Where to Buy Local Chocolate in Washington D.C.?
The History of Chocolate and Valentine’s Day
Chocolate’s love story begins long before Valentine’s Day. The ancient Maya and Aztecs in Mesoamerica prized cacao as a sacred and energizing drink. When cacao reached Europe in the 16th century, it became associated with luxury, romance, and aphrodisiac qualities among the elite.
Valentine’s Day traces back to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest believed to have secretly performed marriages when they were banned. By the Middle Ages, February 14 became linked with courtly love in England and France.
The connection between chocolate and Valentine’s Day strengthened in the 19th century. In 1861, Richard Cadbury introduced heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, transforming chocolate into a symbolic and giftable expression of love.
Since then, chocolate has become one of the most popular Valentine’s Day gifts worldwide.
Local Chocolate Shops
Discover spots for chocolates, truffles, caramels, and other sweet treats across Washington, D.C.
Arcay Chocolates (Georgetown)
Address: 3211 O Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: (239) 961-8695
Website: arcaychocolates.com
Hours:
Mon–Fri 11AM–5PM
Sat 11AM–6PM
Sun 11AM–4PM
The Capital Candy Jar (Capitol Hill)
Address: 201 15th Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: (571) 293-0719
Website: capitalcandyjar.com
Hours:
Tue–Sun 12PM–7PM
Chocolate Chocolate (Downtown / Dupont Circle)
Address: 1130 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 466-2190
Website: chocolatedc.com
Hours:
Mon–Fri 11AM–5PM (closed weekends)
House of Chocolate (Downtown)
Address: 716 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202) 737-5200
Website: dchouseofchocolate.com
Hours:
Mon–Sun (varies by season, check website)
Kilwins Ice Cream, Chocolate, and Fudge (Waterfront / Navy Yard)
Address: 663 Water Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Phone: (202) 464-0024
Website: kilwins.com
Hours:
Daily 11AM–10PM (Fri–Sat to 11PM)
Found a chocolate spot we missed? Share your sweet discoveries in the comments!
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