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Have you ever dreamed of tasting the Orient in one bite? Dubai chocolate, the latest social confectionery sensation, promises just that.
From niche phenomenon to veritable culinary craze, Dubai chocolate is redefining the boundaries of accessible luxury in the world of sweets.
Imagine velvety chocolate enclosing a heart of pistachio cream, crowned by the crunch of kadayif: it is this bold fusion of Middle Eastern tradition and chocolatier mastery that is driving TikTok and Instagram crazy, winning over the most discerning palates.
But what makes this chocolate so special? Where can you find it in Milan? And most importantly, is it really worth all this hype?
What is Dubai chocolate?
Dubai chocolate is a milk or dark chocolate bar that encloses a heart of pistachio cream, enhanced by the crunchiness of kadayif, a thin strand of sweet paste typical of Middle Eastern cuisine.
The main ingredients are thus high-quality chocolate, finely ground pistachios, sugar, and the ever-present kadayif (similar to “angel hair”), which gives the dessert its characteristic texture.
Who invented Dubai Chocolate?
Sarah Hamouda, a 38-year-old British-Egyptian entrepreneur living in Dubai, is the creative mind behind the Dubai chocolate phenomenon.
In 2021, inspired by her cravings during pregnancy, Hamouda founded Fix Dessert Chocolatier with the goal of creating more than just a chocolate bar.
Fix, which stands for “freaking incredible experience,” started as a side project but quickly became a global phenomenon thanks to social media, particularly TikTok.
Hamouda’s chocolate bars, featuring generous fillings and unexpected flavor combinations such as pistachio knafeh or karak tea, have captured the attention of millions of people around the world.
What makes Made in Dubai Chocolate so special?
Each bar is handmade, including the colorful decorations painted on each, and this Instagrammability perhaps answers the following question:
Why has Dubai Chocolate gone viral?
Dubai chocolate has become a social phenomenon because of its aesthetics and photogenicity: these bars are in fact true works of art, perfect for content on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.
The “unboxing” videos and reactions to the first taste have generated millions of views, creating a domino effect of curiosity and desire.
This media case is reminiscent of the viral success of other food products such as Dalgona Coffee during the pandemic, demonstrating the power of social media in turning a local product into a global trend.
How much does Dubai Chocolate cost?
The cost of Dubai chocolate varies widely depending on the producer and the outlet.
In Milan, prices range between 15 and 24 euros for a 170-200 gram bar.
In the UAE, the price is around 68.25 dirhams, about €17.
For those who want to prepare it at home, the cost of ingredients (quality chocolate, pistachios, kadayif) would be around 10-12 euros for a similar quantity, not counting the time and skill required to replicate the original recipe.
In short, in the end this delicious bar is not so “luxurious.”
Is it really as good as they say?
Before we find out where to buy Dubai Chocolate in Milan, let’s answer the question you are surely all asking: but is it worth it?
The goodness of Dubai Chocolate is subjective, but its popularity speaks for itself. Chocolate and pistachio lovers find it irresistible, appreciating the contrast between the sweetness of the chocolate, the intense flavor of the pistachio and the crunchiness of the kadayif.
However, some consider it overly sweet. Sweetness that can be mitigated by choosing a base with dark chocolate.
Quality varies among manufacturers, so it is advisable to try several brands to find your favorite.
Where to buy Dubai Chocolate in Milan
Milan could not remain indifferent to the Dubai chocolate phenomenon. Here’s where you can find it in the city:
Ernst Knam
The pastry shop of the celebrated Chef Maître Chocolatier offers the “Can’t get khanafed of it” bar, a chocolate masterpiece with pistachio filling and kataifi paste.
Knam interprets Dubai Chocolate with his unmistakable mastery, creating a product that combines tradition and innovation.
💰Price: €24 for 200 grams.
📍Address: Via Augusto Anfossi, 10, 20135 Milan, Italy
Mourad Patisserie
In collaboration with Knam, Mourad offers a version of the Dubai chocolate available in both dark and milk. The generous filling and balanced sweetness make it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic experience.
💰Price: €18.
📍Address: Corso Buenos Aires, 86, 20131 Milan
ODStore
Here you will find a Dubai chocolate that stands out for its surprising crunchiness and intense pistachio aroma. A perfect option for those who like contrasting sensations on the palate.
💰Price: €15.
📍Address: Corso Buenos Aires, 54, 20124 Milan, Bicocca Village Shopping Center, Via Chiese, 4, 20126 Milan, Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 2, 20123 Milan, Via Torino, 61, 20123 Milan
American Crunch
The first American store in Milan, here you can find the Beyoglu Dubai Chocolate bar. You can also buy the jar of pistachio cream used in the filling, as well as a “snack” version.
💰Price: €17.99 for the 170-gram bar, €4.99 for the 36-gram bar, €15.99 for the cream spread.
📍Address: Via Melzo, 34, 20129 Milan
American Uncle
For those looking for a cheaper option, American Uncle offers the Elit Dubai Chocolate. This 90g bar offers the most social dessert experience at the lowest price, ideal for those who want to try the trend without spending too much.
💰Price: €6.90 the 90g bar
📍Address: they sell online
@laberry_mi
Are you open to new variations on the theme (or maybe you’ve already tried all the available bars)? Then you need to check out the confectionery creations of this Instagram profile, which, in addition to offering an artisanal version of Dubai chocolate, also offers a stunning Madeleine-sized variant that is perfect for sharing.
Fabio Del Duca Pastry Chef
For a unique experience, visit this pastry shop in the Bovisa area that offers a puff pastry filled with Dubai chocolate. A fusion of the classic Pain au Chocolat from the Ritz in Parig and mouthwatering pistachio cream with kataifi pastry!
💰Price: 5€
📍Address: Via Giovanni Battista Varè, 26, 20158 Milan, Italy
Whether you are looking for the original or creative interpretations, the city of Milan has everything you need to explore this confectionary phenomenon.
All you have to do is choose your favorite and be won over by this meeting of East and West in the form of chocolate.