By Paige Baxter

Are you trying to surprise your partner or pal with a vegan treat but you don’t know where to look in Richmond? Check out a handful of suggestions for delicious treats to ‘wow’ someone with, while supporting local businesses.

+ Clean Conscience Chocolates – Have a lighter conscience about gifting these clean, soy-free treats with these healthier vegan versions of classic non-vegan chocolates from your childhood. If you miss eating peppermint patties or Reese’s cups, try Clean Conscience Chocolates versions. You likely won’t miss either again. Find them at several locations including Ellwood Thompson’s, Juice Laundry, and Good Foods Grocery to name a few. If you can’t make it out to one of the aforementioned stores, you can also purchase their yummy chocolates online.

+ For the Love of Chocolate – This shop is truly heaven for chocolate and candy lovers, and it a gan section and you’ll be graced with Certified Vegan brands including Endangered Species and Ocho (Hot tip: Their Coconut Bar and Peanut Butter Bar are both vegan!), plus other vegan brands.

+ Chocolates By Kelly – Grab hand-made decadent dark chocolates such as the blueberry lemonade cordial, one of my personal faves. Their vegan chocolates are labeled as so in store and on the web store. Looking for a pre-made gift set? They have those (with a vegan option), too! Chocolate flavors can vary but some are consistent week to week.

+Idle Hands Bread Company – Switch up the gifting game and show your love with delicious carbs! From chocolate croissants and chocolate chip danishes to everything croissants with vegan cream cheese and savory mouthwatering tomato, basil, and UnMoo Notz pastry, your pal or partner won’t be disappointed. Please note that most of the vegan offerings vary from day to day.

+Carytown Cupcakes – Speaking of switching things up, Carytown Cupcakes has a few rotating vegan options perfect for any sweets lover. Plus they come in a cute box, so no wrapping is needed!

Supporting local businesses is a great way to go, but we understand it’s not always the easiest option. If you get in a pinch and have to order online, peep the Food Empowerment Project’s chocolate suggestions before smashing that “buy” button.

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