If you’re a self-certified foodie on TikTok or Instagram, there’s a high chance you’ve stumbled upon chocolate bars stuffed with a delightful, crunchy green filling trending in your feed. The original Dubai chocolate comes straight from—you guessed it—Dubai. This exquisite confection features kataifi (shredded phyllo dough) and a creamy pistachio filling, all encased in rich chocolate. Officially known as the Pistachio Kataifi Chocolate Bar, it has taken the internet by storm due to its complex, delightful mix of flavors and textures.
As a Chicago-based food critic, I’ve discovered that the Windy City is brimming with culinary treasures waiting to be unearthed. One such gem is Sugar Dose, a local dessert spot that recently went viral on TikTok for its Dubai chocolate-themed menu. I’ve indulged there twice, and let me tell you, the Dubai chocolate strawberry cups have left such a lasting impression that I find myself daydreaming about them for weeks. They are, without a doubt, that good.
The enticing combination of sweet, velvety chocolate paired with the crunchy, creamy layers of kataifi and pistachio has thoroughly entranced me. So when news broke that Trader Joe’s was introducing its own version of Dubai chocolate, I wasted no time—jumping into my car and setting off to experience this delectable treat for myself. Here’s a closer look at what I thought.
Is the Trader Joe’s Dubai Chocolate Good?
In short? Yes! The chocolate is rich and well-crafted, and the filling provides a satisfying texture that kept me indulging until the last crumb was gone. For anyone yet to try it, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a shot.
However, a more nuanced examination reveals that while it’s delicious, it may not be the best iteration of Dubai chocolate I’ve encountered. My previous experiences involved milk chocolate varieties, whereas this Trader Joe’s offering, produced by Patislove, utilizes dark chocolate. Does that make a significant difference to me? Not really; I have a deep affection for dark chocolate. But for others, it may present a point of contention.
The key distinction between the Dubai chocolate I’ve previously tasted and this one lies in the contrast between flavors. The dark chocolate’s subtle bitterness tended to overshadow the sweetness of the pistachio filling. While I could visually see the vibrant filling, the flavor of chocolate dominated my palate. Nonetheless, the texture of the filling is where this bar shines. If you’ve never had kataifi, it’s reminiscent of shredded wheat, adding a delightful crunch that elevates each bite into something a bit more exciting. Honestly, that crunch is my favorite element of the whole experience.
If you consider yourself a Dubai chocolate aficionado, this Trader Joe’s bar is certainly worth a shot. I may have bought several to enjoy myself—and of course, to share with friends. But if you’re looking for more delicious ways to experience Dubai chocolate goodness, you can’t miss out on the intensely rich Dubai chocolate cheesecake bars. It’s officially Dubai chocolate season, and I’m absolutely here for it!
How Long Will It Be at Trader Joe’s?
This limited-time novelty is likely to be available only while supplies last, and judging by the current buzz, that may not be for much longer. The original Dubai chocolate bar tends to be on the pricier side, but this TJ’s version comes in at a very reasonable $3.99—far more budget-friendly than some other offerings I’ve spotted. Reports from enthusiastic Trader Joe’s fans indicate that some locations are restricting the quantity of chocolate bars customers can buy in one visit. My local store limited purchases to five per customer, while I’ve heard of others allowing even fewer, at just two per person. When I visited, my store was nearly sold out, and it had only been available for a day or two. So, if you’re keen on stocking up, head to your nearest Trader Joe’s and grab as many as you can before they disappear!
