When you think of Hawaii, stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture may come to mind. Yet, the islands also feature a delicious and world-class craft chocolate scene that chocolate lovers should not miss. Knowing where to find the best craft chocolate makers can significantly enhance your travels or dining experiences. This blog will lead you from farm-to-bar and from bean to bar, highlighting the delightful experiences awaiting you from Hawaii and beyond.
You'll also find an Island terrified of paying for graphic designers, professional marketers and multi-media publishers. Of course you will. But the consistent thread throughout this whole blog is how terrified all the upper-middle class is of hiring local artists to boost their clout, sales and online presence. They still haven't figured out social media or even blogs.
Craft Chocolate TV? Its a youtube channel...
Where do professional media teams belong in a farm industry thats too pretentious to trust in and higher experts? With its community. Thats you dear readers.
Introduction: Understanding Craft Chocolate
Craft chocolate represents a growing movement among chocolate makers who emphasize quality, ethics, and local ingredients. These makers often source cacao beans directly from farmers, creating a transparent supply chain. This farm-to-bar approach elevates the taste and supports sustainable farming practices. Almost 99% of farms in Hawaii are vertically integrated in the cacao industry. The rest, to be profitable, can only function as a co-operative.
So what makes craft chocolate special? The artistry involved in making it resembles that of fine wine or artisan cheese. Each batch showcases the unique flavor profile of its origin, influenced by local growing conditions. The journey from cacao to cocoa involves careful selection, fermentation, and roasting, ensuring every bite offers a rich and heartfelt experience. The terroir, strain and fermentation are the greatest factors that result in desirable chocolate flavors.
Preface: Hawaii Chocolate Member Associations
Things are changing but have been put forth and into motion years ago. Here are some of the bigger player's organizations that are attempting to either capitalize, colonize or organize the industry in its youth. Its only been about 20 years and they are about 6 years old and hungry.
Hawaii Cacao and Chocolate Association
The Hawaii Chocolate and Cacao Association (HCCA), established in 2012, is dedicated to promoting and supporting Hawaii's burgeoning chocolate and cacao industry.
Mission and Objectives:
Industry Promotion: HCCA claims to works diligently to ensure the health and growth of Hawaii's chocolate and cacao sector, offering education and information to both members and the public. Its important as we have many pests and invasive species here. We have a new pest so I'd like to see how the handle it.
Legislative Advocacy: The association represents the industry's interests in legislative discussions, actively lobbying and influencing policies that affect the chocolate and cacao community. Curious about what this might pertain to. Can we cut importation of illegal cocoa from Africa please? PLEASE!>
Networking and Education: HCCA organizes annual conferences and educational events, providing platforms for growers, manufacturers, and retailers to share knowledge and collaborate. I have not attended any of the events but I have met many of the people and they seemed to think bigger is better. Community is good for our industry period.
Leadership:
The HCCA is led by a diverse board of directors representing various facets of the industry. Notable board members include but they must change, alternate and rotate after every 2 years:
Will Lydgate: Current President and Owner/Manager of Lydgate Farms, LLC, pioneers in ag-tourism and value-added sales in Hawaii. Check out there shop in Kapa'a and Farm Tour!
Vision for the Future:
HCCA envisions Hawaii becoming a world-recognized center for high-quality chocolate, akin to the "Napa Valley of Chocolate." This vision includes excellence in education, research on best-growing practices, and a thriving agrotourism sector. A significant legislative grant of $6.9 million to the University of Hawaii's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources supports this goal, aiming to transform the Waikea Research Station into a center of excellence for tropical tree crops, including Hawaiian cacao.
I personally think this sounds like colonialism which is why I have not joined the group. Clearly the wealthy elite, who founded the actually Napa Valley, have zero experience living in countries where cacao is as common. Its gonna be like Sao Tome, Madagascar or even like Ecuador where higher prices are paid for cacao and small farmers have the only access to the rarest most delicious small batches. Hawaii should be recognized for being like another Island Country that has grown cacao and already has an intact cultural and social integration that does not revolve around the lifestyles of the richest people in California. Its gonna be like Hawaii. The investor class here cannot seem to comprehend this, the rights of the indigenous people...
HCCA strives to position Hawaii as a leader in the global chocolate industry, fostering a sustainable and prosperous future for all stakeholders involved, although they do partner with companies who directly profit from slave chocolate via illegally farmed, West African cocoa. Of course, those companies are allowed to join...We won't be joing up with companies that sell slave chocolate in Hawaii like Hawaiian Host, Island Princess, Mauna Loa, Donkey Balls, Big Island Candies or any of the other wage thieves exploiting trafficked 4 year olds.
What's Changing?
Having never been a member, its hard to speculate. But after 6 years alongside them in the industry, I can tell that farms are pulling back and the supply is more bearish. What's wierd about it, is that customers want it more than ever. There is more awareness than ever but the first few farms to close are the first I've heard of closing in over 13 years in Hawai'i. It's a lot of work if vertically integrated and a co-op is something we are working on. The beetle, is the biggest threat to everyone. What beetle? Its new in town. Could it ruin the industry entirely?
East Hawaii Cacao Association
The East Hawaii Cacao Association (EHCA), established on August 15, 2013, is a collective of small cacao farmers dedicated to expanding and enhancing the cacao industry on the east side of Hawaiʻi Island. Thanks to Patrick Merrit for spearheading this based on the work of Tom Sharkey of Hilo Sharks Chocolate.
Mission and Objectives:
Industry Expansion: EHCA aims to support and improve the cacao sector, serving as a valuable resource for small-scale farmers in East Hawaiʻi. I have personally received some exposure from joining this group.
Educational Outreach: The association conducts monthly meetings featuring guest speakers who address various agricultural topics pertinent to farmers' needs. As a public speaker have given keynotes, presentations and talks on several cacao related subjects.
Networking Opportunities: EHCA provides a platform for cacao growers and chocolate makers to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate on industry best practices. The network is small but Big Island based. Most members are insular, self-interested, entitled, over-privileged, retired Karens and Kens because who else would still consider coming to colonize Hawaii. Our goals is to support small-local farmers. Not the vertically integrated wealth and resource extraction farms. There is no networking if everyone is vertically integrated.
Membership Benefits:
Access to Expertise: Members can attend monthly meetings with expert speakers discussing topics crucial to cacao cultivation and chocolate production. Super affordable too! Tell them Island Sharks sent you!
Resource Sharing: EHCA offers a space for members to exchange information, resources, and experiences to collectively advance the industry. Check out my book I published on farm-to-bar craft chocolate making for all the resources I've collected over at here!
Key Events:
Hilo Cacao & Chocolate Expo: EHCA hosts an annual expo to promote Hawaiʻi Island's chocolate excellence and encourage interest in cacao cultivation and agritourism. Try all our samples and come visit us here!
Community Engagement:
Monthly Meetings: Held at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center in Hilo, these gatherings feature discussions on topics vital to the cacao and chocolate industries.
Vision for the Future:
EHCA envisions a thriving cacao industry in East Hawaiʻi, characterized by high-quality production, sustainable farming practices, and a collaborative community of growers and chocolate makers. By providing education, resources, and networking opportunities, EHCA strives to position East Hawaiʻi as a leader in the global cacao and chocolate market.
...soon, this member will return to attend meetings...As many long term readers now, I've had 2 spinal implants after breaking my neck and back. I'm sure they think I've turned my back on them. Emotional intelligence is not valued over IQ or financial intelligence. Especailly over the rich, entitled boomers who have come to Hawaii soley to profit.
SECTION I. Tour Cacao Farms in Hawaii
Though they are many and on several different Islands, they are not created equal. They will be listed in terms of Island, overall quality (includes tasting-experience, educational information, safety and customer service), popularity, accessibility and affordability:
Hawai'i Cacao Farm | Affordability | Handicappable? | Overall Quality | Popularity | Island |
Hilo Sharks Coffee & Cacao Farm | medium | yes | high | high | Hawai'i Island |
Lavaloha | high | yes | low | medium | Hawai'i Island |
Mānoa Chocolate | high | unknown | high | high | O'ahu |
Farm Like a Goddess | low | yes | medium | low | Hawai'i Island |
Lydgate Farms | medium | yes | medium | medium | Kaua'i Island |
Kui'a Estate | high | yes | high | low | Maui Island |
And where do you book? Airbnb of course, just remember to read the ratings and reviews there as well.
Where to Buy Craft Chocolate in Hawaii
Really, almost nowhere in Hawai'i. They grocery stores and box stores are out. Local grocers and natural foods stores are in. Then there are tourist shops and cafe's that will carry Hawai'i craft chocolate as well. And they all carry the industrialized brand from O'ahu that many still think is hand-crafted. Since that brands is tha largest and mmost mass produced, it is no wonder they are the most widely available. Unfortunately inst not even real craft chocolate and people have a hard time adjusting. They were craft chocolate. Now they are fully industrialized. Seems no one bothered to notice. They use all industrial equipment to process rare, unique and delicate Hawai'i Cacao flavor precursors. Hawaii is home to several craft chocolate makers who proudly utilize local ingredients and intriguing flavor combinations, but they cannot mass produce because the rare ingredients are not as accessible or as available. Sometimes searching will reveal one-of-a-kind-in-the-world flavor combinations. The smaller brands have much more exotic and rare ingredients, aromas and special recipes. Here are some top places to satisfy ALL KINDS, of your chocolate cravings:
1. Deep Dirt Cacao Farm
Located on the Big Island, Makai Chocolate, is owned and ran by the farmers at Deep Dirt Cacao. They are first on this list because they have super informative posts for other local cacao farmers and they are very nice people. Sage has always been available and knowledgable and freely shares it. If you try his small-batch Hawai'i craft chocolate, you'll understand his land, the soil, is very nice to the cocoa trees. Makai Chocolate, like a lot of cocoa grown on the Hāmākua Coast has creamy notes and a mild chocolate flavor. Testing soil and repairing it yield more complete flavor profiles. Its also actually small and made on small machines. that are REAL Craft Chocolate! Since the coast was formerly used for sugar cane, the soil is stripped of nutrients. It makes it hard for farmers of any kind to be successful, but Sage has the wisdom.
Visit their website for expert Hawaii cacao farming tips!
2. Farm Like A Goddess
Get your groove on. That chocolate vibe. That cacao goddess energy grows here. In the endangered Leilani Estates, our friend Lynda, grows and ferments her own cacao from about 500 cacao trees that produce almost year round. She also provides cacao farm tours and I have hosted cacao ceremonies here during the full moon. We love to collaborate with this farm and can only offer it when available. To get your taste, find her on Airbnb, book a night on here serene and peaceful estate and eat, pray, chocolate.
We use wet beans and dry beans from Farm Like a Goddess on special occasions.
3. Jen Makes Chocolate
Our newest (graduated) apprentice! Jen is an expert at fermenting cacao, and small-batch craft chocolate making. She is a Certified Chocolate-Sommelier and hosts chocolate-tastings, hot sauce tastings and offers insightful and deeply personal tarot and astrological resources that, which cacao, can help her clients overcome their unconscious habits. Follow her @jenmakeschocolate for more!
Based on the Big Island, Jen co-owns Island Sharks Chocolate and manages our human-resources department helping our influencers and affiliates feel the aloha whiel the send and spread the joy of Hawaii chocolate around the world.
4. R.I.M.S. Chocolate
This is a special small citrus and cacao farm produced chocolate down near Puna on the Big Island of Hawai'i. There are only 400 trees but they make big juicy cacao beans.
The lovely and widowed farmer, after naming her brand after her late husband and children, repaired to just farming though her chocolate is some of the best. We support her orchard by buying wet cacao beans to ferment at our fermentary in Hilo near our kitchen. When we dry them, they are almost ready to be made into chocolate for our most discerning subscribers and customers.
We would like to invest in this farm as we love the beans and vibes!
6. Patrick Merrit Chocolate
One of our favorite Big Island Craft Chocolate Makers and community members. He has been out in the world supporting the well-being of parks, public walkways, waterbeds and much more with stonework. Then he process is own farm-to-bar chocolate on his property near Orchiland, Hawai'i. Its delicious and his plan is to find you at the farmer's markets and to help grow the farming community as it faces pests, Karenism and a slowly growing local Hawaii craft chocolate market.
Merrit tis last name but you will remember him from his chocolate!
Buy Hawai'i Chocolate on O'ahu, Kaua'i, Maui and Hawai'i Island
Here are some local spots to get REAL Hawai'i Craft Chocolate: Onomea Country Market Sweet Cane Cafe Airports in Hawai'i Kona Mountain Coffee Celestial Naturals Market Yay! Candy Hanalei Bay Cafe
Hana-Maui Resort and more...
SECTION II. Beyond Hawaii: Craft Chocolate Around the World
While Hawaii excels in craft chocolate, this trend is flourishing globally. Here are a few notable makers around the world worth exploring - they using very common, tested, trusted and approved origins that hav ewon awards for decades:
1. Dandelion Chocolate (San Francisco, CA)
Dandelion Chocolate champions the farm-to-bar concept with a focus on sourcing high-quality beans and minimal processing. Their tasting room offers various chocolate flights, allowing you to savor subtle differences between regions. Greg, one of owners is great and loves to share knowledge, which is why I love to do so too. He is a huge inspiration and I would love to learn more from him personally.
Consider joining a factory tour to uncover the artistry behind their highly praised chocolate.
2. Askinosie Chocolate (Springfield, MO)
Askinosie maintains a strong mission of collaboration with farmers and communities, highlighting single-origin beans. Great and kind family. Doing good in the world with chocolate. Highly recommended.
Consider booking a chocolate-making class at their factory for hands-on experience and insight into their ethical practices. Their farm partnerships have increased the incomes of participating farmers by over 50%.
3. Fruition Chocolate Works (Gardiner, NY)
Fruition creatively combines traditional techniques with modern innovation, resulting in exceptional chocolate. Each bar tells a story of its origin while offering unique flavor combinations that will captivate your palate. I would love to be Fruition. I think they are phenomenal.
Explore their tasting room or join one of their classes to deepen your appreciation for craft chocolate.
Honorable mention to Ritual chocolate, Fresco Chocolate and Akesson's... I promise never to do a my own chocolate awared...but if I did... you already know you'd win.
Tips for Choosing the Best Crafts Chocolate
With so many options available, choosing the best craft chocolate might feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to simplify your selection process:
Start with Local
Support local chocolate makers whenever possible. Artisan craft chocolate made from local cacao not only strengthens the economy but also ensures a fresher product. Artisan doesn't mean anything though and. itsnot defined. Craft means small. Remember that.
Read Labels
Pay attention to ingredients. Quality craft chocolate should typically contain cacao, sugar, and perhaps a touch of vanilla or lecithin. The fewer additives, the better. This doesn't count whole food inclusions like strawberries, vanilla, sea salt or even rose for example.
Explore Flavors
Be adventurous! Many makers offer unique flavors and infusions that can surprise even seasoned chocolate enthusiasts. Trying bold combinations can lead to delightful discoveries. There is a reson we use all Hawaii gronw flavors and our customers know already, exactly why that is.
Pairing Craft Chocolate with Beverages
To enhance your craft chocolate experience, consider pairing it with these complementary beverages. Just remember pairing is done with opposites. Otherwise you are 'matching'.
Wine Pairings
Pair dark chocolate with bold red wines. For a balanced experience, opt for fruity reds like Zinfandel or Malbec. Studies show that this pairing can enhance the flavor complexity of both. NOT! All those have cocoa notes. Pair with grappa for a real contrasts of opposits. Skip the white wine.
Coffee Moments
If you love coffee, enjoy craft chocolate with a rich brew. Try combining a dark chocolate bar with Ethiopian coffee for a delightful tasting adventure. Just kidding! You will get palate fatigue and not be able to fully taste either food...no matter hwo much you spend on them!
Join a Chocolate Tour or Read a BOOK!
Exploring craft chocolate makers is exciting, especially through guided tours. Many towns, including those in Hawaii, feature tours that allow you to visit multiple chocolatiers and learn about their craft. Unfortunately Island Sharks does not currently have cacao farm tour. No cacao farm tour here but they are recommended above.
These tours often include tastings and behind-the-scenes insights into the chocolate-making process. A guided tour not only provides knowledge but also adds a touch of adventure that enriches your appreciation for craft chocolate.
So, just read our book! After starting Hilo Sharks Chocolate Tours on Airbnb 10 years ago! The updated book is a text book for Chocolate Sommelier School. Now you can get THE ONLY Chocolate-Sommelier Certification in the world! You won't even have to travel to Hawaii and enjoy Hawaii chocolate to practice-tasting to shipped free! ChocolateSommelierSchool.org Sign up & Get Certified now!
A Sweet Discovery Awaits
Exploring craft chocolate in Hawaii and beyond promises a rewarding journey. By connecting with local makers and indulging in tasting experiences, you not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also get to know who is making your food.
Whether you are traveling through the gorgeous Hawaiian islands or discovering craft chocolate shops worldwide, this guide will direct you to the finest chocolates out here. Remember, the path from cacao to cocoa is about more than just taste; it's about passion, humility, and connection. Indulge yourself in the aloha that great craft chocolate can offer.
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