What makes this intimate Sweetery so special, is the cross-section of chocolate delights. Best known for the unique flavors of the chocolate libations offered, Kakawa’s menu is full of chocolate baked goods, candies and even original ice creams!
If you love chocolate as much as I do, then you have to pay a visit to Kakawa Chocolate House in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I am unapologetically, a hot-chocoholic! (Actually, anything chocolate is good in my book.). It’s my comfort drink of choice!
Prominently placed on my Santa Fe itinerary during my recent Road Trip through the Enchantment state, I’m happy to report, it exceeded my expectations after reading in Fodor's how it was rated among the 15 Best Places to Drink Hot Chocolate.
If you love chocolate as much as I do, then you have to pay a visit to Kakawa Chocolate House in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I am unapologetically, a hot-chocoholic! (Actually, anything chocolate is good in my book.). It’s my comfort drink of choice!
Prominently placed on my Santa Fe itinerary during my recent Road Trip through the Enchantment state, I’m happy to report, it exceeded my expectations after reading in Fodor's how it was rated among the 15 Best Places to Drink Hot Chocolate.
Traveling with my blog partner and cousin, Tanya, and our combined four kids, Kakawa earned a tasty place of honor for all of us.
 Kakawa Counters Filled with yummy treats |  Too many chocolate choices! |
Unique Hot Chocolate Blends
I assumed (foolishly!) before arriving that I would merely be enjoying a hot chocolate drink, but to my surprise, I was overwhelmed but the array of other goodies.
The friendly and happy-to-please staff will provide a tasting of any of the hot beverages, which includes dairy and non-dairy choices, as well as their own home-made ice creams. The hot chocolate elixir creations were comprised of two groups - Meso-American and European. We found ourselves tempted by the European blends and our little group circled the counter and curiously sipped a variety of samples in an effort to select our personal favorites! The taste were quite unique, each made with unexpected combinations of sweet and savory spices and ingredients.
The friendly and happy-to-please staff will provide a tasting of any of the hot beverages, which includes dairy and non-dairy choices, as well as their own home-made ice creams. The hot chocolate elixir creations were comprised of two groups - Meso-American and European. We found ourselves tempted by the European blends and our little group circled the counter and curiously sipped a variety of samples in an effort to select our personal favorites! The taste were quite unique, each made with unexpected combinations of sweet and savory spices and ingredients.
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Our tastings included "American" made with 72% chocolate, Mexican vanilla and almond mik; "Chai" made with 72% chocolate, chai spices, Mexican vanilla and almond milk and "Tzul" authentically blended with a combination of 72% and 36% chocolate, spices, Mexican vanilla and almond milk. The American and Chai were vegan, but the Tzul contained dairy. Gianna and I ordered the Tzul, which was also our server’s favorite. When I inquired, I was told the most popular flavor was American.
With vegan options both in the hot chocolate elixirs and the chocolate candies, Tanya and her gang were in chocolate heaven as well! The depth of flavor and richness took all of us by surprise. But, oh, so yummy!
With vegan options both in the hot chocolate elixirs and the chocolate candies, Tanya and her gang were in chocolate heaven as well! The depth of flavor and richness took all of us by surprise. But, oh, so yummy!
 Counter Full of Chocolate Delights  |  Chocolate Elixers  |
We couldn’t limit ourselves to only drinks, and indulged in their exquisite chocolate candies as well. With an assortment of bars and truffles - regular and vegan, there was something for each of our travelin’ cousin gang.
The Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate was sweet & salty perfection, which was Kelsey's choice (which I had to taste!) and the vegan truffle flavors included Pomegranate and Chili, several of which were scooped up by Tanya!
The Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate was sweet & salty perfection, which was Kelsey's choice (which I had to taste!) and the vegan truffle flavors included Pomegranate and Chili, several of which were scooped up by Tanya!
Intrigued by the ice creams, with flavors that included Lavender Mint and Salted Caramel, Gianna and I could not resist a serving of each of these. The Lavender Mint had such an unusual taste. Very refreshing from the mint with a sharp savory bite from the lavender. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Gianna ordered her Salted Caramel ice cream with dark chocolate fudge.
 Lavender-Mint Ice Cream |  Vegan Truffles |
It is no wonder the staff is so “friendly' , as Kakawa’s owner for the past three years, Tony Bennett (not of “San Francisco” fame!) is warm and personable. Originally, from Long Island, New York, like your’s truly, Tony told us how his shop has flourished since he purchased it, revamped the casual and artsy interior and modified some of the recipes.
The Travelin' Cousins with Kakawa owner, Tony Bennett
Under Tony’s ownership, Kakawa Chocolate shop has received press coverage from all over the country, including an upcoming internet feature on the New York Times 360. Online ordering is available if you are not in the Santa Fe area for their specialty blends of chocolates and hot chocolates mixes.
Definitely a highlight of my New Mexico visit, Kakawa and their unique chocolates are a must for your tastebuds!
Definitely a highlight of my New Mexico visit, Kakawa and their unique chocolates are a must for your tastebuds!
 For your reference: Kakawa Chocolate Shop 1050 E. Paseo de Peralta Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501 505-982-0388 www.kakawachocolates.com | For your Reference: Kakawa Chocolate House 1050 E. Paseo de Peralta Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501 505-982-0388 www.kakawachocolates.com |  |
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