PUNTA GORDA, Fla. — Imagine a place where you can indulge in handmade chocolate, savor imported wine, enjoy a hand-brewed coffee, and explore an expertly crafted charcuterie board—all under one roof. Welcome to Punta Gorda Chocolate & Wine, a unique destination for those seeking an array of delightful treats.

As you step inside, you’ll find it feels more like an “adult playground” rather than a typical shop, according to owner Steph Herndon. “It’s all your favorite tasty treats,” she shares. However, the journey to establishing this beloved community hub hasn’t been without challenges. After three hurricanes wreaked havoc on their former location, the owners faced a tough decision: to close down or try again. They chose resilience. “When we reopened, the community rallied around us and even thanked us for coming back. We do this because we love it. Wine and food are an experience, and we want to share that with people,” Herndon recalls.

The experience begins early in the day. With doors opening at 7 a.m., the coffee and tea bar offers a variety of flavors from around the world. Seasonal drink flights change regularly, and this spring features delightful options like strawberry cheesecake matcha and lavender lemonade hibiscus tea. Fresh pastries are also available for those leisurely mornings.

However, the real star is the chocolate, meticulously handcrafted in-house. Co-owner Pattie Haley-Herndon has dedicated years to perfecting their recipes, resulting in a stunning array of European-style chocolates that grace their display cases. “I hand-make all the chocolates using the best quality chocolate without any preservatives. Every chocolate is unique,” says Haley-Herndon.

In addition to the delectable sweets, the shop boasts a curated collection of wines sourced from boutique wineries worldwide, providing options not found in larger retail shops. As a certified sommelier, Haley-Herndon assists guests in selecting the perfect wine, whether they’re seeking something bold or refreshing. The shop also hosts wine tastings on Saturdays, creating an opportunity for guests to unwind and explore new favorites.

For those looking for a full experience, Punta Gorda Chocolate & Wine offers artisanal cheeses and cured meats, ideal for crafting a charcuterie board or enjoying a fresh panini. The vision for the business is clear: to cultivate a space where there is something for everyone.

Herndon’s journey into this business was inspired by family encouragement, particularly from his father, who, after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, urged him to pursue his dreams without delay. “If you’re going to do it, don’t wait,” were the words that motivated Herndon to open the store.

This sense of family continues to resonate throughout the business. The name of the chocolates, “Haley’s Chocolates,” pays homage to Haley-Herndon’s father, ensuring that his legacy lives on with every handcrafted piece. “I know he would be proud of me,” she expresses.

Now, what started as a leap of faith has blossomed into a cherished part of the community—an inviting place where every visit tells a story, featuring coffee in the morning, chocolate in the afternoons, and wine in the evenings—all available in one delightful location.