Donnelly Chocolates

- 1509 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In the vibrant and eclectic city of Santa Cruz, a place celebrated for its surf culture, stunning beaches, and laid-back vibe, there exists a culinary treasure that elevates the art of dessert to a whole new level: Donnelly Chocolates. Since 1988, this small business has been a staple in the community, earning a reputation that extends far beyond the California coast. Founded by Richard Donnelly, who honed his skills in Paris and Berlin, the shop brings a touch of European sophistication to the local scene. This isn't just a place to satisfy a sweet craving; it's a destination for connoisseurs seeking truly world-class confections. From its legendary chocolate ice cream bars to its meticulously crafted truffles, Donnelly Chocolates is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life.

The buzz surrounding Donnelly Chocolates is so strong that, as one customer put it, "the legends were true." The shop's signature chocolate ice cream bars are a consistent favorite, with customers raving about their rich, thick chocolate coating—far surpassing that of many commercial brands. The vanilla ice cream inside is also praised for its richness, creating a perfectly balanced and indulgent treat. Beyond the ice cream bars, Donnelly Chocolates offers a wide array of exquisite sweets, including brownies, truffles, and chocolate bars infused with exotic ingredients like cardamom and lavender. A visit to the store is often enhanced by the friendly staff and owner, who are known for their welcoming demeanor and generosity with free samples. This personal touch makes the experience that much more enjoyable and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Donnelly Chocolates is conveniently located at 1509 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA. This location on a main street makes it easy to find and a perfect stop while you're running errands or exploring the city. Its position on the Westside of Santa Cruz makes it a great spot to grab a dessert after dinner or simply satisfy a sudden craving.

Accessibility is a key feature of this location, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy the delicious offerings. The shop has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it welcoming for all patrons. For those driving, the provided information notes that there is "lots of parking in the back" and a "wheelchair accessible parking lot," which is a significant advantage in a busy area like Mission Street. This convenience allows for a stress-free visit, whether you're making a quick stop or taking your time to browse the selection. Its simple, unassuming storefront belies the world-class treats waiting inside, making it a true hidden gem for those in the know.

Donnelly Chocolates offers several services to make your visit as convenient and pleasant as possible.

• Onsite Services: The classic in-store experience, allowing you to browse the full selection, receive recommendations, and enjoy the inviting atmosphere.
• In-Store Pickup: This is a great option for customers who want to place an order ahead of time for a quick and easy grab-and-go experience.
• Takeout: Perfect for those who want to take their delicious treats to enjoy at home, at the beach, or during a leisurely walk.

The shop also makes it simple to pay for your purchases with a variety of modern options.

• Credit Cards
• Debit Cards
• NFC Mobile Payments

This variety of services ensures a smooth and efficient experience for every customer.

Donnelly Chocolates stands out in the crowded culinary landscape with several key highlights that make it a truly special place.

• Legendary Chocolate Ice Cream Bars: These are a major draw, praised for their rich, thick chocolate and delicious vanilla ice cream. One customer even claimed it was "the best I've had in the US, France, or Japan."
• Award-Winning Quality: The shop has received international acclaim, including being named "Best Artisan Chocolate" at the Eurochocolate Festival and "One of the 10 Best" in the world by National Geographic in 2012.
• Small Business with a Personal Touch: As a small business, Donnelly Chocolates offers a level of personal care and attention that larger chains cannot. The owner, Richard, is known for his friendly demeanor and for adding a personal touch to each visit.
• Great as Gifts: While the chocolates can be expensive, a "sample box" or other gift boxes are considered a fantastic and thoughtful gift for any occasion, showcasing their high-end quality.
• Unique Flavors: The shop prides itself on its innovative and high-quality confections, including dark chocolate lavender bars and other unique flavors.

For more information, you can contact Donnelly Chocolates using the following details.

Address: 1509 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

Phone: (831) 458-4214

What makes Donnelly Chocolates truly worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to excellence and the genuine passion behind every product. It's a place where you can taste the years of experience and dedication that went into perfecting each recipe. The glowing reviews from satisfied customers, who enthusiastically recommend the ice cream bars and praise the friendly service, are a testament to the shop's quality and its place in the community. As a small business, it offers a personal experience that large corporations simply cannot replicate. Whether you're a local resident celebrating a special occasion, or a visitor seeking a perfect, indulgent treat to beat a hot summer day, Donnelly Chocolates offers a dessert experience that is a true highlight of Santa Cruz. It is a place that proves that world-class quality can be found right here in California, and that is a sweet discovery indeed.

Donnelly Chocolates

1509 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA