19: 19. Gráinne Mullins, Founder & CEO of Grá Chocolates

While food has always been focal to her life, stepping into a commercial kitchen as a teenager really ignited her passion about the industry, and Gráinne Mullins began working part time in the pastry section of some 5 Star hotels. Interrupting a science degree to move to France, she spent two years working in a Michelin-starred restaurant in Aix-en-Provence. Cooking won out over science, with Gráinne following her heart. The self-taught chef was the winner of the prestigious 2019 Euro-Toques Young Chef of the Year.Channelling the skills, artistry and joy she has learned from some of the country’s most talented chefs, Gráinne founded Grá Chocolates in her hometown of Kilchreest in 2020. Grá Chocolates specialises in hand-painted chocolates and hot chocolate blends. Created in small batches, each Grá chocolate takes three days to create. The moulds are hand polished to ensure a glossy, luxurious sheen before adding the colourful hand-painted decoration. Each filling is perfected to a signature recipe, ensuring decadently delicious flavour. Ingredients may change with the seasons, drawing on Ireland’s rich larder, but the high quality and great taste remains constant.Recently she announced that the company are set to bring a taste of Ireland to the US as the brand made its American debut in early December, just in time for the festive season - the launch Stateside marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey.This is the 19th episode with guest Gráinne Mullins, CEO and Founder of Grá Chocolates in the Davy podcast series 'Everyday Business with Aidan Donnelly'.This podcast brings you insightful conversation between Aidan Donnelly and entrepreneurs and business owners/management with their own unique story to tell. If you like what you hear, please like, share and subscribe.