These 9 Chocolate Shops in North Carolina Will Make Your Sweet Tooth Explode

There's chocolate you buy from the store, and then there's handmade chocolate you buy from a shop and swear never to settle for less after one bite of creamy, rich goodness. Luckily, North Carolina chocolate like this is easy to come by. With a number of stores sourcing and roasting their own beans, you could spend months surveying the unique, artisanal chocolate shops in NC. Here is a list of nine spots that are special, delicious gems of our state.

1. French Broad Chocolates, Asheville

After meeting while in grad school and then impulsively leaving to move to Costa Rica and start a chocolate shop, the two owners of French Broad, Dan and Jael Rattigan, returned to America and graced Asheville with their knowledge. French Broad Chocolates is a "chocolate" empire, sourcing the finest beans for unique chocolate indulgence. From grabbing a truffle to-go or hanging in the chocolate lounge, French Broad is a must-stop for North Carolina chocolate. Learn more about this North Carolina chocolate factory.

2. Escazu Artisan Chocolates, Raleigh

Escazu sources the finest cacao beans from small farms. The beans are then roasted and ground to make delicious truffles, chocolate bars, and ice cream. Grab a cup of coffee and some of the best chocolate in North Carolina at Escazu. Get more details on Escazu.

3. Videri Chocolate Factory

Three chocolate lovers had a dream and turned that dream into reality with Videri Chocolate Factory. Dedicated to NC's motto, "esse quam videri" (to be rather than to seem), this bean-to-bar North Carolina chocolate factory has nothing to hide with the artisanal production of some of the best chocolate in North Carolina. Read further on what a visit to Videri Chocolate Factory will involve.

4. Burry Chocolates

Hampstead, NC is home to Burry Chocolates, a delightful store where everything is hand-crafted to perfection. Given that it's a smaller operation, the sheer variety is truly impressive. But the flavor of each chocolate confection is what will really win you over here. Do yourself a favor and visit Burry Chocolates as soon as you have the chance!

5. Matthew's Chocolates, Hillsborough

You can't go wrong with homemade, all-natural chocolates from Matthew's. Owner Matthew Shepherd is an innovative chocolate connoisseur, yet he has never had formal chocolate or pastry education. But the self-taught chef adds a world of sweet goodness to North Carolina. Drop by this chocolate shop in NC on special holidays, like Valentine's Day, for great specials. Head to the Facebook page for Matthew's Chocolates to learn more.

6. The Chocolate Fetish, Asheville

Since 1986, The Chocolate Fetish has been satisfying Asheville's sweet tooth with amazing, homemade chocolates. From classic truffles to unique "chocolate shoes," this is a must-stop for North Carolina chocolate the next time you find yourself in Asheville. See all that The Chocolate Fetish has to offer.

7. The Fudgeboat, Carolina Beach

From an assortment of fudge to hand-dipped chocolate strawberries, The Fudgeboat is a must for a tasty treat at Carolina Beach. Learn more about some of the best chocolate in North Carolina.

8. Dillsboro Chocolate Factory

Family-owned and operated, this small but sensational chocolate shop is a great gem hiding in the Smoky Mountains. Browse candies, coffee, fudge, and even "shooters" made with a touch of alcohol. Yum! Find out more about visiting Dillsboro Chocolate Factory.

9. Brasstown Chocolate

This delightful local chocolate shop located in Winston-Salem produces true bean-to-bar chocolates in decadent, creative flavors. Chocolate connoisseurs will love the opportunity to try different bars, picking up on some of the subtle flavors in each. The shop also offers bonbons, some of which are made in vegan varieties. Learn more when you visit Brasstown Chocolate online.

Which local chocolate shop will you visit first? Be sure to share this article with a fellow chocolate enthusiast and plan your road trip today!

Looking for a different version of caffeine? Check out these North Carolina coffee shops.