While =Chicago is home to some of the most seasoned chefs and the most esteemed restaurants, not enough people give kudos to those crafting something a bit sweeter. Yes, I am talking about one of life’s most decadent creations: chocolate. Whether you’re looking for treats for the whole family or to satisfy your after-dinner sweet tooth, the many craft chocolatiers in Chicago are right there for you.
Oh, and did I mention most of these places offer these treats you can buy in bulk to keep you stocked? Any true Chicagoan knows this is crucial once the unbearable cold of winter keeps us to the confines of our apartments and homes.
L.A. Burdick
609 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
Coming out top on our list of the best craft chocolatiers in Chicago is L.A. Burdick in River North. This delicious spot is nationally known for its handmade chocolates and European pastries. The intricacy and craftsmanship of each hand-piped chocolate are nothing short of excellence. The chocolatiers are masters in making these delicacies look elegant while layering in complex flavors to make any chocolate lover’s heart sing. My personal favorite is the milk-chocolate mouse filled with dark chocolate ganache and hints of espresso. Their award-winning Chocolate Mice are created individually through 12 handcrafting steps over three days.
Cocoa and Co
1651 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614
For those with a deep appreciation of all things chocolate, Cocoa and Co is the place for you. Given the wide variety of chocolate treats, feel free to experiment until the inevitable sugar high becomes too overwhelming. This shop is home to 175 gourmet chocolates from around the world. It doesn’t stop there, they also offer decadent drinking chocolates, pastries, freshly baked cookies, and bonbons. The drinking chocolate is truly a show-stopper. It is thick, luxurious, and sure to satisfy even the most serious chocoholics.
These guys take their chocolate history seriously. They create everything with every imaginable detail in mind, even from the beginning stage as just a pod in a cacao tree.
Chocolat Uzma
1900 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608
Chocolat Uzma is one of the best chocolatiers in Chicago and an absolute hidden gem. Inspired by their South Asian heritage, their creations are the most endearing love note to their roots and craft. So, get ready to embark on a journey around the world without ever leaving the city. These exotic chocolates marry flavors that keep even those most distinguished palettes on their toes. Their Jaipur chocolate is infused with Indian chili that breathes a bit of heat into the sweeter notes.
Leonida’s Cafe
59 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Originating in Belgium, Leonida’s Cafe has made it to the streets of our beloved city. The cafe is charming and quaint, perfect for a quiet Sunday afternoon. You can pop in for a creamy honey lavender latte and take home your very own box of heaven (their Belgian chocolates, of course) to enjoy later. This location also offers French pastries, a creperie, and croissants. Don’t just take my word for it, their delicacies have even received high praise from King Phillippe of Belgium.
Terry’s Toffee
1009 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
There are not enough adjectives to describe the taste of Terry’s toffee. When I think about what it means to be an expert in your craft, I think of Terry’s. These treats are even better than your grandma’s most sacred family recipe!
The s’mores toffee is a beautiful balance of family-crafted vanilla toffee over graham crackers topped with toasty marshmallows and covered in rich milk chocolate. They also feature other flavors like hazelnut, peanut butter, and espresso. There is a flavor combination for everyone. The only con is the challenge of trying not to leave with a ridiculous amount of toffee.
Katherine Anne’s Confections
2745 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
With fall around the corner, I’d be doing you a great disservice if I didn’t implore you to visit Katherine Anne’s confections. Their European-style sipping chocolate was named “One of The Best 15 in America” by Fodor Travel. Ditch the underwhelming Starbucks hot chocolate and throw away your hot cocoa mix, Katherine Anne’s has got you covered.
Don’t let the flavor choices overwhelm you, just order a hot chocolate flight and taste a selection of options. Pro tip: visit with a friend and double your tasting experience. They even have vegan options!
The Fudge Pot
1532 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
The Fudge Pot has served in this location for over 50 years, and people must have this place in mind when the phrase “like a kid in a candy store” was coined. Everything here is painted in chocolate. From homemade rum walnut fudge to English butter toffee, you are guaranteed to squash that persistent chocolate craving.
This is the kind of place that serves generations of people, and there is something quite special about this shop: its history and candy creations.
Amy’s Candy Bar
4704 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Look through my pantry, and you’re destined to find a bag or two from Amy’s Candy Bar. These confections are a must-have in every household. The vintage feel and bright colors sure excite those of all ages. The sweet nostalgia this place incites is warming and blissful. The candy that lines their shelves is even sweeter. The flavors layered in their handmade candy bars melt in your mouth and take your taste buds for a ride.
Featured Image: Katherine Anne Confections