Meet Michael Poole, owner of Hot Chocolat in West Seattle.
Michael has quite the culinary resume. He’s a 3-time Grand Prize Winner in the annual Firefighter’s Seafood Cook-off and received the coveted Grand Diplôme in Cuisine and Pastry from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. Today, Michael expresses his culinary passion through chocolate, and it shines through each delightful morsel.
Learn more about Michael and Hot Chocolat in this week’s Small Business Spotlight Q&A!
What’s a fun fact that most people don’t know about you?
I’m a retired Seattle Fire officer, with 39 years of experience as a firehouse cook, concessionaire, and caterer.
What are 3 things to know about Hot Chocolat?
- As an Artisan Chocolatier, I paint all my creations
- I teach hands-on chocolate and macaron-making classes
- My chocolate gift boxes can be purchased for weddings and corporate events
What are some of your favorite local businesses and why?
Seattle Sorbet, Aroy Mak Thai Food, Jet City Beignet, Baker’s Dozen Catering, Tab Pho, and lots more in West Seattle.
Why is it important to you and your business that people #SpendLikeItMatters?
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they deserve our support. They create jobs, contribute to the local tax base, and make our communities more vibrant and diverse. When we shop at local businesses, we’re not just buying products and services. We’re also investing in our community and helping to create a better place to live and work. When you SpendLikeitMatters, your money stays in the community and helps to support other local businesses.
Bonus: Want to enjoy Hot Chocolat for 20% off? Purchase a Black Black Friday Card for any amount and get an instant 20% discount! Then, use it to enjoy delicious chocolate or a class at Hot Chocolate, or at 100+ other Black-owned small businesses.
You’ll save big while supporting Black-owned businesses in the Seattle area. Learn more and get yours today!