If you’ve spent any time at the Clement Street Farmer’s Market, and you like chocolate (who doesn’t?), then you have probably sampled some Jade Chocolates. And if you haven’t, you’re missing out.
Jade Chocolates has been around for 8 years, and has won awards for its chocolates and confections that blend teas and spices from Asia and the Pacific Islands. The popular Genmai bar blends in roasted brown rice mixed with jasmine tea (and also comes as little chocolate Buddhas!), and the Dragon’s Breath bar features smokey lapsang souchang tea, roasted sesame, and red chili. Their Terracotta Bar (tamari soy sauce almonds and sea salt) won in the Best New Product category at the San Francisco Chocolate Salon.
But it’s just now that owner Mindy Fong has embarked on opening her first storefront which will be located here in the Richmond District.
The shop will be on Geary near 6th Avenue, next to the Coco Cafe. As Fong says in her Kickstarter video, she chose the space because of its central location and proximity to other businesses. And perhaps most importantly, because it will be the only artisan chocolate shop on the west side of San Francisco.
Fong’s entrepreneurial spirit came from her grandfather, who owned several businesses in San Francisco after immigrating from China. A self-taught chocolatier, Fong weaves her family’s history, heritage and influences into her confections.
In addition to selling award-winning chocolates in the new shop, Fong has plans to add a line of hot chocolates, pastries and baked goods also with Asian and Pacific Island influences.
Jade Chocolates hopes to open by the holidays but needs to raise some more funds to finish construction on the space. Check out their Kickstarter to learn more and lend your support.
So far the campaign has raised about $7,500 of its $20,000 goal. Rewards for backers range from boxes of handmade truffles to various gift baskets of Jade’s bars, confections and new hot chocolate products.
In the meantime, be sure to stop by the Jade Chocolates booth at the Clement Street Farmer’s Market every Sunday. It’s a delicious stop and I for one can’t wait to have fine chocolates just around the corner every day. 🙂
Sarah B.
I’m really going to have to start keep an eye on my caloric intake what with Nourish, Grinders, and now Jade Chocolate being within walking distance of my house!!