The Sweet Journey of Dahlia Chocolates
Dahlia Chocolates began with Chef Grace Aquino’s passion for chocolate and culinary artistry. In 2017, after selling her French-style pastry shop, she set her sights on a new venture inspired by her lifelong love for chocolate. To hone her craft, Chef Grace worked with respected chocolatiers in Sacramento and a renowned chocolate factory in San Francisco. It was here that she discovered the world of bean-to-bar chocolate-making—a process that deepened her appreciation for cacao’s unique flavors and complexities.
Each cacao bean tells a story, and Chef Grace was captivated by the endless possibilities of crafting flavor. From fruity to nutty and earthy profiles, she found a creative home in chocolate-making. Although an experienced chocolatier, she taught herself the intricate bean-to-bar process, mastering everything from sourcing raw cacao to tempering.
After seven years of dedication and perseverance, Chef Grace and her husband, Marlon, launched Dahlia Chocolates in 2024 in Cebu, Philippines. The name Dahlia represents resilience, inspired by the flower known for thriving under pressure. This mirrors Chef Grace’s journey—one defined by hard work, humility, and determination.
Dahlia Chocolates is not just about crafting exceptional chocolate but also about honoring the cacao farmers who make it possible. Committed to ethical sourcing, Chef Grace ensures that their beans are sustainably and fairly cultivated, fostering relationships that benefit farming communities.
At the heart of Dahlia Chocolates is a passion for unique, artful creations. Chef Grace explores diverse flavors, bringing out the best in every cacao bean. Each bar tells a story—of origin, innovation, and the joy of discovery.
Dahlia Chocolates is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion. With every bar, Chef Grace and Marlon share a piece of their journey and the hard work of the farmers who make chocolate truly special.
Discover the story, savor the flavors, and experience the artistry of Dahlia Chocolates.
A quick selfie after placing 2nd at the 2024 MIPTAC Innovative Business competition less than 1 month into launching Dahlia Chocolates in August 2024.