Tasting: From the Origins of Cocoa to the Art of Chocolate Making with Barry Callebaut

As part of Festival de la Francophonie 2026, join us for a journey into the world of chocolate, brought to you by experts from Barry Callebaut: the global leader in chocolate indulgences!

From the origins of cocoa to the art of chocolate making, discover the fascinating process behind your favorite treats. This event will offer insights into global supply chains, local production, and, of course, a tasting experience accompanied by a complimentary glass of Belgian beer and/or Swiss wine; an unmissable experience for all chocolate lovers!

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a quiz courtesy of Barry Callebaut, Wallonie Bruxelles - International, Villa Albertine, and the Consulate General of Switzerland in Chicago with the chance to win prizes!

Doors at 6:00 pm. Program at 6:30. Please enter via 54 W Chicago Ave. Non-alcoholic options will be available.

Register early! This popular event is likely to sell out.

This event is presented in partnership with the Consulate General of Belgium in Chicago, the Consulate General of France in Chicago, the Consulate General of Switzerland in Chicago, the Swiss Benevolent Society, Villa Albertine, and Wallonie Bruxelles - International.

About Barry Callebaut

The Barry Callebaut Group, headquartered in Zurich, is the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products. Some of its representatives will be present this evening to take you on a chocolate-making journey, including:

• Cédric Bono, VP, CFO, North America
• Philipp Muheim, General Counsel a.i.
• Chef Martin Diez, Director Global Chocolate Academy

About the Presenters

Cedric Bono

Cedric Bono is a French/Swiss binational, and moved to Chicago in August 2024, as the CFO for the North American business of Barry Callebaut.

He has spent the past 5 years of his career in Barry-Callebaut, primarily at the headquarters in Zurich, in various Finance and Strategy roles.

Prior to this, he spent 14 years in Unilever, working different Finance roles, in 4 different countries – France, the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland.

Passionate about food, desserts – and chocolate of course – and when time allows, always happy to bake for friends and family.

He is the proud father of 2 girls – who are bilingual in French and German and now being introduced to English.

Philipp Muheim

Born in Zurich, Switzerland, Philipp Muheim is a Swiss and U.S. qualified attorney and has been living in Chicago since 2016. Philipp currently serves as the General Counsel (ad interim) of Barry Callebaut.

Prior to joining Barry Callebaut, Philipp was a partner and counsel with two global U.S. law firms where he practiced as an M&A lawyer in New York for nine years.

Philipp holds a law degree from the University of Zurich, as well as an LL.M. degree from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and a Certificate of Business Administration from Kellogg School of Management.

Martin Diez

Martin Diez is a globally recognized pastry chef and the Global Head of the Callebaut Chocolate Academy, overseeing its network of academies worldwide. Based in Chicago, he leads a team of top chefs and experts, guiding clients from concept creation to implementation while setting the strategic vision for chocolate education and innovation on a global scale.

Renowned for his innovative approach, Diez embraces contrasts in his work, believing that beauty emerges from such juxtapositions. His creations reflect this philosophy, pairing chocolate with rare and unexpected ingredients from around the world.

Trained in pastry, confectionery, chocolaterie, and ice cream, Diez began his career at the prestigious Antoine pastry shop in Bordeaux, France. He was also a member of the esteemed artisan guild Tour de France des Compagnons du Devoir, which allowed him to refine his craft in some of France’s most distinguished pastry and chocolate shops.

With extensive international experience and a deep passion for exploration, Diez has developed a unique vision and signature style, making his work instantly recognizable in the world of fine chocolate and pastry. As a leader, he is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of chefs, fostering innovation, and pushing the boundaries of chocolate craftsmanship worldwide.

About Festival de la Francophonie

Festival de la Francophonie is the Alliance Française de Chicago’s annual flagship festival, featuring a vibrant lineup of free public programs over the course of the month of March—the official Mois de la Francophonie—celebrating the world’s French-speaking cultures. AF-Chicago is honored to partner with cultural organizations and government institutions across the city to offer high-quality cultural experiences and a forum where people of all ages and backgrounds can discover and connect with the cultures, customs, and language of the Francophone world, to promote lifelong learning and cultural understanding.

Getting Here

The Alliance Française de Chicago is one block from the CTA Red line stop at Chicago Ave. Best bus routes are the 22 on Clark and the 66 on Chicago Ave. A Divvy station is located in front of the 54 W Chicago Ave entrance.

Parking Information

$10 for 12 hours at 100 W Chestnut St. Validation is available at reception.

Please be advised that students, members, and attendees at cultural events or programs may be photographed, and these images may be used for marketing purposes.