Lorge Chocolatier

Chocolatier Ireland - Master Chocolatier

The road out from Kenmare to Glengarrif in West Cork is a scenic country drive, and the location of the premises of Benoit Lorge, Master Chocolatier. The original O’Connor’s shop and post office, located on the side of the road at Bonane, Co Kerry, about 10km from Kenmare, is now owned and run by this French chocolate maker. He has kept the old post office signs and record books from over 80 years ago which are on display in the shop, but it’s quirky interior now has a very different use.

Out back a small kitchen is the place where Ben, originally from Lorraine in France, creates his unique and individual chocolates. He made the jump from working as a top pastry chef abroad and then Kerry to concentrate on chocolate making three years ago, after using the quiet winter months to produce chocolates to raise money for local charities. Demand was huge, and his work soon developed a fine reputation among food lovers and connoisseurs.
Now his creations are award winning, scooping honours in the UK in the last couple of years. He takes inspiration from the beautiful Kerry countryside to create figurines, seasonal specialities and table decorations for special events. But it’s the handmade individual chocolates and truffles, which attract the attention of many tourists and locals who come here to try their unusual and exotic flavours. And don’t be worried about language barriers here, as they speak English, French and Spanish all to help you find your perfect selection.

Ben uses Belgian and French chocolate to create his range, which includes the medal winning Gold Palets, a mix of dark chocolate and edible gold whose names mean ‘small stones. Or try the Crispy Pancake chocolate, another prize-winner. Truffles include Baileys, Whisky and Paprika and Rum Butter – you won’t be able to choose. But luckily you can pick and mix so you won’t have to. And best of all you can actually see the chocolates been made while you shop. When he’s not making chocolates for the shop or some of Ireland’s finest eating establishments, Ben is running chocolate workshops for kids and adults. His partner Yolanda uses her artistic talents to create extravagant packaging for his creations. Browse the shelves here and be tempted!

Contact Details

To Contact a Member Directly, please click on the email or website below

Bonane
Kenmare
Co Kerry
+353 (0) 64 6679994
Email: info@lorge.ie
Web: www.lorgechocolate.com/

 

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