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Monk Bar Chocolatiers were established in 1999 by Ray and Liz Cardy. They opened their first shop in the shadow of the Monk Bar, one of the historic gates into the walled city of York.

In November 2002 founders Ray and Liz opened a second shop No.7 The Shambles, which coincided with their son, Alan, joining the business. A few years later, Ray and Liz went into semi-retirement, closing the Monk Bar shop and moving all operations to No.7 The Shambles.

To this day all chocolates are made on the premises in small batches using luxurious couverture chocolate and only the finest ingredients.

In October 2020 Ray and Liz retired and Alan’s wife, Karen, joined the business continuing the family chocolate legacy.

Testimonials

“Been here twice in 4 months on visits to York. Both times the chocolates were lovely and well presented, you can also see the chocolate being made.”

Robert Williams

“Best hot chocolates we have had in the UK, made with real chocolate and milk. Just divine. You get a free chocolate as a taster as well. The chocolates are also exquisite. Take a break and stop here, you will not regret it.”

Rennie Schafer

“Had the best chocolate ever there! A cup MADE of dark chocolate and filled with warm milk chocolate, pure heaven.”

Shaimaa Elsadek

“Received a lovely box of these chocolates for my birthday. They’re lush. Lovely intricate designs and amazing depth to the flavours. I am hoping if I hint enough I’ll get them every year.”

Rebecca Busfield

“I’m a chocoholic. There is good chocolate and bad chocolate but I have to say this is amazing chocolate. I have never tasted anything like it. I’m not eating them all at once, they need to be savoured and eaten when you’re alone.”

Karen Wright

“My favourite chocolate shop anywhere! Their Easter eggs in particular are divine! But I also get a hand picked selection of chocolates here from time to time as a present for someone, or indeed myself! The staff are so helpful and even made an Easter egg especially for me as I wanted a milk chocolate one with a footballing bunny on it for my nephew. They even wrote his name on it :)”

Jennifer Dewjee

“My Favourite choc shop! I love being able to pick & mix all those beautiful chocs & get a bag full of all my favourites! Top quality chocolate, gorgeous flavours (the caramel is the softest & tastiest I’ve ever had!) & it’s just a gorgeous little shop. Can’t wait to return!!”

Nina Gibbins

“A great little chocolate shop. Hand made chocolate and molds. Good for hot chocolate or a shot of liquid chocolate in a chocolate cup choice of milk or dark cup.”

Angela field

“Incredible chocolates – absolutely stunning. Blows the likes of hotel chocolat out of the water.”

Daniel O’Connor

“My favourite chocolatier in York! I take everyone who visits. The £2 warm melted chocolate in a mini chocolate cup is wonderful, as is the hot chocolate. Couldn’t recommend more. A must visit if you’re visiting York! Make sure you have plenty of tissues for children…”

Ben Cole, photographer

“Simply amazing chocolate! Walnut cream and lemon buttercream are a must!”

Suhyun Kim, designer

“Best Shop in York! Everytime I visit York this place is a must. Staff are so helpful and kind. Really nice place to get chocolate gifts, and the chocolate tastes amazing!”

Katie Sanders, accountant