You may be wondering, is the Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant worth a visit?
The other day, I was at Hersheypark waiting in line for Jolly Rancher Remix and a question came to mind that surfaces to the noggins of many when visiting a theme park.
“I am getting a bit hungry, what am I going to eat?”
I’d forgotten to grab breakfast on my way to Hersheypark and with two rides in, I was getting peckish, despite stopping at the main gate Starbucks for my Chocolatetown Frappuccino.
As I looked through the Hersheypark app, I decided to look up Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant just for kicks to see if they had any day of availability.
The restaurant is fairly popular so I knew the chances were slim.
But lo and behold, they had two 3 p.m. reservations for that day and I decided to treat myself to a first-time visit!
So I got on Jolly Rancher Remix and Stormrunner, then hightailed it to the restaurant.
I know you have to be intrigued at this amazing addition to Hersheypark, so I won’t let you wait any longer!
Let’s sink our teeth into this latest fare!
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Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant: What to Know Before You Go
Before I dive into the delicious review, let’s go over some important things to know about the place itself.
When did Hershey Chocolatier open?
The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio made its debut in the newly reimagined entrance to the park named “Chocolatetown” on May 29, 2021.
It was the final piece of the expanded entrance that featured a more open space and ticketing area.
There was also an upgrade in the exterior of the:
- Hersheypark Supply Co.
- Gift shop (the one prior to entering the park)
- Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor
- Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen
- Candymonium
The restaurant was one of the crown jewels of the $200 million expansion to the park.
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The Chocolatier Restaurant Hours at Hersheypark
What makes The Chocolatier at Hersheypark great is that it is open daily and year-round from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (hours may change based on the season).
Do you need Hersheypark tickets to eat at the chocolatier?
You do not have to have a Hersheypark admission ticket to enter the building that houses The Chocolatier Restaurant or the other shopping or dining experiences.
This is because it’s outside the ticketing entrance to the park.
What’s inside the Hershey Park Supply Co. building?
The building itself is the Hersheypark Supply Co. and The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is located on the second floor on the building.
It is accessible by a flight of stairs next to the Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor. The elevator is also there for you to get to this Hersheypark restaurant.
Do you need to make Chocolatier Restaurant reservations at Hersheypark?
While walk-ins are an option, I personally would not recommend it. As I mentioned in the beginning, I got lucky getting a reservation.
You can book your Chocolatier reservation in advance here.
Is parking included in my Chocolatier Restaurant reservation at Hersheypark?
Visitors with reservations will have a stress-free parking experience when Hersheypark is not open or during special events.
This is because you will have access to the Season Passholder parking lot which is closer to the park entrance. Otherwise, you will be subject to the $25 parking fee online ($35 in person).
Also, if you’re a King or Full-sized Passholder, you will get 15% off your meal at the Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant.
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Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant REVIEW: Time to Eat!
As I made my way to the front of the park, I was a bit early to my 3:15 p.m. reservation by about 20 minutes.
I then entered the building, passing by the century old carousel, I got a look at The Chocolatier’s patio area.
However, it would go unused that day due to a storm coming in for the entire afternoon.
Exploring Hersheypark Supply Co.
While going through the Hersheypark Supply Co., I made my way towards the back of the building to the stairs that would lead me to the restaurant.
I did take a moment to admire two pieces of Hersheypark history before ascending.
Hersheypark History
To my right, was a part of the Miniature Train that opened in 1911 as the second attraction ever for the park.
The Miniature Train ran for 60 years, closing in 1971. It was restored over a six year process where it sits today in Chocolatetown.
To my left, was a historical ride vehicle with a special rider, a Twizzler plush, on the inside!
It is always so cool to see how Hersheypark honored its roots. As I went up the stairs, I would quickly discover that I was just a peek of what The Chocolatier Restaurant was all about.
The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio celebrates the life and legacy of its founder, Milton S. Hershey. He created the company town of Hershey, Pennsylvania and the theme park.
Sadly, he passed away with no heirs to continue his legacy but as we can see, it lives on and thrives globally! You can read more about it here.
Restaurant Decor and Themeing
The full-service restaurant proudly showcases past and present pieces from their Hersheypark Ride collection all throughout the restaurant along with sweeping views of the Carousel and Candymonium.
Here, the fun meets the family through the chocolate inspired fares. If you are like me, then you may be questioning just how much chocolate plays a part in the menu.
You will be happy to know that there are only hints of chocolate in some of the food as well as gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options by request.
The Check-in Process at The Chocolatier Restaurant
As I went to check-in, I was told I would get a text when a seat became available. As I waited briefly, I got a look at the first floor and the views of the Hersheypark Supply Co.
The waiting area doesn’t have a ton of seating at all which I assume encourages guests waiting to explore the shop below.
There is stroller parking next to the check-in stand, but it isn’t a lot so just be mindful if you are coming with a large party with kids.
I waited maybe 10 minutes before I was summoned and I was led to my seat.
As I passed by, I almost missed my server because I was admiring the historical pieces being presented throughout the restaurant.
I then passed by the Carousel Bar, a homage to the carousel next door that included one of the horses right in the middle.
It was also cool to see families sitting inside of tilt a whirl vehicles enjoying their lunch.
Some of the seats near the check-in paid homage to the Comet Roller Coaster located in the Hollow section of Hersheypark, the oldest coaster in the park.
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Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant: Food Review
I was luckily seated nearby the kitchen so I got views of them bringing out some of the delectable offerings including the very popular Ferris Wheel Sampler.
As I looked over the menu, I felt that the restaurant gave a nice variety for all palates. Burgers, flatbreads, tacos, salads and more to choose from.
My amazing server, Allison, gave me my menus and assisted me with choosing my alcoholic beverage of choice.
Hersheypark Chocolate Martini vs. Chocolatier Martini
I simply had to get a drink from that incredible Carousel Bar and I was torn between the Chocolatier Martini and the Hershey’s Chocolate Martini.
It didn’t sound like the two are different but she mentioned that the Chocolatier Martini was cream based vs the Hershey’s Chocolate Martini was more lighter and clearer.
Ingredients of the Hershey’s Chocolate Martini
I opted for the latter, which was $15. The Hershey’s Chocolate Martini featured 360 Chocolate Vodka, Smirnoff Vanilla Vodka, White Creme de Cacao with a Chocolate syrup and Cocoa dusted rim topped with a Hershey’s kisses milk chocolate garnish.
My Review of the Hershey’s Chocolate Martini
Normally, I’m not a vodka person but when I allowed the garnish to melt into the drink, it really added to the flavors of the drink.
It wasn’t too strong, and it was absolutely sweet to sip on as the chocolate dusted rim mixed with the vodka. And not any of the flavors were overwhelming at all!
Appetizers at The Chocolatier Restaurant
Moving on, I started with one of the shareable appetizers, the Southwest Chicken Nachos. My go-to is usually nachos anyway so I knew immediately that was what I wanted.
Southwest Chicken Nachos
The nachos boasted tortilla chips with Hershey’s cocoa and chipotle shredded chicken, cheddar cheese queso, Jalapeños, black beans and corn salsa topped with avocado lime crema.
I opted without black beans since I’m not a fan.
To be honest, if you are splitting this (as intended between 2 guests) you basically paying about $8 to $9 per person. I paid $17.25 for the dish and felt that was a bit overpriced.
While you don’t taste the chocolate, which is totally fine, this seemed like a standard nacho appetizer that i could get at TGI Fridays.
But if you’re in the mood and are splitting it, I say go for it. Next time, it might be worth it to grab the Ferris Wheel Sampler.
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The Main Entree at the Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant
When it came to my main meal, I was torn between 3 different dishes.
Best Dishes on the Hersheypark Chocolatier Menu:
- The CHOCOLATETOWN Burger: which boasted bacon smoked cheddar and Hershey’s chocolate drizzled potato chips
- Heath Bar Crusted Salmon: complete with oven roasted pecans and Heath Bar crusted salmon, roasted root vegetables and poblano pepper hash
- “Loaded” Mac and Cheese: which featured Cavatappi pasta covered in cheddar queso, pulled short rib, Hershey’s chocolate BBQ sauce and Cacao nib gremolata
While I’m a sucker for salmon, you can’t really make a bad mac and cheese and I was curious how the BBQ sauce would complement the dish.
Mac and Cheese
The dish was $24.75, and my Mac and Cheese was presented in a Hershey’s Kisses cast iron skillet that smelled absolutely phenomenal!
The prime rib and BBQ sauce blended amazingly well with the gooey cheese. The flavors were astounding!
I left nothing on my plate and even asked about the BBQ sauce to take home. It was that good!
The cheese strung along as I pulled it away from the plate and that alone gained my personal seal of approval for an EPIC macaroni and cheese experience.
Dessert at The Chocolatier Restaurant
While I did ask for a dessert menu, which offered over-the-top milkshakes and cakes with ice cream, I opted to get a smaller dessert from the Sweeterie on the first floor because i was simply stuffed from the meal.
The Cookies and Cream Dome from the Sweeterie was $9 and very yummy.
It hits your sweet tooth needs just right and was cheaper than the dessert options from the restaurant which started at $12.50.
I wanted something a bit smaller but if I had room in my tummy, I would have totally gotten the Chocolatier Cake!
My Final Thoughts of the Chocolatier Restaurant at Hersheypark
Overall, I absolutely loved how the restaurant paid homage to its founder and its history.
As a theme park fan and solo traveler, I found that the ambience was very chill and historical. A true honor that theme park buffs will absolutely appreciate.
Experience as a Solo Theme Park Traveler
As a solo traveler, I did not feel out of place. I felt very included and attended to by my server.
The noise levels at The Chocolatier did not bother me at all although. However, if you want something a bit more quiet, you can always ask for patio seating.
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My Thoughts on the Prices at the Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant
I did feel that some of the menu offerings were a bit overpriced for what you were getting but the menu itself offered an excellent variety to choose from.
The hints of chocolate never overtook any of my dishes, but rather enhanced my dining experiences for everything I ate.
I would say this is a great destination for those who have a special occasion or want to be like my and treat themselves to a nice meal during their theme park visit.
It is nice for solo travelers and families alike!
My Final Score and Review for The Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant
- Ambiance: 9
- Food: 8
- Prices: 7.5
- Drinks: 10
- Service: 10
I give this restaurant a 8.9 out of 10 on the ThemeParkHipster dining scale and I know you will definitely enjoy it too!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home.
(Original Article Date: October 4, 2022/Updated by Editor on March 28, 2024)