Theo Chocolates is one of Seattle’s most famous chocolate companies. Theo is known to produce premium organic and Fair Trade specialty chocolates. If you know a little bit about the history of chocolate, you’ve probably already guessed where their company name originated from. If not, here it is: The scientific name for the cacao tree is Theobroma from Greek meaning the ”Food of the gods”. So Theo is from the cacao tree name Theobroma.
Their booth was busy with chocolate lovers and fans so I didn’t get a chance to chat with the Theo reps, but I can share my personal Theo experience with you.
First heard about Theo when I was visiting the Chocolate Box in downtown Seattle a couple of years ago. I was down there for the day visiting the local chocolatiers in the downtown area by foot. The Chocolate Box carries many chocolate lines and Theo was one of them. I was impressed by the variety of unique flavors and offerings that it peaked my curiosity. So naturally, I had to try as many of Theo bars I could.
A couple of years later, I had an opportunity to visit their Seattle retail space as it was just around the corner from where I was visiting. It was packed with shoppers and people waiting for their chocolate tour to begin. As I was soaking up the chocolate aromas and doing some shopping, I could hear numerous inquiries about any space availability for their afternoon tours. They were all booked. I personally don’t know how busy they normally are on other weekends, but that was a great day for Theo.
After trying a few bars here and there, I’ve come up with a list of my faves:
- Spicy Chile – Dark chocolate with Spicy Chile – 70% dark chocolate with the warmth of guajillo chile and cinnamon, the tanginess of pasilla chile and a subtle hint of citrus
- Theo & Jane Goodall 70% Dark Chocolate – single origin dark chocolate (organic and Fair Trade certified)
- Fig, Fennel & Almond Dark Chocolate – It was the fig that caught my attention with this. Vegan dark chocolate with almonds, sweet chewy figs, and a touch of fennel
- Bread & Chocolate Dark Chocolate – Just by the name I just had to try it. Dark chocolate with buttery, toasted artisan breadcrumbs and the perfect amount of salt
- Chocolate and Wine Pairing Kit – I love their pairing kits! Each kit includes bars and wine recommendations. The kit I’ve gotten a few years ago is no longer available. The chocolate bars in their current kits have changed but I trust either way you will have fun as it is designed to go together.
Be sure to visit their Seattle retail space in the Fremont area where they offer chocolate tour of their facilities. These tours tend to book quickly so be there early to register for your spots. Website: http://www.theochocolate.com
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