The chocolate industry is full of rich stories, deep-rooted traditions, and incredible craftsmanship, especially from minority-owned brands that bring their cultural heritage into every bite. Here are some standout chocolate companies that not only create delicious treats but also celebrate their backgrounds through unique flavors and ethical sourcing.
Anjar Chocolatier
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Brazilian-Lebanese family-owned and operated, Anjar Chocolatier was founded by Bruno Saade, who comes from a long line of confectioners. His great-grandfather, a German immigrant to Brazil, started a candy business in 1929 that thrived for over 70 years. After graduating from Indiana University and studying French Chocolate and Confectionary Arts at Ecole Ducasse, Bruno launched Anjar Chocolatier to honor his Brazilian, German, and Lebanese heritage through flavors and techniques, using fair trade, high-quality ingredients.
Madhu Chocolate
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Born out of a passion for blending traditional Indian flavors with chocolate, Madhu Chocolate was founded in Austin, TX. The name "Madhu" means honey or sweet in Hindi and was inspired by Harshit's mother. The company sources cacao from the Tumaco region of Colombia and crafts each bar by hand, incorporating elements like chai and Indian spices while promoting kindness and positivity in everything they do.
Askanya Chocolates
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Haiti’s first bean-to-bar chocolate company, Askanya Chocolates was founded by Corinne, a proud Haitian with a background in engineering and business. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she returned home to bring ethically sourced Haitian chocolate to the world. Askanya is committed to empowering local farmers and creating sustainable jobs in Haiti.
Harlem Chocolate Company
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Jessica Spaulding, a Harlem native, grew up in a household that discouraged sugar—except for high-quality chocolate. She started making chocolate at ten years old and never gave up on her dream of owning a chocolate factory. Harlem Chocolate Factory blends her passion for chocolate with her love of Harlem, offering confections that tell the story of the neighborhood’s rich history.
Midunu Chocolates
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Ghana has a cocoa heritage dating back to 1879, and Midunu Chocolates celebrates that legacy by incorporating flavors from across Africa. Founded by Selassie Atadika, Midunu Chocolates infuses Ghanaian cocoa with African spices, teas, and tisanes. Each truffle is named after an inspiring African woman, creating a sensory journey through the continent’s diverse culinary traditions.
El Buen Cacao
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Founded by an anthropology-loving husband and wife duo, El Buen Cacao is dedicated to pure, dark chocolate made from organic cacao sourced from Central and South America. They prioritize ethical labor practices and simplicity, ensuring their chocolate contains only essential ingredients with no unnecessary additives. Their passion for Mesoamerican history and chocolate’s origins shines through in every bar.
Escazu Chocolates
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Co-founded by Danielle Centeno and Tiana Young, Escazu Chocolates is based in Raleigh, NC, and sources cacao from Latin America. Danielle’s Venezuelan heritage and culinary expertise shape the company’s bean-to-bar chocolate. Tiana, who started as a customer, grew into an owner, bringing an entrepreneurial spirit to the business. Together, they lead a diverse team passionate about crafting high-quality chocolate while supporting local and woman-owned businesses.
Raphio Chocolate
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Founded by a mother who wanted to create healthy, real chocolate for her children, Raphio Chocolate is named after her sons, Raphael and Rio. Inspired by craft chocolate, she handcrafts bean-to-bar treats that highlight the unique flavors of single-origin cacao, much like fine wine or coffee. Her mission is to introduce people to the pure essence of chocolate while maintaining its health benefits.
More to Discover
These are just a few of the incredible minority-owned chocolate brands we’ve supported and tried, but there are many more out there waiting to be discovered. We’re excited to continue exploring and sharing more businesses that celebrate heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship in chocolate. Stay tuned for future spotlights!