I've been living in Chiang Mai for just over a year now, and I love exploring the map, hunting for intriguing places based on their reviews or just their interesting location. There's this place called "97% Nothing But Cocoa" that immediately caught my eye due to its unique name. It sounds handcrafted/handmade sort of place and indeed it is.
I longed to visit, but it took me months before I had the chance. One reason is its limited operation hours, it only opens on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 AM to 6 PM, quite restricted compared to other businesses. The place is mainly takeaway, with just two rows of seating. It's not your typical café, you can't lounge or work here. Plus, they don't have a restroom.
In a way, I find this charming as they focus solely on their products, which you might have guessed, is cocoa. They only offer a few items: cocoa drinks and cocoa shakes. I've sampled most of what they serve. On my first visit, I tried the 97% cocoa drink. It was stronger and thicker than I anticipated, and I wasn't fond of the lime jelly at the bottom. It was more of a palate cleanser than a flavor enhancer.
After several visits and taste-tests, I've decided that my favorite is their cocoa shake with 30% cocoa. It's not as sweet as you (or I) might think. And also not that much sweeter than other drinks they offer which include 30%, 60%, 70%, and 97% cocoa options.
I love it because it's thick, much like an American milkshake, and it offers great value. For only 80 Thai baht, it competes with similar drinks at other places in Chiang Mai that cost 100 or even 200 baht++ I think those are a bit over the top due to the facts that this is Thailand where you can get a whole local meal for less than $2 easy.
This humble spot offers good value, tasty treats, and a cozy ambiance for a small group of friends. Just make sure you don't need to use a restroom! T^T It's a hidden gem nestled in a residential area, which is rare in Thailand. It's an excellent place to bring someone to in Chiang Mai, to sample a delectable treat during the weekend.
97% Nothing But Cocoa
97% Nothing But Cocoa บ้านเลขที่ 34/2 Sirithorn Rd, เมือง Chiang Mai 50300
