Arkansas has long been known for producing rice, soybeans, and poultry--but now one Little Rock woman hopes to be known for producing chocolate.

Chocolatier Carmen Portillo says when people visit her new chocolate boutique they think it must be a New York or Chicago-based business. But Portillo's chocolates are all home-grown.

Portillo's chocolate creations are almost too pretty to eat--so, Cocoa Belle, or "Beautiful Chocolate" is a fitting name for her new store.

(Carmen Portillo, Chocolatier) "It's made having a box of chocolate special again, and people really like that."

Portillo is a Little Rock native. The Mills High School graduate says she decided to become a chocolatier after spending time in Europe. But to earn her certification, Portillo first had to get hands-on experience at a school in Orlando, Florida. Then it was on to Vancouver, British Columbia for more schooling.

(Portillo) “It was about a two-year process of me getting my education and getting together what I needed for a business to open up here."

Portillo says she realizes that a sour economy is not the sweetest time to open a business that sells luxury items.

(Portillo) "That was one of my concerns, but I think people are choosing what they want to spend their money on."

The truffles are $2 apiece, and boxes range in price from $18 to $100. But Portillo says you don't have to be wealthy to enjoy her rich treats--you just need a little willpower.

(Portillo) “You have a truffle, you have a glass of wine...they're not going to go home and eat the whole box! You savor it and make it special."

Cocoa Belle is closed on Sundays and Mondays for production, but open Tuesday through Saturday in the River Market's Ottenheimer Hall.