French Broad Chocolate Factory & Cafe

We tried the affagato with peppermint ice cream, the liquid chocolate, and a brownie. We took a selection of bonbons to go, every single one has been an delicious treat. If we're ever I town again, we will definitely go on tour.

Delicious chocolate! I forget the name but that make a liquid chocolate drink (not hot chocolate but it is warm) that is sooo good!

We originally had no intention of taking a detour to the French Broad Chocolate Factory along the French Broad river on the south end of the Asheville River Arts District, but our visit turned into a wonderfully pleasant surprise. We opted for the guided tour which lasted roughly 45 minutes, and included a brief classroom exhibition about the history of the company and the modern cultivation and production of chocolate. At no point were we bored or disinterested, and remained engaged thanks to our wonderful guide. The highlights of the tour including the large windows which allowed us to witness production in action, along of course with the several opportunities to taste their phenomenal products! We would recommend the visit to anyone who is vacationing to, or a resident of Asheville, or would just appreciate a fun diversion for an afternoon.

Yummy as always!

My mother's favorite chocolate store! My family and I were visiting from out of town and my mother took us there definitely a wonderful experience

What a great overall experience. My wife, kids and I took the tour and had a wonderful time learning about the chocolate process and seeing the factory up-close. It may seem like a small thing, but the tour guide, Owen, really made the whole experience better by his enthusiasm. It was great to meet the founder as well by chance. And Yes, the chocolate is delicious!

As soon as you walk up to the building you can smell chocolate. We came for the tour. We learned so much about not only chocolate making but the process of cacao fermentation and refinement. Sam, our tour guide was great. Definitely recommend coming here! Just to give you an idea, we came with young kids ages 3-8.

First time stopping by here on the way to a brewery down the street. The chocolate bar we bought was really good, though they are in the pricey side. You get what you pay for. We had a mocha as well which I liked but didn’t love. I might try something else next time and look forward to our next visit

I go the milk and cookies and let’s just say it didn’t disappoint. Friendly staff and good atmosphere. If you can do the tour✌️

Don’t be fooled by the industrial area and facade - inside is a very cool space to learn about AND SEE how chocolate is made and what they’re working on that day. Grab a fresh sweet (we had their delicious chocolate chip cookie sprinkled with sea salt) and beverage from the cafe (I had a great decaf americano) as well as buy some of their chocolate (we got their whiskey barrel dark chocolate). The downtown Lounge location doesn’t have this factory showcase. Worth going!

What an educational experience to see ams learn where the chocolate was sourced, how it’s processed and created. It’s obvious this company values sourcing local when possible, ensuring transparency and making delicious chocolate products. What an Asheville treat!

Every time I’ve been here the experience is nothing more than fabulous. The hot chocolate and the truffle are to die for, when you ask for extra hot they really mean it. That was the best part. I got 3 different types of chocolates all weren’t less from awesome. The ice cream Buddha was really good for a vegan ice cream. Had a slight malted and fermented taste that made it different from all ice creams I’ve had before. As for truffles I’ve never understood them and didn’t understand it here too. The staff I’ve met here always makes the experience better. Thank you always employing such sweet staff.

Excellent chocolate! Honestly not much else to say, but my recommendations are the single origin pack. Vegan friendly dark chocolates (spoiled for choice).

Always An Unforgettable Experience at French Broad Chocolate Lounge!

I have been coming to this local gem each time I am in Asheville!!

Here's a snippet from my most recent visit:

From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in warmth--not just from the rich aroma of chocolate, but from the incredible service. A special shoutout to Owen, who went above and beyond to make the experience truly memorable. Knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely passionate about chocolate, Owen added a personal touch that elevated the visit to something extraordinary.

The Hot Chocolate & Liquid Truffle? Absolute Magic.
The classic hot chocolate was everything you dream of on a crisp Asheville day--velvety, chocolatey, and perfectly balanced. But the star? The liquid truffle. Decadent, intense, and absolutely divine!

Chocolates That Tell a Story
I also picked up some of their handcrafted chocolates--each one bursting with flavor and artistry. It's clear that French Broad takes pride in ethical sourcing and artisanal craft, and you can taste the love in every bite.

Support Local, Taste Global
French Broad isn't just a chocolate shop--it's a pillar of Asheville's vibrant local scene. They combine heart, hospitality, and high-quality craft in a way that makes every visit feel both cozy and elevated.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, don't miss this gem. Come for the hot chocolate, stay for the soul. And if you're lucky, Owen will be there to make your day.

Staff were not welcoming
Food is not exceptional but expensive
Factory looks very clean We liked visiting this place