In Thorns Marketplace in Northampton, MA you I'll come across some delightful chocolates and…read moretruffles. I wasn't sure if my mind was playing games on me, but on my last trip to Northampton this chocolate stand was called Heavenly Chocolate, and now they're called Firetype Chocolate. They simply decided to go for a new name. They're just a small stand located across from Share Northampton. The chocolate variety they offer is anything but small. One little truffle will set you back almost $3.00. As far as I could tell everything is sold individually, not by weight. I got some of the chocolate that sounded a bit interesting, also the barks are a bit larger than the truffles. I got the Salted Almond Bark, Maple Honeycomb and another one that's very similar. These are such quality chocolates. The honeycomb is a bit sticky, and you might need to floss your teeth right after. They also have a small selection of gummy candy. I got the pear, these are soft and juicy. These are unique, flavorful chocolates, that any chocolate lover is sure to appreciate. Firetype Chocolates are made by hand right here in Northampton. This is their only physical location.

I bought these chocolates for my wife for Mother's Day. She said they were the best that she's…read moreever had and requested a box for each holiday going forward. The clerk was also super nice and patient and also hand wrote a "map" to the chocolates so my wife would know what each one was. Very helpful.

Nestled in the heart of Northampton, Ana Bandiera Chocolates is the kind of place you might expect…read moreto find in Boston, New York, or Paris--not in a picturesque farming community in western Massachusetts. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic building, the café embraces its 19th-century roots with original wood floors, vintage furnishings, and the timeless charm of an old-fashioned soda fountain. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles effortlessly with rich chocolate, creating an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and savor the moment before you've even placed an order. Watching my European-style dark sipping chocolate being prepared was a performance in itself. Every movement behind the counter reflected care and craftsmanship rather than routine. Paired with a warm brownie, the experience promised indulgence and exceeded every expectation. Crowned with a swirl of whipped cream, the sipping chocolate was impossibly smooth, velvety, and intensely rich without being overpowering. The first sip was so luxurious that the bustle of the café seemed to disappear, leaving nothing but the warmth of the cup and the deep, complex flavors of expertly crafted chocolate. The brownie followed with its own quiet perfection; warm, chewy, and deeply fudgy, delivering a decadent companion to an already unforgettable drink. Ana Bandiera Chocolates is more than a café; it's a destination for anyone who appreciates the artistry of fine chocolate. Sourcing cacao from across the Southern Hemisphere while honoring a tradition that stretches back to the ancient Aztecs, the shop transforms a simple afternoon treat into an experience worth lingering over. Northampton is fortunate to have a place of this caliber. It is a hidden gem that proves world-class craftsmanship can thrive far from the bustle of a major city.

Disappointed After Hearing So Many Great Things…read more I really wanted to love this place. As someone who works nearby, I've had countless customers recommend Ana Bandera's to me. People would constantly tell me how amazing it was and that I had to try it. After hearing so many positive reviews, I finally decided to stop in for a vanilla chai latte. Unfortunately, my experience was nothing like what I had heard. When I walked in, there were only about three customers inside. Right before me, another customer came in and was greeted with smiles, laughter, and friendly conversation. When it was my turn, the atmosphere completely changed. There was no greeting, no conversation, and honestly, I didn't feel welcome. The interaction felt cold, as if I was inconveniencing the staff just by placing my order. Since it was my first visit, I wasn't familiar with how everything worked. When my drink was ready, the employee simply placed it on top of the pastry case, said, "Have a good day," turned around, and walked away. There was no explanation, no smile, and no attempt to make a first time customer feel appreciated. I stood there for a moment in disbelief because I truly thought that couldn't be the entire customer service experience. I still left a tip because I believe in supporting people who work in customer service, and I hoped maybe it would brighten someone's day. But I walked out feeling disappointed, especially since it was raining and I had gone out of my way to finally visit a place that had been so highly recommended. Unfortunately, the drink itself didn't make up for the experience. The vanilla chai latte tasted overwhelmingly like straight chai. I couldn't taste any vanilla, it wasn't sweet at all, and it honestly wasn't enjoyable. To make matters worse, the drink was served in a to-go cup without being sealed, and it spilled all over my car on the drive back to work since it was filled to the top. When I arrived at work, I looked at the cup and honestly thought it looked like something I could have made at home and poured into a plastic cup. After such a disappointing visit, I decided to read some of the lower-rated reviews, and I noticed someone else had mentioned receiving an unsealed to-go drink that spilled as well (2reviews confirming this is not the first time) Knowing that another customer had experienced the same issue made it seem like this wasn't just a one time mistake. From the negative comments I read seems also the staff with attitude is a regular thing. I'm usually someone who believes every business deserves a second chance. I've had disappointing experiences elsewhere before, and if a business makes an effort to correct things, I'm more than happy to return. Sadly, this visit left such a poor impression that I don't see myself coming back. Customer service is just as important as the product you're serving, especially when you're welcoming someone for the very first time. I truly hope this was simply an off day, because based on the recommendations I received, I expected a much warmer experience. I genuinely wanted to become a regular customer. Instead, I left feeling unwelcome and disappointed. Would not be coming back and will be sharing my experiences with my customers.

very "sweet" shop...their chocolates are extremely delicious...my husband and I needed a special…read moretreat today and these candies are perfect...not inexpensive but worth the price in every delectable bite..very grateful for folks who choose to make the very best quality ..thank you Mr "Chocolatire" excellent product!

This is a tiny place and can get crowded quickly during the holidays. After having their…read morechocolates, you will become a chocolate snob. Because If you eat "Russell Stover" chocolate the next time, it will make you wanna gag. Either that, give you unpleasant GAS!

Been shopping here since we moved into the area, about 5 years ago. It used to be across in the…read moreopposite building and a bunch of stairs had to be navigated but Alan moved to a more accessible spot a couple of years back. This place is a real goldmine for anything British/Irish, and I can get all my favourite foods from childhood here. His selection of frozen pies, bacon, haggis, jams, clotted cream, crisps (chips) and sweets (candy) is impressive, and pricing is good for imported foods. Alan is a wonderful man, very attentive and knows where absolutely everything is. The only drawback is that public parking can sometimes be hard to find as it fills up quickly outside.

I'm late on this review so it's like a 5-n-1 now :)…read more My Daughter found this store about a year ago and the Anglophile in us has rejoiced since. Although he be small, he be huge in what he carries. He, being Allen the Owner. Absolutely a funny, kind and attentive shopkeeper. Krystal also is so friendly and helpful. A wonderful pair whomever is there when you stop in. A clean and well organized shop. PLENTY of choices whether it be tea, sweets, gifts, frozen meats or turnovers and the best damn ketchup EVER. The list goes on. The rooms are small but what Allen carries in this shop is amazing. This shop has encouraged us to also check out Northampton. Wow this town has a lot to offer. If you're not familiar with it, like us, definitely look into the town/city before making a trip. Make a day of it. And bring a cooler for the turnover, popovers and meats you'll be toting home :)

Willy Wonka wishes…read more Transcendent chocolate made with love. Got my gf truffles for Valentine's Day. She's psyched. Five stars.

The place itself is nice, but I don't understand why so many reviews say the staff is friendly and…read morevery informative. That wasn't my experience. It was my first time visiting, and I had a few questions, but I didn't feel welcomed or encouraged to ask them. The older woman working there didn't make me feel welcome. She was very kind and attentive to the customer in front of me, but I didn't receive the same level of service. It left me feeling uncomfortable and overlooked. I can't say for certain whether race played a role, but the difference in how I was treated made me question it. I hope every customer, especially first-time visitors, is treated with the same kindness, respect, and willingness to help.

Fun find on our Vermont trip! Really good chocolate store with fantastic hot or cold chocolate…read moredrinks, and a surprisingly incredible maple latte (if you are a coffee person, you MUST try it). There is a cafe/restaurant next door that they run that is nice too. We stuck to drinks and pastries. Seating area was cute and their baked goods were quite good. Servers knew their products and were helpful with recommendations.

Very pricey, be prepared. Fancy chocolates with fancy…read morepackaging. Coffee drinks were just ok for the cost. Pastries were average. Parking was fine for a Sunday. Was busy as well. Lots of older customers and a few younger ones. Very friendly service. Seating inside. Restaurant section next door.

If you're looking for some old fashioned made candy, you have to come to Jo-Ann's. Justine, the…read moreowner knows her sweets and a pleasure to deal with. When you walk in, your eyes just light up with the vast assortment of candy. The chocolate strawberries, jelly rings are terrific! I myself being a coffee drinker am partial to the coffee bean dipped in dark chocolate. Between the chocolate and caffeine, it keeps me going during the day. Store is located next door to a jewelry store. Don't bother buying candy off the shelves at a grocery store or big box stores. Who knows how old they are. Try it, you'll love it!

Best candy place for miles! wonderful staff! Always have a smile and my favorite chocolate covered…read morealmonds!