What is the story behind Hoda et Chocolat?
Since the 1980s, my mother, Hoda, has been creating her own recipes at home with the help of her husband. Indeed, her home atelier became a reference in Beirut for fine chocolate, and 15 years ago, I decided to leave the world of high-end cosmetics and luxury to join the family’s workshop.
Since then, we have been on a journey to discover new tastes, blends and flavors, perfecting our craft with class, humility and hard work.
What can you tell us about your new branch in Achrafieh?
We finally opened our boutique-atelier during a critical time in Lebanon. This takes perseverance, courage and commitment. Our women-owned business empowers women and encourages them to shine and claim their place in the business world.
What is chocolate best paired with?
Chocolate can be paired with any alcoholic drink, whether it is wine, cognac or whisky, to name a few. I personally like it with whisky or cognac. I find the mix of strong, overwhelming alcohol with the sweetness of melting chocolate orgasmic.
In your opinion does vegan chocolate taste better than non-vegan varieties?
Dark chocolate is vegan, while white and milk chocolate are not. I don’t believe that one is tastier than the other; it is all about quality and a hint of love. That is what makes the difference.
About author
Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
