Kakawa Chocolate House: Experience Artisan Chocolate in Santa Fe

Great experience, everyone was very friendly and helpful. I got the flight of cocoa tastings with whipped cream on the side. Interesting flavors. Would recommend to anyone in the area. Plenty of parking.

My goodness, heaven is only a stop away. There were so many options to choose from. The staff is attentive and makes sure you taste samples of each flavor prior to your purchase. The chocolate elixir drinks were fantastic. Creamy, smooth chocolate topped with homemade whipped cream is a perfect compliment. We also tasted about 8 different chocolate candies made in house and all were superb. We also tasted an frozen chocolate drink that was a close reminder of a frappuccino and it did not disappoint. I highly recommend this establishment anytime of the year (spring, summer, fall or winter). Kudos to the owner and staff for great product, service and execution.

This place spoils you with its chocolates - the chili chocolate was bold, strong, and delicious, while the range overall was full of interesting flavors. I tried the chocolate ice cream too; tasty, though a bit too chocolatey for me. The store itself is a treat: done up in turquoise blue, with wispy curtains and sprigs of dried lavender adding dreamy touches. The cups they serve chocolate in are charming. If you buy chocolates, they come wrapped in pretty boxes, making them perfect little gifts. Put this place on your list.

Located in a 1940s adobe house, just a short walk from the New Mexico State Capitol, Kakawa Chocolate House is far more than a standard candy shop. It functions as a "chocolate anthropology" center, specializing in the re-creation of historical drinking chocolate elixirs from around the world. The Specialty: Chocolate Elixirs The heart of the Kakawa experience is the Drinking Elixir. Served in traditional 3-ounce Oaxacan blue-and-white ceramic cups, these are thick, potent brews that "time travel" through chocolate’s 3,500-year history. Mesoamerican/Mayan Elixirs: These are water-based, low in sugar (or unsweetened), and highly spiced. The Mayan Full Spice is a standout, featuring 16 different herbs, nuts, and chiles. Historic European Elixirs: Based on recipes from the 1600s–1700s, these are richer and creamier. The 1775 Marie Antoinette (with orange blossom and cinnamon) or the 1666 Italian Citrus offer a sweeter, more aromatic profile. Colonial American: They even offer a 1790s Jeffersonian elixir based on Thomas Jefferson's personal recipe, which includes hints of nutmeg and vanilla. Handcrafted Confections While the elixirs draw the crowds, their small-batch chocolates are equally refined. They prioritize organic, local, and fair-trade ingredients. Signature Truffles: Their most famous is the Goat Cheese & Sage truffle—a savory-sweet combination that has become a local legend. Agave Caramels: Instead of corn syrup, they use agave nectar. Try the Piñon Caramel for a taste of the high desert or the Red Chile Caramel for a slow, smoky heat. Seasonal Items: In 2025, they partnered with the Kiwanis Club for the Zozobra 101 celebration, creating limited-edition apricot-chile truffles to commemorate the burning of "Old Man Gloom." The Tasting Experience The shop is small and intimate, often smelling of roasting cacao and spices. Sampling: One of the best features of Kakawa is their generosity with samples. You can taste several elixirs before committing to a full cup. Atmosphere: The interior features traditional New Mexican vigas (ceiling beams) and a kiva fireplace, providing a cozy, authentic Santa Fe vibe. Dietary Friendly: They are exceptionally accommodating for dietary needs; almost all their chocolates are gluten-free, and they offer a robust selection of dairy-free and vegan elixirs and truffles. The Verdict Go if: You are a "chocolate nerd" or history buff looking for a unique, sensory experience. It is a perfect afternoon stop for a sophisticated pick-me-up. Skip if: You are looking for a massive, sugary "milkshake-style" hot chocolate or a budget-friendly snack (a small cup of elixir and a few truffles will easily run $15–$25). Quick Info Hours: Monday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Pro Tip: If you can’t decide, order an Elixir Flight to try three different historical eras at once.

Easily one of my favorite highlights of my whole trip, so much so I came back twice! Very bold flavors. I think If you love chocolate, its hard to make a wrong choice here. Everyone here was so generous as well. I wish I couldve brought home a sample of everything. I highly recommend stopping in to sample an elixir if you get the chance :)

Very happy I stopped by! Workers were very friendly and passionate about chocolate. I was able to try some of the sipping chocolates before deciding which I’d like. Definitely felt like a fancy treat. The truffles we bought were all amazing and tasted super rich. They had very interesting flavors as well like piñón truffle and horchata truffle.

The hot chocolate was unique and customizable in terms of intensity. I would have preferred a dairy option rather than almond milk. It’s a treat! $20 for 2 cups.

Ute shop on the outskirts of downtown. They offer samples to allow you to explore the flavor profiles. We tried a flight to sample 4 ($16 for 4 small tastings). We enjoyed the variety!