I've been trying to get here for some time now and it looks like I made it at the perfect time so I could sample and weigh in on my fellow foodies bonbon visions in the competition currently taking place. The shop is adorable, with a summer Christmas tree in the corner, and believe me when I say that there's something for everyone here. There are so many bonbon flavor options, it was so hard to choose just a few to sample. I met the owner and she was super nice, I love being able to help support this local business. Gorgeous and tasty chocolates all around, I def recommend the lemon meringue one! read more

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Everything there is absolutely beautiful! I felt bad eating the little masterpieces of chocolate. They have so many different flavors and they all sound amazing so it's hard to choose! Service was great, helped with recommendations. I loved every bon bon i purchased. Each was a unique blend of flavors, each tasted amazing. I will definitely be back! Happy to support this local small business! read more

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Yum! Absolutely adorable and friendly run small made from scratch chocolate shop. This is a very busy shop several customers came in while we were there. We grabbed a 12 count box and also a 2 count box for a gift. We couldn't help ourselves and immediately ate a chocolate bon bon I tried the Strawberry Balsamic Chevre really delicious and you could taste each of the components. You could tell that the chocolatiers heart and soul is put into every flavor. My daughter tried the Wicked bon bon which you were surprised with either a Glinda or Elphaba inspired flavor she ended up with the Elphaba which was a Kiwi and Yogurt flavor she must have enjoyed it since she gobbled it up and didn't save me a bite. I really don't think you could go wrong with any flavor options here and would gladly go back if in the area. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Can't wait - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

This place is incredible! I'm so happy I finally got to go. It's clean and well maintained. The selection is just stellar and the staff was fantastic. They were soooooo slammed due to it being the day before Mother's Day, but they kept that line moving so fast. They were also just so friendly and kind. I can't wait to go back to treat myself next time! read more

I've had Donovan's on my list for a long time and finally got in to try them during their recent fun foodie competition. I was immediately greeted with friendly service and was amazed by all the flavors of the bonbons and the decoration, true talent. We had so much fun since we even bought an additional box to try. It's truly an experience trying the different flavors, seeing the layers. Very easy to eat way too many but so worth it. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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A Sweet Experience at Donovan's My first visit to Donovan's on a Saturday--right at opening! I had heard how busy it gets, especially around Valentine's weekend, so I was ready. With so many rave reviews from my foodie friends, I knew I had to check it out for myself. Donovan's is a small, family-run business, and from the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Though they had fewer bonbons than earlier in the week (understandably, since Valentine's Day had just passed), I still got to experience their stunning handcrafted chocolates. Each bonbon is like a tiny piece of edible art--shiny, vibrant, and beautifully painted. They reminded me of marbles, but even prettier! And the flavors? Wow. Every bite was rich, delicious, and unique. So many options to choose from, and each one was a delight. If you're looking for a special treat for yourself or a perfect gift, this is it. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! Just be sure to check their hours online before heading over, as they're not open every day. The business is located in a little plaza with parking. Highly recommend! read more

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Funny sorry, my friend Emily (Sidedishers) kept telling me I HAD to come try these beautifully hand-painted treats and I was like meh, I'm more of an ice cream lover than a chocolate lover. That's what I thought until going once and craving more, I mean it's addictive to want to explore more flavors and see how different they are or how true to the description they are. Sometimes they look to gorgeous to eat, but that would be silly so eventually you give in. They are only open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, so the first time I went I was actually hoping that they were running out when I arrived after 2 o'clock on a Sunday (within an hour of closing), so that my choices were limited and I would not be so confused about which flavors I just had to try! Lol. They still had a good amount left so I ended up with 13 bonbons all in different flavors. Service was great in this family owned and operated establishment, and the space is clean and inviting. I am so glad I stopped in and am astonished by how delicious and flavorful each little bonbon and each bite is! I've been back, brought by husband, sent my husband; and have bought my mom and kid bonbons for gifts on special occasions! I can't recommend Donovan's enough and look forward to the new and rotating flavors! Matter of fact, I must went today for another dozen because I had to try the new spring flavors! Some are brought back from last summer because they weren't popular. Many times I've gone I've seen regular customers that know exactly what they want to order (think of lists in phones so they are keeping the line moving when it's busy). I've found just a few flavors that are a little too sweet for me, but the those are flavors that are loved by some friends so there really is something for everyone, and I'm confident some flavors may overlap and some may not. I like the white and dark chocolate, but sometimes milk is comforting and perfect too! Katie, the genius behind these creations, recently even traveled to Sweden to learn more about chocolate making! I didn't think it could get any better, but if it can she will figure out how! Can't recommend this place enough, but know a lot of time, effort and creativity go in to hand crafting and painting every single bonbon, but you get what you pay for! The quality, textures and flavors are exquisite! read more

Be warned, Donovan's is a busy place to visit on a Saturday morning. Even after arriving shortly after they opened, the small parking lot in the shopping strip was almost full. Once we walked in, we were greeted by the staff from behind the counter and a line that wrapped around the shop. While in line we jumped on Instagram and their website to get a better view of the chocolates that were currently being offered. Once we moved up in line to the glass cases and saw all of the beautiful offerings. It was hard not to order one of everything. I was there with my son & a friend. I was there to buy some samples for some friends and I bought a few for me, my son and another friend. I'm not a huge chocolate fan, but these delicate chocolates have made me a huge fan. I cannot wait to go back and try some of the other flavors. I chose the crème brûlée and my son had the cookie butter. We were both impressed and wish that we had gotten more. The staff was very friendly and helpful when I questioned them about what they could do for baby & bridal showers. I look forward to our next visit. Maybe I'll get to try more than one next time! read more

Donovan Family Confections - Crème brûlée and cookie butter! - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

Incredible chocolate. So unique. The owners are super nice. The female owner told us she hand paints each Bon Bon. Last night had the chocolate mint and there's a mint layer on top and the rest is decadent truffle. The mango habanero was so unique. The raspberry incredible. My only suggestion would be to offer ones without the hand painting and you could make more and maybe lower the price. We totally understand the cost due to the hand painting just merely a suggestion for more business. The guava? Jelly I got was so different. I'm not a big jelly person, but I wanted to try something different and it was so unique and delicious. So nice to have a local place with high end products. Almost better than Godiva. Wow. Can't wait to come back. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

I was officially influenced to try Donovan's chocolates about a year ago (thanks Kouign) and I was instantly hooked. After only trying two bonbons, I bought their 2023 advent calendar and convinced some friends to tag along. This has turned into a small problem - I live 900 miles away from the shop. They are a tiny, family-owned-and-run shop that hand paints all of their molds and can barely keep up with in-person demand, so shipping is (currently) out of the question, and I get it! They want to ensure that the products leaving their store are the best, and it's nearly impossible to do that with shipping those meltable delicacies. What that means is that I plan my trips to CT to ensure I get to Donovan's at least once per visit. I bribe my friends into carefully packaging and shipping goods to me (it is EXPENSIVE but worth it) when it's been too long, and I promote their business through my own channels to do what I can to keep them open until I can get back up there. My most recent favorites include the Grinch-themed bonbon, Katie's French Toast, the banofee pie, and the lemon meringue... but I haven't found one yet that I don't like. Try the cookie butter, the cinnamon bun collab, the yuzu... all of them. Just leave enough for me. read more

Donovan Family Confections - A special birthday box! - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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Here's what you need to know about me: I like chocolate like any other person however it's not going to be the first sweet treat that I run to. However, when your trusted fellow Foodie friends flock to a place over and over and you are initially intrigued by the visual appeal of a chocolatier's work, curiosity will get the best of you. We visited Katie and the Donovan family earlier this year for the first time and I think we've been back once a month since. When I tell you, these are the most elegant and divine bonbons I've ever had in my life. I am being quite literal and not exaggerating. Not only are they absolutely beautiful with each bonbon hand painted by Katie, which makes it even more unique and appreciated, each bite is its own dessert experience. My husband and I even have a ritual of having one or two a night where we split and try to guess the flavors (the flavors are listed on her website btw) but it's become a fun guessing game. There have been a few that we purchased over and over again as our personal favorites however, we keep going back because the team keeps creating new flavors and of course we have volunteered ourselves to be the muse for feedback, even though feedback has not been requested lol. Long and short here, my friends, is that you must go and invest at least one time in this small business because you will not be disappointed. Forewarning, if you go one time you will likely return again and again and again and.... read more

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What a perfect little spot. Some of the most exquisite chocolates we've ever had. They're absolutely stunning so they're perfect for gifts. If you have self-control unlike we clearly don't sense. They haven't made it to a gift. There's so many layers to these flavors. There's a constant case and every time you think it's the best flavor you've had you get to try a new one. Do not sleep on this spot. The cherry on top is how lovely everyone there is. The kindest people. read more

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Finally made it!! After seeing and hearing incredible things from foodie friends, I made the trip. The inside of the shop is small but the kitchen is open which is cool to see. The case was almost completely full so I was able to choose from all of the unique flavors which the staff was happy to give suggestions! I appreciate the options for different sized boxes ranging from a single bonbon all the way to 25+. The bonbons are absolutely stunning and each one I've tasted is a burst or flavor. I will be back! read more

Donovan Family Confections - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

Donovan Family Confections is one of my favorite food discoveries of the year. To be clear, I did not discover it. A friend of my Food Blog recommended I visit when she saw I was frequently visiting Wallingford businesses. I wish I hadn't waited as long as I did. The truffles are gorgeous. I wish I had a better word than gorgeous, because I've used that word a lot in reviews this year, and these designer truffles are literally the most gorgeous food I've reviewed this year. I generally get how truffles are made. I can't fathom how one creates colors this bright and places them with other equally vibrant colors and makes them explode, as if Jackson Pollock had individually painted each truffle, as a tribute to fireworks, in an animated world. Truffles this beautiful, don't need to taste this amazing. I believe Katie is the Donovan who generally makes the truffles. She has a unique understanding of flavors, and her truffles taste like the names. I'm most drawn to the sweet and acidic ones. Passionfruit. Key Lime. But they're all terrific. Donovan is conveniently located near 91. I've bought truffles for our family. For host gifts. They are universally loved. Donovan has my highest recommendation. 5 Stars read more

Donovan Family Confections - Truffles - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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Family owned chocolate shop. The quality of the chocolate is great. They make for super cute gifts. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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I was gifted these bonbons at my baby shower, they were tiny works of art. Several photos later, I ate them all. Not sorry. Best decision ever. Seriously though, the care and craftsmanship that goes into these treats... unparalleled. Keep up the great work! (In true new mom fashion, it's taken me longer than I care to admit to write this review!) read more

Supreme gourmet delights! Just the best! Every time I give them as gifts they are a huge hit. And I sure dont mind having a treat for myself also. After all....everyone deserves the good stuff every now and then. Always friendly service with a smile. The hardest part is picking out what delicious flavor to try. Thank you Donovan family for hand crafting these super gourmet treats. read more

These chocolate bonbons from Donovan Family Confections were phenomenal. Unique flavors, gooey or crunchy layers, beautifully hand-painted little delights. There were a few flavors that were collabs with other small businesses like Kouign from Wallingford and Silk City Coffee from Manchester. You can pick out your own chocolate assortment and different chocolate sizes available. Some of the flavors I tried were Cannoli, Date Night Tiramisu, Mango Black Sesame and Kouign Baked Cinnamon Bun. My favorite was the Mango Black Sesame--juicy mango layer with a rich sesame paste center, so delicious! It was fun cutting through the chocolates in half to see the many flavors and to share. These would make a great gift for Valentine's Day, Christmas or Birthday. They had a few seasonal flavors and holiday decorated chocolates. The shop is small and busy. The Donovan family were so sweet and welcoming. They had a contagious smile and fun sense of humor. I definitely will return for more treats and possible gifts. Each chocolate is about $3. read more

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Katie did a wonderful job creating custom bonbons for our wedding favors. Katie paid attention to every detail and made sure our favors were absolutely gorgeous and tasty! Katie and her family made the process so easy and answered all of my questions along the way. The custom colors Katie made for us were stunning! She matched our lavender napkin perfectly for one bonbon and created the perfect combination of red and black for our other bonbon in our 2-pack favors. Many of our guests raved about how delicious and beautiful our favors were! Thank you so much for creating the perfect wedding favors for us! read more

Donovan Family Confections is the kind of place, you visit and instantly fall in love with the story, the treats and the family which makes this place so amazing and such a great part of our community. The chocolates aren't just good.. they are out of this world, unique, amazing flavors which will explode your taste buds and blow your mind. the master chocolatier puts all these flavors into one small bite.. and it will always have you coming back for more! From wonderful personalized and friendly service, and warm hearts greeting you as soon as you walk in. Donovan's is the place to indulge and fall in love with chocolate! read more

Donovan Family Confections - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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This chocolatier is in a league of her own. First off, the concept of a dessert in a single bite = genius! Execution of flavor is impressive. The dedication to each bonbon is apparent in the intricate layers of flavors (seriously how does she fit that much in such a small package!) and the hand painted detail. This isn't just chocolate. It's a work of art. The variety of flavors is plentiful. The uniqueness is appreciated. The attention to detail and spark of fun for EVERY single holiday is unmatched. Truly thank you for the excitement you bring to my family trying your new creations and the joy my kids get when the bonbon looks like a fun holiday (Rudolph, Alien, Pumpkin, etc). It is worth every penny as we savor every bite and dream of the next time we get to come! read more

Absolutely incredible chocolates! The flavors are so unique and delicious -- every bite is a little surprise. Their Halloween-themed bonbons and bars are adorable and so yummy, with both the look and taste totally on point. Such a wonderful family-run business with so much passion and love behind it. The flavors change with the seasons, and they always bring back some favorites too. A definite must-try for anyone who loves beautiful, high-quality sweets! read more

Donovan Family Confections - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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Best tasting chocolates ever!! The creativity and design of each chocolate is amazing and the flavors are so unique!!

Omg first time here and the chocolates were beyond delicious! In my older age I like quality over quantity and each of my chocolates was perfection in a bite, as well as absolutely stunningly beautiful! I tried raspberry, lemon, and pumpkin so crazy good I will keep this on my radar for sure, the chocolatier posts her hours and flavors on FB so check there first bc the hours are a bit funky. I will be thinking about these bites for awhile, they now own headspace for sure. read more

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I'm so glad I found out about Donovan Family Confections because I can't go back to regular chocolate anymore. First of all, Katie, the head confectioner, is extremely accommodating. I was unable to show up at the opening time and I instagram messaged her asking if she could open an hour early for me which she did. I bought a few boxes of chocolates and mentioned I was going on a trip and wanted to bring chocolates as a gift. When I returned a month later, Katie remembered me despite having tons of customers. The chocolates are not only beautifully decorated, but the flavors are incredible. When the flavor has "crunch" in the name, you can expect a crunch! The textures are unlike anything I've had in a small chocolate before, like in the champagne pop rocks flavor. The flavors and textures are so unique, and they are just so beautiful that it feels like eating an entire sophisticated dessert in one small bite. I have been giving these chocolates as gifts to friends and family who all love it. I can't wait to use Donovan's for my next special event, and am thrilled to see this small business grow and thrive. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Box of 16 assorted chocolates - Halloween themed! - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

Excellent taste and variety. This family run business is knocking it put of the park.

AMAZING chocolates/bon bons! The look/artwork & flavors of all speak of the love & caring that Katie puts into them. + the patience while customers make painstaking decisions on which to get (wish i could afford to go every week) ps Sweet Potatoe Casserole bon bon is now my fav read more

I stopped at this little hidden gem as soon as I discovered it existed. I'm so excited Wallingford has been graced with this business. Everyone there was so delightful. The bon bons look like little works of art. When the shop owners said they're even more delicious than they look I was in disbelief because they're so gorgeous, but they were right! It took all my willpower not to eat my whole box at once! Stop in, you won't be disappointed. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Bon bons - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

AMAZING SMALL BUSINESS!!! I live out of state and scoured the internet to find the perfect place to get artisanal chocolates for my girlfriend in Connecticut for Valentine's day and found this amazing gem!! The entire staff was so helpful and personable! Over the course of a week, and ive already sent 3 others to try these flavor profiles and finally made it into town to eat them myself and before pulling out of the parking lot ate 1/4 of the box! Don't hesitate to stop in and grab some. read more

Donovan Family Confections - Bon bon's and gianduja - Chocolatiers & Shops Near Me - Wallingford, Connecticut

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Very cool place. The candy is hand painted. Owners were very nice. We tried a large variety and was not disappointed

Very unique confections! Can't find these anywhere else. They taste just fabulous! The confectioner Katie creates these heavenly chocolate bonbons and other irresistible temptations that you have to experience to believe. If you have a special Valentine don't miss checking this place out. Being a chocolate addict myself I have never found chocolate this delicious! Prices are reasonable too I was very surprised and delighted to find this place. Anne. read more

We love the beautiful artwork, vibrant colors and many flavors. Hazel nut pop rock is a fun flavor to enjoy the popping effect at the end that brings me back to my childhood. read more