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About
El Buen Cacao
Welcome to El Buen Cacao, a charming gem nestled in the heart of Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California. This delightful chocolate haven is not just a café; it’s a warm and inviting experience that transports you into the rich world of cacao. Located at 54423 Village Center Dr Unit 1, El Buen Cacao is a family-owned business where passion for chocolate meets friendly hospitality.
As you step inside, the aroma of high-quality chocolate fills the air, inviting you to explore their extensive range of signature drinks. Whether you're in the mood for a Spiced Chocolate or a comforting cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate, each sip tells a story of dedication and craftsmanship. For those looking for something unique, the Spiced Mocha and Cacao Brew are must-tries that blend flavors beautifully, paying homage to traditional recipes while offering a modern twist.
El Buen Cacao prides itself on using South American cacao beans, creating a product that is not only delicious but also healthy. Customers rave about the Chocolate Milkshake, deemed life-changing by loyal fans like Steph Graham, who claim it’s worth the scenic hour-long drive from Palm Springs. As you savor each mouthful, you not only experience the creaminess of the shake but also the vibrant history and culture of cacao-making that the owners discuss with genuine enthusiasm.
The experience here is never just about the chocolate; it's an immersive journey. As one visitor noted, the factory offers a glimpse into the truffle-making process, which is both fascinating and educational. The knowledgeable staff, led by the passionate Eric, are eager to share their stories and insights, resulting in conversations that deepen your appreciation for the chocolate you’re enjoying.
Highlights include:
- Signature Drinks such as La Violeta and The Phantom, which showcase unique flavor profiles.
- Coffee Options like Macchiato and Cortado for those who enjoy a caffeine kick along with their chocolate indulgence.
- A dog-friendly atmosphere that welcomes furry companions, adding to the community vibe.
- Friendly staff who offer personalized recommendations, making your visit feel special.
Whether you're a die-hard chocolate lover or a casual visitor, El Buen Cacao is not to be missed. Step in to experience a cozy environment infused with warmth, flavor, and an unyielding passion for the finest cacao. You might just leave with a newfound love for chocolate, along with some of their delectable truffles or a chocolate shake that lingers in your memory long after your visit.
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“ You have to go here and get the chocolate milkshake - it’ll change your life! It’s worth the hour drive from Palm Springs up into the mountain just for this milkshake (but the views are amazing too, and Idyllwild was a super cute place!) ”
“ Cute, doggy-friendly little store with -quality cacao and the absolute best hot chocolate in the region. The lady at the cashier is extremely friendly and eager to inform about every product. You can get a glimpse to the lab when they make the truffles and powders. It is a sublime experience! ”
“ Eric is a legend. I had one of the most interesting conversations ever with him. Very knowledgeable, meticulous and passionate about his business. All their chocolate is made in-house and it’s one of the best I’ve ever had in my life ”
“ Absolutely wonderful South American cacao beans made into the most wonderful and healthy chocolate! The owners were so friendly and helpful. They took the time to explain to us how true chocolate, derived from the cacao bean, really creates a traditional South American glorious chocolate experience! ”
“ Embarked on a fascinating field trip to a charming family-owned chocolate factory. The owners radiated warmth and passion, taking the time to share their story with genuine enthusiasm. The staff mirrored this friendliness, creating an inviting atmosphere. The experience was not just about chocolate; it was a delightful journey into a world where dedication and hospitality blended seamlessly. ”
“ The chocolate drinks here are so good you’ll catch yourself taking small sips to not finish your drink too quickly! Honestly, I’ve never tasted chocolate drinks with such definition! A must-visit every time I’m in Idyllwild. ”
“ Let me preface this by saying I've never liked dark chocolate. I thought I saw what looked like milk chocolate in some of the review pics on here, so we stopped in on Mother's Day. I don't know if they only ever sell dark chocolate or just ran out of milk chocolate by the time we got there, but they only had dark. Not wanting to leave empty-handed as I don't live in the area, I still got a few pieces of dark chocolate candy and my son got a shake. Boy, am I glad I did! Everything was delicious! You can tell they take pride in their craft and use high-quality ingredients. The two staff members who helped us were very warm, friendly, and informative. Milk chocolate or not, we'll be back! ”
“ Fantastic artisanal chocolate maker, incredible chocolate truffles, chocolate dipped fruit and fig & chocolate milkshakes topped by cacao nibs. Lovely little nook in Idyllwild village. And the nicest owners ever, feels like seeing family even though we only unfortunately make it in once a year when we travel in for a summer getaway. A must stop when in Idyllwild. ”