After experiencing a change of ownership and a return to its original name, The Chocolate House of Ann Arbor will reopen at 330 S. Main St. at noon Friday.

Jacob Smith, a former Chocolate House employee, and Aaron McRae are in the final stages of acquiring the store from the shop’s original owner, Vicki Ponitz.

“I worked for (Vicki) her last year there, and I really enjoyed working there,” Smith said. “I liked the way she ran it.

“It’s a great opportunity and a great store well-loved in Ann Arbor.”

The Chocolate House closed in 2009 after Ponitz sold her it to nephew, Alex Molnar. Molnar renamed the store Carillon Chocolates and opened in June 2009.

Carillon Chocolates closed last weekend, creating the prospect for Smith and McRae to take over.

“I’ve known (McRae) for awhile, and he had an interest in becoming a business owner,” Smith said. “I knew it was something I couldn’t do by myself."

The store will feature a variety of desserts, including Stroh’s ice cream and handmade truffles and chocolates.

Smith said many customers’ favorites like English Toffee and the Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake will return, and the store will be introducing some new recipes throughout the coming year.

“I’m looking forward to getting back into it,” Smith said.

Smith will retain the Carillon Chocolates staff of seven to 10 workers and expects to hire one or two people.