Calling all chocolate lovers - a glimpse into Ireland’s best artisanal chocolate businesses.
The Christmas countdown is truly on! A time of sparkling decorations, family reunions, joyful spirits, and thoughtful gifts for our loved ones, often including delicious chocolate treats. As the festive season approaches, why not make it even sweeter by supporting small Irish chocolate businesses?
Praline stands out for its dedication to quality and its ability to satisfy every customer’s craving. Founded in Mitchelstown, County Cork, this pastry and chocolate shop offers a wide selection of handmade pastries and chocolates to enjoy in store or take away. From the indulgent Belgian Chocolate Fudge Cake, to their Chocolate Dipped Honeycomb, choosing just one treat is no easy task. What truly sets them apart is their ‘Free From’ selection, featuring gluten and dairy free options. No matter what the sweet craving, Praline has you covered.
If you’re looking for something luxurious and local, Éalú should be your first choice. Established by a couple on the Dingle Peninsula, Éalú sees chocolate making as art, an escape from reality through texture, flavour, and creativity. Their chocolates showcase Irish and locally sourced ingredients. By supporting Éalú, you’re also helping other small Irish producers, such as Dingle Farm’s Cream, known for its high quality dairy, and Bean in Dingle, a family-run coffee roastery sourcing beans from countries like Guatemala to pair perfectly with Éalú’s Brazilian chocolate. Their luxury, hand-painted, and bespoke chocolates are ideal for everyday indulgence, or can be customised for weddings, corporate gifts, or hotels.
Another gem is Truffle Fairy, a treasure trove of handmade chocolate delights. Based in Thomastown with an additional shop in Kilkenny, they offer a range of tempting treats. From classic biscuits and brownies, to seasonal creations inspired by their own creativity. Their chocolate bars are a highlight, available in flavours like dark chocolate, hazelnut, sea salt, and raspberry. The magic doesn’t stop there. Their exquisite truffles, including vegan options made it to the 2021 Blás na hÉireann finals! Truffle Fairy also supports other small Irish businesses, offering products like apple juice and treacle in their cafés. To reduce waste, they sell ingredients in pre-packed bags, or allow you to bring your own container to buy as much or as little as you need.
For chocolate lovers, these are some of the best artisanal chocolate businesses on the island. There’s something to suit every taste, occasion, and desire. If you can’t visit in person, many of these chocolatiers offer online shopping, but if you have the chance, do pop in for a visit. You won’t be disappointed, pinky promise.