During our exploration of Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, one unexpected highlight was our visit to Cocoa Square—a charming corner dedicated to celebrating Ecuador’s world-class cacao. Nestled within the Middle of the World City complex, Cocoa Square offered us a delicious journey into the rich heritage of Ecuadorian chocolate-making. The visit was a blend of history, craftsmanship, and indulgent flavors.
A Taste of Ecuador’s Chocolate Legacy
Ecuador is globally renowned for its premium cacao, particularly the prized Cacao Arriba. At Cocoa Square, we delved into the fascinating history of this “food of the gods,” learning how cacao has been a cornerstone of Ecuadorian culture and economy for centuries.
The self-guided, self-paced museum was filled with the irresistible aroma of chocolate. We were drawn into various displays showcasing the bean-to-bar journey. From cacao pods to finished chocolate bars, every step of the process was beautifully presented. The craftsmanship and dedication behind Ecuador’s chocolate industry was evident in the displays.
Tasting the Magic at Cocoa Square
One of the best parts of our visit was the opportunity to taste an array of chocolates crafted by local artisans. Each bite told a story—whether it was a smooth, dark chocolate bar with floral undertones or a milk chocolate infused with exotic Amazonian flavors like guanábana and golden berries.
We particularly loved sampling chocolate paired with unique ingredients like chili peppers and sea salt, which showcased the creativity and boldness of Ecuadorian chocolatiers. They even had chocolate CBD (which I did not try).
Cooling Off On a Hot Day
It was a hot day on the Equator which gave us an excuse to cool off with a cold brew. I was particularly drawn to a large can of chocolate porter, which my son and I agreed to split. We found a table and were brought a couple of glasses to pour the beer into. Sipping chocolate porter while immersed in the fragrance of every imaginable chocolate was sheer delight.
Shopping for Sweet Memories
After indulging in the tastings, we couldn’t resist picking up a few treats to take home. Cocoa Square’s shop featured beautifully packaged chocolates, various cacao-based products, and even chocolate desserts. We indulged a bit, but also picked up a couple of chocolate bars for the folks back home! The shop has chocolate bars from a wide variety of Ecuadorian chocolatiers.
Tips for Visiting Cocoa Square
- Bring your curiosity: Ask questions and engage with the artisans to learn more about cacao and chocolate-making.
- Try everything: Don’t miss the chance to sample unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else. Samples are free.
- Take something home: The high-quality chocolates and other cacao-based products make excellent souvenirs.
- Allow extra time: Cocoa Square is worth lingering over as you enjoy tastings and explore the displays. Or simply sip a delicious cacao porter!
A Sweet Highlight
Cocoa Square turned out to be one of the most delightful stops during our time at the Middle of the World City. It offered more than just the chance to satisfy a sweet tooth—it was an immersive experience into Ecuador’s chocolate heritage, connecting us to the country’s history and traditions through one of its most iconic products. It also helped get the taste of cuy out of my mouth.
For chocolate lovers and curious travelers alike, Cocoa Square is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re savoring a decadent truffle or learning the art of chocolate-making, it’s a place where flavors and culture come together in the most delicious way possible.
