Chocolate Show 2008 Kicks Off With Chocolate Couture

The 11th annual New York Chocolate Show is taking over the huge Pier 94 space at West 55th Street this weekend, and the serotonin surge started last night with a colorful "Super-Hero" chocolate fashion show. Almost everything you see the models wearing here is edible, and the sweet threads will be displayed on mannequins until Sunday or until someone breaks past security and eats them, whichever comes first. But take it from us; security is tight!

The massive three day extravaganza features free samples and new products for purchase by over 60 top chocolatiers and pastry chefs including Jacque Torres, Francois Payard, and Fairytale Brownies, who wowed us with their cream cheese brownie. Nice work if you can get it. There are also culinary demonstrations being taught all weekend by pastry masters like Colleen Grapes of Red Cat and Martin Howard of Brasserie 8 ½. Tickets cost $28; more info here.