Welcome to the world of Chocolat Uzma, a visionary chocolate brand founded by Chef Uzma Sharif in 2011, right in the heart of Chicago. At Chocolat Uzma, we specialize in crafting exquisite chocolates, confections, ice cream, and pastries inspired by the vibrant and flavorful tapestry of Pakistan, India, and the entire South Asian region.
Our brand is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions found within the colorful mosaic of South Asia. The distinctive turmeric boxes and our shop's signature color pay homage to the revered spice that holds a special place in the hearts of South Asians. In fact, it is so esteemed that there's an entire wedding day dedicated to its significance.
Chocolat Uzma is dedicated to creating a lasting and memorable experience for our cherished guests. You can indulge in our delectable creations online, through our retail store nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Pilsen, Chicago, and even through an exclusive partnership with the world's largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery located on the iconic Michigan Avenue.
Join us on a journey where every bite of Chocolat Uzma's offerings transports you to a world of unparalleled flavors and cultural richness. Experience the fusion of tradition and innovation as we redefine the art of chocolate-making. Chocolat Uzma - where passion meets excellence, and every moment is an extraordinary delight.
About Uzma
Chef Uzma is a chocolatier and culinary expert with over 20 years of experience in the food industry. Her passion for chocolate has been a creative obsession that has driven her to create unique and exotic confections that tantalize the taste buds of chocolate lovers everywhere.
Uzma was born and raised in the United States, growing up in a single-parent household in Chicago, Illinois. As a first-generation Pakistani American, life was not easy for her family. Despite the challenges, Uzma found solace in her creative side and began channeling her pain into art.
At the age of 18, Uzma discovered her talent for cooking and quickly caught the attention of the executive chef in the kitchen where she worked. She skipped college and moved to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to attend culinary school. There, she honed her skills as a chef and gained invaluable experience.
After completing her culinary education, Uzma returned to Chicago to attend the French Pastry School. She studied under world-renowned chefs Sebastien Canonne and Jacquy Pfeiffer and learned the art of French pastry. Her education was further enhanced by her time living and working in France, where she gained a deep appreciation for the French culinary tradition.
Uzma’s passion for chocolate led her to become an adjunct faculty member at Triton College in Melrose Park, where she taught chocolate and pastry for seven years. Her expertise and love for chocolate eventually led her to open her first shop in Pilsen in 2012, where she infused her exotic Pakistani culture into chocolates and confections.
Today, Uzma is a celebrated chocolatier and culinary expert who is thrilled to share her passion for chocolate and her unique cultural perspective with the world.