Get to know Leslie from Luca Chocolate, a chocolate producer on Foodzie from Ramseur, North Carolina!

1) Why did you choose to start making your chocolate?
I knew I wanted to run my own business, and after several years in the restaurant industry, I knew I preferred the more controlled environment of pastry. Chocolate has always been one of my favorite foods, so it was natural for me to focus on it. Plus – each little bon bon is like a mini-dessert, there’s just more flavor bang for the buck.

2) What’s your secret weapon for making the best chocolates?
Freshness! I firmly believe that the best chocolate is the freshest chocolate, so my secret weapon is time. I make everything as close to the delivery date as I can to ensure that all my clients are tasting the same thing that I taste in the kitchen. (It’s also why sometimes you have to wait a few days – sorry! – as soon as I can get more people in to get it faster, I promise I will.)

3) Which is your personal favorite and why?
My personal favorite would probably be the earl grey truffle or the vanilla buttercream. Their flavors are simple, uncomplicated and still intense. At the end of the day, those are the ones I reach for (if I have any!).

4) What is a unique way to enjoy one of your products?
I’ll admit to being somewhat curious about a bacon caramel s’more, though I haven’t taken the plunge yet. That said, any of the truffles are pretty delicious if you stir them into a hot mug of milk or half & half. The yummiest ratio is 2 truffles per 8 oz of liquid. And if you’re over 21, go ahead and splash a little liqueur in there.

5) Any new products or flavors in the works?
New products are always in the works. I wish I had more time to bring them to fruition! For the fall, look for a few of the old favorites to make a comeback (Candied Apple Caramel, anyone?) and some new twists on classic flavors. Also, I’ll be adding the LUCA Bar – nougat studded with a special blend of fruits and nuts, ganache and caramel – all covered in chocolate.

6) What advice would you give to someone who wants to get started in the food business?
Just before things get started, take a little vacation, because you may not have another chance for years. Find the lessons in rejection (because not everyone is going to love what you do) and then forget about them. If you focus on the negative for too long, it gets harder and harder to do just what you must – keep going, keep working, get better, get smarter.

7) Which product on Foodzie makes you most hungry? We’ll chat with that producer next!
When I was small, there was this toy store that captivated my attention – I just wanted to look and play with everything! Foodzie is that place for me now, it’s so hard to just pick one, because I find myself in excellent company. It’s such an honor to be a part of the Foodzie family. That said, Shy Brothers Farm Lavender Hannahbells look divine. If I ever stop making chocolate long enough to order, they’re my first choice.