On Rue Alberti, in the Musiciens quarter, Xocoalt is the project of a passionate Niçois who chose his name carefully: xocoalt means 'chocolate' in Mayan — a return to cacao's origins that announces the house's entire philosophy. Fabrice Zuppo, disciple of master Luc Eyriey known as 'The Picasso of Chocolate', opened this fine chocolaterie in December 2010, after travelling to meet cacao farmers in Mexico to understand cacao at its source.
This field approach — rare among French chocolatiers — allowed him to develop intimate knowledge of cacao origins and particular sensitivity to each terroir's aromatic profiles. Xocoalt's tablet range comes in 10 single-origin crus: Latin America 86%, Venezuela 72%, South America 70%, Ecuador 66%, Caribbean 66%, Dominican Republic 64%, Madagascar 64%, and the Xocoline 65% — a house creation.
Fabrice Zuppo also masters chocolate sculpture — expertise learned from Luc Eyriey visible in window creations, seasonal pieces and personalised gift boxes. Chocolate bonbons play on Niçois and Mediterranean aromatics: Tenderness (thyme, honey, lavender), Nutmeg (Provence almond praline, nutmeg, grapefruit), Cœur Azur.
Grand cru tablet from €5. Box of 12 bonbons from €14. Bespoke creations available.
Highlights: Xocoalt is described as a precious discovery by origin cacao enthusiasts — pure plantation tablets are cited as among the finest available in Nice. Niçois aromatic bonbons (lavender, thyme, honey) are memorable creations. The founder's approach — Mexico trip with farmers, disciple of the Picasso of Chocolate — inspires particular confidence.
Areas for improvement: Notoriety remains confidential compared to Maison Lac or Auer. Hours can be restricted by season. Pastry range is limited.
Overall: Xocoalt is the essential discovery for true origin cacao enthusiasts — a fine chocolaterie combining terroir knowledge, Niçois aromatic creativity and high-level technical mastery.
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