Love is sweet! Stafford’s Chocolates, located in the heart of Porterville, California, is known for its delicious chocolate treats, attention to craft, and dedication to its local community. This chocolate shop is a family business that specializes in crafting gourmet chocolate, sweet confections, tasty coffee, and its hospitality.

Stafford’s Famous Chocolates has been a part of the San Joaquin Valley since 1987. It was created by Larry Stafford, who poured his passion into his sweet treats and remarkable shop. In 2011, the Taylor family realized a dream to carry on the Stafford legacy. They have since been working hard to provide the high quality and attention to craft for which Stafford’s Chocolates is known. They use fresh ingredients and original recipes, and value their partnerships with local dairies as well as producers of nuts, fruits, and honey. They even carry a selection of desserts and pastries from a few local bakers. Every assorted box of chocolates, beverage, and product from the shop has a taste of the Valley in it!

For 2022, the Porterville Chamber of Commerce recognized and awarded Stafford’s Chocolates as the Small Business of the Year. Locals love having a shop in their town that brings joy to the community through its products and atmosphere in their day-to-day lives and major life events! It is an exceptional place to grab a coffee and pastry while shopping for a gift for someone special. Owner Rob Taylor says, “It’s important to be a good neighbor and make our community a better place. Chocolate and coffee are a good way to do that.” Stafford’s Chocolates is not only a great chocolate shop—after hours, it can also be a fun venue for private intimate events and festive community happenings such as paint nights, live music, dance lessons, and pop-ups.

For a firsthand look at how these delicious treats are made, visit the store for any chocolate lover’s dream experience! Watch the chocolatiers bring your Valentine’s Day sweets to life as they create some of their most loved products using original recipes, such as the Stafford’s Ooey Gooey Bar. As you shop for your sweetheart, sip on a sweet latte packed with fresh, quality ingredients, including house-made syrups, Intelligentsia Coffee, Rosa Brothers milk, or Califia Farms dairy substitutes. Pick and choose from a wide variety of truffles, caramels, and creams for a heart-shaped box of Assorted Chocolates. Or place an order for Stafford’s most popular Valentine’s request: Freshly Dipped Chocolate Covered Strawberries!

Porterville isn’t the only place you can find Stafford’s Chocolates. If you can’t visit the charming brick-and-mortar, you may be able to find original and custom Stafford’s Chocolates and products at several florists, wineries, hotels, and businesses throughout the San Joaquin Valley and state of California. Follow Stafford’s Chocolates on Instagram and Facebook @staffordschocolates or visit their website at www.staffordschocolates.com to stay informed on new locations, upcoming events, and seasonal products!

Valentine’s orders can be placed in-store, over the phone, and conveniently online. The shop even offers delivery and pick-up options for locals and UPS shipping from the fall through the spring. For outstanding confections from the best family owned and operated chocolate shop in the Central Valley, simply head to Stafford’s Chocolates to make your everyday and extra-special moments even sweeter.

Features Contributor Alyssa Grigg Martin, Social Media & Content Manager at Stafford’s Chocolates