Who Are the Best Canadian Chocolatiers in 2025? (FB Picks)
- Sassy Beaver
- Mar 3
- 14 min read
Updated: Apr 9
In the Made in Canada – Canadian Products Facebook group, members often share their favourite chocolate makers in Canada, and certain names come up again and again.
From handcrafted truffles to ethically sourced bars, these 9 outstanding Canadian chocolatiers have earned their reputations.
To help you make a more informed choice, each chocolate company was rated by Canadian Score, Green Score, Social Impact Score, and Consumer Review Score.
Let’s dive into the chocolate makers Canadians can’t stop talking about.
How Products Are Rated
Consumer Reviews Score
Based on real customer feedback and satisfaction
Canadian Score
Is the company Canadian, and is the product made in Canada?
Green Score
Sustainability of ingredients, packaging, and environmental impact
Social Impact Score
Reflects the brand’s ethics, fair practices, and community involvement
The Best Canadian Chocolatiers
This is an unranked list of the best Canadian chocolatiers. Scroll down to see their final scores based on Canadian, Green, Social Impact, and Consumer ratings.
Peace by Chocolate
Those Chocolates
Rogers' Chocolate
Hummingbird Chocolate Maker
Ganong
Newfoundland Chocolate Company
Purdys Chocolatier
Beta5 Chocolates
Soma Chocolatemaker
Summary
Five Canadian chocolatiers use certified Fairtrade cocoa, while three others buy directly from the cocoa farmers, sometimes paying higher than Fairtrade rates.
Peace by Chocolate
Rogers' Chocolate
Hummingbird Chocolate
Newfoundland Chocolate Company
Purdys Chocolatier
Beta5 Chocolates
Soma Chocolatemaker
Conventional cocoa farming is bad for the environment and worse for the people involved. Most cocoa farmers live in abject poverty, and over 2 million children work on cocoa farms in West Africa, many facing the worst forms of child labor.
Chocolatiers use Fairtrade cocoa because it bans child labor and supports ethical practices. Farmers also receive fair prices, better working conditions, and benefit from social and environmental support.
Three of Canada's chocolatiers are over 100 years old:
Rogers' Chocolate
Ganong
Purdys Chocolatiers
One Canadian chocolatier had a film made about them in 2021, available on Prime:
Two Canadian chocolatiers are true bean-to-bar makers, crafting their chocolate from start to finish, from buying the raw cacao, to roasting, grinding, and molding the chocolate:
Hummingbird Chocolate
Soma Chocolatemaker
One Canadian chocolatier supports Canadian artists by commissioning their artwork on selected tins, such as this one by renowned Aboriginal artist Richard Hunt in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day in 2024.
Rogers' Chocolate
Product Reviews & Scores
1 - Peace by Chocolate
Total combined score - 98%
100% - Canadian Score
100% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
90% - Consumer Reviews Score
90% - Consumer Review Score (Peace by Chocolate)
4.6 stars (based on 320 reviews) on Facebook
4.2 stars ( based on 76 reviews) on Amazon.ca
Pros
✔ Delicious Taste: Customers frequently praise the rich, smooth, and high-quality chocolate.
✔ Unique Flavors: Many appreciate the creative and diverse flavor options that stand out from typical chocolate brands.
✔ Meaningful Mission: Shoppers are drawn to the heartwarming story behind the brand and its commitment to peace and social good.
✔ Beautiful Packaging: The attractive, gift-worthy packaging is often highlighted as a bonus.
✔ Great for Gifting: Many reviews mention Peace by Chocolate products make thoughtful, feel-good gifts.
✔ Support for a Canadian Business: Customers love supporting a family-run, Canadian company with refugee roots.
Cons
✖ Price: Some say that the chocolate is a bit more expensive compared to other brands.
✖ Limited Availability: A few customers found it difficult to find certain products in stock or in local stores.
✖ Taste Preferences Vary: While most enjoy the flavors, a few reviewers mentioned certain bars weren't to their personal taste.
100% - Canadian Score (Peace by Chocolate)
Peace by Chocolate is a Canadian chocolate company based in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, founded in 2016 by the Hadhad family, Syrian refugees who resettled in Canada after fleeing civil war.
Their chocolate factory in Damascus was destroyed in 2012, forcing them to flee to Lebanon before eventually making their way to Canada as part of the 44,000 Syrian refugees welcomed by Canada between 2015 and 2016.
Today, hundreds of Syrians have settled in the tiny town of Antigonish, Peace by Chocolate is one of Canada’s most beloved chocolate brands, and the Hadhad's inspiring journey was captured in the 2021 film, Peace by Chocolate.
100% - Green Score (Peace by Chocolate)
Peace by Chocolate supports sustainability through partnerships like One Trail, One Love with Trans Canada Trail. This collaboration features four nature-inspired bars, with $1 from each sale donated to maintain and preserve the 28,000 km national trail for future generations.
Also, by using Fairtrade chocolate in their products, Peace by Chocolate supports a more ethical and eco-friendly supply chain. Sustainable cocoa helps reduce pesticide use, conserve water, prevent deforestation, and lower environmental impact.
100% - Social Impact Score (Peace by Chocolate)
At Peace by Chocolate, all cocoa is sourced through independently certified sustainability programs such as Cocoa Horizons, Rainforest Alliance, and Fairtrade UK.
The Hadhad also family founded the Peace On Earth Society shortly after starting their chocolate company, which donates 3–5% of company profits to global peace projects, over $655,000 as of April 2024.
2 - Those Chocolates
Total Combined Score: N/A
100% - Canadian Score
0% - Green Score
N/A - Social Responsibility
N/A - Consumer Reviews Score
N/A - Consumer Reviews Score (Those Chocolates)
Beyond one 5 Star review on the company’s Facebook page, there are no consumer reviews of Those Chocolates that we could find on Google.
Despite the lack of consumer reviews, Those Chocolates was included here because so many people mentioned it on the 'Made in Canada' Facebook page. It's a great example of a hidden gem you'd probably never hear about unless someone personally recommended it.
100% - Canadian Score (Those Chocolates)
Those Chocolates is a 100% Canadian-owned company based in Okotoks, Alberta. Founded by pastry chef and chocolatier Nicole Buckton, the business began when she turned her passion for chocolate into a full-time venture
With her husband’s encouragement, Nicole built a commercial kitchen in her basement. From there, she began creating her signature chocolates, like the Bullrider Bar.
This unique treat blends milk chocolate with coffee, popping candy, and a hint of cayenne—and it won gold at the 2020 Canadian International Chocolate Awards.
0% - Green Score (Those Chocolates)
Those Chocolates does not mention any eco-friendly policies on its website, such as recyclable or compostable packaging, energy-efficient production, or waste reduction. Hopefully, more details will be shared in the future.
N/A - Social Impact Score (Those Chocolates)
According to the company website, Those Chocolates uses Fairtrade and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. However, due to a lack of specific data or verifiable proof, we were unable to assign a score and have marked this category as N/A.
3 - Rogers' Chocolates
Total combined score: 97%
100% - Canadian Score
100% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
89% - Consumer Reviews Score
89% - Consumer Reviews Score (Rogers' Chocolate)
4.4 stars (based on 167 reviews) on Trip Advisor
4.5 stars (based on 282 reviews) on the company’s Facebook page
Pros
✔ High-Quality Products: Many customers praise the rich flavor and quality of the chocolates.
✔ Historic Ambiance: The original store in Victoria is noted for its charming, historic setting, enhancing the shopping experience.
✔ Friendly Staff: Reviewers often mention the helpful and courteous staff, contributing to a pleasant visit.
Cons
✖ Premium Pricing: Some customers feel the chocolates are priced higher compared to other brands.
✖ Limited Availability: A few reviewers mention challenges in finding certain products outside the main store locations.
100% - Canadian Score (Rogers' Chocolates)
The first Rogers' chocolates were made in 1885 by Charles “Candy” Rogers in the back of his grocery store in Victoria, B.C.
In 1903, with help from his wife Leah, Charles expanded his chocolate operation and moved into a beautiful historic building across the street, where it still stands to this day.
Today, there are eight other Rogers' Chocolates shops in the region, and their chocolates are also sold in specialty shops, gift stores, and various retail locations across Canada.
100% - Green Score (Rogers' Chocolate)
Rogers' Chocolate changed their packaging to be more sustainable, reducing the amount of material used by over 50%. Not only does their new packaging more eco-friendly, it achieves a higher level of food safety.
Also, by using Fairtrade chocolate, Rogers' supports a more ethical and eco-friendly supply chain. Sustainable cocoa helps reduce pesticide use, conserve water, prevent deforestation, and lower environmental impact.
100% - Social Impact Score (Rogers' Chocolate)
Rogers' source almost 100% of their chocolate from suppliers who are licensed by Fairtrade USA from Rainforest Alliance Certified.
Through their Cultivate Better program, Rogers' Chocolates invests in farmer training, community support, and environmental sustainability—all while helping prevent child labor and slavery.
Rogers' Chocolates also works with artists to create limited-edition "Canadian Art Tins" featuring artwork on the packaging.
4 - Hummingbird Chocolate Maker
Total combined score: 98%
100%- Canadian Score
100% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
98% - Consumer Reviews Score
91% - Consumer Reviews Score (Hummingbird Chocolate)
4.5 stars (out of 29 reviews) on Tripadvisor
4.6 stars (out of 63 reviews) on Facebook
Pros
✔ Outstanding Taste & Quality: Many reviewers rave about the rich, complex flavors and smooth texture.
✔ Ethical and Transparent Sourcing: Customers appreciate their direct trade relationships and fair pricing for farmers.
✔ Craftsmanship & Traditional Methods: People are impressed by their use of 18th-century chocolate-making techniques, and bean-to-bar process resonates with chocolate lovers looking for authenticity.
✔ Friendly Staff & Great Experience: Visitors to the Almonte chocolate factory mention knowledgeable, passionate staff.
✔ Local & Canadian-Made: Many like supporting a small, locally owned business with global recognition.
Cons
✖ Premium Pricing: A few reviewers mention that the chocolate is expensive
✖ Limited Availability: Some wish it was easier to find in stores, especially outside of Canada.
✖ Small Storefront: The Almonte location is described as small, and during busy times it can feel crowded.
✖ Not All Flavors Suit Everyone: As with any artisanal product, taste is subjective—some flavors may not appeal to all palates.
100% - Canadian Score (Hummingbird Chocolate)
Hummingbird Chocolate, based in Almonte, Ontario, crafts bean-to-bar chocolate on-site using traditional 18th-century techniques.
Founded by former international aid workers Erica and Drew Gilmour, the company began as a basement hobby after years of working with farmers in Africa and Asia.
In 2016, just four years later, their Hispaniola bar was named “Best Chocolate in the World” by the Academy of Chocolate, earning them the prestigious Golden Bean.
Today, Hummingbird has won over 100 international awards, including multiple golds and silvers.
100% - Green Score (Hummingbird Chocolate)
Hummingbird supports sustainable farming methods that are good for the environment and promote long-term soil health.
By sourcing organic ingredients like cacao, cane sugar, and cocoa butter, they’re making a deliciously eco-friendly chocolate that’s good for you, good for farmers, and good for the earth.
They also sell an eco-friendly tote bag that is ethically and sustainably sourced, made with 100% recycled cotton.
100% - Social Impact (Hummingbird Chocolate)
Hummingbird Chocolate goes beyond the basics of Fairtrade by building direct relationships with farmers and paying prices that are higher than typical Fairtrade rates.
This approach helps ensure that the people growing the beans are treated fairly, earn a sustainable income, and work in safe, humane conditions without the use of child labor.
5 - Ganong
Total combined score: 71%
100%- Canadian Score
0% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
84% - Consumer Reviews Score
84% Consumer Reviews Score (Ganong)
4.2 stars (out of 69 reviews) on Facebook
4.2 stars (out of 42 reviews) on Tripadvisor
Pros:
✔ High-Quality Chocolates: Many reviewers praise the exceptional taste and quality
✔ Friendly Staff: Customers frequently comment that the staff is friendly and welcoming
✔ Clean and Pleasant Store: Visitors appreciate the store's cleanliness and inviting atmosphere
Cons:
✖ Price: Some customers feel that the products are expensive
✖ Shipping Costs: A few reviewers mention that shipping fees can be expensive
100% - Canadian Score (Ganong)
Ganong is Canada’s oldest chocolate and candy company. It was founded in 1873 by James and Gilbert Ganong in St. Stephen, New Brunswick.
The company introduced many Canadian firsts: the world’s first wrapped chocolate bar (to take along on fishing trips!), the first heart-shaped chocolate box, and Chicken Bones, a pink, spicy cinnamon-flavored hard candy with a bittersweet chocolate filling that was invented in 1885, and is still wildly popular today.
Still family-owned, the company is now led by fifth-generation Bryana Ganong.
100% - Green Score (Ganong)
Ganong does not mention any eco-friendly policies on its website, such as recyclable or compostable packaging, energy-efficient production, or waste reduction. Hopefully, more details will be shared in the future.
100% Social Impact Score (Ganong)
Ganong doesn’t specifically mention using Fairtrade cocoa on their website, but they do state that their cocoa supply chain is free from child labour, slavery, and human trafficking. They also express a commitment to ethical business practices.
Also, Ganong has a long history of supporting charitable initiatives. Organizations can request donations by filling out a form available on their website, outlining their focus—whether it’s for a cause, shelter, education, healthcare, or other community needs.
While details about recipients aren’t often publicized—perhaps a reflection of Ganong’s quiet generosity—the University of New Brunswick’s 2020–21 Donor Honour Roll does list Ganong Bros. Limited as a contributor.
6 - Newfoundland Chocolate Factory
Total combined score: 71%
100%- Canadian Score
0% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
84% - Consumer Reviews Score
84% - Consumer Review Score (Newfoundland Chocolate Company)
4.3 stars (based on 87 reviews) from Tripadvisor
3.6 stars (based on 16 reviews) on Yelp
Pros
✔ Newfoundland Sayings: Many reviewers commend on the bars featuring Newfoundland sayings, saying they were delicious and good for gifts
✔ High Quality Chocolate with Unique Flavours: Many reviewers said the chocolate was high quality, and particularly liked the unique flavors
✔ Free Samples: Visitors appreciated being greeted with samples upon arrival.
✔ Delicious Ice Cream/Gelato: Orange pistachio ice cream and other gelato flavors got rave reviews.
✔ Hot Chocolate is a Fan Favourite: Mentioned multiple times as amazing, rich, and a must-try—especially popular with kids and adults alike.
✔ Great Staff: Customers frequently praise the welcoming and attentive service.
Cons
Pricey: Multiple reviewers found the chocolate bars expensive for their size.
✖ Inconsistency in Product Quality: A few reviewers mention issues such as overly chewy caramel, some found the chocolate too sweet, bland, or waxy, with overpowering sugar and a gritty texture.
✖ Not for Chocolate Purists: Some compared the quality unfavorably to premium brands like Purdy’s,
✖ Too Busy at Peak Times: During busy periods, some customers experienced longer wait times
100% - Canadian Score (Newfoundland Chocolate Company)
The Newfoundland Chocolate Company is a family-owned company in St. John's, Newfoundland. It was founded by Christina Dove and Brent Smith, who started the business their basement in 2008.
Inspired by Christina’s father, who made “Poppy’s Old Fashioned Fudge,” Christina and Dave see themselves as ambassadors for Newfoundland and Labrador, and their chocolates a heartfelt tribute to the island they love—its rugged beauty, pure waters, and hardworking people. Today, the company has grown to include a 10,000-square-foot factory, multiple locations and a popular café on Signal Hill.
100% - Green Score (Newfoundland Chocolate Company)
By using cocoa from an ethical course, the Newfoundland Chocolate Company supports a more ethical and eco-friendly supply chain. Sustainable cocoa helps reduce pesticide use, conserve water, prevent deforestation, and lower environmental impact.
100% - Social Impact Score (Newfoundland Chocolate Company)
While the Newfoundland Chocolate Company isn’t certified as Fairtrade, the cocoa they use is from "Cocoa Horizons" which supports cocoa farmers by helping with education, child protection, women’s empowerment and healthcare.
7 - Purdys Chocolatier
Total combined score: 95%
100%- Canadian Score
100% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
80% - Consumer Reviews Score
80% - Consumer Review Score (Purdy's Chocolatier)
4.2 stars (based on 19 reviews) on Tripadvisor
3.9 stars (based on 48 reviews) on Yelp
Pros
✔ High-Quality Chocolates: Many customers praise the taste and quality of Purdys chocolates
✔ Exceptional Staff: Several reviews highlight the exceptional customer service, mentioning staff members by name for their friendliness and assistance.
✔ Delicious Ice Cream Bars: Customers like the ice cream bars, especially when customized with chocolate dips and sprinkles for children.
Cons
✖ Inconsistent Product Experiences: Some customers report dissatisfaction with certain products, such as the Ruby Chocolate, describing it as waxy with minimal flavor.
✖ Pricey: A few reviews mention that products can be pricey, with specific instances like a single scoop of ice cream being considered small for the cost.
✖ Service Varies: While many praise the staff, there are occasional mentions of less favorable experiences
100% - Canadian Score (Purdy's Chocolatier)
Purdys Chocolatier was founded in 1907 in Vancouver, British Columbia, by Richard Carmon Purdy, a barber turned chocolatier.
He began by experimenting with candy recipes in his home kitchen and sold his first chocolates on the streets of Vancouver.
The chocolates were so popular that soon opened his own chocolate shop in downtown Vancouver.
Today, Purdys still sells Vanilla Caramels made from the founder's original 1907 recipe, though their Hedgehogs are probably their customers' most beloved favourites.
100% - Green Score (Purdy's Chocolatier)
By using cocoa from an ethical source, Purdys supports a more ethical and eco-friendly supply chain. Sustainable cocoa helps reduce pesticide use, conserve water, prevent deforestation, and lower environmental impact.
100% - Social Impact Score (Purdy's Chocolatier)
Purdys Chocolatier is a proud member of Cocoa Horizons, an independent, non-profit initiative that promotes ethically sourced cocoa and supports investment in farming communities.
In 2023, Purdys focused on identifying high-risk regions and worked directly with supply chain partners to address concerns—upholding their zero-tolerance policy for forced and child labour.
8 - Beta5 Chocolates
Total combined score: 98%
100%- Canadian Score
100% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
92% - Consumer Reviews Score
Pros
✔ Exceptional Cream Puffs: Many customers rave about the unique and flavorful cream puffs
✔ High-Quality Chocolates: Reviewers frequently comment on the quality and taste of the chocolates
✔ Innovative Offerings: The creative confections, such as the "Birds & the Bees Polygon Bar," receive praise for both taste and presentation.
Cons
✖ Premium Pricing: Some customers mention that products can be pricey
✖ Limited Seating: The café's limited seating capacity can be challenging during peak hours
✖ Industrial Location: A few reviewers note that the shop's industrial area location is less accessible and lacks the ambiance of more central locations.
100% - Canadian Score (Beta5 Chocolates)
BETA5 Chocolates is located on the edge of Vancouver, in an industrial area with beautiful views of the mountains.
Founded by Adam Chandler and Jessica Rosinski in 2011, BETA5 is inspired by the contrast between urban industry and the natural beauty that surrounds their shop.
At BETA5, the founders blend art and science with care and precision to create visually striking, one-of-a-kind chocolates — creations that have earned both national and international recognition.
Adam Chandler was named one of North America’s Top Ten Chocolatiers in 2012, and BETA5 has since received numerous chocolate awards worldwide.
100% - Green Score (Beta5 Chocolates)
BETA5 supports a more ethical and environmentally friendly chocolate supply chain by using sustainably sourced cocoa. Sustainable cocoa helps reduce pesticide use, conserve water, prevent deforestation, and minimize environmental impact.
100% - Social Impact Score (Beta5 Chocolates)
While BETA5 prioritizes ethical sourcing, they don’t specifically use Fairtrade-certified chocolate.
Instead, they buy only directly traded, artisanal chocolate. This cacao is grown by skilled farmers under ethical and sustainable conditions, then purchased directly and roasted by a French artisanal manufacturer.
92% - Consumer Review Score (Beta5 Chocolates)
4.6 stars (based on 1331 reviews) Google reviews
4.5 stars (based on 45 reviews) on Tripadvisor
9 - Soma Chocolatemaker
Total combined score: 98% 100% - Canadian Score
100% - Green Score
100% - Social Responsibility
91% - Consumer Reviews Score
91% - Consumer Reviews Score
4.6 stars (based on 687 reviews): Trip Advisor
4.4 stars (based on 231 reviews): Yelp
Pros
✔ Exceptional Quality: Customers consistently comment on the rich flavors and craftsmanship of SOMA's chocolates, saying they are great for gifts
✔ Diverse Product Range: Users mention the wide array of products, including truffles, chocolate bars, gelato, and hot cocoa, catering to various tastes
✔ Unique Flavor Combinations: Reviewers appreciate the innovative flavors, such as the spicy Maya hot chocolate and Douglas Fir truffles
✔ Inviting Atmosphere: The store's ambiance is often described as lovely and chic
Cons
✖ Premium Pricing: Some patrons note that the products are on the expensive side
✖ Occasional Service Inconsistencies: A few reviews mention instances where staff interactions were less engaging, such as not being greeted upon entry or the absence of sample offerings.
✖ Limited Seating: Due to its popularity, the shop can become crowded, leading to limited seating
100% - Canadian Score (Soma Chocolatemaker)
Soma Chocolatemaker is a 100% Canadian company. All chocolate is made in their Toronto factory.
In 2003, pastry chef David Castellan and his wife, architect Cynthia Leung, started Soma Chocolatemaker in the corner of a unused Toronto warehouse.
Twenty years later, Soma has grown to three Toronto shops, and their bean-to-bar chocolate has a cult following across Canada and beyond.
100% - Green Score (Soma Chocolatemaker)
Soma takes an eco-friendly approach to chocolate making by sourcing organic and responsibly grown cacao. They support sustainable farming practices that protect soil health and biodiversity.
As a founding member of the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Initiative, Soma helps preserve rare cacao varieties and promotes non-GMO agriculture.
100% - Social Impact Score (Soma Chocolatemaker)
Soma avoids all cacao linked to child labour or exploitative practices. And, by using fair-trade and organic certified beans, they ensure farmers are paid fairly and work in safe, respectful conditions.
Final Thoughts
Here is the list of Canadian chocolatiers, ranked by Canadian, Green, Social Impact, and Consumer Review scores:
Peace by Chocolate: 98%
Those Chocolates: N/A
Rogers' Chocolate: 97%
Hummingbird Chocolate Maker: 98%
Ganong: 71%
Newfoundland Chocolate Company: 71%
Purdys Chocolatier: 95%
Beta5 Chocolates: 98%
Soma Chocolatemaker: 98%
From Fairtrade sourcing to eco-friendly packaging and strong community values, these chocolate makers go beyond taste. So next time you reach for a sweet treat, consider one that’s delicious and helps make the world a better place.
What is your favourite Canadian chocolatier? Let us know in the comments below.
I'm surprised that no one mentioned https://rheothompson.com/about-us/