The UK’s leading artisan chocolatier is set to open in Chester as part of a multi-million pound project at The Chester Grosvenor.

British chocolate company Rococo, which currently only has shops in London’s exclusive Belgravia, Chelsea and Marylebone, will open its doors as a concession within the luxury hotel in March.

The new chocolatier is part of an ambitious project which will see the much-loved La Brasserie undergo a refurbishment and reconfiguration to allow the concession to open for business at the front of the restaurant on Eastgate.

Jonathan Slater, The Chester Grosvenor’s managing director, said: “Rococo is the perfect complement to La Brasserie and the hotel and we’re thrilled to be welcoming them to The Chester Grosvenor.

“Their chocolate is second to none and we’re looking forward to introducing our guests, diners and Chester residents to Rococo.

“A new business like this coming to Chester is a fantastic vote of confidence in the city.”

Executive Chef Simon Radley will be using Rococo’s delicious chocolate in creating gourmet menus and Rococo’s signature hot chocolate will be served in La Brasserie.

Rococo’s signature chocolate will be available in the minibars in the hotel’s rooms and suites.

Chantal Coady, Rococo founder and creative director, said: “I am really delighted that Rococo Chocolates will finally be opening a branch in the North of England, especially in such a beautiful location as The Chester Grosvenor.

“We think there is a strong synergy between us and the Grosvenor brand, and it's high time that the Rococo Couture range of chocolates was available north of Regents Park!”

At the same time as La Brasserie undergoes a transformation a new kitchen will be created as part of a £2m upgrade.

Simon Radley will oversee the fitting of a state-of-the-art ground floor kitchen to match that of the Westminster Suite kitchen on the second floor of the hotel.

The new facilities will include energy-efficient induction hobs and grills, constant temperature control and incorporate the latest kitchen technology.

Mr Slater said: “We never rest on our laurels here at The Chester Grosvenor. This is part of our continued investment in the business and making sure we are the best we can be.

“By the spring of next year we will have a new chocolatier tempting everyone, an exciting new look for La Brasserie and a kitchen par excellence for our gifted chefs to work in.

“We have so much to look forward to in 2012.”

For more information contact:Mary Murtagh, Public Relations, The Chester Grosvenor, Direct Line: 01244 895844