Renowned for the richness of its biodiversity and cultural heritage, Pérou is also celebrated for its high-quality cacao. Among the Peruvian chocolate brands that stand out, Ukaw is a rising star. Founded on the principles of superior quality, cultural authenticity, and sustainability, its founders have gone beyond simply producing chocolate. To offer unique culinary experiences, they have also opened two restaurants to showcase the flavor of Peruvian cacao.

The history and origins of the Ukaw brand

"Ukaw" was born in 2010 from the passion of its founders, Gianina Flores and Guillermo Herrerra, for Peruvian cacao. The name Ukaw has its roots in the indigenous languages of Pérou, symbolizing the deep connection between local culture and nature. The brand was created with the aim of promoting Peruvian cacao worldwide, while respecting ancestral agricultural traditions and supporting local communities.

Originally from the village of Atalaya, in the Ucayali region, Gianina Flores learned everything about cacao from her grandmother. Subsequently, she and her husband Guillermo Herrerra began by selling their artisanal chocolates to close friends and acquaintances.

The evolution of the Ukaw brand

The founders of Ukaw then decided to distribute their products to various retail points by offering products with more commercial packaging. Then, they opened a factory in Yarinacocha in 2016.

A point of sale is located outside this factory. It received both foreign and domestic travelers. Thanks to the increased demand for chocolate products, Gianina and her husband opened their first shop dedicated to Ucayalian cacao in 2019 at the Plaza de Armas de Pucallpa. There they offer a variety of dishes, desserts, beverages, and snacks prepared with cacao.

Finally, they decided to open a restaurant in Lima in 2021 to present this new concept with both sweet and savory recipes. The establishment is open Monday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The restaurant's interior is decorated with works of art, jungle products, and Peruvian paintings.

The collection of award-winning chocolate bars does not go unnoticed. Indeed, some products like the roasted chocolate bar were awarded a bronze medal at the International Chocolates Awards Americas competition in 2021. The Ukaw brand also won the AVPA (Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products) 2021 award in France.

Ukaw products

Ukaw offers a range of products highlighting the richness and diversity of Peruvian cacao. Here are some examples:

Chocolate bars

Available in different cacao contents, ranging from mild chocolate to intense dark chocolate, the bars are made with carefully selected cacao beans. Each one presents subtle flavors and different aromas.

Truffles and pralines

These delightful treats combine Ukaw chocolate with local ingredients such as spices, nuts, and exotic fruits. This allows for a unique gustatory experience.

Cacao powders and chocolate spreads

For homemade chocolate enthusiasts, the Ukaw brand offers high-quality cacao powders and rich, creamy spreads.

Ukaw themed restaurants

The Ukaw brand does not simply produce exceptional chocolate. Its founders also offer unique gastronomic experiences through their themed restaurants. These establishments were designed to immerse customers in the world of Peruvian chocolate while offering them refined cuisine. The menu features various original creations.

Salads and appetizers

Fresh salads dressed with cacao vinaigrette and chocolate-infused soups are popular with customers. The Paiche salad stands out particularly.

Main courses

Numerous main courses are offered on the Ukaw restaurant menu, such as:

• Barbecue fried chicken wings with cacao sauce
• Lomo saltado with cacao nibs
• Hamburgers with cacao bread, caramelized onions, and potatoes
• Fettuccine with cacao in a Bolognese sauce
• Empanadas with diced Cecina seasoned with local ingredients

Desserts

Ukaw also offers a selection of exquisite desserts, such as:

• Chocolate lava cake
• Cacao mousses infused with local fruits
• Brownies
• Kekes (sponge cakes)
• Biscuits
• Cheesecakes

Beverages

Grandmother's traditional hot chocolate is one of the comforting and creamy hot beverages offered at the Ukaw restaurant. The famous Choco Ukaw Submarino is also highly appreciated by chocolate lovers. It is a delicious 70% organic cacao chocolate mixed with milk and four regional sweets.

The exotic refreshment called "Magia Ucayali" is original. It is presented in a cacao pod and prepared with a blend of:

• Ice
• Ginger
• Gum syrup
• Lemon
• Cacao mucilage

Moreover, tart cacao and cacao beer are among the beverages that must be tasted.

The cacao ceremony at Ukaw restaurant

Gianina, the founder of the Ukaw brand, also offers interested clients the opportunity to attend and participate in the cacao ceremony. This is an ancestral ritual similar to Ayahuasca, but not very well known in Pérou. This ceremonial lasts approximately 3 hours and is performed for therapeutic purposes.

During the ritual, soft music conducive to meditation is heard. Hot water is served in a small pot called "mokawa shipida." Each person places a tablet of pure cacao in it until it completely dissolves. It is possible to add cinnamon. Next, one must smell the aroma that emerges from the mixture to awaken all the senses and meditate for a few minutes. This ritual thus allows for a moment of relaxation and tranquility while experiencing the benefits of the cacao's aroma.