If youโve been craving the viral Kunafa chocolates from Dubai but find them elusive or costly, worry no more! Pampanga has its very own answer to this global trend, and itโs both affordable and uniquely Filipino.
Meet Queenie Devero, a 24-year-old entrepreneur from Apalit, whose innovative brand, Suklati, is making waves in the local chocolate scene.
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The story of Suklati began unexpectedly. Queenie was in the hospital, awaiting the arrival of her brotherโs baby, when she stumbled upon reels featuring Dubaiโs famous Kunafa chocolates.
Being a sweet tooth herself, she was captivated by the idea and decided to give it a tryโnot just as a consumer but as a creator.
โI started as a reseller, but I wanted to make it my own,โ Devero shared.
After a series of research and experimentation, she perfected her version of the Kunafa chocolate, blending global inspiration with her Kapampangan culinary roots.
In just two months, she has sold over 3,000 chocolate bars, proving that her hard work has paid off.
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Suklatiโs bestsellers include flavors like Kunafa Pistachio, Biscoff, and the crowd-favorite Bueno, inspired by the creamy Kinder Joy. But Queenie doesnโt stop there.
On weekends, she offers Kunafa Sorbetes at the Kutitap Paskuhan Market in Capital Town, where her booth is open from 4 PM to 11 PM.
Each Suklati bar is a labor of love. โThe process is laborious, from layering to creating the filling and molding. Itโs a work of love and proof that Kapampangans excel in the culinary scene,โ she said.
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Queenieโs knack for business isnโt a coincidenceโitโs in her blood.
Growing up, she helped in her familyโs canteen business in Telacsan, Macabebe, taking on roles as a cashier and assistant.
Watching her motherโs dedication inspired her to venture into entrepreneurship. Before Suklati, she managed a clothing shop, but her passion for sweets and culinary creativity led her to the chocolate business.
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Suklati has grown beyond Apalit, with distributors and resellers in Angeles, Magalang, Dau, Macabebe, Masantol, and even Metro Manila. Queenieโs commitment to innovation and her belief in the artistry of Kapampangan cooks have set her brand apart.
โThe creativity and innovation of Kapampangans are unmatched. Suklati is my way of showcasing that,โ she said.
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Unlike the pricey imported Kunafa chocolates, Suklati offers an affordable yet indulgent alternative. Each bar is priced at โฑ195, while two bars cost โฑ395. For those who want to savor more, three bars are available for โฑ475, and four bars for โฑ615. Suklati also runs a special promo where you can get three bars at just โฑ150 each.
This makes it easier for chocolate lovers to enjoy a taste of Queenieโs labor of love without breaking the bank.
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With Suklati, Queenie Devero proves that world-class flavors can be crafted right here in the Philippines. From her humble beginnings to her growing success, she is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Kapampangan entrepreneurs.
For orders and reservations, visit Suklati on Instagram: @suklati. Treat yourself to a taste of innovation and passionโcrafted with love, the Kapampangan way.
