How it All Began
Everyone knew that, in the weeks before Christmas, the place to find Alene DeBrito was in the kitchen. She’d be making her chocolate-dipped, dried apricot candies for the friends, employees, and customers of her husband Arnold’s farm implement business.
It didn’t take long before things got out of hand. Demand quickly exceeded Alene’s ability to supply. So as not to disappoint those who came to anticipate the heady taste of chocolate and apricot each year—and to save her family the November frenzy—there was only one thing to do: build the Chocolate Factory.
The result is what you see today—quality chocolate, California dried fruit, fresh nuts—combinations that make indulging feel good. We know you’ll enjoy our handmade treats just as much as if you snatched one fresh from Alene’s kitchen table.
Family Transition
In 2016, Alene was ready to retire and passed the torch to someone she trusted deeply—her longtime employee Tina, and Tina’s husband, Juan Hernandez.
For 8 years, including the difficult COVID years, Tina and Juan ran the Chocolate Factory with passion and perseverance, doing their best to preserve Alene’s legacy. Like many small businesses, the pandemic brought unexpected challenges. With minimal staff and safety regulations in place, Juan kept operations going—at times as the only person working. The retail store had to close temporarily, limited to curbside purchases only, but the commitment to quality and community never wavered.
FAMILY LOSS, CONTINUED TRADITIONS
In early 2024, Juan was diagnosed with cancer and, after a short but brave fight, he passed away on June 20th, 2024. Before his passing, he entrusted the future of DeBrito Chocolate Factory to his son Patrick, daughter-in-law Beth, and wife Tina to carry on with the same heart, hard work, and dedication he poured into it for years
With the continued support of Alene herself, and the encouragement of our loyal community, DeBrito Chocolate Factory has reopened its store doors and remains dedicated to delivering handmade chocolate creations and fundraising opportunities as a true family business.
LOOKING AHEAD
Our mission is simple: to keep spreading joy through handcrafted chocolates made with care and tradition. We’re proud to carry on what Alene started, while also exploring new ideas and ways to grow.
From our signature caramel apples to seasonal treats and custom fundraisers, we’re here to bring a little sweetness to your day—and we’re grateful to have you along for the journey.
From our family to yours, thank you for supporting small business. We hope to see you soon—online or in the shop!