We purchased Zak's chocolates as part of a holiday gift. The online purchase and in-store pickup was seamless. I appreciated the prompt communication from the business when I requested pickup a bit early. I wasn't able to make it during their business hours, but let them know a courier would arrive to do so on my behalf. They immediately let me know when the order was picked up, and even sent a nice thank you. The chocolates themselves were beautiful. We purchased a larger assortment, and I loved the creative flavor options and wide variety of flavors to fit every palate. Our gift recipients gave them rave reviews. Supporting a local artisanal maker is worth the additional cost to me, and knowing the assortment was something that couldn't be found in a Godiva box made it all the more special & unique. We will absolutely be back as these chocolates make unique and delicious gifts. read more

WOW! I drove from Los Angeles to try these chocolates and it was 100% worth it. These chocolates are perfect, not too sweet, melt in my mouth, beautiful presentation and reasonably priced. These chocolates are very high quality and I now have a reason to come back to Scottsdale. The mug is so nice, very high quality. I bought 2 boxes and loved every piece. They are better than most chocolates I buy in Beverly Hills. I'm so happy Zak makes such high quality chocolates. This was the highlight of my trip. read more

It has been 7 years since my last review of Zak's. So many things have happened in that time, the least of which is the pandemic that forced all kinds of changes to so many businesses. In the case of Zak's, their physical storefront has closed but their products remain available on the website for shipping or preorder+pickup at the shop. None of this has reduced the quality of the products at all. Everything is still made by the team of two and they've even expanded their product line to include more varieties and items like a cacao-based rub for grilling that is really tasty on shrimp! Our family favorite is probably the Turtles, which I shouldn't tell anyone about since they already sell out so fast! Any of the bars are excellent examples of the beans from the specific locations: Zak's does not over roast the beans and instead ensures that the unique flavors shine in every bar. Imagine tasting raisins or cherries in a chocolate bar that contains neither of those ingredients! The white chocolate is also amazing. As someone who loves the darker chocolates, I always thought white chocolate was so boring. This one isn't that bleached white color that you have seen before. If they have it in stock, give it a try! Maureen's bonbon creations are likewise unique and cutting-edge, including vegan and dairy-free options. Be sure to enjoy them fresh for the best flavor: there are no preservatives in these things! They get busy during the traditional "chocolate holidays," so be sure to order ahead! Jim and Maureen are wonderful people who are so obviously passionate about their craft that one can't help but be inspired. We've always got at least one bar from Zak's at our house. Visit their site for other local products and partnerships as well. read more

If you're a fan of very fine chocolates this shop is a must! They roast their own beans and create incredibly delicious, beautiful confections. The only other chocolate that comes close is Kollar in Yountville which is also fabulous. read more

This company, by far, has the most delicious and unique chocolate flavors I've ever had! Customer service is top notch and very knowledgeable. They were able to add another couple orders at pickup with a very short wait. I bought some truffles as gifts (and a couple for myself). Both people including myself raved about the flavors and quality of the chocolate. I'll be back again for Birthday and Christmas gifts! read more

I am in LOVE. This is the absolute best chocolate I have ever had in my life. Honestly probably will never eat any chocolate that compares ever. Not only is it art and completely beautiful but the taste is amazing. It's so complex and full of flavor. The combinations of flavor in each piece was perfectly pared. I only tired a little four pack but I will be splurging for the big package on an anniversary or some special occasion in the near future, there's no question about that! Do not let the price scare you away from trying this place. It is worth every single dime!!!!! read more

Zak's Chocolate - The best chocolate of my life! - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

See all

Zak's Chocolate is so amazingly good. I bought the 24 piece assortment plus an extra dark chocolate bar with the messaging, "I Love You" for my girlfriend and WOW. These chocolates are visually stunning. The chocolate itself has an almost indescribably good flavor and the other flavors that complement the chocolate are vivid. The flavors blend so well. Oh and I must mention each chocolate has a wonderfully long finish. The people were very helpful and warm. As soon as I pulled up to their location my purchase was brought right out to me. I had it all put in a gift bag and everything was put together beautifully. My girlfriend loved everything about this experience and will be back. Here chocolate meets art meets flavor. read more

We were dining nearby and happened to see a sign for Zak's. Who wouldn't want to check out some chocolate? So in we went... and wow. I am so glad we did. We were greeted by who I assume is the owner.. he was so nice and welcoming, and told us about their chocolate making process. He then went over the individual pieces and their chocolate bars, answering all questions and giving us great background on all the items. We opted for the 12 piece box so we got to try most of the individual pieces. While they were all great, favorites definitely included the coconut, honey and mocha pieces. On top of the delicious flavor, they are also soooo pretty. A box would be great for a gift or special occasion. We will most certainly be back, and also check our the various events they have from time to time, which are detailed on their website. Check this place out! Update: after returning several times for the amazing chocolate pieces and lovely customer service, we finally got the opportunity to take the 4-hour chocolate making experience class. It was so much fun and so informational! We found out the process from bean to bar and got to sample lots of different chocolate and beans along the way. We even got to try their ice cream and one of their single origin brownies. You get to make liquid chocolate to take home as well as some custom made chocolate discs. Super fun experience and absolutely worth it, I would recommend if you are into dark chocolate. I'll continue to come here way too often :) read more

See all

Zak's chocolate is amazing. The last time I had such good chocolates was when I was in France in 2019. My boyfriend and I got this assortment to split on Valentines Day and it was beautiful, delicious, and so thoughtfully produced. I am definitely going to be a returning customer for holidays, birthdays, and any other celebration where I could bring these chocolates. read more

Zak's Chocolate - 16 piece chocolate assortment - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

My friends at Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company have made many batches of beer with Zak's Cocoa Nibs. I have been excited to try their chocolate for months now. Tonight I came in (not looking at the hours beforehand) and they were closed.. The owners were inside closing shop and saw I had interest of coming into their cafe. Jim and Maureen opened the doors for me! Very cool. I bought a pack of 6 chocolates and was very impressed with their hospitality. I chose their Simply Chocolate, Zak's Caramel, Tropical Blackberry, Mango, and Chocolate Mint. All VERY good and flavorful. If you are a chocolate lover and think chocolate is a vegetable, this place is for you! read more

Zak's Chocolate - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

See all

Placed an order online. When I called to inquire about the order right before Valentine's Day, I was promptly called back. The chocolates were delivered as promised. Beautiful assortment and great customer service! read more

I had just moved from Florida and Wa Ted to send a business partner there a taste of Arizona. I sent Zak's chocolates to this attorney's office and they loved them. She said they were delicious and that the presentation gift box was fabulous and unlike nothing she had seen. Thank you for this great gift from my friends. read more

I just recently placed an order online and picked up curbside. I think I was talking to the owner - he gave me a call letting me know that my order was ready for pick up. The pickup experience was so good too - they usually bring the order out on the table and you pick it from there. The chocolates here are divine and they smelled so so good. I gave them another call just to let them know how good the chocolates smell lol. It's the little things - you get a feeling that they care. I'll be going back for sure. read more

My mother and I came in the morning. It's a little shop with a few tables, a bar area, and a glass case with beautiful artistic chocolates. It was nice and cold in the store (yay a break from 100 degree heat!), so we sat at the bar, ordered a few chocolates to try and a couple of hot chocolates. There were few people in the store, and by the time we sat down, everyone had left. Lucky for us, for about twenty or so minutes, we chatted with one of the owners, Jim. He was very talkative and personable. In regards to the treats - we each tried one of the Ginger Lime and Ginger Tangerine. (Can you tell we like ginger?) They both tasted really nice, but if you are looking for a ginger flavor - I'd suggest the Ginger Lime. The hot chocolates were perfectly chocolatey without being too rich. We bought two containers. All in all, we liked the chocolates and the company (people and business)! Side note: I came across Zak's Chocolate at Carlson Creek Vineyard Tasting Room in Old Town Scottsdale. You can order a chocolate and it acts as a pairing to whatever you're drinking! The Prickly Pear chocolate with the Chardonnay (I believe? It was a white wine.) was the perfect pairing. It amazed me. And - that tasting brought me to this shop! read more

See all

I'm in trouble now! I am completely hooked on the fine chocolate that comes from using just three simple ingredients: roasted cocoa beans, sugar and cocoa butter. This is not like a Hershey Bar that you consume all at once. Just put a single square on your tongue, let it melt there, and enjoy. Depending on where owners Jim and Maureen source the beans from, each bar will have a different taste to it. Though the chocolate may seem expensive at first glance, know that you are paying for quality. If you sign up for their emails, you'll find great events such as their Open House, where they allowed guests to sample a wide variety of chocolates, and give input, rate the types etc. Based on the results from those surveys, Zak's has purchased cocoa beans from the winning chocolate's country (Nicaragua) and will soon be producing another type of delicious chocolate from it. How cool is that to be involved in the process?! If you don't know much about small batch chocolate, come for the $10 tour. Even better, take the $75 chocolate making class like my husband and I took our two boys to. (Note: They are 12 and 15 yrs old. I don't think it's meant for younger kids) So now my whole family makes the trek out from Mesa to enjoy this delicious chocolate! Come check it out. read more

Zak's Chocolate - Adding cocoa beans to the grinder at our chocolate making class. - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

See all

Best. Chocolate. Ever. The passion that this couple has really shines in their amazing selections of chocolates & cocoa powders. If you're a chocolate lover, you really haven't experienced chocolaty goodness until you've visited this place. Make sure to save room for ice cream! read more

Zak's Chocolate - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

A wonderful, tasty treat. Love the exotic flavors. They were order online and pick up back then. Hopefully open for walk in now.

These chocolates are not only delicious but beautiful, as well! There are some unique flavors like Hibiscus Caramel and Earl Gray Lavender. These small batch, handcrafted chocolates are obviously made with a lot of love and passion! read more

Zak's Chocolate - a box of chocolate - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

Talk about fancy chocolate! The selection is somewhat limited in my opinion, but I enjoyed what I tried. I started with the samples. They offer 69%-80%, about six different kinds, all from different countries. The Madagascar was my favorite! I picked two truffles - Ginger Tangerine and Coconut. They both were dark chocolate with a rich ganache center. The former definitely had a stronger ginger flavor than lime. It was nice, but I really enjoyed the Coconut. It was creamy, simple and devine! The service was friendly! read more

Zak's Chocolate - Coconut and Ginger Tangerine - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

The chocolate here is completely and utterly divine. Melt in your mouth, tickle your tastebuds, deliciousness that you cannot imagine. I'd come back again and again for their little bits of chocolate - try their dark chocolate creamy peanut butter magic. Or buy a bar of their smoky dark chocolate from anywhere south of the states. And the brownie.... brought it home, popped it in the microwave for about 12 seconds and wished I had purchased 3 more. SO DAMN good. Get on over there and imbibe in some of the best chocolate around. read more

Excellent caring and service. I was having difficulty completing my online order prior to flying on a trip. I wanted to get some dark chocolate bars for gifts and thought I had missed the window. In desperation I called Zak's and left a message thinking I would never hear back. Jim called me back within 3 minutes and procured my order as we spoke. I had my chocolate bars within the hour. I am much appreciative of Jim's prompt and courteous service and going beyond in reaching out to customers. Thank you. Sam read more

Fast pickup, gave as a gift so can't speak to the taste but can't wait to try myself!

My girlfriend and I have been coming to Zak's for over a year now. I was never hugely into dark chocolate, until I came here and found a whole new world. This is BY FAR the best chocolate place I've ever tried. 5 stars and I will continue to return!! read more

Zak's Chocolate - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

See all

Beautiful and smooth chocolate, but my rating is on flavor. Simply put, some of the worst chocolate that I've ever tasted. Their high rating would be shocking if the rating count wasn't so low. read more

If you are a chocolate connoisseur, Zak's is a MUST try! They make all of their chocolates directly from the cocoa bean. My friend and I attended their 1st Anniversary party/tasting last Friday night and it was a blast! They were sampling chocolates from different regions, like Guatemala, Brazil, etc. It was so cool to taste the different hints of spiciness, earthiness, etc. according to the region that the beans were from. We also sampled their coca bean cold brew that they may start selling soon! It was delicious and was a lot lighter than coffee bean cold brew. It almost tasted like tea with a hint of cocoa...seriously so unique and yum! They have a variety of creative flavors and my absolute favorite is their lavender chocolate. Holy heaven, this one is delicious! Not only are their craft chocolates delicious, they're also GORGEOUS! They have beautiful designs and come in various shapes. They also print out a special label just for your box, since you can hand pick which chocolates you would like to purchase. This adorable, family-owned chocolate shop is a must visit, whether you're just popping in to cure your sweet tooth or looking for a nice gift for a friend or co-worker, you can't go wrong at Zak's! They also offer chocolate-making classes where you can learn the magic behind their craft chocolates! read more

See all

The most flavorable, decadent, delicious, mouthwatering chocolate on the market. I am not one to spend extra for marginally better products but Zak's Chocolate defies any notion of a margin. When the occasion calls for a splurge on a gift as "simple" as a box of chocolates, the beauty of simplicity will shine beyond a million suns when your loved one's tastebuds get a piece of Zak's Chocolate! read more

Zak's Chocolate - 12 piece gift box - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

Not only amazing chocolates you need to have... Jim and his wife are incredible people. Now that's the winning combo of stunning goodies and compassionate humans. Enjoy everyone! Gil and Lydia read more

I love chocolate but I love craft chocolate even more!!! The owners are passionate about their work and it shows with how much they know about their product. We went for a chocolate factory tour and it was pretty amazing to learn about the process and all the work that goes into making chocolate. Being able to walk around and see the machines in action was quite remarkable. We had a chance to try a few different types of chocolate from their traditional dark to their new milk chocolate. Knowing where their beans come from makes it even better. Some of my favorite chocolates were the marshmallow and the cup o' joe. They used Peixoto's coffee to make the chocolates infused with coffee. It was delectable and a perfect blend. They also make their marshmallow and caramel from scratch. So if you love buying locally and supporting small businesses, come on over and check this place out. You won't be disappointed. read more

See all

Wow. We don't want to reveal too much because you'll just need to stop, taste, see, and meet the two folks running the place. They make their own chocolate, from the bean. There's $10 tours or $75/person make your own chocolate. The chocolates are beautiful and decadent which you'll find just from the samples but buy a bar so you can enjoy it afterwards too! Missy grabbed the hibiscus caramel- omg yummy made from crushed hibiscus leaf. And the turtles look like turtles! Ha! read more

Zak's Chocolate - Handmade from the cocoa bean Truffles anyone? - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

I have not attended an event like this before, nor have i experienced the taste of craft chocolate...let me just say WOW!!!! I attended the first anniversary party last night and cannot express how amazing the chocolate tastes. I can't imagine buying a Hershey's bar after experiencing how magical the craft chocolate tastes. The owners were truly informative about the beginning and end process. It is hard work that takes time and dedication to create such wonderful tasting desserts. Thank you for hosting this event, I will be recommending this tour to all friends and family! read more

See all

Came in to try Zak's marshmallows and Zak's chocolate ice cream (made with its Guatemala chocolate), but found both were out of stock-- the corn-free marshmallows will return sometime in March, while the ice cream will be ready for purchase at the store in "a couple of days." (It's always in stock at Super Chunk in Old Town Scottsdale, where it is made, owner Jim Elitzak told me.) Zak's truffles and chocolates case was full of beautiful chocolaty gems [1], but I wanted something else... Ah, perhaps my first foray into the brownies? Are they available today? Why, yes! Well, I'll have that and a cup of your Mocha [2], please! I've had Zak's Mocha at downtown Chandler's Peixoto Coffee before, but this is the first time I've ordered it here, and yes, it's made with Peixoto's La Famiglia coffee. I immediately detected cherry notes in the mocha and asked Jim if the notes I tasted came from the chocolate used, or from the coffee, and he said it would be from the former. Zak's uses a blend of chocolates for its mochas and a "house blend" for its truffles and chocolates gorgeously-displayed in the shop's chocolate case. And how were the brownies? They were magnificent, and oh, so gooey! The Belize had a slightly tart flavor, but not as tangy and/or fruity as the other two. It definitely filled my dark chocolate craving! The Madagascar brownie was tarter (more tart) than the Belize and Guatemala Lachua. The brownie flight flyer stated that the GL has "deep fruity notes." It had a more-rounded flavor profile than the Madagascar, which was slightly tarter. I'd say that if you're looking for a blend of tart and chocolate, then the Guatemala Lachua is your brownie. While I enjoyed all three, I'd say my favorites were the Belize and the GL, with Belize being my top fave. I found myself loving the dark chocolate focus of the Belize, while the other two AND the mocha featured acidic notes. I think I'll order a pour over next time I order a brownie flight so as not to overwhelm my tastebuds with piquant notes! Truly enjoyed this afternoon's experience-- thanks to Jim and wife Maureen's chocolate shop! [1] Chocolates and truffles are now $2.50, tax included, each! Menu reads: 4 ct. box= $10, 6 ct. box= $15, 12 ct. box= $29.50 8 ct. box= $20, 12 ct. box= $30, 24 ct. box= $59 Did not notice how much the Turtles cost now, so cannot report, sorry! [2] $5 (tax included) for a tiny cup of mocha? Ouch! I don't even think the cup I drank from contained 8 oz. Looked more like 6, but I could be mistaken... A small (8 oz.) Mocha at Peixoto, which used to feature Zak's chocolate, but is now showcasing another local chocolatier, is about the same price, if you factor in taxes, but add another dollar and get double the amount, or 16 oz. Hmm... Guess I'll just make the trek out to Chandler if I run out of my Peixoto coffee supply at home. I'm thinking the fact that Zak's is chocolate-centric and not really a coffee shop may explain the high price of coffee here. Something different I MAY try next time is Zak's Shakerato-- an iced coffee beverage that is made using a cocktail shaker. Something to look forward to in the warmer months coming up! read more

See all

Bought Christmas chocolates for all of my family members from here. Great service and very mindful of covid-19. So happy to support such a great small business in these difficult times! read more

These chocolates are way too overpriced and the minute I walked in with my service dog the guy was a total jerk to me and asked me to leave I told him my dog was a service dog and he says OK well I have to tell you that your dog can't be in here unless it's a service dog and it totally ruined the entire experience he was awful why would I support someone who treated me that way the minute I first walked in the door as a new customer three dollars for a chocolate the size of my thumb and abuse the minute I walk in the door absolutely not I will not support this business Your response below, doesn't excuse how rude he was and the awful experience! They didn't even say hello when i walked in, he just looked at me in disgust and stared....chocolate was in one small glass case, like the counters you see at a jewelry store, NOT A FOOD PLACE, and the case was the size of typical office desk....it was as though they just moved on & had one tiny display for a few chocolates. Like i said won't step foot in this awful unfriendly place again!! read more

Well I have to say that I've found one of Scottsdale's true gems. If you like chocolate, there is absolutely zero reason to go anywhere else. The owners are friendly, knowledgeable and so willing to share their knowledge. Onto the the chocolate. Their homemade chocolates are to die for. They make single origin chocolate bars that showcase cacao nibs from different counties. They also make their own single origin cocoa powders. And they have a brownie flight which allows you to taste how each cocoa powder tastes. And don't skip the rich hot chocolate and cafe mocha. Zak's is truly a unique and wonderful place. Make sure you note their hours, they are only open Wed-Sat most weeks. read more

Beautifully designed , handcrafted chocolate, quality taste and excellent service. Thank you, Mr and Mrs Zak! Happy holidays!

I fell in love with this place. Surprised my boyfriend with the 4-hr chocolate making experience. Worth every penny! Learned how chocolate is harvested, dried, the buying process, as well as all the steps to actually make chocolate. The owner is very passionate and definitely held our interest the whole time. We got plenty of samples and got to make our own batch of chocolate and chocolate disks to take home. The couple who runs this shop have a beautiful story and I feel so happy to have heard it from their own mouths. They really put all of their hearts and souls into their chocolate. Their shop is super cute inside and I love the way their chocolate tastes. We will be back. read more

See all

The owner is delightful. Picked up some chocolates last minute and she was extremely accommodating and kind. The chocolates here are devine. Check out this hidden gem! read more

For the most part in life you get what you pay for and I can honestly say I have never had such delicious chocolate in all my travels. Custom made in house from selected cocoa around the world, this husband and wife team are on their game. The presentation is outstanding and would make a great gift for any corporate business person, spouse or family member. And the shop is adorable. read more

A friend sent us a box of truffles to cheer us up while we're dealing with some things and are away from home. It'll take a while to get through the box because these truffles are so flavorful you want to savor whichever one you picked. They're mini works of art, to look at and to eat. The box arrived nicely packaged. I got tracking information and someone even called to make sure I'd received the delivery. A real treat for any chocolate lover! read more

We came all the way from Tucson and we were not disappointed. It's a very clean shop which is important to me. Customer service was awesome and when we got home we tasted the brownies and some chocolate and it was absolutely delicious. We will come back when we are in town. Take the time to stop by the shop you will not be disappointed. read more