Verdun Fine Chocolates, Laguna Beach

Verdun Fine Chocolate opened its doors in Portland in 2003, but its legacy can be traced back more than 40 years. That's how long the Hamoush family has been dazzling the world with its handmade artisan chocolates, hand-made in the mountains of Lebanon. These gourmet treats include uniquely-shaped delicacies flavored with cherry and pistachio pieces, coffee beans, or gianduja—a chocolate-hazelnut spread. And the candies look as good as they taste: after they're made each one is individually wrapped in distinctive, colorful foils that make them perfect for gift giving.