The Dubai Chocolate Craze in Dallas-Fort Worth
Dallas-Fort Worth may be nearly 8,000 miles from the Emirates, but its residents don’t need to travel far to experience the trendy flavors of Dubai chocolate. This sweet creation has captured the hearts of many in North Texas, finding its way onto menus and into stores throughout the region.
What Is Dubai Chocolate?
The original Dubai chocolate is a unique concoction that combines rich chocolate with a filling of pistachio and tahini, enhanced by the delightful crunch of kataifi—thin strands of phyllo dough common in Middle Eastern desserts. This delightful treat first gained popularity on TikTok about a year ago, quickly becoming a sensation that has taken D-FW by storm.
The Local Scene
The buzz around Dubai chocolate has spurred a flurry of innovative offerings in local cafes and dessert shops. Some establishments remain true to the traditional recipe, while others spice things up with original creations inspired by these exotic flavors. Shima Patel, co-owner of Dessert Lab, expresses the universal allure of this delicacy: “One just has to try it to understand that it is definitely worth the hype.”
Dessert Lab: A Hub for Dubai Flavors
Dessert Lab—boasting multiple locations in Dallas and Richardson, with plans for a new spot in Allen—has dedicated an entire section of its menu to Dubai-inspired delights. Signature creations include the classic Dubai chocolate bar and a cheesecake variation, with frequent mentions of how “addictive” these treats can be.
In response to high customer demand, Patel notes that they are producing Dubai chocolate daily, ensuring a fresh supply for eager fans.
Where to Find Dubai Chocolate in D-FW
As the love for Dubai chocolate grows, several local spots have emerged as the go-to places to indulge. Here’s a curated list of establishments where you can savor this trending flavor:
Al Nimer Roastery
Located in Richardson, Al Nimer Roastery specializes in traditional nuts and treats, offering crunchy, locally-made Dubai chocolate, alongside weekend-exclusive cups of Dubai chocolate-covered strawberries.
Address: 815 S Sherman St., Richardson.
Baklava Bakery & Co.
This newly opened gem in Dalworthington Gardens has sweetened its offerings with a Dubai chocolate latte that melds the signature flavors of pistachio and chocolate into a delightful iced coffee finished with crushed pistachios.
Address: 3115 W Arkansas Lane, Dalworthington Gardens.
Big Dash & Pastries
With four locations across North Texas, Big Dash Ice Cream & Pastries features a variety of Dubai chocolate-inspired treats. Customers can enjoy a version of the traditional chocolate bar, a unique Dubai cheese ball topped with pistachio ice cream, or a decadent Dubai chocolate shell shake, inviting customers to crack open a chocolate shell and stir it into a pistachio milkshake.
Multiple locations available. Visit: bigdash.com
MilkShake Factory
This chain recently introduced a Dubai-style chocolate bar that combines flavors of pistachio with milk chocolate and kataifi. It’s a delightful nod to the popular dessert trend that has captured the attention of the culinary scene.
Address: 919 E Northwest Hwy., Grapevine.
Nick the Greek
At this popular eatery specializing in Greek street food, patrons can try the pistachio cream “Dubai chocolate” frozen yogurt—Greek yogurt enhanced with pistachio butter and chocolate, topped with kataifi and pistachio cream.
Address: 7707 N MacArthur Blvd., Irving.
Peace Middle East
This Mediterranean-style cafe serves a sophisticated version of Dubai chocolate, featuring elegantly presented bars and strawberry cups. Their standout item, a Dubai chocolate crepe, showcases a signature marbled design that is both beautiful and tasty.
Address: 581 W Campbell Road, Richardson. Visit: peacemiddleeastcafe.com
Strawberry Co. Deluxe
Situated in Grapevine Mills Mall, Strawberry Co. Deluxe offers a nutty twist to the classic chocolate-dipped strawberries by introducing a Dubai chocolate flavor. Customers can choose between milk, white, or dark chocolate, each finished with a coating of pistachios and kataifi.
Address: Grapevine Mills Mall, Entry 1, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine.
A Growing Trend
The Dubai chocolate phenomenon has not only invigorated the dessert scene in D-FW but has also bridged cultural gaps through shared culinary experiences. With innovative variations popping up across the area, it’s clear that this sweet addition has found a permanent place in the hearts (and taste buds) of North Texans.
