A Welsh seaside town is experiencing a surge in business at a local shop, all thanks to the popularity of ‘Dubai chocolate’. Lollies Chocolate Emporium in Tenby has found success by offering knafeh and pistachio-filled treats that have taken social media by storm, particularly on TikTok. The manager of the shop, Lauren Roberts, has noted that their business has never been better since introducing these Dubai-style sweets, which have garnered such a buzz that supermarkets are now following suit with their own versions.
Roberts expressed that the shop has essentially transformed into a destination for Dubai-chocolate enthusiasts, attracting a new wave of younger customers who are intrigued by the unique flavours and textures. She highlighted the lasting impact of TikTok as a platform for driving trends and consumer interest, noting that the current craze surrounding the Dubai-inspired treats is unprecedented in its longevity.
The origin of the ‘Dubai chocolate’ phenomenon can be traced back to Fix Dessert founder Sarah Hamouda, who drew inspiration from her pregnancy cravings to create a distinctive product that goes beyond traditional chocolate bars. By infusing rich Middle Eastern elements such as tahini paste, Kadayif pastry, and pistachios, Hamouda crafted a treat that has captured the attention of a wide audience, prompting major UK supermarkets like Waitrose, Morrisons, and Lidl to launch their own versions in response to the demand.
At Lollies Chocolate Emporium, every item in their range is meticulously homemade, a factor that resonates with customers who appreciate the quality and attention to detail put into each treat. The shop goes through significant quantities of ingredients like strawberries and pistachio cream on a weekly basis to keep up with the high demand, demonstrating the widespread appeal of these unique offerings.
Lauren Roberts attributes the success of their Dubai-inspired treats not only to TikTok’s influence but also to the intriguing combination of flavours and textures that appeal to consumers. She described the experience of biting into the filled bars as a sensory delight, particularly for enthusiasts of ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response). The shop’s menu boasts a diverse selection of Dubai-inspired delicacies, ranging from pancakes and bubble waffles to brownies and rocky roads, with a recent addition of Easter eggs for the holiday season.
Lollies Chocolate Emporium, located in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, has become a must-visit destination for those seeking out the latest trends in confectionery. With operating hours from 9am to 5pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm on weekends, the shop continues to draw in crowds of eager customers eager to indulge in the unique and decadent offerings. As the ‘Dubai chocolate’ craze shows no signs of slowing down, local businesses like Lollies Chocolate Emporium are poised to capitalise on the growing appetite for these innovative treats.