# Gourmet Chocolate Stores Ghirardelli Expands in California with a Storefront in Santa Barbara By Debra John | Published 2025-12-18 | Business Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/storefront-in-santa-barbara References: [ghirardelli](https://www.ghirardelli.com/33)  A storefront in Santa Barbara marks Ghirardelli’s continued expansion in California, representing the brand’s 19th [Ghirardelli Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dubai-chocolate-sundae) in the state. The opening extends Ghirardelli’s retail footprint while reinforcing its long-standing presence as a premium chocolate and dessert brand throughout the Golden State. To commemorate the launch, Ghirardelli will host a soft opening on December 20, offering visitors early access to its signature products. These include handcrafted hot fudge, its globally recognized ice cream sundaes made with premium ingredients, and the brand’s iconic chocolate squares. The Santa Barbara location features a broad menu highlighted by the 'World-Famous Hot Fudge Sundae,' alongside more than 26 specialty items. Offerings include the '[Dubai-Style Hot Fudge Sundae](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dubai-style-sundae),' 'Strawberry Passion Hot Fudge Sundae,' [seasonal peppermint selections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/peppermint-bark) available through January 20, classic hot cocoa options, and a variety of baked goods and confections. Image Credit: Ghirardelli ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.9/10 - Popularity: 43% | Activity: 47% | Freshness: 57% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/business) > [Retail](https://www.trendhunter.com/retail) ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Social Media-Inspired Chocolates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hersheys-dubaiinspired-chocolate-bar.md) - [Branded Cafe Chocolate Products](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dunkin-chocolate-santa.md) - [Artisanal Ice Cream Bars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ben-jerrys-ice-cream-bars1.md) - [Bite-Sized Dubai Chocolates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dubai-style-chocolate.md) - [Topographical Chocolate Bars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/made-in-california-bar.md) - [Prototype Chocolate Shops](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rocky-mountain-chocolate-factory.md) - [Reprised Holiday Peppermint Barks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-ghirardelli-peppermint-bark.md) - [Super-Premium Ice Cream Bars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ben-jerrys-ice-cream-bars.md) - [Expanded Name-Branded Treats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grandpa-joes.md)