Coffee and Chocolate Festival Coming to Indianapolis 

A local chef has created an event to celebrate the coffee, chocolate, and the global community that brings them together.  

Youssef Boudarine, the Head Chef and Owner of J’Adore Pastry and creator of Epicurean Indy and MOkAO says the event was created when he became Inspired by stories of those in the local community who help bring coffee and chocolate to Indianapolis. He says he wants to touch the community and highlight the people behind the coffee and chocolate industries.  

Boudarine’s business partner, Ariel Hendrickson, says what started as a private catering company has grown into much more. “It’s really grown into more community organizing and events.” She says that after the pair worked together at another local establishment, they decided to start an authentic and ethical business of their own. “We want to set a good example.”

Hendrickson says the coffee and chocolate event will focus on the commodities’ African origins and celebrate community, what brings people together, and building relationships.  

Boudarine, who moved to Indianapolis in 2016, says that as a pastry chef who gets up early each morning, ‘good coffee makes a difference.’ He wants to create an event that will deepen people’s appreciation of coffee and how it gets to Indiana.  

The three-day festival will feature a private dinner and public offerings on April 12-13, including local vendors who will share their stories and answer questions, a Sunday brunch, panel discussions, and more. 

The MOkAO Chocolate and Coffee Festival is April 11-13. For more information, visit www.instagram.com/mokao_indy.