COCOA CHOCOLATE BOUTIQUE - WINTHROP ARCADE, CORK.
Who Are They?
COCOA chocolate boutique is the latest venture by award winning chefs & restaurateurs Brendan & Carol Cashman. A chic chocolate shop selling handmade delights, it's only recently opened in Cork's landmark Winthrop Arcade, an Edwardian-era shopping arcade that is widely regarded as the most characterful retail space in Cork city centre.
What are they best known for?
Their tempting selection of handmade chocolates and truffles, presented with flair in a gorgeous, bijoux jewel of a store. It's also a charming place to have coffee, sitting on the French café style chairs in the arcade.
Brendan and Carol were the couple behind Cork's Michelin-rated (and much missed) Augustine's restaurant, famous for their playful, innovative tasting menus.
Brendan has now brought that inventive, experimental approach to chocs & truffles.
How Do They Do It?
By sourcing the best quality chocolate & fresh ingredients, each chocolate is handmade & hand-finished in-house and all are produced in Cork.
Have They Been Successful?
They only opened their doors at Christmas, but COCOA has already become a destination for disciples of the cocoa bean. It's in the perfect location in the charming Winthrop Arcade, a place to sample and linger.
Brendan's handmade chocolates and truffles have also become a bespoke, indulgent treat for weddings and special occasions.
What Is Their Philosophy?
It's simple - to create textures and flavours that last in chocolate lover's memories.
What Does The Future Hold?
Further innovation and experimentation with new flavours, new finishes and ever more daring combinations. Leesiders (and many visitors to our city) have already had a taste of the fine, handmade chocolates that redefine what you can do with cocoa. Now Brendan and Carol want to make more converts.
· Can I Meet The Maker? - Yes, just drop by the shop in the Winthrop Arcade, just opposite the General Post Office on Oliver Plunkett Street, Tuesdays to Saturdays. Brendan, Carol and their staff are more than happy to talk about their creations and it's an elegant, relaxed and fun space. It's Cork's chocolate heaven.
· Are They On Social Media? - Find them at Cocoa By Brendan on facebook - https://www.facebook.com/COCOAbyBrendanCashman/
· And Finally, What's Their Pro-Tip When It Comes to Food, Drink or Entertaining?
Where we can, we should support local producers & handcrafted products, you can't beat the quality & the flavours. And when you support local, you encourage an ecosystem of dependable, quality producers who will always be there for you.