ABOUT US
Ardent Oso Chocolate Experiences & Education offers an array of chocolate-related experiences and services around Southern California and beyond, including large private events, a selection of single-origin tastings, comprehensive farm-to-bar education, hands-on chocolate making classes, and bean-to-bar craft chocolate consulting.
Based in Big Bear, we serve most of California and are available to come to you.
Specializing in private group tastings of all sizes, corporate events, weddings, holiday parties, and private residential parties, we work with the client in providing a level of customization that tailors their specific event needs, creating an unparalleled novel, memorable, and dynamic experience.
Led by Ryan, an expert chocolate maker - who has developed award-winning chocolate and has been in the chocolate industry since 2013 - there’s nothing else around like an Ardent Oso chocolate experience.
Be sure to check out our short segment by travel expert and journalist Justin Walter, featured on KTLA’s OFF THE CLOCK.
“The best Chocolate Master! Amazing display and fully educated in the art of chocolate. Enjoyed having them as part of our event.”
— Ayla Events
What People Are Saying
“5 out of 5 stars for sure! Hired Ryan for an educational wine and chocolate pairing class in San Diego and he went above and beyond! Not only was he extremely knowledgeable in chocolates and the different flavor profiles of various regions but he also brought some of his equipment, props, and brochures to enhance the experience for our attendees. At the end of the event, everyone was asking me where I found him! I would definitely book him again for a future event, especially for anything chocolate-related.”
— Gabriela T.
“Ryan is somebody whose work and passion speak for themselves through chocolate making. He is so thorough and answered every question I had. I learned so much through him and he is eager to share his knowledge and experience. I would 10/10 recommend his classes for private or group if you are interested or serious about chocolate.”
— Kat C.
“Amazing experience! Ryan set up a booth for my 50th birthday party. We had people from 2 years old to 80 years old. They ALL loved the chocolate booth. The kids especially had a blast! They said it was a fun party. Everyone asked Ryan so many questions and he took his time to answer them. He was professional and patient. His booth made my party a memorable experience. I loved this unique experience. Everyone should have a chocolate booth at their parties! Ryan's knowledge and passion for chocolate elevated the experience and my party even more!”
— Temy T.
“Ryan was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic with his passion for the art of chocolate! We were very impressed with the tasting class and his wealth of information. We were thankful he made it very easy to understand and for the wonderful experience learning about and tasting new types of chocolate!”
— Carl M.
“This was an excellent overview and a unique experience for our vacation in Big Bear. Ryan was very generous with his time and knowledge. I’ll be watching his business bloom from Illinois!”
— Courtney D.
“My husband and I participated in this chocolate tasting experience. We enjoyed our experience very much. It was not only delicious, tasting all different kinds of chocolate, but also very educational and fascinating as to the process chocolate goes through from tree to your palate. Ryan was very knowledgeable and passionate about his presentation which made interacting with him easy plus our questions being thoroughly answered through his vast knowledge of chocolate. Thanks for a great experience.”
— Lesa & Dale
“Ryan is amazing! His passion for his craft makes for a very enjoyable experience, he amazed us with his knowledge of chocolate, and made it so fun. I would definitely recommend him to everyone and we will be using him again. So much fun!”
—Eric T.
“My bridal party surprised me with a chocolate making class during my bachelorette party in Big Bear and it was the perfect addition to the weekend! It was such a unique experience, and everyone loved being able to take home a chocolate souvenir to enjoy after the weekend was over!”
— Jodi S.
“My company brought in Ardent Oso to our annual team building event and it was the best one yet! Everyone loved being able to see how chocolate was made and really enjoyed the tasting portion. It’s hard to find one activity that everyone can enjoy but I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love chocolate!”
— Daniel O.
“We loved working with Ardent Oso! Ryan was able to put our brand in a competitive position to help our farmers while still producing a consistent craft product. Recipe development of our new origin - Maya Mountain Belize - was completed with the assistance of Ryan. His knowledge within cacao production has been vital to Honeymoon's success.”
— Cam Loyet, Honeymoon Chocolates