Chocolate lovers, it’s your time to shine. Chocolate got its claim to fame 4000 years ago in ancient in ancient Mesoamerica, which is now present day Mexico. The discovery of cacao led the Olmec people to turn the plant into chocolate. Interestingly enough, chocolate was drank during rituals and used as medicine, which one may argue, is not too far off for chocolate lovers today. However, throughout history, chocolate was a bitter beverage and not the sweet treat we know it to be today. For those who love to indulge, this is our non-exhaustive list of bakeries and chocolate makers to visit in the Western Cape.
Hippolytas (V&A Waterfront)
If 2 Glasses of Graham Beck bubbly paired with an assortment of truffles sounds like your thing then try the Hippolytas chocolate tasting experience. You’ll be taken on educative journey while enjoying Couvertures, Chocolate Fondue, mendiants and their iconic hotchocstix. hippolytas.com
De Villiers Chocolate (Spice Route, Paarl)
One of the first of its kind in Africa, the De Villiers brand pof chocolate pride itself on being Rainforest Alliance certified as well as vegan friendly. That does not take away from how decadent their chocolates are. Enjoy a chocolate tasting, visit their ice-cream shop and take some to go. The tasting consists of your selection of 5 milk, dark, nut butter or sugar-free chocolate options. devillierschocolate.com
Honest Chocolate (Wale Street, Cape Town City Centre)
Bean to bar organic chocolate in the inner city with a stylish setting. Honest Chocolate is popular for many locals and it’s with good reason. They have a wide menu offering pastries, chocolate and warm beverages. They offer virtual chocolate tastings(don’t worry, you order the chocolate before hand) as well as chocolate workshops. The hot chocolate is definitely worth a try! honestchocolate.co.za
My Sugar (Seapoint & Chocolate Bar Constantia Checkers)
This is a chocolate and dessert bar that mixes traditional techniques with artistry. Everything is made in-house using locally sourced ingredients, for home delivery and takeaways. mysugar.co.za
Alexander Avery Fine Chocolates (Heritage Sqaure, Cape Town)
This one’s for the big-time connoisseurs. This confectionery makes truffles and bonbons in a variety of dynamic flavours. Get your box of bespoke chocolates and patisserie to-go. alexanderavery.co.za
Sweet Lionheart (Makers Landing, for amazing chocolate cakes and treats)
This is an online-based bakery that specializes in one-of-a-kind cakes. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or throwing a party, they pretty much do everything. Sweet Lionheart also offers chocolate baking workshops which you can take on line or do privately. sweetlionheart.com
