7 Irresistible Chocolate Bars to Delight Your Valentine This Year

For Valentine’s Day, nothing quite satisfies like something sweet—especially chocolate. While I appreciate a thoughtful gift, when February 14 rolls around, I crave the rich delight of chocolate. A true chocolate lover knows that presentation matters just as much as taste. The ideal chocolate bars not only elevate the experience but also come beautifully packaged, eliminating the need for additional wrapping.

But why the rise of what some call “status chocolate bars”? It all began when Mast Brothers, now known as Mast Market, wrapped their artisanal chocolates in stunning patterned paper, changing our perception of chocolate. No longer do we settle for mediocre options; we’ve entered a new age of chocolate indulgence.

Top 7 Chocolate Bars to Gift

Since Mast Brothers launched their bars in 2007, the artisanal chocolate scene has flourished. Numerous brands have joined the “bean-to-bar” movement, offering a variety of stunning packaging and unique flavors.

Let’s be clear: I love my job, especially when it involves sampling over 20 bars to find the best ones. Below are the seven standout options. If you’re looking for a special treat between now and mid-February (or any time to impress friends or loved ones), you’ll find something here for every chocolate enthusiast.

Compartés

Starting with the crème de la crème, Compartés sets the standard for premium chocolate. This Los Angeles-based brand artfully combines delicious flavors with stunning wrappers. While trends come and go, Compartés remains a classic in the chocolate world.

Old Hollywood Smoked Sea Salt Chocolate Bar

This bar is a dream come true with its perfect blend of smoked sea salt. Just one square is enough to satisfy your cravings. Plus, the packaging is a glamorous nod to art deco, reminiscent of classic Hollywood. Grace Kelly would surely approve.

Fine & Raw Chocolate

Fine & Raw embodies a fun and approachable style. Each organic bar is handcrafted in Brooklyn, embodying the essence of the bean-to-bar revolution. The result? An addictively delicious treat made with clean, plant-based ingredients and sustainable practices. Can your standard chocolate bar compete?

Cashew Butter Chocolate Bar

As a cashew butter aficionado, I was drawn to this bar. The addition of lucuma adds a delightful citrusy note, making it a standout. Don’t let the milk chocolate base fool you; it’s anything but ordinary.

Raaka Chocolate

When I discovered Raaka Chocolate on JetBlue flights, my loyalty to other airlines was put to the test. This brand, which emerged during the artisanal chocolate boom in Brooklyn around 2010, knows how to create lasting impressions. With vibrant colors and exciting flavors, their bars offer a delightful tasting experience that keeps chocolate lovers returning for more.

Best Sellers Bundle

With flavors like Bourbon Casked Aged, Pink Sea Salt, and Oat Milk, this sampler set makes a perfect gift for any chocolate lover.

Mission Chocolate

From São Paulo, Brazil, Mission Chocolate’s Arcelia Gallardo has an impressive background, having started at Dandelion Chocolate. Her dedication to the craft ensures that each bar offers a unique flavor experience. She’s also a key player in promoting the bean-to-bar movement in Brazil, which is reason enough to treat yourself to her creations.

Baru Nut 72%

Check out the beautiful packaging adorned with delicate florals. The Baru nut adds a delightful crunch to the rich dark chocolate, making it a unique treat.

Matchaful

Matchaful has brilliantly combined my favorite beverage with chocolate! Known for sourcing premium Japanese matcha, they offer a range of matcha-infused products, including chocolate. Their commitment to quality shines through in every aspect, from packaging to preparation.

Vegan Matcha White Chocolate

This treat is perfect for anyone who prefers matcha over coffee in the morning. Collaborating with Cacao Laboratory, Matchaful has created a treat that will be the talk of the town.

Dandelion Chocolate

Dandelion Chocolate, the renowned San Francisco brand, sources single-origin cacao from various regions like Liberia and Madagascar. While I enjoy added textures in chocolate, the purity of their beans deserves to shine on their own.

Costa Esmeraldas Ecuador

Experience tasting notes of classic dark chocolate, toasted sourdough, and banana. Each bar reflects the thought and care that goes into sourcing and crafting.

Mast Market

I admit I’m a fan of Mast Market. Despite past controversies, they’ve successfully reinvented themselves. It’s hard to discuss top chocolate bars without mentioning them, as they played a pivotal role in popularizing artisanal chocolate in America.

Organic Chocolate Collection

For just $36, you’ll receive 12 organic chocolate bars. This collection includes flavors like Dark, Milk, Sea Salt, Almond Butter, and more. While they may not push boundaries, they deliver quality that speaks for itself.