SOMA Chocolatemaker

Distillery District Store: 32 Tank House Lane, Toronto
(416) 815-7662
King St. West Store: 443 King St. W., Toronto
(416) 599-7662
Cacao Bean Lab: 77 Brock Ave., Toronto
437-232-7662

www.somachocolate.com

SOMA Chocolatemaker, founded in 2003 by David Castellan and Cynthia Leung, has become a cornerstone of Toronto’s artisanal chocolate scene. Their journey began with a modest space in the city’s historic Distillery District, where they embarked on a mission to explore innovative ways of creating and savouring chocolate.

David, a trained pastry chef, and Cynthia, whose background complements their creative endeavours, envisioned a small, eclectic chocolate factory that would push the boundaries of traditional chocolate-making. Their initial setup involved roasting and winnowing cacao beans, refining and conching their own chocolate and producing a diverse range of products, including gelato, cookies, hot chocolates, and truffles. This hands-on approach allowed them to experiment with flavours and techniques, laying the foundation for SOMA’s reputation for quality and innovation.

SOMA’s dedication to excellence has garnered international acclaim. Their Arcana, Porcelana blend, 100% chocolate bar, for instance, has been celebrated for its exceptional quality and flavour profile. Such accolades reflect their unwavering pursuit of perfection and innovation in the world of chocolate.

Expansion and Community Engagement

With the support of a growing community of chocolate enthusiasts, SOMA expanded to multiple locations, including King Street West and a Cacao Bean Lab. Each venue offers a unique experience, from witnessing the chocolate-making process to indulging in their latest creations. Their commitment to engaging with customers has fostered a loyal following and positioned SOMA as a destination for both locals and visitors seeking exceptional chocolate.

Product Range and Innovations

SOMA’s product line is a testament to their creativity and dedication to the craft. They produce micro-batch chocolate, truffles, drinking chocolates, cookies, and gelato, among other delights. Notably, their Birch Branch—a life-sized birch branch filled with praline and sour cherry ribbons—showcases their flair for combining artistry with flavour. Their offerings also include a variety of hot chocolate mixes, catering to diverse palates and solidifying their status as innovators in the chocolate industry.

Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Sourcing high-quality cacao beans is central to SOMA’s philosophy. They engage in direct trade with farmers, ensuring not only the excellence of their products but also the sustainability and ethical integrity of their supply chain. This commitment extends to their production methods, where they emphasize small-batch processing to maintain control over flavour and quality.

Educational Endeavors and Community Involvement

Beyond production, SOMA is committed to educating the public about chocolate. They offer tastings and workshops that delve into the journey of cacao from bean to bar, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of chocolate-making. Their engagement with the community extends to collaborations with local artisans and participation in events that celebrate culinary arts.

Future Prospects

As SOMA continues to evolve, their focus remains on exploring new frontiers in chocolate. With a foundation built on passion, innovation, and a deep respect for the craft, they are poised to delight chocolate lovers for years to come. Their journey from a small corner in the Distillery District to a renowned chocolatemaker serves as an inspiration to artisans and entrepreneurs alike.