Chuao Chocolatier

Venezuelan heritage, culinary imagination, and chocolate made to create joy

Meet the Founders

Chuao Chocolatier was founded in 2002 by Venezuelan brothers Chef Michael Antonorsi and Richard Antonorsi.

Chef Michael trained in culinary arts in France before bringing his technical knowledge, Venezuelan heritage, and imaginative approach to Southern California. The brothers named the company after Chuao, a Venezuelan region internationally associated with exceptional cacao.

Their mission was simple but ambitious: to share joy through engaging chocolate experiences. Chuao Chocolatier

A Carlsbad Chocolate Story

Chuao established its Carlsbad production facility in 2016. From there, the company developed chocolate bars, truffles, gifts, and confections distributed far beyond the city.

Although Chuao has grown into a nationally recognized brand, its creative center remains closely connected to Carlsbad.

Unexpected Flavor Combinations

Chef Michael approaches chocolate with the curiosity of a chef rather than limiting it to traditional candy-making conventions.

Chuao became known for combining chocolate with ingredients and sensations such as caramel, potato chips, popping candy, marshmallows, fruit, spices, and sea salt. Each creation is designed to produce surprise as well as pleasure.

Why It Matters

Chuao demonstrates that Carlsbad’s culinary influence extends beyond restaurants.

The company combines international heritage, classical culinary training, local production, entrepreneurship, and playful creativity. Its success has helped introduce products made in Carlsbad to chocolate lovers across the country.