Ottawa’s chocolate scene is a kaleidoscope of craft, creativity, passion and purpose. Each chocolatier infuses their unique history, training and imagination into their products to unleash a world of flavour and innovation.
Whether you’re a connoisseur or casual sweet-eater, here’s where to find the best chocolate in the capital of Canada.
When a company has been in business since 1845, you know it’s doing something right. Stubbe Chocolates began in Germany, laying the foundation for six generations of chocolate making, before moving to Canada in 1989. It’s Ottawa’s oldest family-owned business. Stepping into its flagship shop on Wellington Street is like stepping into an authentic European confectionary.
JoJo CoCo curates top-quality chocolate from both Canadian and global makers. Find a broad selection of bars at their storefront in Kanata, or shop online with shipping available across Canada. Connoisseurs will appreciate their focus on fine bean-to-bar chocolate made from simple ingredients. They also host pairing events, marrying gourmet chocolate with cheese, wine, scotch, craft beer and tea.
In addition to its colourful bonbons, Alicja Confections in the heart of Westboro is known for its signature postcard chocolate bars. Mail one to a friend or keep it all for yourself. Choose from more than 60 flavours like Cereal & Milk, Maple, Ramen Bowl and Afternoon Tea — or try a bunch of flavours by building a custom five-bar box.
Located in the quaint village of Almonte, Hummingbird Chocolate is one of the Ottawa area’s most popular chocolatiers. Their handcrafted bars, like the popular Fleur de Sel or creative PB & Joy, showcase rich flavors and meticulous craftsmanship. They also offer guided tours of their factory, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their small-batch, bean-to-bar chocolate-making process.
Can’t make it to Almonte? Many stores in Ottawa sell their award-winning bars.
Continuing the family tradition, Anna Stubbe Chocolates and Confectionaries in Kanata offers a delightful array of chocolates, tortes, tea cakes other treats. Anna’s creations reflect a deep passion for quality and a keen eye for detail. Each piece is a work of art. (Seriously, she sells a chocolate high heel.)
“Your Ottawa Chinese dad on his newfound chocolate venture” — that’s how owner Tin-Lont Chan pitches TL Chocolates, and he’s making a name for himself with his bright and boundary-breaking creations. TL’s chocolates and desserts are constantly changing, heavily influenced by seasonality and his Chinese roots (ever try a roasted banana caramel bar?). Buy them online or at a local market.
White Pine Chocolates is on a mission to design and produce sustainably crafted chocolates that are magical, captivating and memorable. From their B Corp-certified suppliers to their sustainable packaging, they lead with a strong sense of purpose, with no compromise to quality. Explore their exquisite, elegant creations online or at their new storefront in Stittsville.
Known for its viral Dubai chocolate bar, Pistachio Choco on Bank Street and in the Rideau Centre continues to impress with its artistry and ingenuity. The company’s colourful, luxurious treats are made with authentic Belgian chocolate, plenty of pistachios and delicious ganache. And they’ve got a great selection of other desserts, too, from Turkish delights to stuffed dates. Check out their Instagram to see what’s new.
Taste your way through Ottawa’s historic ByWard Market with a C’est Bon Ottawa Chocolate Lover’s Tour. Indulge in some of the best chocolaty treats the ByWard Market has to offer — including pastries, gelato, macarons and churros — while meeting shop owners and learning about the chocolate-making process.
Tours start at 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays with evening tours running Tuesday through Saturday by appointment only. Book in advance.
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