About Us
Just Cacao was founded by Jeanette McCarthy, a chocolate enthusiast who first discovered the world of artisan bean-to-bar chocolate on a trip to Maui several years ago where she toured a local cacao farm.
Inspired by the richness of flavors and the stories behind each cacao bean, Jeanette embarked on a journey to share this passion with others, teaching people how to appreciate chocolate, from the farm where it’s grown to the final tasting experience.
“Chocolate has a fascinating history and just like the wine, beer and coffee industries before it, craft chocolate-making from the bean is elevating how we experience this magical food.”
In 2026, she began making her own bean-to-bar chocolate under the Just Cacao label, a tribute to her maiden name (Just) and befitting a pure, simple and elegant chocolate.
Jeanette is a genome scientist and educator by profession, and an avid yogi and hiker. Based in Moraga, California, she combines her scientific background with her love for food, adventure, and culture, to offer a fun, educational experience that will elevate the way you think about chocolate.