For eight years, many locals satisfied their sweet tooth at the Ecuadorian Chocolate Factory. But you may not know that the beloved destination recently began a new chapter, now under the ownership of an enthusiastic family eager to build on its legacy.
Today, the business proudly operates as Kushi Ecuadorian Chocolate. “Kushi,” which means “happiness” in Quichua, reflects the connection the team hopes every guest feels when they walk through the door. A true bean-to-bar chocolate maker, they reimagined the space with a cacao tree display highlighting the farm-to-factory journey.
For owner Katherine “Kat” Ayala Dillon, this is an opportunity to share one of her homeland’s most iconic treasures.
“Through Kushi, I can introduce people to our country’s incredible diversity and culture,” says Kat. “It’s incredibly meaningful to do this in Cedar Park. The community has welcomed us with open arms and a commitment to supporting local businesses that has made us feel like family since day one.”
Opening Kushi was equally exciting and intimidating. As a wife, mother, and immigrant building a life in a new country, Kat wondered whether she could succeed with this endeavor.
“I also had one very real worry: I love chocolate so much I was afraid I’d eat all the inventory,” says Kat. “However, the more I learned about cacao farming and production, the more I realized this was meant to be my story. I’m grateful every day that I get to share this passion.”
Visitors can get involved through Kushi’s Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Experiences, creating their own chocolate bars while learning the history of cacao. Kat and her team plan to host monthly experiences designed to bring people together.
Kushi offers bars ranging from 55% to 100% cacao, along with handcrafted barks, bonbons, and hot chocolate bombs. Seasonal specialties include customizable chocolate-covered frozen bananas and strawberry cups.
“The Dubai Strawberry Cup has quickly become a customer favorite,” says Kat. “Since these won’t be around forever, now is the perfect time to try them!”
Keep up with events on Instagram @kushichocoec and visit 251 N Bell Blvd #110, Cedar Park.