Chuao Chocolatier (pronounced chew-WOW) is the first Venezuelan chocolatier based in the United States and is Southern California’s premier artisan chocolatier. Founded in 2002 by Master Chef Michael Antonorsi, Chuao Chocolatier is on a mission to share joy with the world through deliciously engaging chocolate experiences. Known for culinary creativity, Chuao’s artisan chocolates are crafted with joy, using an exclusive blend of premium, Fair Trade Certified cacao and high-quality ingredients. The company name comes from the legendary cacao-producing region of Chuao, located in central Venezuela. The nomenclature reflects Antonorsi's commitment to both high quality and his Venezuelan family heritage. Chocolate is part of his family roots, as their ancestors once ran a small family farm within the criollo cacao plantation industry. Chuao’s core values as an organization include: self-discovery, brave honesty, grateful giving, creative wow. Our motto is “if it’s not a WOW, it’s not a Chuao”. Antonorsi was named a Top Ten Chocolatier in North America by Dessert Professional Magazine in 2016. Playful flavor combinations are at the heart of Chuao Chocolatier’s deliciously joyful experience. Such flavors have won recognition like the International Chocolate Award - Best Chocolate in the U.S. by FoodandWine.com and sofi Award for best new product in the 'milk and white chocolate' category by the Specialty Food Association! Chuao Chocolatier' s decadent offerings include drinking chocolates, chocolate bars, minibars, bonbons and truffles, and decadent seasonal creations. Today, you can discover Chuao Chocolatier in the United States at retailers including Whole Foods Market, Costco, Ralphs, Wegmans, The Fresh Market, QFC, Harris Teeter, Amazon, as well as fine restaurants & hotels like The Hyatt and Omni Hotels.