Some travelers like to bring back souvenirs. Others bring back a passion for artisanal chocolates.
When Joshua Becker traveled to the Netherlands, he brought back more than just pictures and stories. After witnessing the delicate craftsmanship of the country’s chocolatiers—and tasting the rich flavors of Dutch chocolate—Becker found himself in love with the art of chocolate making. Back stateside, he enrolled at St. Louis’ Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, earning a certificate in Pâtisserie and Baking in 2012. A year later, he opened Cocoa Blue Chocolates—a small-town confectionary inspired by those that so enamored him overseas.
![Store with owner](/assets/Images/Food-+-Drink/Cocoa-Blues-Owner-Rochester__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsMTIwMCw3NTBd.jpg)
Located in Rochester, Illinois—mere miles from Springfield—Cocoa Blue claims a space in the old Town Hall building, lending an old-fashioned intimacy to the shop. During a visit, you can see Becker and his staff produce high-end chocolates from scratch, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the artisanal process of making chocolates, caramels, and truffles.
![Bell on counter](/assets/Images/Food-+-Drink/Bell-Cocoa-Blue-Rochester__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsNTAwLDMzMF0.jpg)
![Chocolate being poured into balls](/assets/Images/Food-+-Drink/Chocolate-Cocoa-Blue-Rochester__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsNTAwLDMzMF0.jpg)
For many of his creations, Becker imports ingredients straight from the Netherlands, in order to imbue each truffle with the authentic taste of rich Dutch chocolate. But even if the cocoa comes from overseas, each is made right here at home. Whether you’re on your way to see the Illinois capital or en route to one of the historic towns nearby, be sure to visit Cocoa Blue Chocolates for a sweet taste that's truly Illinois Made.
Discover more Illinois artisans at Illinois Made.
Related Reads
![Two woman](/_resources/themes/enjoyillinois/images/px.png?m=1710871496)
Tuscola's Famous Candy Kitchen
In Tuscola, two sisters inherited their grandfather's candy recipes—and carried on a family tradition.
![Food on barrel](/_resources/themes/enjoyillinois/images/px.png?m=1710871496)
North Shore Distillery
They start with the best herbs, fruits, spices and grains they can find and turn them into award-winning distilled spirits and cocktails.
![Bicycles](/_resources/themes/enjoyillinois/images/px.png?m=1710871496)
Heritage Bicycles
Fully customized, American-made with American steel, hand-welded Heritage bikes are the talk of the town—and the toast of the neighborhood.
![A restaurant](/_resources/themes/enjoyillinois/images/px.png?m=1710871496)
Firefly Grill & Restaurant
The Firefly Grill is like that much-loved relative who is always in charge of throwing the family dinners for extended family - except the food tastes better.
![Drinks](/_resources/themes/enjoyillinois/images/px.png?m=1710871496)
Obed & Isaacs Microbrewery & Eatery
The Conn family of Springfield has a strong tradition of entrepreneurship and community. This pairs nicely with locally grown fare and independent microbrews served with homespun charm and a slice of authentic American history.
Share your Moments
#EnjoyIllinois