Having enjoyed a career in food and drink that saw her sipping and supping her way through cultures as diverse as Tokyo, Shanghai and New York, Dubliner Emi Takakura returned to Ireland determined to make her mark on the food scene here.
The enterprising creative quickly set about devising a palate pleasing hot chocolate, designed to appeal to adults looking for an indulgent take on a traditional childhood favourite. The result is the luxurious Spoond, a sophisticated European style hot chocolate with a unique taste that has already earned it a prestigious gold Blas na hÉireann award.
Made using a cocoa mix and Belgian milk chocolate flakes, its maker recommends using whole milk or a high quality oat milk to create a thicker, richer, more chocolatey drink, similar to that often enjoyed in cafés from the South of France to South America. In truth the quality is so good that any milk will do, and we particularly liked the thick, creamy Malted Milk version which contains a nice hint of sea salt and tastes incredible spooned from an espresso cup.
Currently available in a choice of Dark Milk Chocolate and Malted Milk Chocolate flavours, Spoond can be found in independent stores such as Ennis Butchers in Rialto, As One on City Quay and the Camerino Bakery and Café on Capel Street and Merrion Square.
Meanwhile, a selection of lovely gift sets, complete with beautiful ceramic mugs and packs of Belgian chocolate flakes are also available to order online at spoond.ie.
