Kakawa Chocolate House

Historically inspired artisanal chocolate shop in Santa Fe

Kakawa Chocolate House is a specialty chocolate company located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Its activity centers on the artisanal production of dark chocolates, chili chocolates, drinking chocolate elixirs, truffles and caramels, based on historic European and Mesoamerican recipes. The name "Kakawa" comes from an Olmec word meaning cacao or chocolate.

Chocolate elixirs with historic roots

The company's passion is authentic and historic drinking chocolate elixirs. Its catalog includes traditional Pre-Columbian, Mesoamerican, Mayan and Aztec elixirs, as well as 1600s European elixirs and Colonial American and Colonial Mexican elixirs. These beverages represent historic recipes spanning from 1000 BC to the mid-1900s AD.

Product variety

Kakawa Chocolate House's offerings are organized into several categories:

• Truffles
• Caramels
• Mendiants
• Chili chocolates
• Solid dark chocolate bars
• Drinking chocolate elixirs
• Elixir cups
• Gift sets
• Accessories and Kakawa gear

Among the contemporary creations are flavors such as pomegranate, cherry-chili, prickly pear, mescal and the signature goat cheese and sage truffle. Classic European-style truffles are also offered, such as the Classic French Dark and the Raspberry Hazelnut, along with seasonal specialties that include dairy-free and vegan options.

Production method

The company makes all its products by hand, in small batches and without preservatives. The chocolatiers combine the traditional with the cutting edge and work exclusively in small batches to ensure that each piece has a careful presentation and flavor. Production is not left "on shelves"; orders ship as quickly as possible in the order in which they are received. Most weeks shipping takes place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Shipping and weather conditions

Due to the delicate nature of artisanal chocolates without preservatives, the company does not ship internationally. During the summer or when there are extreme heat warnings, shipping may be delayed in certain areas to prevent the product from melting. The company requests a phone number and an email address to contact the customer if extreme weather conditions require it, and notes that it does not use that data for marketing purposes.

Commitment to sustainability and chocolate history

Kakawa Chocolate House supports local organic farming, promotes the history and anthropology of chocolate and maintains a commitment to sustainability, fair trade, local farming and culinary daring. The staff shares an interest in the history and anthropology of chocolate, which contributes to the experience of those who visit its establishments.

Multiple locations in Santa Fe

The company has several locations in Santa Fe. The address, phone number and business hours for each location are detailed on its Locations page.