Based in Lebanon, Verdun opened its first U.S. shop here in Portland. Decorated in sleek cherry wood, sparkling glass, and blue-gray velvet, this chocolaterie gives visitors the impression of walking into a fine jewelry store. Each one-of-a-kind candy hand-wrapped in brightly colored foil is preservative-free, low in sugar, and handmade in Beirut with raw cacao from the Ivory Coast. Traditional delights like milk and dark chocolate solids, pralines, caramels, and crisps hold court with more unusual flavors such as pistachio or hazelnut gianduja, a dense cream that is Europe’s version of peanut butter. Pair a dreamy Milk Chocolate Coffee Cream with a cup of Illy coffee from the espresso bar or a steaming cup of traditional Lebanese cardamom-spiced tea.