What it is:
Audiva is a craft chocolate brand founded by pharmacist Nick, who blends his knowledge in pharmacy and food science with cacao innovation. The brand partners with farmers from 13 districts in Chiang Mai to produce chocolate that highlights the unique flavours of each location. They were also among the first to tap into Thailand’s potential as a cacao hotspot.
Why we love it:
Audiva’s approach is all about ‘food as medicine.’ After noticing a sharp uptick in sales of anxiety medications at his pharmacy and becoming aware of chocolate’s anti-anxiety benefits, Nick created a chocolate-based solution: 3g cubes made of 100 percent dark chocolate infused with vitamins, lemon balm and chamomile extract. These all are believed to help combat anxiety, making for a sweet, more approachable alternative for the casually anxious.
Their chocolate also tells a local story. For example, Saraphi district’s cacao carries floral, fruity notes, while Mae Chaem’s has a nuttier profile, as factors like soil composition, altitude and even the local yeast in a particular site all influence flavour. Try them all to find your favourite!
Time Out tip:
Try the hot chocolate at Audiva’s cafe in Kad Farang Village. Rich, complex and uniquely earthy.