By Evan Milberg
Looking to stay local for Valentine’s Day? Here are five options that are better than the box of chocolate from CVS your significant other pretends to not be disappointed with.
Signature Bonbons from Artisan Confections: Go for one of Artisan Confections’ box of signature bonbons with exotic flavors such as Tahitian Vanilla Bean and Ancho Chile or a variety of caramels including salted butter caramel, rum caramel and apple caramel. Get a 9-piece box for $18, a 15-piece box for $27 or a 30-piece box for $50. / Artisan Confections, 1025 N. Fillmore St., Arlington
“Mac Pac” from Buzz Bakery: Buzz Bakery is offering an assortment of six French macarons in cassis, pistachio-rose and passion fruit-pink peppercorn. $14 per pack. / Buzz Bakery, 901 Slaters Lane, Alexandria
Ultimate Gift Basket from Chesapeake Chocolates: This one-pound box comes with truffles, a heart made of red velvet cake and Chesapeake Chocolates’ signature butter crunch, crisp toffee dipped in your choice of milk or dark chocolate and covered with chopped roasted almonds. $55. / Chesapeake Chocolates, 11426 Washington Plaza West, Reston
Valentine Cakepops from Customcakebites: Order a box of 8, 12, or 18 customized Valentine’s Day cake pops with a special message for your loved one. $2.50 per cake pop. / Customcakebites; 703-217-0295
Stemmed Strawberries Dipped in Chocolate from Pastry Xpo: For $3.99 each, Pastry Xpo is offering strawberries dipped in white and milk chocolate. / Pastry Xpo, 8190 Strawberry Lane, Falls Church
