About Lucanto
Welcome to Lucanto Chocolates LLC, where the art of chocolate-making is redefined.Nestled in the heart of Miami, Florida, our artisanal chocolate bonbons, tablets, and bars are crafted by hand with love by Chocolatier Adabel Diaz-Rivera. Using only the freshest and finest ingredients, we create delicious confections that showcase delicately balanced flavor profiles. Each chocolate is made from Belgium's premier Callebaut couverture—dark, milk, white, gold, and ruby—ensuring an exquisite taste experience. Our ganaches, fillings, and inclusions are of the highest quality, with a commitment to sourcing local, seasonal, organic, and sustainably produced ingredients whenever possible. Inspired by Italy's rich chocolate traditions, we adapt these time honored techniques to delight the diverse palates of South Florida. Each piece is not just a treat but a work of art, beautifully painted and creatively decorated to inspire joy in every bite. Discover the passion behind Lucanto Chocolates, where every creation is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship.
Biography
My name is Adabel Diaz-Rivera and I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, a place that shaped my deep appreciation for culture, language, and the arts. I hold a degree in Humanities and History from the University of Puerto Rico, along with a Master’s in Latin American Studies and a doctorate in Spanish American Colonial Literature, both from Georgetown University. As a dedicated teacher for over two decades, I’ve been privileged to share my passion for literature, history, and Puerto Rican culture with my students. I am also a proud wife and mother of two wonderful young men, who bring joy and inspiration to my life. Throughout my life, three passions have continually motivated me: family, education, and chocolate. After devoting years to my family and to the pursuit of knowledge, I amnow embracing my third passion—chocolate—through the founding of Lucanto Chocolates. This new journey has been a dream come true, and I am deeply grateful For the support of God, my family, and friends as I take on this exciting second chapter of my life.
Origin of Lucanto
With the goal of mastering the art of creating chocolate confections, I spent the past four years diving into the intricacies of the craft, initially through avid study and courses at esteemed institutions like Eccole Chocolat, Melissa Coppel Chocolate and Pastry School, and Luis Amado Chocolate Academy. Last fall, I had the incredible opportunity to study at ICIF, a prestigious culinary school in Costigliole d’Asti, Italy. This medieval town, located in Italy's picturesque Piedmont region and renowned for its hazelnuts, exquisite cuisine, and Barolo wines, became a transformative experience for me. Underthe guidance of four well-renowned chocolatiers—Chef Nicolas Vella, Chef Andrea Cassini, Chef Riccardo DePetris, and Chef Silvio Bessone—I honed my skills, exploring both classic confections and innovative flavor profiles. Every moment spent under the clear Italian light and the resonant tones of the town’s church bells was a reminder of the beauty and purpose that inspired my journey.Out of these experiences, Lucanto Chocolates was born. The name Lucanto combines two Italian words: luce, meaning "light," and canto, meaning "song."Together, they symbolize the shift in perspective and renewal of purpose I felt in Italy. Luce captures the clarity and enlightenment that this journey has brought me, while canto represents the comfort and reassurance of those ringing church bells, reminding me to treasure each moment. Through Lucanto Chocolates, I hope to share that same joy, gratitude, and sense of wonder with others.Chocolate, like light and song, has the power to uplift and transport us, offering amoment of peace and pleasure amid our busy lives. I truly believe that a single, high quality piece of chocolate can transform a moment, bringing relaxation and delight in a way that feels almost like a mini-vacation. Undoubtedly, Cacao’s powerful nutrients contribute to both physical and mental well-being, enhancing our capacity to savor and enjoy the present.Lucanto is also a personal tribute: the name reflects the names of my sons, Lucas and Antonio, who are truly the lights of my life, and it honors my mother, Ada Luz Rivera Hernández—a remarkable woman, pioneer entrepreneur, and my lifelong role model. Her strength and wisdom have been guiding lights in all my endeavors.