Dubai Chocolate Craze: Berlin Bakery’s Pistachio Bars Fly Off the Shelves
Ali Fakhro runs a bakery in Berlin called Abu Khaled Sweets. He makes pistachio-filled chocolate bars inspired by a treat called “Dubai chocolate.” This chocolate became popular after a TikTok video showing a food influencer enjoying it went viral, getting over 100 million views.
Fakhro started making the chocolate two months ago. He initially made 20 bars, but they sold quickly. The next day, he made 50, and they sold out, too. Fakhro finally found the right ingredients to create the signature pistachio cream using a Middle Eastern pastry called kataifi.
In Germany, demand for this chocolate is high. People are willing to pay over 100 euros ($104) for it online. Customs once caught a man trying to smuggle 45 kilograms of Dubai chocolate into Germany.
Swiss company Lindt launched its version of Dubai chocolate in Germany. Customers waited in long lines in cold weather to buy it. Some people waited for up to 10 hours. The bars cost around 20 euros each, which is higher than typical chocolate prices, but demand remains strong.
How has the trend of Dubai chocolate influenced the chocolate industry in Germany and beyond?
Interview with Ali Fakhro, Owner of Abu Khaled Sweets in Berlin
By News Directory 3
In a recent interview, we spoke with Ali Fakhro, owner of Abu Khaled Sweets in Berlin, about the runaway success of his pistachio-filled chocolate bars inspired by the viral “Dubai chocolate” trend.
NDC: Thank you for joining us today, Ali. For our readers who might not be aware, can you tell us what “Dubai chocolate” is and how it gained such massive popularity?
Ali Fakhro: Thank you for having me. Dubai chocolate, particularly known for its rich flavor and unique texture, surged to fame after a TikTok influencer posted a video enjoying it, which racked up over 100 million views. This chocolate typically features a gooey filling, often made with ingredients like pistachios and kataifi, a Middle Eastern pastry. The video sparked immense curiosity and excitement, leading many to seek it out.
NDC: You began making these chocolate bars just two months ago. How did you transition from concept to production?
Ali Fakhro: Initially, I made 20 bars, which sold out almost instantly. The next day, I prepared 50, and they disappeared just as fast. I quickly realized I needed to source the right ingredients to create that signature pistachio cream. After some experimentation, I perfected the recipe using kataifi, which adds a delightful texture.
NDC: The demand for your chocolate seems remarkable. What have you seen in terms of customer interest and prices?
Ali Fakhro: The response has been overwhelming. In Germany, people are willing to pay over 100 euros, which is about $104, for a bar online. It’s remarkable to witness such willingness to pay for a product that resonates so deeply with them.
NDC: You mentioned that there was a significant incident involving customs and smuggling. Could you elaborate on that?
Ali Fakhro: Yes, it’s quite a story. Customs caught a man trying to smuggle 45 kilograms of Dubai chocolate into Germany. This incident highlights the lengths to which people are willing to go to get this treat, underscoring its popularity.
NDC: I understand that larger companies like Lindt have also jumped on the Dubai chocolate trend. What are your thoughts on this?
Ali Fakhro: Absolutely. Lindt recently launched their version in Germany, where customers enthusiastically lined up for hours—some even waited in the cold for up to 10 hours. They offered 1,000 numbered bars, priced at around 20 euros each. This trend has definitely captured the attention of major chocolate brands, which acknowledges how unique and appealing this dessert is.
NDC: Bakeries and chocolatiers in other countries, like France, are also embracing this trend. What does that say about the global interest in Dubai chocolate?
Ali Fakhro: It speaks volumes about how food trends can cross borders and ignite passion among customers worldwide. In France, for instance, chocolatiers are featuring similar items at events like the Salon du Chocolat in Paris. It’s fascinating to see people from different cultures embrace this dessert, whether they plan to indulge themselves or share it with family.
NDC: Before we conclude, do you have any final thoughts on the impact this trend has had on your business?
Ali Fakhro: This trend has not only boosted my sales but also connected me with a community of chocolate lovers. I’m thrilled that people are excited about trying something new and experiencing a taste of the Middle East through my chocolates. It’s a blend of culture, creativity, and business that I am proud to be part of.
To follow Ali and his journey at Abu Khaled Sweets, check out their offerings and stay updated on new creations that align with the exciting Dubai chocolate trend.
Lindt released only 1,000 numbered bars across 10 shops. They plan to launch in Austria soon. Dubai chocolate is also popular in France, featured by chocolatier Jeremy Bockel at the Salon du Chocolat in Paris.
Some buyers, like 21-year-old Yannick Burkhard, plan to resell the chocolate online for a profit. He waited three hours in line. Other buyers, such as 18-year-old Leon Faehnle, have different plans. He intends to share his chocolate bars with his grandparents.
This chocolate trend highlights how unique desserts can create excitement and draw eager customers from around the world.