A chocolate cocktail lounge is coming to Manchester – with chocolate rewards for anyone supporting the Kickstarter appeal

Award-winning West Didsbury chocolate shop Cocoa Cabana is planning to launch in Manchester – and is offering chocolate galore in return for pledges on Kickstarter.

Founder Sarah Gallacher is planning a chocolate cocktail lounge in Ancoats after the success of Cocoa Cabana which she opened in November 2012.

As well as the shop’s array of award-winning bonbons, there will be chocolate afternoon teas, chocolate-making classes and a range of special cocktails including chocolate martinis.

Sarah has won a raft of awards since launching in West Didsbury in 2012 including Great Taste and Academy of Chocolate Awards.

Sarah said: “Opening my first shop in 2012 felt like a huge risk and there have been ups and downs, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the ride.

“I’m really passionate about independent businesses thriving and it’s always been my plan to have more than one Cocoa Cabana.  However, this one will be a little different as besides our usual handcrafted bonbons, afternoon teas and chocolate making classes, we will also have space for parties, and will have great tunes and delicious cocktails such as Chocolate Martinis.

“Manchester Gin is curating our cocktail menu for us, so Mancunians can expect something special,” said Sarah, who won Entrepreneur of the Year at the Inspiring Women Awards 2014.

She continues:  “Ancoats is such an up and coming foodie destination and there are already some brilliant independents moved in, so it feels the perfect place for us to launch another shop.

“I’ve managed to raise most of the funds I need to make it happen, but have launched a Kickstarter campaign to help me reach my target and ensure there is enough money for all those special extras.  It’s not easy for smaller businesses to raise finance through traditional methods; they don’t have the buying power of larger companies and it is more difficult to get loans.

“I’ve already raised £50,000 and have another £15,000 to go, so please do pledge in exchange for some amazing chocolate related rewards and experiences.”

Pledges start at £10 to see your name up in lights forever at the new shop and there’s also an assortment of chocolate rewards including for a pledge of £15 a box of 16 handmade truffles; £60 for afternoon tea for four; £200 for a chocolate masterclass with the head chocolatier and £2,000 to take the entire venue for the night.

Cocoa Cabana Chocolaterie and Cocktail Lounge will be based at Saw Mill Court, Ancoats with the 1,586 sq ft shop due to open in November 2018.

To make a pledge click here.

FIND OUT MORE