I
was fortunate enough to have grown up 45 minutes from one of the most famous
chocolatiers in the world, Hershey’s. Due to the proximity, I learned about
chocolate’s history…how it came from South America to Europe, how it was turned
into a confection. I also learned how Milton Hershey, starting out in caramel,
saw a future in chocolates - wanting to create a low cost, but delicious
product that could be enjoyed and afforded by the masses.
At
one point in time, chocolate was only available to a wealthier class and those
who dealt in creating chocolate concoctions were artists and created high class
delectables to match the clientele.
Where
does Tom English’s Schakolad Chocolate Factory come into the equation in all of
this? Tom is the owner of Schakolad in Upper Arlington and he
provides an affordable product with an aristocratic flair. You’ll feel like
royalty when the hand crafted, creamy chocolate hits your palette.
This
story, however, goes far beyond just the quality of the product. There is a
really interesting story to be had here as well.
Tom
English started out working in IT. After years of working in the technology
industry, he decided that he wanted a change of pace. It just so happens that
the previous owners actively served in the military and were very quickly
called up and deployed to the Middle East. The quick deployment turned into a turnkey
business for Tom and his family. Literally, the previous owners left everything
as is, ready to be restarted. After purchasing the store, the new crew cleared
out all of the old inventory, and started making fresh batches of truffles and
ganaches and hung back out the open sign.
When
you first enter the store, you’ll notice how neat and clean everything appears.
Then your eye will be drawn to the display case, where you’ll find a wide
selection of chocolates, just waiting to be consumed. I have to admit, I’ve
tried quite a few and I have yet to run into one that I didn’t like. White,
milk, dark chocolate….they have it all.
They
can even do custom work. Have a special occasion and want something special
made just for you? Schakolad can accommodate.
One
more important detail….one of Schakolad’s slogans is “Made Fresh on Premises.”
What does this mean to you? A fresh product. 100% of what you see is crafted
and assembled fresh for you. There are very few items that are pre-made and
shipped to the store. The Schakolad shop makes their products in the store. If
you are lucky, you can sometimes see them working their craft while you shop.
