Adele Morelli, Athena Sarris, Gwen and Nick Rodi, Chris Edwards, Albert Fonticiella, Edward Marc, Nick Giganti, Gene Ciavarra, Diana Roth, Heather Masterson, Rachel Kisic, Jacob Korb, Ronda Zegarelli, Larry Rapaport, Lisa Lewis, Nandita Pearce, Robert Thomasson and Tai Pearce Thomasson.