By Kate Bartlett
Chai’s Chocolates in Fredonia is celebrating 7 years of sweet treats. Locally owned and operated by Michelle Andin, Chai’s Chocolates offers a wide variety of delicious, quality chocolates and a diverse selection of baked goods that rotate weekly.
Michelle was inspired to open her own shop after discovering her love for baking and making chocolates for family gatherings. “I enjoyed creating birthday cakes and Easter chocolates for my family,” explains Michelle. With 24 years of experience in Walmart, Michelle helped the store expand the bakery when it converted to a super Walmart. “It was great to be a part of that process. I learned a lot and started to really imagine owning my own store.”
Main Street in Fredonia.
Originally from Dunkirk, Michelle spent many years scouting sites for her store in a variety of locations. She worked with the Small Business Association and found her current site at 53 West Main Street in Fredonia. “I loved the location,” says Michelle. “I had my eye on it for years; it felt like it was meant to be.” Michelle is the sole owner and proprietor of the shop with no employees. “It’s just me!” laughs Michelle. She named the shop “Chai’s Chocolates” after her eldest daughter, Chaila who they call Chai.
Michelle carries an assortment of quality chocolates made in house including truffles, chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate covered cashews, toffee, chocolate covered gummy bears and more. The shops also has two bakery cases with a rotating assortment of house made desserts including cheesecakes, brownies, cake slices, cookies and more. During the summer months, Michelle also serves gelato and slushies; specialty drinks are served year-round including frappes and boba lemonades.
Michelle loves creating seasonal items to celebrate the holidays. Chai’s sells a variety of chocolates and treats for all holidays, especially Valentine’s Day, Easter and Christmas. The shop also accepts custom orders for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and more. “I especially enjoy creating specialty items,” says Michelle. “It’s an honor to help my customers celebrate special occasions.”
Many of Michelle’s recipes have been passed down through generations in her family; she has several recipes from her mother and grandmother. She enjoys trying new recipes and perfecting her favorites. Over the years, customer favorites include her cheesecakes, of which she now has 50 flavors sold by the slice (or cake by custom order).
Chai’s Chocolates started small, with only one 4-foot case and 2 small tables. Now, 7 years later, the shop has two 72-inch bakery cases and a larger seating area to accommodate guests. She has many regular customers, and has helped many celebrate special occasions over the years. Michelle recently started offering freshly made Belgian waffles on Sunday mornings, which is quickly becoming a community favorite.
Michelle enjoys being a part of the Fredonia community. “I know almost everyone who comes into the shop by name,” says Michelle. “It’s a great small-town feel and I love being a part of this community.”
For more information follow on Facebook @ Chai’s Chocolates, visit the shop at 53 West Main Street or call (716) 785-6009.