The Seattle chocolate scene is significantly neglected by those who are not already familiar with it. Those of us who are fascinated with artisan chocolate, on the other hand, are aware that it is one of the global hotspots for good chocolate. In spite of the fact that the Pacific Northwest is more known for its hipsters and speciality wines than it is for its award-winning chocolates, this region has spent the greater part of the past decade turning itself into a genuine destination for handmade chocolate.
Due to the fact that it is home to a number of chocolate manufacturers, chocolatiers, chocolate stores, and chocolate events, Seattle is at the heart of it all and has developed into one of the most prominent chocolate cities in the United States. Despite the fact that there are chocolate stations all over the growing city, the most of the chocolate action takes place in the downtown area, in close proximity to the mind-bogglingly massive Pike Place Market. There are even some bakeries, such as Bakery Nouveau, that are going into the handmade chocolate business.
The quantity of chocolate stores that I came across over my last three days in Seattle was the thing that struck me as most remarkable in comparison to the Asian chocolate landscape. Craft chocolate bars are now available at cafes as well as stores that are solely devoted to selling chocolate, which means that many local manufacturers do not need their very own cafe in order to be able to sell their wares. Therefore, in contrast to the majority of my other chocolate recommendations, the Seattle chocolate tour is organized according to the kind of experience you want to have while in the city.
Check out the map at the very bottom of the book if you’d rather organize the information based on the neighborhood. Happy chewing!
Seattle Chocolatiers
Chocolati
The quality of Chocolati’s chocolates, which are sold at their five stores in the greater Seattle region, pleasantly surprised and pleased me. The chocolates and other confections, which number in excess of fifty and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and fillings, tend to be on the excessively sugary side, but they are still quite tasty. The Chocolati location at the Seattle Public Library, which is tucked away in a quiet corner away from the book stacks, has a vast assortment of chocolates in addition to a variety of beverages centered on chocolate and espresso.
Their bonbons may be purchased in a variety of packaging options, including gift boxes, individual wrapping, and bagging. The ganache-filled chocolate-dipped Turkish fig was the favorite among the group, but if it were up to me, I’d choose the chocolate-dipped ginger instead. Reasonable pricing considering the variety and quality of the chocolates was offered across the board, with the exception of one enormous fig.
Address: 3rd Floor of the Seattle Public Library, 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104(5 locations; see map below)
Hours & Prices: 10am-5pm, daily {open at 12pm on Sun.} (~$2 per truffle)
Fran’s Chocolates
The fact that I have been able to find Fran’s Chocolate in stores all across the United States for the last five years explains why I was both astonished and pleased by the quality of Fran’s chocolate caramels. Despite the fact that she was Obama’s official chocolatier, it’s possible that I shouldn’t be surprised. Fran’s is a very pricey brand, but it is well-balanced by their courteous personnel and vast range of chocolates. Fran’s is well known for the buttery salted caramels that they are famous for making. They would gladly provide taste tests of any of the roughly two dozen chocolate bonbons that they have available, and these tests are sometimes even presented on a platter of bite-sized samples.
This type of customer care, in combination with their delectable selection of caramels made in the French tradition, is what won them a berth on the Chocolate Indulgence Tour in Seattle (discussed below). At the more compact store in the downtown area that I checked out, they offer a modest coffee bar but a tidy use of space. There are also a handful of tables where customers can relax and watch the downtown area go by. The confections are all produced in the Georgetown plant, which is bigger than the other three locations mentioned.
Address: 1325 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, USA(4 locations; see map below)
Hours & Prices: 9:30am-7:30pm, Mon.-Sat. & 11am-6pm, Sun. (~$2 per caramel)
Intrigue Chocolate Co.
The story of Intrigue Chocolate has been passed down through the generations. Since 2006, they have been handcrafting soft ganache truffles by repeatedly infusing creams to build up their present palette of more than 250 varieties (only about 2 dozen are available at any given time). Each chocolate is one of a kind since it is prepared by hand from chocolate that was created for for Intrigue. The chocolate shop is mostly famous for its truffles, but they are also becoming more well-known for their hot chocolate mixes and the bars that they have only lately introduced (made with the same unique-to-Intrigue chocolate).
When I stopped in, I had the pleasure of meeting the proprietor, and he shared with me that although they do have a standard collection that is always available, the proprietor is constantly experimenting with new flavors (many of which are suitable for vegans), which means that the options available to you change every week. The bigger store that we visited out also provided a generous amount of chairs and a lot of open space, making it an excellent place to either work or play. It doesn’t hurt that they have one of the widest selections of coffee and chocolate drinks that I’ve ever seen on their menu, either. If you are fortunate enough to be there during the warmer months, a cold brew cacao tea slushie from the tap is something that I would highly suggest.
Address: 1520 15th Ave, Seattle WA 98122(2 locations; see map below)
Hours & Prices: 8am-8pm, daily ($2.50 per truffle)
Chocolat Vitale
Chocolate manufacturers in Seattle are gaining more and more notoriety, but the city’s chocolatiers still seem to be fighting an uphill battle to be recognized. Here is where businesses such as Chocolat Vitale come into play. They began by offering just hot chocolate in the manner of Europe, but as demand increased, they extended their offerings to include other local chocolate and coffee goods. Chocolat Vitale is the place to go if you’re looking for international coffee, chocolate, and wine, in addition to a variety of local items crafted by chocolate makers and chocolatiers. Chocolat Vitale’s products have an emphasis on the European continent. I was unable to make it there on my most recent trip, but I will definitely make time to sample their famously rich chocolate when I go back the following year.
Address: 6257 3rd Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 10am-6pm, Wed.-Sat. & 11am-5pm, Sun.
Rocky Mountain
The Rocky Mountain Seattle establishment can be found in the center of the downtown area, and it provides customers with an extensive menu of chocolate- and espresso-based beverages, in addition to a vast assortment of chocolates. The quality of their chocolate and fillings, on the other hand, failed to satisfy me, despite the fact that this chocolate store business is established in Colorado and is acceptable for grabbing a cup of coffee and a large caramel apple on the go. If you are seeking for distinctive chocolate in the downtown area of Seattle, I would recommend exploring elsewhere first given that the store has locations all over the globe (including in Seoul, South Korea) with comparable options in each location.
Address: 1419 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 9am-11pm, Sat. & 10am-10pm, Sun.-Fri. {open ’til 11pm Fri.} ($2-3 per truffle)
Seattle Chocolate Makers
Theo’s Chocolate
Theo’s is a resident of Seattle and has become something of a legend in the world of artisan chocolate. It is also well recognized as being one of the finest deals in the chocolate department at Whole Foods. The firm began in 2006 as the first organic chocolate producer in the United States and continues to uphold its basic beliefs via initiatives in cacao villages in central Africa as well as within the greater Seattle region. The chocolate is made from cacao beans.
I was extremely glad to open my wallet in order to get a large quantity of Theo items since they had a multitude of delectable bars, an equal number of seasonal candies, and a nice selection of bonbons that were manufactured in-house. Their seminars and $10 factory tours fill up unusually quickly in the summers due to camps and retreats, so be sure to schedule at least two weeks in advance to have your selection of days; we discovered this the hard way, but we are looking forward to exploring the facility another time (and sampling all the treats).
Address: 3400 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 10am-6pm, daily ($4 per 85g bar)
Seattle Chocolate
If you do a search on the internet for “Seattle chocolate,” there is a good chance that the first results that come up will be for the Seattle Chocolate firm. Beginning in the early 1990s, Seattle Chocolate has become something of a local legend and is now recognized all over the globe for the filled and flavored chocolate bars that they produce. These bars are likely stocked in each and every health food shop in the United States. The company’s primary mission is to develop tastes that are characteristic of the Pacific Northwest, such as locally sourced coffee and sea salt.
Before you take a couple of their bars or confections, you may go on one of their factory tours and see how they make the chocolates that go into their sister brand of chocolates, which is called the jcoco collection. The plant can be reached in less than ten minutes from Sea-Tac International Airport and is situated on the very outskirts of Seattle. Take note that the final tour of the chocolate factory begins at two in the afternoon.
Address: 1180 Andover Park W, Seattle, WA 98188(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 10am-5pm, Mon.-Sat. ($4 per 70g bar)
indi chocolate
At first look, Indi Chocolate Factory seems to be rather large; nevertheless, upon closer inspection, it reveals itself to be extremely understated. After you have successfully navigated the confusing labyrinth that is Pike Place Market, you will find the indi chocolate fishbowl on the third floor of the building’s lower level. Erin Andrews established indi chocolate in 2010 as one of the most comprehensive and community-based shops in the greater Seattle area. Andrews funded the venture in large part by producing her cacao-based beauty products. indi chocolate is now known as one of the most community-based shops in the greater Seattle area. The path of a chocolate maker is never straightforward or simple, but it’s also never dull!
Erin stayed in it for the long haul, which is fortunate for all of us, and to this day she still sells her assortment of cocoa butter-based body care products, in addition to a wide choice of coffee and chocolate beverages, and bean-to-bar chocolates. Those who stop by the chocolate store in Pike Place Market will not only be attracted by the confections prepared on the premises, but also by the weekly chocolate courses and activities that are held there. The mole caramel latte and the lavender caramels are two of my faves from this shop. In point of fact, the fact that I do not now own one of their mole marshmallows in my possession is quite annoying to me at this very moment.
Address: 1901 Western Ave D, Seattle, WA 98101(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 8am-6pm, daily {closes at 7pm Fri./Sat.} ($2 per truffle)
Bellflower Chocolate Company
During my most recent trip to Seattle, Bellflower was still in its infancy, and the company did not have quite as widespread of a distribution as they have now in 2019. Now, in addition to holding classes, they operate a chocolate milk bar and a mobile retail alternative known as “The Chocolate BikeTM.” Even tours of their manufacturing area on Queen Anne are available upon request. In the event that you are unable to find either of them, you may also find their bars sold at a wide variety of different chocolate merchants all across the city of Seattle. The Kokoa Kamili with Black Lava Salt was my favorite dish out of all of them.
Address: Weekend pop-ups at Brooks Running in Fremont (3400 Stone Way North), but check their Instagram before you go
Hours & Prices: see online store (link above)
Seattle Chocolate Shops
Northwest Tastings
Because I had heard of this tasting room in a few other settings, I was quite anxious to check it out and see what they had to offer there. On the other hand, it was a rather disappointing experience overall. It’s more of a tasting area for a nearby vineyard than it is a business that serves samples; although, they do sell truffles made by one chocolatier there. When I went there with a friend, we indulged in a chocolate and wine pairing with their range of red wines. The view of the harbor was fairly beautiful, but the wines and chocolates were not ones that I would add to my normal line up of favorites. If Northwest Tastings were to have a special event in collaboration with other local companies, I would highly encourage going to check it out; but, if they don’t, there are many other more engaging locations in which to enjoy a tasting.
Address: 1501 Pike Pl #527, Seattle, WA 98101, USA(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 11am-6pm, Wed.-Mon. {open til 9pm Fri.} ($3.50 per truffle)
Chocolate Box
In spite of its name, Chocolate Box seems to concentrate more on its chocolates than on its wines, with a particular emphasis on chocolates from a variety of different countries. They have one of the greatest selections of local confections and artisan chocolates in Seattle, and once you’ve picked out some tasty treats from their shop, you can relax at the bar with one of their five wine tasting options.
During the little shop’s weekday happy hour, which runs from 11 am to 3 pm on weekdays, they give a discount of 50 percent on their wine and chocolate pairings. This is an experience that you should indulge on, since it is highly recommended by me.
After making your way through the chaos that is Pike Spot, it is a good place to take a break at this establishment since the staff is so kind and well-informed about both the wine and the chocolate.
Address: 106 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101, USA(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 9am-8pm, daily {open til 9pm Fri.-Sun.} ($2-3 per truffle)
Chocolopolis
Chocolopolis, which was one of the first businesses to open in the Seattle chocolate sector, has been supplying the Pacific Northwest with handmade chocolate for more than a decade at this point. Chocolopolis was not only the oldest chocolate retail business in Seattle, but it was also widely considered to be among the most reputable due to its excellent selection of artisan chocolate bars and sweets, many of which are also sold in the company’s online store. Regrettably, in 2020 they shut down the most of their activities; nevertheless, you can monitor their Facebook page for updates on forthcoming events.
Address & Hours & Prices: currently online-only
Sugar Pill
Sugar Pill is one of many chocolate stores in Seattle, but it stands out from the crowd since it also sells a wide variety of spice mixes and personal care goods. When seen in this light, however, the inclusion of chocolate manufactured in the vicinity makes perfect sense. The honey-centric products sold in this store adhere to the overarching concept that they are naturally consumable and may contribute positively to your health on both the inside and the outside. Sugar Pill is a supplier for many of the regional producers, including Dandelion, Church Street, and Cloud Forest, which are overlooked by other chocolate stores in the Seattle area. Sugar Pill is located in the same building as artisanal cocktail syrups and local crafts.
Address: 900 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122, USA(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 11am-6pm, daily {closes 4pm Sun.} ($6-10 per bar)
Kakao Cafe
Although Kakao Cafe is known for being a source for the goods of a wide variety of local chocolatiers, the availability of these items is highly dependant on the time of year, both for the cafe and the chocolatiers. However, you need not be concerned since Kakao also has a variety of chocolate makers in store. These chocolate manufacturers range from Fruition and Ritual to Taza. After you have replenished your supply of chocolate, though, make sure to stop by their cafe, peruse their extensive menu, and get an iced chocolate or an espresso beverage before taking a seat to appreciate some of the artwork. Because of the high ceilings and abundant natural light, the huge open area that makes up the rear half of the café is often utilized as a venue for local events. A hot chocolate from Michel Cluizel and a warm pastry are two things that I would suggest ordering.
Address: 415 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA(see map below)
Hours & Prices: 7am-8pm, weekdays {closing 6pm Fridays} ($5-10 per bar)
New Seasons Market
The grocery store New Seasons is comparable to Whole Foods, although it has a narrower assortment of chocolate and a stronger emphasis on regional goods (plus, not owned by Amazon). The chain is local, but the chocolate selection is not spectacular, and it does not provide a significant amount of handmade chocolate in addition to what you might purchase at another health food shop in the Pacific Northwest. If you live in an area where Whole Foods is farther away than New Seasons, you should come here for a more expedient shopping experience. In any case, there are other places in Seattle where you may get chocolate of a higher quality.
Address: 951 NW Ballard Way, Seattle, WA 98107, USA(see map below, 2 locations)
Hours & Prices: 7am-10pm, daily ($3-6 per bar)
Honorable mentions to De Laurenti and Metropolitan Market, neither of which I’ve had the chance to visit, but which are highly recommended to me!
Events
NW Chocolate Festival (& UnConference)
Every autumn, the Northwest Chocolate Festival lives up to its legendary status within the artisan chocolate industry by successfully bringing together tens of thousands of dedicated chocolate enthusiasts and tens of thousands more interested eaters. Over the course of a single weekend, more than one hundred enterprises that are centered on cacao and chocolate come together to showcase their wares and interact with the attendees. When I went the previous time, though, the many workshops and seminars that were given on the six stages throughout the day were by far my favorites parts of the event.
Lessons include a wide variety of topics, including chocolate taste fundamentals, female empowerment on cacao farms, and cookery demonstrations. For those of you who are chocolate manufacturers, the two days before to the event will also be devoted to a networking event known as the “UnConference” that will be held for the whole industry. Since samples are plentiful during all stages of the NWCF, it is strongly recommended that you do not have a substantial meal before to the competition.
Venue: Smith Cove Pier 91, 2001 West Garfield Street, Seattle, Washington (see map below)
Dates: November 10-11, 2018 (10am-5pm)
Chocolate Indulgence Walking Tour
This two-hour walking tour of downtown Seattle’s chocolate sector is about as all-encompassing as a chocolate tour can get, and it’s only offered once or twice a day. In deference to the wide range of gustatory tastes and inventive minds that congregate in Seattle, the tour makes a dozen or more stops, each of which offers participants a sample of regional cuisine as well as classic favorites. This is a trip that requires mental and physical preparation, and it’s not only because there’s a lengthy walk involved. From cakes and cookies to bars and bonbons, this tour covers it all!
Location: Downtown Seattle
Dates & Price: daily at 11am for $52USD per person
Pacific Northwest Chocolate Society
The Pacific Northwest Chocolate Society, or PNW Chocolate Society for short, is a collection of people who like good chocolate and get together once every month or two for events revolving around handmade chocolate and cacao. The club was founded in 2018. Chocolopolis, which has been in the center of the Seattle artisan chocolate community for more than ten years, was one of the original founders of this community together with Lauren Adler. You may check out their Instagram to remain up to date on their event schedule and purchase tickets to gatherings there. These gatherings bring together chocolate lovers and artisans from all across the area. Past celebrations have included things like a sampling of chocolate without the taster’s knowledge and a get-together with chocolate manufacturers from throughout the area.
Location: Seattle Area
Dates: monthly or bi-monthly events
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