Vero's double happiness with Lunar New Year and Valentine's chocolate

Although chocolate can be enjoyed all year round, Janus Chan, general manager of Vero, said Lunar New Year and Valentine's Day have to be when the treat is most sought after.

"It's extra special this year because the Lunar New Year is just four days ahead of Valentine's Day. That's why our theme for this year is double happiness - both festivals are about love and sharing," said Chan.

With that in mind, the Hong Kong chocolatier and patisserie has launched a gift set that comes with two boxes of chocolate. The Valentine's Day one comes in a pink box and contains milk chocolate squares. The other is in festive red with dark chocolate squares.

Both the boxes are decorated with a snake graphic, inspired by the movable works of She Wu, which was designed by Dennis Chan, co-founder of luxury jewellery brand Qeelin. Created in collaboration with Project Twelve, an art and design initiative to celebrate the Year of the Snake, it is on display in Vero's Landmark store in Central. Other festive novelties ideal for the candy box or as tasteful gifts are Kung Hei Fat Choi - or Fook (prosperity)- printed chocolate, as well as chocolate-dipped local snacks including haw flakes and sour plum.

Geert Renmans, executive pastry chef and head chocolatier at Vero, said the mandarin orange-shaped chocolate and whisky centred chocolate set that come in a dim sum basket is another highlight.

"It's a light whisky - so not very overpowering. You want to taste the chocolate," said Renmans of the philosophy that lies behind - and inspires - all the new creations.