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Handmade in LA
Handmade in LA Unwrapping Compartés Chocolate Bite by Delicious Bite
By Livia Hooson
Photo by Jan Milligan
What do swaying palm trees, sugared donuts and Tupac Shakur all have in common? They are all inspiration for the modern-day Mr. Wonka, whose chocolate empire has taken over the world.
Jonathan Grahm began his career at age 15 working in the shipping department of Compartés Chocolate, an artisanal chocolate shop founded in Los Angeles in 0. He quickly worked his way into the kitchen to experiment with recipes like strawberry cheesecake marbled fudge and saffron pistachio. This innate connection to chocolate became the language of his life. So, at just 24, Grahm bought the company and was later recognized on one of orbes 0 Under 0 lists.
It’s a reflection of everything I love to put together translated through chocolate,” Graham said.
His hand-designed packaging features abstract collages and iconic landmarks, making chocolate bars that look trendy enough to carry around in a designer handbag. Unwrapping the desserts reveal a range of vibrant flavors, from Coney Island-inspired waffle cone pieces to home-made peanut butter, rosé wine and smoked sea salt.
With seven permanent stores in Tokyo and 200 pop-up shops across Japan, Grahm is a household name both stateside and abroad. But LA, where elly Wearstler designed his flagship boutique, will forever be his muse and his home.
