Chocolate Heaven in Beijing

The Face empire continues its assault on Beijing, bringing high-class luxuries to the Chinese capital --this time in the form of chocolate. The Visage pastries were created by French pastry chef Eric Perez in 2003, and the Beijing boutique in Wangjing Capital Mall is discreet, petite and stylish. You won't lose yourself in the aisles here, but this tiny shop is designed to provide a preview of the sugary treats. Beyond the wooden, latticed panels stand glass cases where the yummy chocolates are displayed, like as many little works of art.

Despite the diminutive size of the store, its selection is impressive and it offers something for even the fussiest of gourmet mouths. These decadently rich, handmade masterpieces retail at a meager RMB 9 per piece --so watch out for signs of excessive binging on these babies!

Prices range from RMB 9 for a chocolate bar to RMB 65/68 for a dessert. The shop assistants speak basic English, so simple conversation is not a problem.

What I appreciate

The delicious mousse cake

What customers appreciate

Various dedicated pastries