Our visit to Dikaty Chocolate shop at Patio Andaluz in Quito was a treat for the senses. It allowed us to dive into Ecuador’s renowned chocolate-making tradition. Nestled in the heart of the city, Dikaty Chocolate shop offered us a unique blend of history, culture, and, of course, the chance to indulge in some of the finest chocolate we’ve ever tasted.
A Warm Welcome
From the moment we stepped inside, the warm aroma of cocoa enveloped us, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. The Dikaty team greeted us with friendly smiles and an infectious passion for their craft, making us feel both excited and curious about what lay ahead. We found a seat among the two rows of seating arranged in the small shop to learn more about the history of chocolate.
The Story Behind Dikaty Chocolate
Our journey began with an engaging presentation about Ecuador’s chocolate heritage. Ecuador is home to some of the world’s best cacao, particularly the prized Cacao Arriba variety, known for its floral and fruity notes.
We learned how the cacao trees in Ecuador are planted using companion planting, resulting in Cacao that takes on attributes of the other plants. We also learned the history and entomology of the word chocolate. This included an introduction to the various regions of Ecuador where cacao is grown.
From Bean to Bar
Next, we learned how chocolate is made. The process, from fermenting and drying the cacao beans to roasting and tempering the chocolate, was explained in fascinating detail.
A Tasting Experience Like No Other
Of course, no visit to Dikaty Chocolate would be complete without tasting their creations. We sampled an array of chocolates, from rich, dark varieties with earthy undertones to cchocolate infused with exotic Amazonian flavors like coffee and cacao bean jelly. Each bite was an explosion of taste, highlighting the complexity and quality of Ecuadorian cacao. Even the darkest chocolate (75%) was rich and lacked the bitter quality of other high percentage chocolates.
Among the standouts of our tasting were the cacao nib chocolate and cardamom chocolate. I also like the sun lime chocolate which had a nice tartness that balanced nicely with the sweet chocolate. The sea salt dark chocolate was also excellent. We purchased several bars of chocolate as well as a hot cocoa that was possibly the richest hot chocolate I have ever tasted.
Tips for Visiting Dikaty Chocolate
- Take your time: Allow yourself to savor the tasting experience and ask plenty of questions.
- Shop for souvenirs: Dikaty offers beautifully packaged chocolates that make perfect gifts or indulgent treats for yourself.
- Learn the story: Understanding the journey from bean to bar will deepen your appreciation for the chocolate.
- Try the Hot Cocoa: in a word…amazing. The rich chocolate comes in a small cup, but it is indulgent. A small cup is enough.
Bringing Dikaty Chocolate Home
Our visit to Dikaty Chocolate was more than just a culinary experience—it was a celebration of Ecuador’s rich cacao heritage and the passionate people who keep the tradition alive.
If you’re in Quito, a stop at Dikaty Chocolate is a must for any chocolate lover. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the craft, a deeper connection to Ecuadorian culture, and, most likely, a bag full of irresistible chocolate delights. And I saved the best part for last…if you are still reading…it’s FREE!
