About Us

Our Story

For almost 50 years now, in the heart of Ballarat, there stood a quaint little store filled with the sweetest treasures – the original Darrell Lea shop. For Pina and Heath Worsley, this store held more than just confectionery; it was a beacon of joy, nostalgia, and endless possibilities.

For some years, Pina and Heath had dreamt of owning this iconic establishment, envisioning a space where happiness flowed as freely as the chocolatey delights it offered. Their dream was simple yet profound – to create a place where children and adults’ faces lit up with delight at the sight of tantalising lollies, cakes, chocolates, and gelato.

Finally, the stars aligned, and their dream became reality. With hearts full of passion and determination, Pina and Heath acquired the original Darrell Lea store, relocating it just six doors down to create what would become Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store.

But their vision went beyond simply owning a store – they wanted to craft an experience, a destination that would capture the imagination and ignite the senses of all who crossed its threshold. They dreamed of a place where the aroma of chocolate mingled with the laughter of delighted customers, where every visit was a journey of discovery and delight.

And so, Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store was born – a testament to Pina and Heath’s love for sweets, their community, and the joy of sharing their passion with others. As the only originalDarrell Lea store operating in Victoria, they knew they had something truly special to offer, and they were determined to make it known.

Their mission was clear – to put Ballarat on the map as a destination for sweetness and delight. They wanted to invite visitors into Ballarat’s CBD to experience themagic of Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, along with the many wonders of Sovereign Hill, the local Wildlife Park, Lake Wendouree and so much more that Ballarat has to offer.

So, dear friends, don’t just come to Ballarat for its history and heritage – come for the sweetness, the joy, and the unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered at Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store. Let your senses be delighted, your taste buds tantalised, and your hearts filled with happiness. After all, in this little corner of Ballarat, dreams really do come true.

Be Rewarded with Us!

In Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, we believe that every sweet moment should be rewarded – that’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our loyalty program, where indulgence earns you points towards even more delicious treats!

Signing up with us unlocks a world of perks and benefits, starting with earning loyalty points every time you shop in-store. Whether you’re stocking up on your favourite chocolates, treating yourself to a decadent dessert, or exploring our gourmet delights range, every purchase brings you one step closer to your next sweet reward.

And the best part? Your points can be used towards anything in-store, giving you the flexibility to choose the treats that bring you the most joy. Whether you’re craving a creamy milkshake, a box of chocolates to share with loved ones, or a little pick-me-up slice of cake, your loyalty points make it all possible.

So why wait? Join our loyalty program today and start earning sweet rewards with every purchase. It’s our way of saying thank you for choosing The Darrell Lea Chocolate Experience Store as your destination for all things delicious. Come indulge with us and let the rewards begin!

Customers Say

‘Our Sweet News

July 2, 2024

The Global Impact of Chocolate in Dessert Making

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Chocolate is a food that everyone loves, and it has had a significant global impact on dessert preparation. Its transformation from a luxurious ancient Mesoamerican food to a common ingredient in conf

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June 19, 2024

The Sweet Journey: A History of Chocolate

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Ancient Beginnings: The Birth of Chocolate The history of chocolate starts deep within Mesoamerica’s ancient rainforests. It is thought that approximately 1500 BCE, the Olmecs, one of the first civili

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