When travelers plan a trip to the charming, historic streets of San José del Cabo, one activity is always at the top of the list: the famous Thursday night Art Walk. And for good reason—it’s a world-class cultural event. But for savvy travelers and foodies, a new, “must-do” experience has quietly emerged, and it’s one that engages all the senses.
Tucked away in the heart of the Gallery District is a spot that travelers are consistently calling the “highlight of their trip” and an “unexpected delight.” It’s ChocoLa-Tré, an artisanal chocolate factory and workshop that offers a delicious, hands-on journey into the heart of Mexican heritage.
Here at The Cabo Sun, we’re letting you in on this insider’s secret that is quickly becoming the most beloved activity in San José.
A Baja California Sur First
This isn’t just another candy shop. ChocoLa-Tré is the first “bean-to-bar” chocolate factory in all of Baja California Sur. This means they are masters of their craft, controlling the entire process from start to finish. They source their raw cacao beans directly from small, sustainable farms in the legendary chocolate-growing regions of Chiapas and Tabasco, Mexico.
The entire shop is a sensory experience. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with the rich, intoxicating aroma of roasting cacao. You can watch the chocolatiers at work, grinding, tempering, and molding the chocolate right in front of you. This is an authentic celebration of Mexico’s most famous culinary gift to the world.
The “Must-Do” Experience: The Chocolate-Making Class
The real magic, and the experience travelers are raving about, is the chocolate-making workshop. This isn’t a simple demonstration; it’s a fantastic, hands-on class that is perfect for families, couples, or as a unique solo adventure.
Based on countless 2025 reviews, the class takes you on a 60- to 90-minute journey where you become the chocolatier. You will:
- Taste: Sample the raw, bitter cacao nibs straight from the bean.
- Roast & Grind: Learn to roast your own cacao beans and grind them by hand on a traditional metate (a heated stone grinding tool), transforming them into a rustic, fragrant paste.
- Create: You then get to mix your own chocolate and create your own custom-flavored chocolate bars, adding ingredients like chili, sea salt, almonds, or coffee beans.
You leave not only with a bag of delicious chocolate that you made yourself but with a deep appreciation for the history and artistry of the craft. It’s the perfect activity to beat the midday heat or for a rare rainy day.
Beyond the Class: The Gourmet Cafe
Even if you don’t have time for the full class, ChocoLa-Tré is a destination in itself. The cafe is a mecca for chocolate lovers, serving up an incredible menu of treats made from their own single-origin chocolate.
Traveler favorites include their intensely rich hot chocolates (both traditional and spiked), decadent mochas, and a stunning variety of individual bonbons and truffles with unique flavors like mezcal, mole, and local fruits. It’s the perfect place to stop for an afternoon pick-me-up while exploring the art district.
While the Art Walk will always be the king of San José evenings, this authentic, delicious, and hands-on chocolate factory is quickly becoming the undisputed champion of the day. Reservations can be made on their official website.
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