Review: The Chocolatier at Hersheypark is a sweet new addition

The Chocolatier at Hersheypark is now open year-round at the Sweetest Place on Earth. The final piece of the park’s multi-million dollar expansion, aptly named Chocolatetown, is now in place. This restaurant can only exist in Hershey — with past and present pieces from the Hersheypark ride collection, tributes to founder Milton S. Hershey, and chocolate sprinkled throughout the menu.

By Jennifer Greene

I was recently hosted by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts for a media preview of the all-new restaurant. Let’s take a look at what you can expect.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is a full-service restaurant, bar and patio with one-of-a-kind views and a second-story patio and bar overlooking the iconic carousel, and the newest coaster, Candymonium.

You do not need a park ticket to dine here, as there is an exterior entrance through HP Supply Co. before entering the gates. They will operate as a walk-up venue only, and you may request patio seating, but the patio will close for inclement weather.

Insider Tip: To try to avoid a long wait, go before noon or in the early evening (before the dinner rush).

Hersheypark-Inspired Design

When designing a new restaurant, the team wanted to make sure that it paid tribute to the park in all the right places. As you enter the restaurant, you will notice seats from the Hersheypark Arena, where concerts and events were held.

The restaurant seating offers two fun attraction elements with Tilt-A Whirl booths, and Comet car booths. As the oldest coaster in the park, Comet was the last coaster Hershey himself purchased. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the classic wooden coaster.

Be sure to look up at the lighting in the center of the restaurant, as they take the shapes of three iconic roller coasters inside Hersheypark.

The Carrousel Bar

Inspired by the oldest attraction in the park, The Carrousel Bar is the centerpiece of the restaurant. Here you will find friendly bartenders crafting fun cocktails showcasing over-the-top ingredients inspired by your favorite Hershey’s candy.

I was able to try two of the signature cocktails, but there are plenty more on my list to try this summer:

Reese’s Cupfusion Old Fashioned- If you like whiskey and peanut butter, this is the drink for you. It goes down smooth, and doesn’t have that harsh whiskey burn. Finish off your drink with a Reese’s Cup, as it’s rimmed with one.
Sweet Spun Martini- Hershey’s pours a mean martini, and they hit a sweet note with this one. Made with cotton candy from in the park, this sweet vodka martini isn’t over the top. The presentation itself is worth ordering this whimsical cocktail.

The Second Story Patio

What’s better than a meal with stunning coaster views? The patio features one-of-a-kind views you won’t find anywhere else in the park. Whether you are taking a break from the parks to enjoy a drink, or dining with the family, this spot is stunning.

You will also find more retired attractions here, from the bumper cars and an antique car refurbished by students at The Milton Hershey School, in addition to a tub from the former Giant Wheel.

Eats & Sweets

During our visit, we were delighted to try many of the featured items on the menu, many of which are, of course, chocolate-inspired. The menu is quite large, and has ample choices from signature salads, to handhelds, burgers, flatbreads and big plates. I was happy to see a wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Hummus– This vegan and vegetarian option is a small shareable. If you like peanut butter, you will love a fun twist on classic hummus.
Ferris Wheel Sampler– I am certain this will be the top-selling appetizer; it’s enough for a small meal, honestly. Featuring Hershey’s BBQ Wings, Crispy Mozzarella, Chicken Tenders, Buffalo Chicken Dip and Soft Pretzel Dippers, it’s fun for everyone.
House Salad– This isn’t just a plain salad, it’s served with Hershey’s Cocoa Almond and Hershey’s Chocolate & Raspberry Vinaigrette.
Chocolatetown Burger– This burger is cooked to perfection and served with thick-cut bacon, smoked cheddar and Hershey’s Chocolate Drizzled Potato Chips.
Hershey’s Cocoa Barbecue Ribs– A full rack of Hershey’s Cocoa & Ancho Chile Pork Ribs served with Hershey’s Chocolate Barbecue Sauce. The ribs pull apart tender, and have a sweet heat to them. I Highly recommend it if you are looking for a big meal.
Chicken & Waffles – Inspired by Milton S. Hershey’s favorite meal, this dish was developed in collaboration with the students from the Milton Hershey School. Of all the dishes we tried, this was by far my favorite. The savory sweet potato waffle is the perfect compliment to the honey hot sauce.

You didn’t go to Hersheypark if you didn’t get a dessert, or three! Admittedly I will give up the savory for the sweet, so I tried all I could.

My favorite item was the S’mores Than Chocolate Cake & Ice Cream. The graham cracker cake paired with marshmallow ice cream was not overly sweet. The Cookies & Cream cheesecake, as well as the Triple Brownie Mousse Cake, are also sweet endings to a decadent meal.

The Chocolatier is crafting over-the -top milkshakes, and while I didn’t try them this visit, they are on my radar for the next time.

The Chocolatier Experience

This restaurant was designed to celebrate the life and legacy of Hershey founder by continuing to bring people together for happiness, fun and chocolate. The Chocolatier is the cherry on top of a stunning expansion at Hersheypark, and I am certain it will bring much happiness to visitors for years to come.

To learn more about Hersheypark, visit Hersheypark.com.