Escazu Chocolates - Raleigh

I consider myself a chocolate enthusiast, and there are no chocolates that I have tried that compare to Escazu. They ethically source their cocoa and as soon as you walk in the door, you are greeted with the amazing aroma of the beans (which you can see through a small window). They have a variety of milk-free options and even offer milk for their milk-based hot chocolate (which uses real butter!). They also serve water-based historical drinking chocolates (try the Italian!) and have milk-free ice push-pops available. Occasionally, they even have their own homemade milk-free ice cream. Escazu has set the bar high for me when it comes to chocolate, so I am thrilled to live near this gem of a store!

Chai hot chocolate is just amazing. Fantastic drink for a cold day!

I recently had the opportunity to try some of the traditional chocolate drinks at this restaurant and they were amazing! They offer 4 different types: Xochiaya, Spanien, Italien, and Frankreich. The Spanien, Italien, and Frankreich options are all vegan, as they are made with just water, chocolate, and seasoning. The Xochiaya drink is normally made with honey, but they are happy to make it without honey upon request. The restaurant is beautifully decorated both inside and out, making it a great spot to pick up a lovely chocolate gift along with a greeting card.

Once you try Escazú chocolates, you really can't go back to anything else. I love their use of seasonal fruits and flavors, and appreciate the ever changing selection of confections. My favorite favorite is the chocolate covered marshmallow.Thank you Escazú staff for enforcing mask wearing. As covid rages on, I am more than happy (and very thankful to support a local business who is doing their best to keep their staff and patrons safe!

An amazing selection of delicious and beautiful chocolates. some of them look too pretty to eat. truly for the raised knower of high-quality products. the personal was about the chocolate of the ingredients, to the process, and the nuances that make this chocolate a cut over the rest. highly recommended and a destination if they love sweets.