International Chocolate Day: 11 Best Chocolate Destinations Worldwide

Savor the World’s Finest Chocolate in Celebrating International Chocolate Day

Every year on September 13th, chocolate lovers around the globe unite to celebrate International Chocolate Day, a sweet occasion that pays homage to one of the world’s most beloved treats. People indulge in all things chocolate on this delectable day, savoring its rich, creamy, and diverse flavors.

While chocolate is a universally cherished delight, certain places worldwide have gained a well-deserved reputation for their exceptional contributions to cacao and confections.

These regions, like Belgium, Switzerland, Mexico, and more, have crafted unique chocolate traditions, each offering a distinct and irresistible chocolate experience that must be savored and explored.

Here are some of these places and why they are amazing for chocolate lovers:

1. Belgium: Belgium is often considered the chocolate capital of the world. Belgium chocolate is famous for its high-quality cocoa beans, meticulous craftsmanship, and a tradition of chocolate-making that dates back centuries. The country is known for its pralines, truffles, and a wide range of chocolate varieties.
2. Switzerland: Switzerland is another European powerhouse in the chocolate industry. Swiss chocolate is celebrated for its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor. Brands like Lindt, Laderach, Toblerone, and Nestlé have achieved global recognition. The Swiss are known for their meticulous attention to detail in chocolate production.
3. France: France is famous for its fine pastries and chocolates. Paris, in particular, is home to many renowned chocolatiers. The French take great pride in their chocolate craftsmanship; you can find exquisite chocolate boutiques throughout the country.
4. Italy: Italy is known for its exceptional chocolate, especially in regions like Turin and Perugia. Italian chocolate is often used in gelato and other desserts. In Turin, you can savor gianduja, a hazelnut chocolate blend that’s a local specialty.
5. Mexico: Mexico is the birthplace of chocolate, with a rich history dating back to the Aztecs and Mayans. Here, you can experience traditional chocolate drinks like champurrado and mole, a savory sauce made with chocolate. The cacao used in Mexican chocolate has a distinctive flavor profile.
6. Ghana: Ghana is one of the world’s top cocoa producers, and it’s known for its excellent quality cocoa beans. While less famous for its chocolate than some European countries, Ghana has been making strides in producing its own premium chocolates in recent years.
7. Ecuador: Ecuador is celebrated for its fine flavor of cacao beans. The country’s chocolate makers focus on preserving the unique terroir of their cocoa, resulting in chocolates with a wide range of tastes, from fruity to floral.
8. United States: The United States has a growing craft chocolate industry, with artisanal chocolatiers and bean-to-bar producers in various regions. San Francisco, Portland, and New York have thriving chocolate scenes.
9. Peru: Like Ecuador, Peru is known for its high-quality cacao beans. Peruvian chocolates highlight the diverse flavors of the country’s various cocoa varieties, creating a unique chocolate-tasting experience.
10. Swedish Lapland: Its cold climate and pure air and water produce some of the world’s most pristine chocolate. The region’s chocolate makers are known for their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
11. Madagascar: Madagascar is renowned for its fruity and vibrant cocoa beans. Chocolate from Madagascar often has distinctive fruity and citrusy notes, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.

Did you know?

During World War II, chocolate played a vital role in the rations provided to soldiers. The U.S. Army, for example, included a specially designed chocolate bar in soldiers’ field rations called the “D ration.” These bars were intentionally formulated to withstand extreme temperatures and provide a quick energy boost.

They were not particularly tasty and often described as extremely bitter, but they were critical in providing troops with a portable, high-energy food source. These wartime chocolate bars have become collectibles today, and their history adds an intriguing layer to the world of chocolate.

A little history:

Chocolate has a rich and ancient history dating back to the Mesoamerican civilizations of the Maya and Aztecs. Originally consumed as a bitter and frothy beverage made from crushed cacao beans, chili peppers, and spices, it was considered a sacred elixir with ceremonial and medicinal significance.

Spanish explorers, such as Hernán Cortés, encountered chocolate during their conquests in the 16th century and introduced it to Europe. Initially, chocolate was reserved for the elite, who sweetened it with sugar and flavored it with vanilla, cinnamon, or other spices.Over time, innovations in chocolate production, including the invention of the cocoa press, led to the creation of solid chocolate bars, making them more accessible to a wider audience. Chocolate is a global sensation, enjoyed in countless forms, from decadent truffles to creamy hot cocoa.

At the same time, its historical journey reflects the evolution of taste and cultural exchange across the centuries.