MOKAO Chocolate and Coffee Festival

Date and Time

• Sat, Apr 12, 2025 - Sun, Apr 13, 2025  10am - 2pm

Location

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Details

The creators of Epicurean Indy proudly introduce MOkAO, a three-day festival celebrating the global impact of coffee and chocolate through the lens of labor, sustainability, and cultural heritage. Taking place April 11-13 at The Stutz, MOkAO will bring together coffee and cacao artisans, roasters, artists, and chefs for an immersive experience unlike any other.

Presented by J’adore Pastry, MOkAO is designed to highlight the rich history of coffee and cacao in Africa while showcasing the expertise of local and international artisans. Attendees can engage in tastings, educational sessions, live chef and artist demonstrations, and a private MOkAO dinner featuring coffee- and chocolate-inspired cuisine. The festival will also provide interactive experiences for families and food lovers alike.

“MOkAO is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of culture, craft, and community. By bringing together global flavors and local businesses, we are creating a space where people can truly appreciate the journey of coffee and chocolate from farm to cup, from bean to bar. We are thrilled to launch this experience in Indianapolis and invite everyone to join us in honoring the traditions and innovations that shape these beloved industries,” said Youssef Boudarine, Chef/Owner of J’Adore and creator of Epicurean Indy and MOkAO.

The three-day festival includes different ways for community members of all ages to engage in the celebration:

Friday, April 11—The festival starts with an exclusive ticketed private dinner featuring a six-chef lineup: Nick Detrich (Magdalena), Alan Sternberg (Bluebeard), Erin Kem (Corridor), Pete Schmutte (Leviathan), Tyler Shortt (Tinker Street), and Collin Hilton (CRG). Guests will indulge in a curated dining experience centered around coffee and chocolate (wine pairing available).
Saturday, April 12—Free and open to the community! Attendees can explore the vendor and artist markets, enjoy live music from African musicians, and visit coffee shop booths to hear engaging conversations, taste and purchase specialty coffee, and shop exclusive merchandise.
Sunday, April 13—A kid-friendly day with hands-on activities and educational experiences. Local coffee shop owners will host a panel discussion on coffee’s journey from farm to cup, emphasizing African coffee origins. The event will feature ten coffee shops and five pastry shops, bringing a rich and diverse tasting experience.

A stunning chocolate art exhibition will be displayed at the Car Museum throughout the festival, showcasing the creative fusion of food and artistry.