Discovering the Dubai Chocolate Craze in Hamilton County
The Rise of Dubai Chocolate
Hamilton County is experiencing an exciting culinary trend: the Dubai chocolate craze. This unique chocolate bar, which combines chocolate, knafeh, and pistachios, originated from Fix Dessert Chocolatier in Dubai in 2021. Its popularity skyrocketed in recent times, thanks largely to viral TikTok videos showcasing this delightful treat.
Local Businesses Join the Trend
In response to the growing interest, several businesses in Hamilton County have started to offer their own versions of Dubai chocolate. Notable establishments include Yafa Golden Coffee in Noblesville, Melt n Dip in Fishers, and Noga International Market in Westfield, all of which have introduced variations of this delicious dessert over the past year.
Yafa Golden Coffee: A Family Affair
Located at 14160 Mundy Dr., Yafa Golden Coffee is a family-owned coffee shop and bakery that has embraced the Dubai chocolate trend. The shop offers an array of treats inspired by the viral sensation, including croissants, strawberry cups, cheesecakes, and, of course, chocolate bars.
Assistant Manager Abdullah Ali remarked on the rapid increase in demand: “It all started with the bars. Dubai chocolate bars went crazy in the Middle East, and through TikTok, it reached America.” Since the shop opened in the summer of 2024, the popularity of Dubai chocolate has significantly contributed to drawing customers in.
Their delicious offerings include premium pistachio cream, fresh strawberries, Belgian chocolate, and knafeh shredded dough, creating a delectable fusion that captivates the palate.
Noga International Market: Freshness is Key
At Noga International Market, located at 3026 Ind. 32, the owner, known simply as Bebo, noted the community’s enthusiastic response to their Dubai chocolate bars. The market offers both small and large versions made fresh daily. “We could barely cover the demand,” Bebo explained. Their commitment to using quality ingredients—crispy knafeh, pistachios and a mix of milk and dark Belgian chocolate—sets their offerings apart from factory-made versions commonly found in Indiana.
Bebo also shared how social media transformed their marketing strategy: “Once we started showcasing Dubai chocolate on Facebook, it drew crowds to our small market.”
Melt n Dip: Innovation Meets Trend
Melt n Dip, a dessert lounge located at 9840 E. 116th St., has also capitalized on this chocolate trend. Co-owner Zubair Khan mentioned the popularity of their Dubai chocolate strawberry cups, which combine strawberries, creamy pistachio butter, and knafeh, gaining traction through viral videos.
Having opened in August 2024, Melt n Dip has been responsive to customer preferences, introducing items like crepes featuring Dubai chocolate. “For us, Dubai chocolate was a natural fit,” Khan explained, and their creative menu reflects that ethos. Exciting new offerings, such as a Dubai chocolate milkshake and Belgian waffle, are on the horizon, promising even more creativity.
Community Impact
The impact of the Dubai chocolate craze extends beyond individual businesses. It has knit together the fabric of the community, encouraging culinary innovation while attracting visitors from afar. People have traveled over four hours in search of the best Dubai chocolate, showcasing the trend’s broad appeal.
As Hamilton County continues to embrace this chocolate phenomenon, local businesses are poised to innovate further, enhancing their menus and meeting the evolving tastes of their customers.
For those who wish to dive into this sweet trend, explore the offerings at Yafa Golden Coffee, Noga International Market, and Melt n Dip.
