The Chocolatarium – home to all things chocolate

33 makers are featured

“If you could only ever eat one chocolate bar for life, what would it be?”

That’s the question posed by Fraser, our guide at The Chocolatarium, and it draws a collective gasp from the group gathered for the launch of Jenny McLay’s new online chocolate emporium.

Our evening begins with a glass of fizz or Pacha — a refreshing blend of fruit juices and cacao — as we browse shelves lined with over 180 chocolate bars. From quirky and weird to timeless classics, many are wrapped so beautifully they resemble strings of multicoloured bunting.

Eight of the 33 makers featured in the shop hail from Scotland, including Chocolate Tree in East Lothian and Charlotte Flowers from Perthshire.

After a warm welcome from Jenny herself, we’re split into two groups. One heads off to get hands-on with chocolate-making, while my group follows Fraser for a tasting session, starting with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and that all-important question.

Fraser speaks passionately about cacao’s 5,000-year history. The smooth, creamy bars we know today only emerged in the late 19th century. He shares fascinating details — like how, during fermentation, the liquid that seeps from the beans is often lapped up by local monkeys… who end up a little pissed, thanks to the natural alcohol content.

We learn that over 50 countries grow cocoa, most in the so-called Chocolate Belt near the equator. West Africa leads the way, with Côte d’Ivoire alone producing over 2 million tons annually.

Then comes the tasting. Fraser guides us through the proper technique: let the chocolate melt on your tongue while holding your nose, then release and breathe. We sample four varieties — from intense 100% to mellow 39%, with two 70% bars in between. Like wine or coffee, cocoa’s flavour is shaped by its terroir. That’s why the tasting shards from São Tomé taste so different from those grown in Colombia.

Next, it’s our turn to get creative. Under the guidance of chocolatier Carina, we step into the kitchen. Our workstations are laid out with colourful edible decorations. First, choose your mould. Second, your molten chocolate (I go for dark). Then, let your imagination run wild. It’s gloriously sticky fun. Once finished, we name our creations and pop them in the fridge to set.

Take the online quiz to find your favourite chocolate bar

The evening wraps up with more drinks, savoury nibbles, and — of course — more chocolate. We sample new flavours like cranachan with a whisky kick, fresh pineapple (my personal favourite), and margarita. Too soon, it’s time to leave — but not before we’re handed a box of goodies and our handmade bars.

Whether you’ve visited The Chocolatarium or not, their online shop is a must. Take the quiz to find your perfect bar (mine was Key Lime Pie) and treat yourself. Better yet, gather some friends and book an event — it’s an evening of pure, delicious joy.

The Chocolatarium, 3–5 Cranston Street, Edinburgh, EH8 8BE info@chocolatarium.co.uk

Gift Shop open daily 10am–5pm🎟️ Tours run throughout the day — check the calendar and book online