Arcay Chocolates

- 3211 O St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Nestled in the heart of Washington, DC, Arcay Chocolates stands as a true gem for anyone with a sweet tooth. This is more than just a chocolate shop; it is a destination where the art and science of chocolate-making come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. Founded by Venezuelan master chocolatier Anabella Arcay and her husband Dario Berti, Arcay Chocolates brings a rich, family-owned heritage and a passion for gourmet confections to the nation's capital. As a proud Latino-owned and women-owned small business, it embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and a dedication to sharing the flavors of their native country with the world.

The chocolates at Arcay are not just treats; they are intricate works of art. Each bonbon is a small, vibrant masterpiece, meticulously handcrafted in small batches using only the finest natural ingredients. Anabella's expertise has been internationally recognized, earning her more than 40 international awards, including multiple medals at the prestigious International Chocolate Awards. This recognition speaks to the exceptional quality and innovative flavor profiles that define the Arcay brand. Beyond their celebrated chocolates, the shop also serves as a cafe and ice cream shop, offering a diverse range of decadent desserts, coffee, and delicious gelato. Whether you're a lifelong chocolate aficionado or simply looking for a delightful new spot to explore, Arcay Chocolates offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and a taste of true craftsmanship.

The shop's commitment to quality extends beyond its products to the entire customer experience. The owners themselves are known for their kindness and enthusiasm, eager to share their knowledge and the stories behind their creations, making every visit a personal and educational journey. This dedication has earned them a loyal following and a reputation for being one of DC’s must-visit culinary spots. From their exquisite chocolate bonbons filled with exotic flavors to their rich, handcrafted ice creams, Arcay Chocolates provides a sensory experience that is both sophisticated and deeply satisfying.

The journey of Arcay Chocolates from a home kitchen in Venezuela to an award-winning business in the U.S. is a testament to Anabella's unwavering talent and vision. In 2017, the family made the bold move to the United States to pursue their dream of sharing their mouthwatering creations on a global scale. This dedication to their craft, combined with their warm and welcoming approach, has made Arcay Chocolates a cherished part of the Georgetown community and a beloved destination for chocolate lovers throughout the District of Columbia.

Arcay Chocolates is conveniently located in the historic and charming neighborhood of Georgetown. You can find their delightful shop at 3211 O St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA. Situated on a quaint street, the shop’s new location offers a beautiful and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a quick stop or a leisurely visit. The exterior is beautifully decorated, reflecting the creativity and artistry found inside.

Georgetown is well-known for its walkability and vibrant energy, making Arcay Chocolates easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The shop is just a short stroll from many of the area's main attractions, shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal stop during a day of exploring. Public transportation options are also plentiful in the area, allowing for easy access from various parts of the city. For those arriving by car, street parking is available in the surrounding area, though it's always wise to check for local regulations and availability.

The owners have also made a point to ensure their location is accessible to everyone. The shop features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible restroom, ensuring that all guests can comfortably enjoy their visit. This thoughtful attention to detail, from the shop's decor to its accessibility features, makes Arcay Chocolates a welcoming space for the entire community. The bright and inviting color palette, which includes a vibrant hand-painted mural of tropical plants, adds to the “feel good” state of being for anyone who steps inside, making it a truly pleasant place to visit and linger.

• Artisanal Chocolate Bonbons: Arcay is most famous for its stunning, handcrafted bonbons. Each one is a small work of art, featuring a glossy, colorful shell and a rich ganache filling. The flavors are a vibrant fusion of traditional Venezuelan tastes and innovative combinations, such as passion fruit, blackberry cardamom, lime and mint, and more. They are available in assorted boxes, making them perfect for gifts or for indulging in a personal selection.

• Handcrafted Ice Cream and Gelato: In addition to their chocolates, Arcay offers a selection of delicious homemade ice cream and gelato. This service is especially popular, with customers raving about the creamy texture and rich, authentic flavors. It provides the perfect cool treat on a warm day or a fantastic dessert option.

• Gourmet Chocolate Bars and Confections: The shop also carries a wide range of chocolate bars and other confections, including chocolate-covered dried fruits and nuts. These products showcase the high-quality, single-origin chocolate used in all their creations. Options range from classic milk and dark chocolate bars to more unique flavors like smoked almonds or crispy rice.

• Coffee and Cafe Beverages: Arcay Chocolates also operates as a cafe, serving great coffee and other hot beverages that pair perfectly with their sweet treats. A fresh cup of coffee is the ideal complement to a rich bonbon or a scoop of gelato, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

• Catering and Onsite Services: For special occasions, Arcay Chocolates provides catering services, offering a variety of beautiful chocolate creations and mini-desserts for events like weddings, birthdays, and corporate gatherings. They can even create a dessert table with delivery, display, and setup, ensuring a stunning presentation.

• In-Store Shopping: Customers can visit the shop to browse the full selection, handpick their favorite bonbons, and enjoy the inviting atmosphere. The retail area is designed to provide a pleasant and easy shopping experience.

• Delivery and In-Store Pickup: Arcay Chocolates offers both delivery and in-store pickup options, making it easy for customers to get their favorite treats. This is particularly convenient for those who want to order ahead or have their chocolates brought directly to them.

• Award-Winning Chocolatier: Anabella Arcay, the master chocolatier, has been recognized with over 40 international awards for her exceptional work. This impressive collection of accolades speaks to the unparalleled quality and artistry of her creations, making every piece of chocolate a truly world-class experience.

• Great Dessert: Customers consistently highlight the outstanding quality of the desserts offered at Arcay Chocolates. Whether it's the rich and flavorful bonbons, the creamy ice cream, or the rich hot chocolate, every item is crafted with care and a commitment to excellence.

• Latino-Owned and Women-Owned: As a business that proudly identifies as Latino-owned and women-owned, Arcay Chocolates is a vibrant part of the local community. It represents the rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of its founders, who are dedicated to sharing a piece of their home country with their adopted city.

• Handcrafted in Small Batches: All of the products at Arcay Chocolates are made by hand in small batches. This meticulous process ensures that each item is created with the utmost attention to detail, resulting in a fresh, high-quality product every time.

• Unique and Exotic Flavors: The shop is celebrated for its inventive flavor combinations, which set its chocolates apart from others. Popular choices include passion fruit, lemon basil, and blackberry cardamom, offering a taste experience that is both familiar and excitingly new.

• Welcoming and Knowledgeable Owners: The owners, Anabella and Dario, are known for their incredible kindness and eagerness to share their passion. They make every visitor feel welcome and are happy to provide recommendations and information about their products and their journey, enhancing the personal touch of the experience.

Address: 3211 O St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA

Phone: (239) 961-8695

Choosing Arcay Chocolates means choosing a truly extraordinary culinary experience. The reason this shop stands out from others is its unwavering commitment to the "art of chocolate." This is not a place that simply sells sweets; it is a place where every piece is a carefully considered creation, a testament to the master chocolatier's skill and passion. The international awards and a strong local following are testaments to the fact that their chocolates are among the best in the world.

For customers in the District of Columbia, Arcay Chocolates offers a special blend of high-end quality and a genuine, personal touch. The shop’s beautiful decor, with a hand-painted mural and carefully selected furnishings, creates a feeling of warmth and joy. The owners, Anabella and Dario, are a central part of this appeal. Their kindness and willingness to share their story and knowledge make the experience feel personal and unique. They are more than just business owners; they are ambassadors of their craft and their culture.

The combination of an award-winning product, a welcoming atmosphere, and a rich, personal story makes Arcay Chocolates an easy choice. Whether you are seeking a special gift, a satisfying personal treat, or a unique dessert for an event, you can trust that you are getting something of the highest caliber. Their wide range of products—from the signature bonbons and delicious ice cream to rich coffee—ensures there is always something to delight every palate. The fact that it is a small, family-owned business also gives it a charm that larger chains simply cannot replicate. It's a place where you can taste the passion in every single bite.

Arcay Chocolates

3211 O St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA