Frequently Asked Questions
San Diego (Tierrasanta) Store
Where are you located?
Our shop is in the Tierrasanta Gateway Shopping Center at 6030 Santo Rd. Ste. G, San Diego, CA 92124.
What are your hours?
We are open Tuesday through Friday from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 10am-4pm.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes, we sell physical gift cards and eGift Cards.
How long will my chocolates last?
We do not use preservative in our chocolates, so they are best consumed within two weeks if stored at or below 74ºF. They will last somewhat longer in the refrigerator and can last for months in the freezer. Just make sure to let the chocolates come to room temperature before eating them.
Dietary Restrictions
Are your chocolates safe for people with food allergies?
While we make every effort to avoid any cross-contamination when making nut-free, dairy-free, or gluten-free items, our kitchen is not nut-free or dairy-free, so we cannot guarantee that cross-contamination will not occur. We mark the common allergens on each item in our case in the shop, and we’re happy to answer any questions you might have about allergens or cross-contamination.
Are all your chocolates gluten-free?
Yes, all the chocolates we sell are gluten-free. We mark the common allergens on each item in our case in the shop, and we’re happy to answer any questions you might have about allergens or cross-contamination.
Do you have any vegan or dairy-free options?
Our fruit jellies are completely vegan as they use apple pectin, not gelatin. For our chocolate offerings, we have options where we do not use milk as an ingredient in our production, but our chocolate supplier has milk listed as the last ingredient on the dark chocolate we use because of possible cross-contamination with dairy during production of the chocolate.
For any item on our website with milk listed as either the last ingredient or last allergen, we have not added any milk ingredients to that item. For those avoiding dairy, if you’re okay with possible cross-contamination with dairy at the manufacturing level, these items should be safe for you.
Orders & Shipping
Can I order online?
Online ordering is available in our shop for local San Diego pickup. We hope to be offering shipping in January, 2024.
Do you ship?
We do! Nationwide shipping is now available in the U.S.! For more info, see our Shipping Guidelines
Do you deliver?
We don’t currently offer delivery, although special arrangements can be made for a fee, depending on distance and resources.
Can I earn / use rewards points for online orders?
Unfortunately, we are currently unable to integrate our rewards program with the website, so you aren’t able to use rewards points toward your online orders. You CAN earn points, however. If you’re a member of the rewards program, we will manually add your points to your account when you place your online order. If you’re not a member of the rewards program, and would like to join, just let us know when you pick up your order, and we will sign you up and add your points on the spot!
Custom Orders & Special Events
What are the requirements for a custom order?
We require a minimum notice of one month for custom orders, but more notice is better as it ensures that we have enough time for customization and production. If you need your order sooner than that, we may be able to accommodate you for an additional fee. The minimum order for custom chocolates is 50 pieces per type/flavor.
What customization options do you offer?
With an order of 50 or more pieces per type/flavor, you can customize the colors and flavors of your bonbons. Choose from our diverse selection of flavors or suggest your own.
What box sizes do you offer for special events?
For events, we offer a selection of 2-, 3-, or 4-piece boxes, with the opportunity to mix and match flavors within a single box. To see examples of these boxes, visit our Wedding Chocolates page. Larger box sizes are also available.
How can I get a quote for my special event?
To receive a personalized quote, please reach out to us via our contact form, email, or phone number. Provide us with details such as the number of chocolates, customization preferences, and any specific requests. We’ll promptly get back to you with a tailored quote and we’ll schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas.
Do you offer tastings?
We do not offer tastings, but you are welcome to come by our shop and purchase a box of chocolates to get a feel for our quality and flavors.
Do you offer discounts for larger orders?
Depending on the size of your order, bulk discounts *may* be available, and we can discuss that during your consultation.
Can you deliver the chocolates to my venue, or do I need to pick them up?
Depending on your location and our staffing availability, delivery of your chocolates might be available for an additional fee.
General Chocolate Questions
What is the difference between milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and white chocolate?
Milk chocolate contains milk solids or powder, which give it a creamy and sweet flavor. Dark chocolate has a higher percentage of cocoa solids and typically less sugar, resulting in a more intense and slightly bitter taste. White chocolate is made from cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids, and it has a rich, creamy, and vanilla-like flavor.
What is ganache?
Ganache is a luxurious mixture of chocolate and cream that serves as a base for various confections. It can be used as a filling for truffles, a glaze for cakes, or a decadent drizzle for desserts. The texture and flavor of ganache vary depending on the type of chocolate used and the ratio of chocolate to cream.
What’s the difference between a bonbon and a truffle?
“Bonbon” and “truffle” are both terms used in the world of chocolates and confections, but they refer to slightly different types of chocolate treats. Here’s how they differ:
Bonbon: A bonbon is a general term used to describe small, bite-sized sweets or confections, often covered in chocolate. Bonbons can encompass a wide variety of fillings, including but not limited to ganache, caramel, fruit purees, praliné, and more. They are typically coated in a thin layer of chocolate, creating a delightful contrast between the outer chocolate shell and the flavorful filling.
Truffle: A truffle, on the other hand, is a specific type of bonbon. Truffles are traditionally made by mixing chocolate ganache (a mixture of chocolate and cream) with various flavorings, such as liqueurs, spices, or extracts. The ganache is then rolled into small balls and coated in cocoa powder, which gives them their characteristic rustic appearance. Truffles can also be enrobed in chocolate or adorned with various toppings.
In summary, while all truffles are considered bonbons, not all bonbons are truffles. Bonbons can encompass a wide range of chocolate-covered confections, while truffles specifically refer to chocolate ganache-filled confections that are often coated in cocoa powder.
Are there health benefits associated with eating chocolate?
Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate with higher cocoa content, contains antioxidants and compounds that may offer potential health benefits in moderation. These include potential cardiovascular benefits and mood-enhancing effects. However, it’s important to consume chocolate in moderation and choose quality options with minimal added sugars.