Ireland is a treasure trove for chocolate enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of unique chocolate shops and artisanal chocolatiers that blend passion, heritage, and the finest ingredients.

From Dublin’s bustling streets to the rugged west coast, here are some of the top spots to indulge in a delicious chocolate journey across the Emerald Isle.

1. Butlers Chocolate Café

Where:Locations throughout Ireland

Why Go: Established in 1932, this Dublin-based favourite offers an immersive chocolate experience.

Known for its rich hot chocolates and a variety of truffles, including their famous Irish Whiskey Truffles, it’s perfect for picking up tasty gifts.

2. Hazel Mountain Chocolate – County Clare

Where: Burren region, along the Wild Atlantic Way

Why Go: A family-run, bean-to-bar chocolatier celebrating ethical sourcing and small-batch production. Don’t miss their Burren Seaweed & Lime Dark Chocolate, inspired by the local landscape.

3. Skelligs Chocolate – County Kerry

Where: Ring of Kerry

Why Go: Ireland's only chocolate factory open for tours, with stunning coastal views. Warm up in their Hot Chocolate Café and sample their famous caramels and handmade chocolates.

 

4. Cocoa Atelier – Dublin

Where: Central Dublin

Why Go: A Parisian-inspired boutique specialising in elegant pralines and bonbons made with Valrhona chocolate. For a taste of luxury chocolate, this is the place to be.

 

5. The Chocolate Garden of Ireland – County Wicklow

Where: Carlow-Wicklow border

Why Go: Combining a chocolate shop with interactive workshops, you can taste or create your own chocolates. Their honeycomb is a local favourite, and the workshops make for a fun family outing.

 6. Bean and Goose – County Wexford

Where: Wexford

Why Go: Known for wild Irish flavours, this sustainable chocolatier crafts bars and bonbons using local ingredients like elderflower and Irish cream. A must-visit for adventurous palates.

 

 7. The Proper Chocolate Company – Dublin

Where: Dublin

Why Go: For purists, this bean-to-bar shop offers single-origin chocolates with a commitment to craftsmanship. Their range of bars, from 60% to 85% cocoa, showcases the nuanced flavours of fine chocolate.

 

8. – County Meath

Where: Meath

   Why Go: A family-owned shop offering Belgian-inspired chocolates with an Irish twist. Caramels, pralines, and locally-inspired chocolates featuring honey and whiskey are highlights.

 9. The Chocolate Shop – Cork (English Market)

Where: English Market, Cork

Why Go: Nestled within Cork’s famous market, this shop offers a curated selection of Irish and international chocolates. Known for its knowledgeable staff, it’s an essential stop for any chocolate lover visiting Cork.

 

 10. Koko of Kinsale – Kinsale, Cork

Where: Kinsale

Why Go: Known for its creative, coastal-inspired flavours like seaweed and gin, Koko of Kinsale is an artisan shop that captures the local essence of the Irish coastline. 

 

Chocolate Events & Festivals

This weekend, chocolate lovers can look forward to a Chocolate Weekend at Arnold’s Hotel in Dunfanaghy, County Donegal. It’s a perfect opportunity to savour chocolate creations, enjoy tastings, and participate in workshops with international chocolatiers, all against the backdrop of the scenic Donegal landscape. 

If you’re travelling later in the year, the Cork Chocolate & Baking Weekend in November offers an annual celebration of Ireland’s chocolate scene with workshops, tastings, and the chance to meet some of the country’s finest chocolatiers and bakers.

 Additional Chocolate Stops

For even more chocolate discoveries, here are a few extra spots:

Wilkies Chocolate – County Cork: This single-origin chocolatier uses organic beans and minimal ingredients, letting the cocoa’s natural flavours shine.

Clonakilty Chocolate– County Cork: A small-batch, bean-to-bar producer, Clonakilty Chocolate incorporates organic ingredients like Irish sea salt and local honey.

Tips for Chocolate Travellers

Timing Your Visits: Many shops offer workshops, tours, and tastings, especially during peak seasons. It’s a good idea to check in advance to avoid disappointment.

Pairing Experiences: Complement your chocolate tasting with local Irish specialties. A smooth Irish whiskey, creamy Irish coffee, or even some artisanal cheeses can elevate the experience.

Look for Local Ingredients: Irish chocolatiers often incorporate regional ingredients like Burren seaweed, elderflower, or Irish cream, offering a unique taste of Ireland’s terroir.

 

Supporting Sustainable Chocolate

Many Irish chocolatiers embrace ethical sourcing and sustainability. Shops like Hazel Mountain Chocolate and Bean and Goose are dedicated to small-batch, bean-to-bar production, promoting fair trade and environmental responsibility. Seek out shops with a commitment to sustainability – it adds an extra layer of satisfaction knowing your indulgence supports responsible practices.

Savour the Memories

Bringing home some chocolates from these unique shops makes for a perfect memento or gift. Ireland’s chocolate scene reflects the country’s creativity, passion, and rich heritage. So whether you’re a chocolate aficionado or simply looking for a tasty treat, Ireland’s chocolatiers offer an adventure well worth taking. Happy tasting!