As someone who has traveled to Europe many times and tried a variety of local chocolatiers there, the huge stream of 5-star reviews (and finding out the owners were French) had me ecstatic. However, my experience was disappointing. The two girls in the shop were almost asleep. One was barely conscious, the other was trying to make up for her. The chocolates looked very interesting, but they were rather dull-looking and often hard to differentiate because the display case had no lights. Add to this the already dim lighting of the store and that it was an overcast day outside, and it felt like trying to buy chocolates in an old library. As for the chocolates themselves, they did not taste like French/European chocolates at all; they had the very standard American chocolate taste-that is, Hershey-like and with no deep resounding real cacao flavor that is like bass from a speaker on your tongue. That's what real European chocolate tastes like. This was just sugar, sugar, sugar, and cute designs. Maybe they are using cheaper American ingredients rather than importing higher quality ones? No point in having the Eiffel Tower on your logo if you wouldn't be able to keep this store open in France. But the best part: the girl at the counter didn't let me try anything other than the three pre-selected types of bon bons on the sample tray! How cheap can you get? I've never had any chocolatier deny a sample of a simple truffle, especially not one with the gall to charge $3 per chocolate in a tiny town like Carp! $35 for a dozen, just to not even be able to try what you are putting in the box? You must be joking. Anyways, onto trying to find another good chocolatier in the 805... read more

Some of the finest, highest quality, and most exquisite chocolates in all of Santa Barbara, and even California. Jean-Michel is a chocolate virtuoso. My goal is try to every single chocolate, at least one time (if not several times over). I feel as though time stands still when I am in his shop and in particular when I am having my chocolate experience. I savor every bite and feel an unexplanable euphoria of flavors in my mouth and pleasure coursing through my veins. If you love small batch, hand-made, top quality and innovative marriage of flavors of chocolates....this is the place you should make your pilgrimage to. Get the chocolates in a bag to save a few dollars if you are getting them for yourself, otherwise they have different sized boxes to give as a gift. read more

Fantastic chocolate with great variety. Live on the east coast and can even say it travels from coast to coast!

We stopped in for truffles, with a preference for the real thing: dark, creamy and not overly sweet. Score! We received a sampling of four of their seven or so dark ones, and they were smooth and wonderful. The flavored ones, such as Ginger / Lemon and Curry / Coconut, really popped - strong flavor that complimented the chocolate very nicely. Love it! read more

We are so lucky to have a genuine French Chocolatier such as Jean-Michel; who has blessed us with the most creative and delicious chocolates you will ever try! I've been here many times when they were located in Santa Barbara, but now I have to travel to Carpinteria; which is probably better since it prevents me from over-indulging. You can expect to find a variety of chocolates offered here, such as Bon Bons, French chocolate truffles, soft caramels, and their monthly specials. They also offer custom made chocolates for special events, gift boxes and gift baskets. The French Chocolate Truffles come in a range of flavors such as Ginger/Lemon, Curry/Coconut, Champagne, Sichuan Pepper/Orange, Coffee, and Cardamom. So many good flavors! The hardest part is narrowing it down, but my suggestion would be to start with a 6-piece gift box. I just found out they offer a 6-piece CBD box (20mg) which consists of a Passion Fruit Caramel. I've never tried CBD, but I may have to try this because everyone knows Passion Fruit is my favorite flavor of all time lol. The flavors of Bon Bons are endless, but to narrow it down; my favorites are the French Bisous (red lips). This is made with a dark milk chocolate ganache flavored with a tangerine liquor, and covered with white chocolate. Another favorite and most popular is the Buddha Beauties. This is a well detailed chocolate in the form of a cute little buddha. He is surrounded by dark chocolate and filled with the most delightful salted, soft caramel that oozes into your mouth as you bite into it. Customer service is always warm and friendly here. Overall, a must bookmark for the chocolate lovers out there! read more

Chocolats du Calibressan - Avocado filling made special for the Avocado Festival. It was soooo good!! - Desserts Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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The candy was remarkable. The service was pleasant, it was my 1st time there and she was very helpful. I liked the Judah dark chocolate, and the red lips dark chocolate. The truffles were light and scrumptious. The ambiance feel was delicate and fancy. I liked the chocolate store I'll be coming back. read more

Chocolats du Calibressan - Desserts Near Me - Carpinteria, California

Jill and Jean Michel are the sweetest couple you could ever meet! Dedicated to their craft, the boutique is a time travel to France and the chocolates are simply to die for! Merci! read more

I 1st met Jill and Jean Mickel at Chocolats du CaliBressean Shoppe in Carpinteria when driving the Carp Shuttle for the special 1st Friday event. So my Love of Chocolate and their unique approach to Chocolats I quickly became a fan and a member of the Chocolate club! Kinda like a Wine club but with Chocolate When Jean Mickel became a US citizen he and Jill threw a Party complete with the Hot Dog guy Bill's All American Hot Dog cart. Oh what a Great Day! We can get our Chocolate fix in many ways and this is a Unique Chocolat experience. And I highly recommend it! Ronnie S read more

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Perfect chocolate for someone who appreciates the details and incredible flavors. I always recommend this shop to people looking for something special. read more

My guy brought home to me a box of chocolates from this place for Valentine's Day. Wow WOw WOW!!! Amazing. Each piece (except maybe one or two) tasted absolutely delicious!! They are crafted so well too. The flavors are amazing. My favorite, Passionfruit filled chocolate truffle. If in the area, you MUST check this place out. I wish they were closer to where we live. But then again, I don't because then we'd be there too often. :) read more

Chocolats du Calibressan - Desserts Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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Ah, chocolate -- one of life's simple pleasures. Whether you like it dark, milk, or white, there is something so satisfying and decadent about enjoying some chocolate. Chocolats du Calibressan is easily accessable off the 101 freeway in Carpinteria in an industrial park. Don't let the exterior appearance deter you from entering into the wonderful world of chocolate creations by French Chocolatier Chef Jean-Michel Carré. Upon entering their chocolaterie, a vision of flavor and excellence, one's eyes & senses will be stimulated by the amazing sights within the cases, and gracing displays. The appearance of their chocolates are some of the most creative and unique I've seen. The variety of flavorings are extremely extensive and creative as well. The inviting and intoxicating aroma of warm chocolate permeated the air. Behind the counter, through a small window can see a glimpse of the chocolate creation chamber with the Master Chocolatier at work. We saw the Chef busily preparing a fresh batch of confections to replenish his quickly disappearing treats. At this time, to ensure the safety of customers and staff, only four customers are allowed inside the store at any given time. Masks are required for entry. The staff ensures no chocolate product is touched by a bare hand. One may select from individual handmade truffles, bonbons, original & custom chocolate creations, as well as boxed sets and gift baskets -- shipping is available. They also offer a variety of pre-packaged items such as hot chocolate, chocolate covered fruits and nuts, chocolate sauce for topping one's favorite desserts or pleasures, and oh so much more! You can't buy happiness, but you can buy chocolate! read more

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The truth is I cannot recommend this place enough. Every single time we pass through this area we stop and grab and few chocolates. And every single time we are delighted with our choices. So rich. So velvety. So chocolatey! Our favorite this time was the "Mother's Day Special" chocolate, but everything is so yummy - you can't go wrong with any selection. read more

If you want chocolates that taste like magic - this is your place. They offer a wide variety of tastes and types, so even the pickiest of palates will be satisfied. We are so lucky to have these treats made right here in Carpinteria! read more

This dynamic duo, from France, creates incredible bites of chocolate. She's out front and very cheerful and helpful. He's in back creating both staples and specials. Some people simply can not resist eating your full supply, so be careful read more

I have high expectations when it comes to expensive chocolate, and this did not disappoint! I received a small box as a gift years ago and have been purchasing the chocolate since. Everything I've tried has been delicious, but my favorite is probably the Earl grey dark. It's so special. My daughter loves the dark caramel. My husband loves it all. The box is lovely and delivery is a breeze if you ever need to send a gift to a friend! read more

The smell of chocolate fills your nose once you open the door. It immediately puts you in a happy mood and will make you smile. The tiny shop is filled with confections that you will not know what to get. You will crouch down at the candy counter and you will want to read all the candy descriptions. Every piece is unique and different. The chocolate are works of art and are absolutely beautiful. If you get this is a gift, consider yourself blessed to know that someone took the time to pick the box out for you. Jean Michel and his wife Jill put their heart and soul into these chocolates and you can see and taste it. They are great people and a wonderful asset to the Carpinteria community. You need a special order, Jean Michel will make it custom. One visit will have you hooked and if you are a chocolate lover like me, you will settle of no less. read more

Chocolats du Calibressan - Me and Jean Michel! Master chocolatier! - Desserts Near Me - Carpinteria, California

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We had visited the Santa Barbara store a couple of years ago, but thanks to Covid (I'm assuming), they closed that location. Nevertheless, we still love their chocolate, and we knew there was main store in Carpenteria, although we had never been to it. On the last leg of our very recent road trip, we finally descended upon the Carpenteria Chocolats du Calibressan. We bought a nice assortment of chocolates, ranging from fruit infused to caramel, bon bons to truffles. To be honest, we haven't eaten them yet, but we know from past experience, they are outstanding. We look forward to tasting them soon because they are the highest quality chocolates. read more

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Best boutique chocolates in Tri-Counties, and beautifully hand crafted. It is my go-to for sweet gifts.

So. Good. The quality of these chocolates is something I've struggled to find for the last few years - even in Belgium! The flavors are really fun & creative, and the chocolates are just as beautiful as they are tasty. The packaging is really nice, and I particularly appreciated the little pamphlet accompanying my box of chocolates so I could remember what flavor I was getting with each piece. A real treat! read more

A sweet birthday stop with good friends. These French chocolates are simply incredible: curry/coconut, champagne, Sichuan pepper/orange, balsamic, geranium, dark chocolate/lemoncello, earl gray, etc. Located in a small business park loaded with worthy stops: Rincon Mtn Winery, Brew Lab, Carpinteria Wine ship and more. read more

Chocolats du Calibressan - Chocolates galore - Desserts Near Me - Carpinteria, California

During the Avocado Festival, we came upon their booth and could not pass up buying a box of their Avocado themed chocolates. They were carefully presented in a box with a bow. I opened the pretty box, and the chocolates looked delicious. They had a sea salt sprinkled on top and I knew just from looking at it that I was going to like it. Once I bit into it, I didn't just like it... I fell in love with it. It was so creamy and flavorful, and the sea salt brought it to another level... I noticed that the store is located in Carpinteria. Now, every time I got to Carpinteria, I am going to visit the store! What a gem to find since I go to Carpinteria often and never knew about these exquisite chocolates! read more

This review is related to an online order I placed through Zen by Cat (for this company's chocolates) for Valentine's Day. The chocolates I received were presented in a simple, but elegant box and were well packed. Nothing was broken and the box traveled from California to Oklahoma. The chocolates we received were soooo delicious and very high quality. Beautiful designs - definitely worth the cost. My husband was very impressed with his gift and made sure to savor each one. I will definitely be buying from this chocolatier again. read more

I moved in across the street from here about a year ago. They probably think I'm crazy for how many times I've walked across the street after lunch to get a their milk chocolate bar with candied almonds. These guys know how to keep a chocolate lover (or addict?) coming back for more! read more

Since I was in the area for some mead, I ended up visiting this place afterwards for chocolate! The store is very small, but the selection is rather large. By itself, each piece of chocolate costs $1.95 (roughly $2 each). There are options to buy them decorated into a box for certain prices based on the number of pieces or you can buy at least 12 pieces for an undecorated box - as told by an employee there. Since we went for Easter, there were some chocolate items geared towards Easter such as eggs and even a rooster. The free sample of the day was strawberry cube-iliscious: soft cocoa dusted strawberry caramel chocolate cubes. Nice hint of bitterness on the outside and the inside is a soft caramel tasting like a strawberry. Their selections contain bon bons, soft caramels, and etc. I'm not a huge caramel fan, but I am surprised at their caramel. It's soft, doesn't stick, melty, and not overly sweet. In total, we splurged and ended up getting the following: My personal favorites were: soft caramel types [passion fruit, pineapple] bonbons type [noisetier, calibressan, la arcada turtle, bourguignon]. I liked the bourguignon, passion fruit, and pineapple due to the fruity taste it was paired with. The noisetier's hazelnuts were nicely roasted. The calibressan's limoncello liquer was nice. The turtle was just pleasing to bite into. Ambivalent on: Soft caramel type [buddha beauty, special occasion] Truffle type [ginger/lemon]; bonbons type [rocher]. The rocher was very similar to a ferrero rocher so I didn't think it was anything special. The truffle wasn't bad, but it paled in comparison to say a passion fruit one. The buddha, while pleasing to look at, wasn't too different to any salted caramel one can find elsewhere - same as special occasion. While worth a try, I wouldn't go back for: soft caramel type [balsamic]; truffles type [curry/coconut, champagne]; bonbon type - [tahitien, lotus]. These ones were either too bizarre or just not to our taste. For example, balsamic was peculiar, but I cannot recommend it to a normal person. The curry/coconut, the curry was overpowering (not surprised). The lotus was very 'nature'-like which takes a special person to really like it. All in all, it was pricey, but I do plan to go back to try some other ones as well as revisiting some I've had. These are some nice chocolates and I wouldn't mind buying them as a treat once in a while. read more

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If perfection in chocolate exists, it's here. Jean Michel is a magician in his creations! I have never had better chocolate in my life. You will not go wrong here, no matter what you order!!! read more

I poked inside their location on State St. in Santa Barbara, but never had a chance to try their chocolates, although the presentation was always beautiful. While attending the Carpinteria Avocado Festival, we got the chance to try their chocolates. The Avocado truffles were heavenly, they melted in our mouths (too fast). Nice, lush, soft. With a sea salt hint on top. My only complaint is that their products are on the expensive. But if you need to indulge, treat yourself, this is a great place to shop at. A nice little treat, good quality can never hurt. read more

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Delicious with great selection I have never been disappointed with my selections. Highly recommended if you are a Chocolate Lover!!!'

I ordered have ordered chocolates from this chocolatier many times. For a friend getting a liver transplant in New York, for myself, for my mother-in-law's 98th Birthday, for Valentine's Day, Easter, in person, on-line... Jean Michel never disappoints. The packaging and shipping is so pristine and perfect... the chocolates the best... *chef's kiss* read more

Tried this chocolate the first time at the avocado festival. The only flavor they had was avocado. The filling did not taste good at all, however the dark chocolate did seem to be a good quality chocolate. read more

We came to this spot with the intention to go to BrewLab and were seduced by the aroma of chocolate. Incredible. Get the Buddha with the belly full of chocolately goodness, pineapple with (duh)pineapple, and the ridiculous turtle. Everything here will melt your face off. They even have a champagne and chocolate night coming up. Super rich and tasty. Can't wait to visit again! read more

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It just keeps getting better & better! BEST chocolates in town & lots to choose from.....Don't miss out on this shop while in town......you'll regret it! read more

Hidden in an industrial building near the freeway, Chocolats du Calibressan is AMAZING. While it is always worth tasking the sample chocolate of the day, there are only three words you need to know to have an extraordinary culinary experience.... Buddas Turtles Lips Made on the premisis, everything is really good but these three are unbelievable!!!!! Is it a bit expensive? Yes. Is it by far the best chocolate available within 50 miles? Yes. Do I buy gifts there every time I am in Carpinteria? Yes. read more

"A true chocolate lover finds ways to accommodate his passion and make it work with his lifestyle. One key, not just to keeping weight down and staying guilt-free, but also to keeping taste buds sharp (essential for the professionals who evaluate new products as well as judge recipes), is being discriminating." ~ Julie Davis, Los Angeles Times "My therapist told me the way to achieve true inner peace is to finish what I start. So far today, I have finished 2 bags of M&M's and a chocolate cake. I feel better already." ~ Dave Barry Not sure if M & M's are really discriminating, but this chocolate shop is. And perfect for stopping in on way back from Santa Barbara as it is located right off the 101 with easy on/off access. Plus it is located next to Carpinteria Wine Company! Chocolate and wine...great combo :) The wine and driving on freeway part, not so much. After enjoying hitting the SB location of this local shop, we stopped at the Carpinteria location to pick up a box of 12. Little Buddha Beauty caramel, geranium bob bon, Tanzania single origin dark chocolate, Dark chocolate with balsamic ganache, cinnamon dark chocolate, hazelnut chocolate and a wonderful dark chocolate mint all stowed away home in our car. Only a few survived the trip and those didn't last long upon arrival :) You could see jean Michel (who located in California from France because of his wife) preparing another batch of sweet goodness in the back. The only item that was not a success for me was the Champagne truffle (too much champagne flavor, not enough chocolate) but I loved his other wonderful creations. Highly recommended. read more

Super expensive, but super worth it! I came here the first time with a group, and for $20, Jean-Michel and his wife (whose name I can't remember, but who is lovely!) gave us a champagne and chocolate tasting and also explained how the chocolate-making process worked. I've been back several times (both to this store and the one in Santa Barbara) to introduce people to the chocolate and to buy gifts to send back home to my family in North Carolina. The variety of chocolates available is pretty incredible, and there's also a seasonal special chocolate that you can buy until they're gone. The staff at the shop in SB is kind of aloof, and as such, I much prefer the location in Carpinteria. Definitely give the salted caramel Buddhas a try. Decadent and delicious! The only one I've tried and not liked is the balsamic caramel. I'm sure it's great for some people, but it just wasn't my taste. read more

Chocolats du Calibressan - Assorted chocolates - Desserts Near Me - Carpinteria, California

Have been enjoying this for years! My new favorite is what they call soft caramel, but I call liquid gold. Absolutely light, delicious, perfect little bites. Worth every penny. Buddha Beauty is my new favorite. Let it slowly melt in your mouth and enjoy the flavor and sensation for the next hour. Their chocolates should NEVER be consumed in a hurry, you'll miss the whole experience. Truly, it's meant to be enjoyed sitting down while relaxing. I guess the best way to explain it might be like this, it should take just as long to enjoy one as it might take them to make it. Another favorite is the Cocotier, the flavors of coconut are subtle and light. Unlike mass produced chocolates which feel heavier and very processed with preservatives. Kids - will enjoy flavors, but may not understand or appreciate what they are experiencing. Very young kids, toddlers would probably actually be able to appreciate each ingredient as their palates are still developing. Small tastes though, not the whole piece. Older Adults - who may have sensitive , mouths, teeth or dentures will LOVE because these melt in your mouth and are not sticky. Perfect way for them to keep enjoying the little pleasures in life without having to worry about managing the bite. read more

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gourmet chocolate at its finest! They have an amazing selection, and the chocolates are so pretty you don't want to eat them. The staff is very friendly and as soon as you come in, you are greeted with a chocolate that is heavenly! The chocolates are $1.75 each but the artistry that went into creating them totally makes them worth every penny. The selection is between 15-20 types of chocolates and truffles, and each is unique as the next. Most are painted so delicately, that you want to take pictures of it and not eat a bite. The different varieties of chocolate is vast and if you can't decide on anything they offer an excellent selection of pre-made gift sets that are beautifully wrapped and ready to gift. All chocolate lovers should stop by when in Carpinteria! read more

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Very cool hand made chocolates with some very unique flavor combinations. Things such as balsamic vinegar chocolate and tangerine chocolate. My favorite is the white chocolate passion fruit. read more

Hidden in an industrial section of Carpinteria, Chocolats du Calibressan is a totally unique chocolate purveyor. I say purveyor because seller sounds so pedestrian. The chocolates look beautiful and taste even better than they look. And the chocolatier Jean-Michel creates the most unique and surprising flavors. He supports local events by creating candies to complement the events. And when you meet him, you can tell that he loves what he does and is proud of his creations. Yes, they're expensive, but hey, you get to practice your crappy French with Jean-Michel!, and he's a good sport about it. Bonus: other fabulous places are now right by the store too, so you can get a full meal to go with your chocolates if you want. read more

My friend and I drove up there on Saturday to purchase some mother's day chocolates. My only two negatives are: 1. the cost - holy moly it's pricey, but I know this is an indulgence and everything is made by hand. The chocolate seems to be a high quality. It's a chocolate that after you've finished it, you don't have a nasty sugary after taste. Guess I've never had fine chocolate before! You get what you pay for. Honestly. 2. The shop in Carp is small - it got really busy really fast, and we were all standing over each other. Wear deodorant because you WILL get to know your neighbors (hahaha). Since the chocolates are so pricey, if you pick your own it will take some time. Bring your patience. But these negatives are so small that they don't detract me from any stars. There was more than enough parking, it didn't smell overwhelmingly like chocolate. The shop owner was a nice gentleman... focused. The other person assisting didn't seem to know the chocolates. Once Jean came out from the back, it was a thorough explanation for each piece on the shelf. There are also different choices on how you can box and present your candies - at an additional price, or you can buy pre-wrapped, pre-packaged. I know there was at least one negative reviewer on here mentioning that the store owner was rude towards their children... it just didn't seem like the place to bring your kids. It seemed more like an art gallery for your palette :) read more

Absolutely, hands down, the best chocolaterie in the Santa Barbara/Carpinteria area. I have visited other chocolate places in the past (Chocolate Maya and several throughout California/Nevada) and they don't even come close! The owners are super cute and so nice and offer samples to guests when you walk in. It's like every piece is a masterpiece! The way Jean-Michele mixes the flavors into the truffles/bon bons and how they literally melt in your mouth is sooooooo worth every penny! Curry and coconut? Yes please! A little sea salt in my truffle? Yes please! A "French Bisous"? OMG, yes! How about a little Sichuan Pepper and Orange zest? Yum! They are in a little office-type building right off the freeway (where you wouldn't expect) but again, so worth the trip! I'm a huge foodie and chocolate lover and Chocolat du Calibressan is one of the best, if not the best. You won't be sorry you stopped by.... but you may be sorry you didn't stop by sooner ;). A true gem and so happy I live so close =) read more