Nestled in the “small town in the city” Atlanta neighborhood of Virginia Highlands, Cacao Atlanta is an award-winning specialty chocolate shop. Owned by cacao connoisseur Kristen Hard, who is considered one of the world’s foremost raw cacao taste experts (her palate is equivalent to that of a Master Sommelier of wine, but specializing in chocolate), this shop lends a unique expertise to chocolate tasting and gifting.

Cacao offers two Atlanta locations: Virginia Highlands and Buckhead. Stop by their shop for a decedent chocolate experience! Sip on hot chocolate, eat ice cream, treat yourself to wonderful candies, or purchase gifts for a family member or friend. The chocolates are great gifts for Mother’s Day, birthdays, or anniversaries! You can also shop online here. 

What is Cacao?

Cacao’s scientific name is Theobroma cacao, “Food of the gods” in Greek (I think we can all agree with that definition!) Cacao grows on trees indigenous to Central and South America and has been consumed by humans by over 4,000 years. The edible parts of the tree are the seeds (also called beans) and fruit.

What’s the difference between Cacao and Chocolate? Chocolate is the processed version of the Cacao plant. The ripe Cacao Fruits are first cut from the tree and placed in large containers for around 5-8 days to ferment. The fermentation process liquifies the pulp of the fruit and changes the cacao seed flavor from bitter to a chocolate flavor. The fermented seeds are then ground into a paste and flavored with sugar and other ingredients.

Is Cacao good for you?

Cacao is considered a superfood due to its high content of iron, calcium and magnesium. (As if we need more reasons to eat chocolate.) Cacao also contains more antioxidants than blueberries and is a notable source of flavonoids known to offer beneficial health effects. But, beware of the sugary chocolate bars and candies, which can contain copious amounts of sugar and preservatives. Reach for dark chocolate-at least 70% cacao- for the best health benefits. Dark chocolate is also a great treat for cyclists or long-distance runners, since a small amount of chocolate packs a surprising number of calories.

Other tips for sweet treats in Atlanta:

• Café Intermezzo: Step into 19^th century Vienna at Café Intermezzo, a luxurious European coffee house located in Midtown at 1065 Peachtree Street. Known for their fancy décor and specialty coffee drinks, their array of cakes and patisseries are jaw dropping. Put on a nice dress or suit and meet a colleague, friend or loved one at Café Intermezzo for an elegant breakfast, lunch, or brunch.
• Little Tart Bakery: If you love French pastry but can’t fly to Paris today, pay a visit to Little Tart Bakery in Grant Park. Chocolate pistachio croissants, lavender meringue and unforgettable quiche are just a few must-haves from this local gem.