Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co

Southern Artisan Chocolate Tradition

Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co stands as Tennessee's pioneering bean-to-bar chocolate company, established in 2007 in the heart of East Nashville. The company has become synonymous with a distinctive approach to chocolate-making that blends traditional methods with modern European technique and classic Southern flavors, creating what they call Southern Artisan Chocolate. Their philosophy centers on slow-roasting and stone-grinding select single-origin cacao beans, combined exclusively with pure cane brown sugar to achieve a smooth, robust flavor profile that defines their brand identity.

Artisanal Production Methods

What sets Olive & Sinclair apart is their commitment to heritage chocolate-making techniques. The company uses antique melangeurs—stone mills dating back to the early 1900s—inspired by the traditional method used for stone-ground grits. These mills operate continuously, grinding chocolate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visitors can observe this mesmerizing process through the storefront window, witnessing firsthand how cacao transforms into silky chocolate. Every batch is produced in small quantities, ensuring quality control and attention to detail that mass-produced chocolate cannot match.

Product Range and Innovations

The company's chocolate bar collection showcases their creative approach to flavor combinations. Their signature offerings include the 75% Cacao and 67% Cacao Southern Artisan Chocolate Bars, alongside innovative varieties such as Mexican Style Chocolate with cinnamon and chili, Salt & Pepper Chocolate Bar, Cacao Nib Chocolate Bar, Sea Salt Chocolate Bar, and Chocolate Coffee Bar. They've also pioneered buttermilk white chocolate, a distinctly Southern invention. Beyond chocolate bars, Olive & Sinclair produces specialty confections including their celebrated Duck Fat Caramels, Sea Salt & Vinegar Caramels, and Bourbon Brittle. The company collaborates with other Southern artisans, such as Allen Benton, to create unique products like Smoked Nib Brittle, deepening their roots in the regional food community.

Visitor Experience and Tours

The shop welcomes visitors to experience chocolate-making firsthand through guided factory tours lasting approximately 45 minutes. Led by knowledgeable staff, these tours reveal the intricacies of bean-to-bar production, the history of the company, and the philosophy behind their Southern Artisan Chocolate approach. The retail space offers complimentary samples of most chocolate varieties, allowing visitors to discover personal favorites before purchasing. Staff members are notably friendly and informative, providing recommendations about products and local attractions. The shop's location in East Nashville places it near other local businesses, including the Frothy Monkey coffee shop across the street.

Community Integration and Services

Olive & Sinclair has woven itself into Nashville's local food culture, with their distinctive chocolate bars appearing throughout the city. The company offers customization options for special occasions, including wedding favors, gift bundles, and custom bar flavors with personalized packaging. They provide shipping throughout the United States and local delivery services for Nashville-area events. Whether purchasing individual bars for personal enjoyment or bulk orders for special occasions, the company works flexibly with customers of all budget levels.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 1628 Fatherland Street in East Nashville's vibrant neighborhood, the shop occupies a charming storefront that reflects the artisanal nature of the business. The space is wheelchair accessible, welcoming visitors of all mobility levels. The shop maintains regular hours Monday through Saturday, with extended hours Tuesday through Saturday and reduced hours on Monday, remaining closed on Sundays.