The Sweetest Road Trip in Tennessee Takes You To 7 Old School Chocolate Shops
If you are the proud owner of a crazed sweet tooth, then know that we understand your plight. It’s quite the weight, we’re sure, but a weight that must be carried and sated by consistent exposure to cakes, cookies and chocolate treats. For folks salivating over the latter, we put together a delicious road trip that will take you to some of the best chocolate shops in the state. Make sure to leave your favorite experiences in the comments below!
You can find our directions and map, right here.
Dinstuhl's Fine Candies now has multiple locations around the city, but it was originally started in 1902 by Charles Martin Dinstuhl, Sr. The shop has since stolen the hearts of Memphis with its delicious chocolate and hard candy treats, and boasts a staff that spans five generations of candy makers. That's a Tennessee legacy if we've ever heard one. (Various Locations)
Schakolad Chocolate Factory is a chain, sure, but there are multiple locations in Franklin that still give you that old-fashioned, decadent experience with the ease of consistent location. The European-style chocolates run the flavor gamut, and there are even vegan options available if you're in the market. (Various Locations)
Olive & Sinclair is the only "bean-to-bar" chocolate shop in the city, and the resulting treats are fresh, delicious and unforgettable. Their duck fat caramels are also an insane explosion of flavor, and you can even find their bars tucked away in grocery stores and local shops around town. (1628 Fatherland Street)
Laura's Specialty is a sweet specialty chocolate shop in Old Hickory, an intimate, family-owned shop that's perfect for fun and quirky gifts and treats. Come for stocking stuffers or birthday gifts, this darling place is sure to find you the unique chocolate, cookie or sweet you've been looking for. (14862 Lebanon Road)
Is there anything dreamier than a toasty hot chocolate on a chilly day? The Hot Chocolatier serves up gourmet chocolates and sweets as well, but their hot cocoa certainly takes the prize. This specialty shop is inspired by European chocolate flair, and has deftly brought trans-Atlantic indulgences to Tennessee. (1437 Market Street)
This homey little spot offers up 100 different flavors and types of chocolate treats, everything made from scratch on site in their Knoxville shop. It's a true local legend, the kind of spot you visit when the going gets tough or you're simply craving a bite of something sweet. It's a great spot for fun gifts, too! (29 Market Square Suite 100)
If you're looking for a Louisiana praline, Downtown Sweet has a family recipe that will give even New Orleans a run for its money. This locally owned sweet shop is great for all ages, offering everything from truffles to homemade ice cream sandwiches. (137 East Main Street)
You can continue to experience all the delicious eats that Tennessee has to offer with a visit to this historic food hall in Memphis.
