Discovering the Dubai Chocolate Craze in Central Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The sweet sensation of Dubai chocolate, made famous by social media, has now taken root in central Ohio. From upscale chocolatiers to convenient gas stations, residents are eager to find the best Dubai-inspired treats. But what exactly is this culinary trend, and where can you enjoy these delectable creations?

Origins of the Dubai Chocolate Craze

The Dubai chocolate phenomenon began in 2021, originating from the creative mind of Sarah Hamouda, founder of Fix Dessert Chocolatier in Dubai. In a heartfelt TikTok post, Hamouda shared that her desire for a unique dessert led her to explore diverse chocolates and sweets while pregnant with her second child. Frustrated by the lack of nostalgic flavors reminiscent of her mother’s cooking, she set out to create something truly special.

The result? The Can’t Get Knafeh Of It bar—a milk chocolate delight that combines crispy knafeh, rich pistachio cream, and tahini paste. This signature creation quickly skyrocketed in popularity, earning its place as the quintessential "Dubai chocolate." The bar’s viral status was propelled by intense promotion on TikTok, capturing the attention of food enthusiasts worldwide.

The Arrival in Central Ohio

Now, central Ohioans can indulge in various interpretations of Dubai chocolate, with numerous establishments offering these sweet treats. Here are some of the best places to experience this chocolate craze firsthand.

Must-Visit Spots for Dubai Chocolate

Al Aqsa Sweets

Location: 1940 Schrock Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43229
Al Aqsa Sweets is renowned for their handmade bars and a unique chocolate strawberry Dubai cup, available in three sizes. Each dessert is crafted fresh to order, ensuring an authentic experience.

Habibi Café & Sweets

Location: 6520 Hayden Run Rd., Dublin, Ohio 43016
At Habibi, indulge in their Dubai-inspired chocolate strawberries, which are covered in melted Nutella, drizzled with pistachio sauce, and garnished with crunchy pistachios and phyllo dough. It’s a flavor explosion that beautifully represents the Dubai chocolate craze.

Juice Time

Location: 1722 Hilliard Rome Rd, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Juice Time offers a wide variety of Dubai-inspired desserts, including Dubai strawberry cups, cakes, ice cream, milkshakes, and, of course, chocolate bars. A one-stop shop for all your cravings!

MilkShake Factory

Location: 1333 N High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
Their Dubai-style chocolate bar features a delightful mix of silky pistachio crème and crispy toasted kataifi all wrapped in rich milk chocolate. It’s a perfect nod to the luxurious sweets of Dubai.

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee

Locations:

• 8911 S. Old State Rd., Lewis Center, Ohio 43035
• 6181 Sawmill Rd, Dublin, Ohio 43017
  This cozy coffee shop boasts scrumptious Dubai chocolate strawberry cups, perfect for pairing with your favorite coffee.

Shake Shack

Locations:

• Short North: 740 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215
• Dublin: 3734 W. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43235
• Easton Town Center: 4005 The Strand W. Space 430, Columbus, Ohio 43219
  Beginning June 24, Shake Shack will be introducing their Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Shake for a limited time. This delicious creation features real pistachio frozen custard blended with toasted kataifi within a crackable dark chocolate shell, garnished with crunchy pistachios.

The Maison Skalli

Location: 2746 Festival Ln., Dublin, Ohio 43017
A charming breakfast and brunch spot, The Maison Skalli offers both a Dubai crunchy cup and a delightful Dubai chocolate croissant to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Vanilla Cakes & Pastries

Location: 2604 Hilliard Rome Rd., Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Sweeten your day with Dubai chocolate bars, chocolate bombs filled with qishta, and more at Vanilla Cakes & Pastries.

Dubai Chocolate at Polaris Fashion Place

In addition to the local favorites, Polaris Fashion Place features several spots offering Dubai chocolate:

• Pure Imagination Chocolatier: Sells freshly made squares and bars during the weekends, and pre-orders can be arranged.
• Viral Treats: This cart near the mall’s center court offers individually wrapped chocolate bars.
• Jamba Juice: Indulge in fresh strawberries drizzled with Dubai chocolate, a refreshing and delectable treat.

As the Dubai chocolate craze continues to grow, central Ohioans have a wealth of options to satisfy their sweet cravings. Whether you’re indulging at a high-end chocolatier or grabbing a treat on the go, the flavors and creativity inspired by Dubai are now closer than ever.