Animas Chocolate & Coffee Company is a locally owned chocolatier and café at 920 Main Avenue, in the heart of historic downtown Durango. The building dates back to 1895 and once housed Richey’s, Durango’s first candy maker and soda fountain, so it feels fitting that chocolate is being made here once again.

Founded in 2011 by Carley and Marc Snider, the company handcrafts truffles and bonbons, River Bottom bark, fudge and bean-to-bar chocolate in house. Through the open kitchen you can watch the chocolatiers tempering chocolate on marble counters. Their tagline, “Lose your soul to chocolate”, is a nod to the river’s Spanish name, the River of Lost Souls.

It’s a lovely spot to settle in with a drink, too. Try the signature Smelter hot chocolate, an espresso or a locally roasted coffee alongside a house-made pastry. There are cocktails, wine and beer as well, with chocolate pairings for a special treat.

Opening days and hours vary through the year, so check their website before you visit. A box of truffles or a few chocolate bars make a thoughtful gift to take home after experiencing Durango your way.