At a recent conference, I worked with a sponsor representing various destinations in the meetings and incentive travel industry.
One way to immerse yourself in your destination’s culture is by exploring its food artisans, particularly those crafting artisanal chocolates. So, I curated a Local Flavors Chocolate Welcome Table to share the story of each destination through local flavors infused in the chocolates.
The Joy of Local Food Artisanship
Every destination has culinary secrets—cheeses aged to perfection, chocolates hand-tempered with care, or bread baked using century-old techniques. Food artisans embody these traditions, often weaving stories of heritage, passion, and community into every bite.
Curaçao
Located in the vibrant Kura Hulanda Village, It’s Better With Chocolate is a creation of Lisette de Gouveia. Her white chocolate truffles, infused with local ingredients like wild lemongrass, blue matcha, butterfly pea flowers, and orange, are a tribute to Curacao’s tropical ecosystem. Lisette’s chocolates are more than confections—they are an experience, inviting you to pause and savor the moment.
Naples, Florida
In the heart of Naples, Norman Love Confections redefines luxury chocolate with its visually stunning seashell-shaped creations. Flavors like Key Lime Pie, Florida Orange, and Mango echo the Sunshine State’s tropical allure. From Ritz-Carlton pastry chef to acclaimed chocolatier, Norman Love’s career shines in every piece. These chocolates offer a sweet reminder of Florida’s sunny coast.
Sonoma County, California
Nestled in Sebastopol, Sonoma Chocolatiers, led by David Gambill, marries chocolate with the agricultural richness of Sonoma. Their standout Lemon-Thyme Brie truffle, made with Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam Triple Cream Brie, is a creamy, savory masterpiece. Gambill’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing (he harvests the lemon-thyme from his garden) mirrors the ethos of Sonoma’s farm-to-table food culture, creating chocolates rooted in the land. Although he has created over 150 varieties, they are made in limited quantities to highlight seasonal flavors.
Why Seek Out Local Food Artisans?
Connecting with food artisans like these chocolatiers offers more than just a treat—it’s a sensory journey through the culture and community of your destination. During the holiday season, creating a local flavors table of your own is a fun reminder of your travels. Local chocolates are also a uniquely personal holiday gift with a story you can share with the recipient.
How to Find Food Artisans When Traveling
Finding food artisans may initially seem daunting, especially when juggling a business itinerary, but technology and local connections make it easier than ever.
- Research Before You Go: Download the Chocolate Map app. Look for guides or directories highlighting local artisans, such as farmers’ markets, small-scale producers, or culinary tours. Websites like Eatwith and Airbnb Experiences often feature artisan-led food adventures.
- Ask the Locals: Hotel concierges, rideshare drivers, and even baristas can often point you to hidden gems that aren’t in guidebooks.
- Leverage Social Media: Search “LocalArtisans,” “Farm to Table,” or “Made in [city name].”
Each destination brought its own story and flavor to life through chocolate. As a business traveler blending business and leisure, finding authentic local experiences is key to making your trips memorable. Seek out local artisans and let your taste buds lead the way.
