Canberra's best chocolate shops and cafes
Despite being described as "food for the gods" chocolate is one of life's earthly pleasures. The fruit of the cacao plant has been cultivated for at least 3000 years, during which time it has evolved from being a ceremonial drink used by Aztec Indians to an ingredient used in everything from cookies and cakes to muffins and macarons. Whether you're after chocolate to tempt or temper, here are a few Canberra chocolate experiences that break the mold.
The chocolatiers
Robyn Rowe
The capital's original chocolate queen is Robyn Rowe, who's been delighting Canberrans with her handmade chocolates for years. Find her at the markets or make a trip to her little studio and cafe in Murrumbateman.
Jasper & Myrtle
Li Peng Monroe makes pretty bean-to-bar chocolates from a little "chocolate pod" lab at her home in Garran and has picked up a few awards for her bars, which come in flavours such as white chocolate and sour cherry, and lemon myrtle and macadamia. Jasper & Myrtle is also at the Handmade Markets.
Enigma Fine Chocolates
Another local chocolatier producing treats such as truffles, a dark hot chocolate made with unrefined golden sugar and stacks of pretty, individually wrapped chocolate flowers. Find them at the Old Bus Depot Markets.
Bruno's Truffels
Bruno's is an old school bakery and cafe in Mawson where you can expect chocolate croissants, traditional Easter eggs and bunnies, and many, many, many truffles. Pull up a chair and grab a coffee and a pastry.
Frugii Dessert Laboratory
John Marshall's chocolate desserts and gelato at his boutique in the Ori building in Braddon are much loved – and there's bean-to-bar chocolate planned for a later date.
The stores
Koko Black
Sink into the big leather chesterfield and order a chilli hot chocolate and a platter of tiny desserts to share after a hard day's shopping at the Canberra Centre. Or, on weekends, they're a perfect post-dinner treat.
Oliver Brown
This cheerful, brightly coloured Belgian chocolate cafe has three stores in Canberra – Dickson, Manuka and Civic – serving waffles, crepes, fondue and more.
San Churro
The San Churro chocolateria brightens up a corner of the Westfield Woden shopping plaza – a good spot for a pre-movie treat or a Sunday catchup.
Max Brenner
The Bald Man has three Canberra stores – New Acton, Belconnen and the Kingston Foreshore. Warm yourself with a hug mug of spicy Mexican chocolate or get a milkshake or exploding chocolate shot.
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