French Broad Chocolate is an Asheville-based bean-to-bar chocolate maker and cafe that has operated in western North Carolina since 2008. The company sources cacao directly from small farms in Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, and other origin countries, processing everything from raw bean to finished bar at its production facility at 821 Riverside Dr in Asheville's River Arts District — one of the city's most creative industrial neighborhoods, situated along the French Broad River.
The factory tour runs approximately one and a half hours and takes participants through every stage of the bean-to-bar process. Groups start with an introduction to cacao sourcing and direct-trade practices before moving through the production floor to observe bean sorting, roasting in small-batch drum roasters, winnowing, stone grinding, and conching — the prolonged mixing process that develops chocolate's final flavor and texture. Guides explain how cacao origin, fermentation level, and roast degree shape each bar's flavor profile, drawing comparisons between the company's single-origin and blended offerings.
Tours include four to six tasting samples selected to illustrate different processing stages and cacao origins, ranging from minimally processed high-percentage dark chocolate to flavored ganache bonbons from the company's confectionery line. A take-home chocolate bar is included in the ticket price. Groups are kept small — typically eight to twelve participants — to allow close observation of machinery and direct questions for the guide. The tour is conducted in English; private group tours can be arranged through the company's booking page at frenchbroadchocolates.com.
Tickets range from approximately $25 to $35 per person. Booking two to three weeks ahead is recommended, as tour slots fill quickly during peak leaf-season (October) and holiday periods. The adjacent River Arts District cafe serves drinking chocolate, espresso, and pastries and is open to non-tour visitors. The facility sits approximately one mile southwest of downtown Asheville by car, with street parking available on Riverside Dr.
What is included
- Factory tour showing bean sorting, roasting, conching, and molding
- 4-6 chocolate tastings
- Chocolate bar to take home
Good to know
- Operator
- French Broad Chocolate (frenchbroadchocolates.com; (828) 505-4996)
Location
821 Riverside Dr, Asheville, NC 28801
35.5695, -82.5744 View on map
Highlights
- Full bean-to-bar factory tour tracing cacao from Ecuador and Peru through every production stage to finished chocolate bar
- Observe sorting, roasting, winnowing, stone grinding, and conching on the production floor with a knowledgeable guide
- Includes 4-6 chocolate tastings ranging from single-origin dark to flavored ganache bonbons, plus a take-home bar
- Small groups of 8-12 participants allow close access to machinery and direct Q&A with the chocolate makers
- Located in Asheville's River Arts District, near studios, galleries, and the French Broad River
Tips for visiting
- Book two to three weeks ahead — October leaf season and December holiday tour slots sell out fastest
- Avoid wearing strong perfume or cologne; it interferes with tasting the subtle differences between single-origin bars
- The adjacent French Broad Cafe is open to the public before and after tours — the drinking chocolate is a highlight
- Check frenchbroadchocolates.com for current tour schedule; hours and slot availability shift seasonally
- Street parking is available on Riverside Dr; the River Arts District is also accessible by Asheville's RAD shuttle on weekends
Frequently asked questions
What age is appropriate for the French Broad Chocolate Factory Tour?
The tour suits ages 10 and up. Young children may find the production floor loud and the information dense, though the tastings are universally popular. Confirm any age minimums with the operator at booking.
Is the tour suitable for people with chocolate or nut allergies?
The facility processes tree nuts and dairy alongside chocolate. Guests with severe allergies should contact French Broad Chocolate directly before booking, as cross-contamination on the production floor cannot be ruled out.
Where exactly is the French Broad Chocolate factory?
The factory is at 821 Riverside Dr in Asheville's River Arts District, approximately one mile southwest of downtown. Street parking is available on Riverside Dr and nearby side streets.
How long does the factory tour last?
Tours run approximately one and a half hours from start to finish, including the production floor walk-through, guide commentary, and tasting session. Groups typically finish with time to browse the retail shop.
Can the tour be booked for private groups?
Yes. French Broad Chocolate offers private group tours bookable through frenchbroadchocolates.com. Private bookings allow for customized timing and are popular for corporate events, celebrations, and school groups.