Canada’s chocolate scene is as rich and diverse as the country itself, with an abundance of brands and treats that offer unique flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a fan of artisanal dark chocolate, creamy milk chocolate, or interesting flavor combinations, Canada has something to satisfy every chocolate lover. From the best Canadian chocolate brands to where to enjoy traditional Canadian foods and restaurants paired with chocolate treats, here’s everything you need to know to dive into Canada’s world of chocolate.
1. Purdys – A Canadian Chocolate Staple
Purdys Chocolatier, based in Vancouver, is one of Canada’s oldest and most beloved chocolate brands. Founded in 1907, Purdys is known for its high-quality ingredients and a wide variety of chocolate treats, from truffles and hedgehogs to its famous “Sweet Georgia Browns” (a mix of pecans, caramel, and chocolate). Many of Purdys’ chocolates include Canadian ingredients like maple, making it a perfect way to taste Canada’s flavors.
Where to Find It: Purdys has locations across Canada, particularly in shopping centers. It’s an ideal stop to pick up gifts or indulge in a treat for yourself.
2. SOMA Chocolatemaker – Toronto’s Artisanal Chocolate Scene
SOMA Chocolatemaker, based in Toronto, is widely recognized for its bean-to-bar approach and for using ethically sourced cacao. SOMA’s chocolates feature unique flavor pairings and meticulous craftsmanship. Try their “Dark Fire” bar, made with cacao from Venezuela, or their milk chocolate with Peruvian pink salt for a unique flavor experience.
Where to Find It: SOMA has locations in Toronto’s Distillery District and King Street West. The shop also offers other treats like sipping chocolate—an indulgent hot chocolate experience that pairs well with pastries from nearby cafes serving some of the best Canadian coffee brands.
3. Rogers’ Chocolates – A Taste of History
Founded in 1885 in Victoria, Rogers’ Chocolates is a brand steeped in Canadian history. Known for its Victoria Creams (chocolate-covered cream-filled treats in various flavors) and specialty bars, Rogers’ Chocolates uses classic recipes and techniques that have been passed down through generations. These chocolates offer a taste of nostalgia and tradition.
Where to Find It: You can visit Rogers’ Chocolates in Victoria, British Columbia, or find their products in select Canadian retailers. Many traditional Canadian foods and restaurants carry Rogers’ products, making them a familiar brand to locals and tourists alike.
4. Peace by Chocolate – A Brand with a Story
Founded by a Syrian family who moved to Canada as refugees, Peace by Chocolate is based in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. This family-run company crafts chocolates that symbolize their journey and the warm welcome they received in Canada. They offer a variety of rich, creamy chocolates, often with messages of peace on the packaging.
Where to Find It: Peace by Chocolate products are available online and in specialty stores across Canada. This brand’s story and unique flavors make it a must-try.
5. Chocosol – Sustainable and Ethical Chocolate
Chocosol is a Toronto-based brand known for its sustainable, eco-friendly practices. They specialize in stone-ground, small-batch chocolates, using ingredients sourced directly from Indigenous communities in Central and South America. Chocosol’s flavors are often inspired by global tastes, with dark chocolate varieties featuring cacao blends mixed with spices, flowers, and nuts.
Where to Find It: Visit their Toronto shop or find their products at farmers’ markets and health food stores. Chocosol pairs beautifully with the best Canadian coffee brands, as their chocolate bars are intentionally crafted to be enjoyed with a hot beverage.
6. Hummingbird Chocolate – Award-Winning Canadian Cacao
Located in Almonte, Ontario, Hummingbird Chocolate is an award-winning bean-to-bar chocolatier. Known for its meticulous production process, Hummingbird’s bars highlight the unique flavors of each cacao bean’s origin. With flavors like “Fresco Peru” and “Milk Chocolate with Sea Salt,” Hummingbird’s chocolates are sophisticated, delightful, and perfect for chocolate purists.
Where to Find It: Hummingbird’s chocolate bars are available in gourmet shops across Canada and online. For a unique experience, try them at a local café alongside coffee from one of Canada’s best coffee brands.
7. Galerie au Chocolat – Perfect for Gifting
Based in Montreal, Galerie au Chocolat produces chocolates with a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional methods. Their products range from elegant chocolate boxes to cocoa-dusted truffles and chocolate-covered nuts. This brand emphasizes smooth, rich flavors that make for a perfect gift or indulgent treat.
Where to Find It: Galerie au Chocolat is widely available in Canadian supermarkets and gift shops, especially around holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Pair their treats with a local brew for an extra touch.
Enjoy Traditional Canadian Foods and Restaurants with Chocolate
Many traditional Canadian foods and restaurants offer decadent desserts and drinks to satisfy any chocolate craving. Iconic Canadian desserts like Nanaimo bars—a layered treat of chocolate, custard, and coconut—are widely available and often served as a staple dessert in local eateries. BeaverTails, a fried dough treat typically dusted with cinnamon and sugar, sometimes includes chocolate and makes for a quintessential Canadian dessert.
Some restaurants and bakeries have even begun incorporating Canadian chocolate brands into their dishes, giving you the chance to enjoy these sweet flavors as part of a complete dining experience. Pairing chocolate with other traditional Canadian dishes provides a taste of the country’s rich culinary diversity.
Best Canadian Coffee Brands to Pair with Chocolate
No chocolate experience is complete without a great cup of coffee. Canada boasts several exceptional coffee brands that complement chocolate’s rich flavors perfectly. Here are a few to look out for:
- Tim Hortons: A classic choice for Canadians, Tim Hortons’ coffee pairs well with many Canadian chocolate treats, from donuts to Nanaimo bars.
- 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters: Based in Vancouver, this brand offers carefully roasted coffee beans, making it a great match for artisanal chocolates.
- Kicking Horse Coffee: Known for its bold flavors and fair-trade sourcing, Kicking Horse Coffee’s dark roast is a popular choice for chocolate pairings.
Enjoying the best Canadian chocolate brands with a warm cup of coffee from these best Canadian coffee brands will make your experience even more memorable.
Exploring Canada’s Chocolate Scene
Canada’s chocolate scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the country’s cultural influences and commitment to quality. Whether you’re looking for a small, bean-to-bar chocolatier or a historic brand like Purdys or Rogers’, there’s a chocolate for every palate. Pair your treats with coffee, or enjoy them at some of Canada’s traditional Canadian foods and restaurants to experience the full flavors of the country.
