As the island’s first and only bean-to-bar chocolate maker, Anguilla proves its craft on the regional and international stage.
When founder Josveek Huligar stepped off the boat returning from Sint Maarten (SXM) with the region’s highest confectionery honor in hand, his first stop wasn’t the workshop—it was the “Welcome to Anguilla” arrival area. Resting the gleaming trophy right there against the backdrop of home, the photo captured a simple truth: this wasn’t just a corporate victory; it was a win for the entire island of Anguilla.
For the second year in a row, Anguilla Sands & Salts has been awarded Best Chocolate Maker in the Caribbean.
As Anguilla’s first and only bean-to-bar chocolate maker, standing among legacy producers from across the Caribbean who have perfected their craft for decades, this back-to-back win is a profound validation. It proves that despite being an underdog with limited industrial resources, Anguilla’s commitment to quality, authenticity, and storytelling can rival the best in the world.
This triumph is deeply rooted in the past. Anguilla Sands & Salts sources its heritage cocoa beans directly from the very same farms in the Dominican Republic where Anguillans historically traveled to work in agriculture decades ago. By bridging this historical connection with modern artisanal technique, every bar tells a story of resilience, migration, and shared Caribbean heritage.
“When you are breaking new ground as the only bean-to-bar producer on a small island, you rely heavily on the strength of your community and your history,” says Huligar. “Hearing our peers in the industry confirm that we are on the right track was the biggest win of all. This trophy belongs to Anguilla.”
This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the local community, the voters who championed the brand, every traveler who has tasted the work, and a vital partnership with Ms. Powell, whose shared dedication has helped guide the brand’s growth.
Located in South Hill Village, Anguilla Sands & Salts operates under the philosophy of the “Luxury of Scarcity”—refusing mass production in favor of hand-crafted, intentional creations that can only be truly experienced at the source.
To celebrate this national achievement, Anguilla Sands & Salts invites locals and visitors alike to visit the boutique to taste the award-winning chocolate, with an exclusive first-look taste-testing of a brand-new chocolate flavor premiering at this week’s Margarita Thursday.
