Menu changes incoming for Qatar chocolate bar

Alison Nelson, founder of the Chocolate Bar in New York, was in Qatar this week to work with the local chefs on menu changes to cater to customer demand.

In an interview with Caterer Middle East, Nelson said that after nearly four years since the store opened in Qatar, it was time to take a look at the menu again. Nelson has worked on adding new sandwiches which are more to the local taste, along with new desserts.

"We introduced some new things in New York and I was really excited to come here and show them how we’re doing it there," added Nelson.

In addition to these, new frozen drinks have been added to the menu, among which Nelson noted the "Blue Sensation" had a refreshing kick to it with ingredients including fresh lemon juice, sugar, ice and Curacao.

Nelson revealed these changes will be rolled out across the outlets in the UAE as well.

"My firm belief with the chocolate bar is that even though we have shops across the globe, it should always maintain a local taste. I want people to know the food is prepared locally and they are getting something that is authentic to them.

"So while there are things that we have in all of our shops everywhere, I like the fact that each location has the freedom to look at its clientele and hear its clientele’s requests and say, 'oh we should implement XYZ'," she said.

She said that franchisees and licensees contributing with recipe suggestions in turn contributes to the success of each location and the company overall. "I really love that open dialogue," she said.

Nelson said it was important to listen to customers herself and take on a hands-on approach: "My passion is in working with the customers and being in the kitchen. I have been known to wait tables in my shop in New York when it’s necessary. It’s a good practice and as an owner, it keeps you aware of your customers and what they’re looking for and what they want."

"I like having my hands in the dough, as you would say, and in the chocolate," she said.

Alison Nelson's Chocolate Bar has outlets in UAE, Qatar and Pakistan, in addition to its original site in New York. She revealed the firm is in negotiations in Istanbul and in London as locations for new outlets, and is looking at Los Angeles as well.