Ildiko’s Artisan Chocolates in Surrey will close March 22nd due to a lease dispute after serving the community for eight years.
Ildikó and Tamás Kiss, who run the shop, fought for two and a half years to keep their spot on the high street. Sadly, they must close on March 22nd. The couple shared their sadness on Facebook, saying the shop was more than just a shop—it was a home, a community, and a place of joy, and they appreciated the support they received over eight years.
Their son, Gellert, said finding a new spot is hard because they need a shopfront for both gelato and chocolates. They make Italian gelato onsite, and he noted that Bookham is quite unique. Gellért also emphasized his parents’ importance to the village, highlighting the eight years they spent building the shop and the fact that they make the gelato completely from scratch.
He said they view the shop as a fourth child, and his mom feels like they’re losing a child. Customers left kind messages on Facebook expressing how much they will miss the shop. The shop has even won awards for its excellent food, including Great Taste awards for their brownies and gelato.
The shop’s chocolates feature unique toppings like almonds, strawberries, and coffee beans, and they follow seasonal baking. They blend British and European baking methods: Tamás learned to make gelato in Italy from a teacher who worked at Heston Blumenthal’s restaurant, and they also sell vegan sorbets.
People describe the shop as a “little gem” that they love for its coffee, cakes, and hot chocolate. One person particularly enjoyed the pecan pie, and many raved about the delicious chocolates. Another person called it an awesome family business, praising the chocolate, cake, and gelato quality, as well as the coffee, and considering it a must-visit place.
You can visit Ildiko’s Artisan Chocolates before they close at 17 High Street. The shop is closed on Mondays but opens from 9 AM to 5 PM every other day, and on Sundays, it’s open from 11 AM to 4 PM.