Bean to Beverage: Roast and grind cacao into chocolate

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to craft your own chocolate from scratch, this Bean to Beverage experience offers just that—an authentic, interactive way to understand one of the world’s most beloved treats. Based in the lively neighborhood of Condesa, this three-hour workshop guides you through the traditional methods used by the Mayans and Aztecs, transforming humble cacao beans into a variety of rich, spicy hot chocolates.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, you get the chance to roast and grind cacao beans manually, reconnecting with pre-Columbian culinary traditions. Second, it’s a creative tasting session where you can customize your drinks with ingredients like chile, achiote, and avocado leaf—flavors rarely explored outside of ancient recipes. Third, the knowledgeable host, Jim, infuses the class with warmth and expert insights, making it both educational and fun.

A potential consideration is that the venue does not have an elevator, so those with mobility challenges might need to plan accordingly. Plus, since the class takes place in a private home with two cats, allergy sufferers should be aware.

This tour suits adventurous foodies, history buffs, families, or anyone eager to experience Mexico’s deep-rooted cacao culture in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Authentic skills: Learn to roast and grind cacao beans just like the Aztecs and Mayans.
• Creative flavoring: Experiment with ancient ingredients like chile, achiote, and avocado leaf.
• Expert guidance: Jim, the host, is praised for his knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendly attitude.
• Authentic setting: Conducted in a cozy, private home in Condesa, adding a personal touch.
• Inclusive and flexible: Most dietary needs can be accommodated, and booking allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Value for money: Priced at $92, the experience includes six different hot chocolate drinks and a dessert, making it a rich, comprehensive tasting session.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Venue and Setting

This workshop takes place in a charming home in Condesa, one of Mexico City’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The space is described as warm and inviting, creating a comfortable environment for learning and tasting. While the home lacks an elevator, previous participants, including those with some mobility challenges, found the experience manageable. The fact that it’s a private or small-group setting enhances the intimacy and allows for personalized attention from Jim, your guide.

The Itinerary: From Bean to Beverage

The workshop kicks off with a brief introduction to cacao’s history, especially its significance among the ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations. You’ll learn about how cacao was revered not just as food but as a divine gift, often used in rituals and royal feasts. Jim’s storytelling brings this history to life, making the experience more than just a cooking class.

Next, the hands-on part begins. You’ll roast cacao beans yourself—this step is crucial because it releases essential oils and enhances flavor. Unlike pre-roasted beans, doing this step manually gives you a real sense of the process and the aroma that fills the room is simply divine.

Following roasting, you’ll grind the beans on a metate, a traditional stone grinding tool used by the Aztecs. While it might sound simple, this manual process adds texture and authenticity, and Jim emphasizes the importance of traditional techniques. As you work, he shares insights about how ancient cultures prepared cacao and how modern methods differ.

Flavoring and Creativity

Once your cacao paste is ready, it’s time to turn it into hot chocolate. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to get creative. You’ll choose from a selection of ingredients rooted in Mesoamerican culinary traditions—like chili for heat, achiote for color and flavor, and avocado leaf for aroma. Jim encourages experimentation, meaning you can craft hot chocolates that range from mildly sweet to intensely spicy.

Participants have noted that Jim is very supportive of creativity. One reviewer mentioned that he “encourages creative combinations,” which keeps the process lively and personalized. After mixing, you’ll taste your creations in a cozy setting, often accompanied by a dessert. The presentation is charming, with artisanal serveware adding to the sensory experience.

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The Tasting and Final Moments

The workshop concludes with a tasting session, where everyone gets to enjoy their handmade hot chocolates. Each drink is unique, reflecting the flavor combinations you’ve crafted. The setting is laid out with care, making it feel like a special occasion. Many reviewers comment on how satisfying it is to see the transformation from raw cacao to a delicious beverage.

Jim often pairs these tastings with a dessert, further enhancing the experience. Guests frequently mention how much they appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of time for questions and sharing stories about cacao and Mexican traditions.

What’s Included and How Much Does It Cost?

For $92 per person, you receive all ingredients needed to make six different hot chocolate drinks and a dessert. This price reflects a comprehensive experience that combines hands-on activity, cultural insight, and tasting. Since the experience lasts approximately three hours, it offers good value, especially considering the personalized attention in small or private groups.

Participants praise the inclusivity of the class, with Jim being attentive to dietary requirements—though strict kosher options aren’t currently available. All materials are provided, and booking can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travelers.

Why the Price is Justified

Compared to other food workshops, the focus on traditional techniques, the variety of ingredients, and the rich story behind each step add great value. Guests also appreciate that this isn’t just a demonstration—it’s an interactive experience that leaves you with skills and knowledge to recreate your own chocolate at home.

Authenticity and Cultural Connection

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the authentic approach to Mexican cacao culture. Jim’s deep knowledge and passion shine through, and his storytelling enriches the experience. Guests learn that cacao was much more than a treat—an integral part of ritual and social life, which is reflected in the ingredients used today.

The use of traditional tools like the metate and the focus on ancient ingredients help you grasp the cultural significance of cacao beyond supermarket chocolates. Several reviewers, including Jessica Velazquez, appreciated Jim’s emphasis on original flavors and his encouragement for guests to explore different combinations, often inspired by Mayan and Aztec traditions.

Atmosphere and Host

Guests consistently mention the friendly, welcoming nature of Jim and his assistant. The class feels like a gathering of friends rather than a formal lesson, which makes tasting and learning more enjoyable. Jim’s enthusiasm for both the history and culinary techniques is contagious, making even the most novice cooks feel confident.

The setting in a cozy home adds to the charm, with artisanal serveware and a relaxed vibe. Several reviews highlighted the homely atmosphere as part of what made the experience memorable.

Practicalities: What to Know Before You Book

• Location: The experience is held in Condesa, a lively and artsy neighborhood. Check your booking details for the exact meeting point.
• Duration: Around 3 hours, with starting times varying based on your selection.
• Group Size: Small groups or private bookings ensure personalized attention.
• Accessibility: No elevator in the venue; guests with mobility issues should consider this.
• Allergies: While allergies are accommodated in most cases, note that the house has two cats, which allergy sufferers should consider.
• Languages: The class is conducted in English and Spanish, making it accessible to a broad audience.
• Booking Flexibility: Reserve now and pay later option available, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for food lovers curious about traditional Mexican ingredients, history enthusiasts keen to learn about cacao’s cultural significance, and families looking for a fun, educational activity. It’s also suited for those who enjoy hands-on experiences and creative tasting. If you appreciate small-group settings and personal attention, this class offers both.

The Sum Up

The Bean to Beverage hot chocolate workshop offers a rewarding taste of Mexico’s culinary history, delivered through a hands-on, engaging format. The combination of traditional techniques, creative flavoring, and expert storytelling makes it more than just a cooking class—it’s a cultural journey wrapped in a delicious experience.

For travelers who value authenticity, intimacy, and learning new skills, this experience provides genuine insight into Mexico’s cacao heritage. It’s especially ideal for families, curious foodies, or anyone looking to add a memorable, flavorful chapter to their Mexico City trip.

While not suited for those with mobility challenges or strict dietary restrictions, the warmth of Jim’s hosting and the richness of the flavors make this tour stand out as a delightful, educational treat.

FAQ

Is the session suitable for children?
Yes, families with children have enjoyed this experience. Kids often love the hands-on aspect and tasting different flavors.

Can I join if I have allergies?
Most dietary needs can be accommodated, but inform the host in advance. Note that the house has two cats, which may affect allergy sufferers.

How long does the class last?
The workshop lasts approximately three hours, with flexible start times depending on your booking.

Is transportation provided?
No, guests meet at the designated private home in Condesa. Make sure to check your booking details for the exact location.

What do I get at the end of the class?
You’ll leave with the skills to make six different hot chocolates and a dessert, plus a new appreciation for cacao’s cultural history.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated; please specify your needs when booking.

Is this a group or private experience?
Both options are available; small groups or private sessions ensure personal attention.

Do I need to bring anything?
All ingredients and materials are provided, but comfortable clothing and a curious attitude are recommended.

How do I cancel if I need to?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund through the booking platform.

Is there an age limit?
There’s no strict age limit, but children should be supervised and comfortable with hands-on activities.

You can check availability for your dates here: