Maui Ku'ia Estate Chocolate — Restaurant in Maui

First, this is a place for chocolate lovers and general curiosity. The passion of the owner is palpable as he walks you through a chocolate tasting that opens your eyes and your tastebuds to what is possible. I’m not a huge sweets guy, but I enjoy learning, and I have to say that after this tasting and knowledge share, I have a newfound respect for high-quality chocolate making.

As an enthusiast of both chocolate and random knowledge, I was delighted to have the opportunity to partake in a tasting at this establishment. The owner's passion for chocolate-making was evident as he guided us through the experience, illuminating our senses and expanding our understanding of the art of chocolate. As a entrepreneur, I am accustomed to delving into the intricacies of various subjects, but even I was impressed by the depth of knowledge and skill that went into the creation of these exceptional chocolates. Though I may not consider myself a connoisseur of sweets, this tasting left me with a newfound appreciation for the finesse and dedication required to produce truly exceptional chocolate.

In addition to the informative and enjoyable tasting, the patio where it took place was a stunning setting. I was even inspired to inquire about the possibility of renting it out for a birthday party, though the owner seemed hesitant. However, I did learn that the patio plays host to live jazz on Sundays, and I am eager to return and experience the music in such a picturesque location. Overall, I highly recommend the tour and chocolate factory to anyone with a love of chocolate and a thirst...

We’re so glad our concierge gave us some samples of KU’IA dark chocolate. It made us want to visit the shop to see what else is available. Upon arrival, we were impressed with the stylish modern decor and ultra clean facility. You can even park for free in the cool shade under their solar panel field, allowing them to operate completely off the grid! Prior to visiting, we were excited to read their philanthropic business model giving back to the local community and environment while keeping everything local at their estate & factory.

The two of us are foodies and we decided to order two 9-piece chocolate flights so we could experience every flavor. One in dark flavors and one in “dark milk” flavors. Our two favorites, by far, are the dark lemongrass and dark mango. We were also impressed with the dark chocolate “made and grown in Maui,” the dark mint, and the dark milk coffee mokka cappuccino. They provide a beautiful shaded rooftop bar/lounge and “tasting room” to savor the high quality deliciousness. Above all, service is friendly, helpful, and superior. We bought some of our favorites in bars for ourselves and gifts for others.

We love the philanthropic mission to the foundation and learned they also select weekly local philanthropies for their proceeds on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s great to see their support for Maui.

We will bring our relatives here on our return to Maui for a tour of the estate; and… we’ll be stopping in the cafe again before we depart so we can order a chocolate milkshake! This place knows what they’re doing, and they’ve...

What a wonderful way to spend our afternoon. The chocolate tasting with Dr. Gunars Valkirs was both delicious and engaging. The tasting patio is lovely and learning about the history of the farm and factory with the breeze blowing gently across your skin was delightful. Dr Valkirs and his staff (who were all extremely kind) obviously view chocolate making as both a science and an art. It was fascinating to learn about the differences in their chocolates, where they find the best guavas to flavor the chocolate, the standing order by one of Hawaii's best restaurants, and how they power the factory. It kept my family of scientists and engineers and our kids happy thanks to delicious chocolate treats (try the brownie and the mousse - cup or cake take your pick) and the detail he happily shared with us about the process, power system, soil, flavor profiles. This was a highlight of our trip.

What started out as a retirement hobby has turned into a company that treats its employees and the rest of Maui's residents with consideration and respect. I asked at the chocolate bar and they all gushed about what a great place to work the company is and how much they like and respect their boss. If you want to make sure your money stays local to Maui and helps the island's community then come take the tour or attend a chocolate tasting. Bonus they ship, so you can get their chocolate safely delivered to the continental US or internationally without it melting in bags on the tarmac. Try the OMG......