Maison Marou

This article goes to all the chocolate lovers out there. I absolutely love chocolate in any form. Hot chocolate, dark chocolate, chocolate mousse, chocolate cake, chocolate everything. My personal favourite? Dark dark dark chocolate.

When we arrived in Ho Chi Minh, I had absolutely no idea what to expect. I had heard quite interesting things but mostly negative - too big, too dirty, not nice. Since comments like that don't usually influence my expectations, I was open to expect anything.

The second we arrived, I loved the city. And at that time, I didn't even know I would find myself in my personal heaven only a few days later.

Once we had checked into our apartment, we got a detailed list of things to do and where to eat while sipping some fresh Vietnamese coffee. At the end of our little introduction to the city, the girl asked us: "oh and do you like chocolate? " My sister and I absolutely love it, not a day goes by without. So she told us about Maison Marou. She circled it on our map and we had a mission the next day: discover this chocolatey place!

History

Vincent Mourou and Samuel Maruta are the founders of the world's famous chocolate - Maison Marous. The showroom/ store/ cafe has only existed for a few years, due to operational problems. Now, they have gained recognition all over the world and each day, tourists and locals come here to satisfy chocolate cravings, buy presents or simply relax with the smell of delicious chocolate in the air. What I found very impressive, it that all products are local and all productions are done in Vietnam as well.

How to get there

Located at 168 Calmette, you will find this little gem (here you can check it out on google maps). When we went, there was still a massive construction sight and honestly, without google maps we probably wouldn't have found it. Just keep your eyes open and pay attention to the smell of chocolate, then you won't miss it. In case you do get lost, just ask locals, they will most probably know the place and help you to get there.

The Shop

The second I entered the place, I had this huge smile on my face and said to my sister: this is gonna be one of the best things ever! There was a heavy smell of chocolate in the air with a hint of coffee. There are chocolate bars built up throughout the whole place and on the wall, you can read about the differences in more detail.

To the right, you will find the place where dreams come true. You'll have to decide on what to eat and drink though and believe me, it all looks so delicious! Chocolate over chocolate over chocolate, if you want anything else, you should consider going somewhere else.

Throughout the store, they have places to sit and relax and once you ordered, they will serve you at the table.

In the back, there is an 'open' area where you can see the magic. Tartes, Pralines, Cakes, Chocolate bars, everything is made right in front of your eye.

What to eat/drink

So here's what we had to drink: Signature Bold Hot Chocolate.

Basically a super extra hot chocolate which was the creamiest I've ever had. They also have a 'signature' one which is a bit less chocolately. But honestly, if you're there, you should go full on if you ask me.

What we had to eat: Chocolate Tarte.

I think we were standing there for at least twenty minutes, trying to decide on what to eat. Everything just looked absolutely divine! We chose the chocolate Tarte and shared and that was perfect for us. I must admit, even as absolute chocolate lover, I was quite close to an overdose.

Souvenir

If you're at the end of your travels and can transport chocolate safely, go and treat yourself to some of the chocolate bars! Maybe not just for you, but also for family and friends. Unfortunately we didn't have the possibilities with our backpacks and travelling with busses etc but I sure do regret not buying enough to last me for a year.

I hope you enjoy this place as much as I do! Let me know what you tried and how you liked it!