National Chocolate Day is getting a serious upgrade in San Marcos. Christophe Rull, the world chocolate master and Netflix star, is teaming up with Michelin-trained chocolatier Annaluna Karkar for a two-day pop-up at his patisserie.
If you know anything about either of these two, you know this isn’t your average chocolate event.
Who You’re Dealing With
Annaluna Karkar trained in Italy and worked alongside Michelin-starred chefs before founding Annaluna Chocolate, which has built a reputation for balancing flavor, texture, and visual appeal without leaning too hard on any one element.
Her Mediterranean background shows up in her work – natural forms, thoughtful flavor combinations, and a modern approach that doesn’t feel overly fussy.
She was also part of Rull’s prep team at the 2022 World Chocolate Masters in Paris, so they already have history working together. That kind of collaboration matters when you’re trying to create something cohesive rather than just throwing two names on a flyer.
What You’ll Actually Find
Karkar is bringing handmade chocolates while Rull’s signature pastries will be available as usual. Her offerings include bars like Walnut Cinnamon Baklava, Raspberry Tea with Pistachio Crisp, The Sticky Toffee Bar, and Coffee Caramel with Pecan Crunch. There are also Flower Tablets in 70% and 46% Almond Hazelnut varieties.
The Stems – which come 8 to 10 per package – include Milk Chocolate Toffee, Dark Chocolate Peppermint, and Lemon Crush made with white chocolate.
Then there are the Owls, shaped chocolate pieces filled with either Caramel, Peanut Butter, Hazelnut Crunch, or Passion Coconut, depending on the cacao percentage you choose.
Everything is available while supplies last, which is the polite way of saying get there early if you want options.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The pop-up is happening at Christophe Rull Patisserie in the North City district of San Marcos, which has been quietly developing into something worth paying attention to.
Getting two Michelin-trained chocolate artisans in one place for two days is rare enough that if you’re into high-quality chocolate, it’s worth blocking out some time.
This isn’t mass-produced stuff, and it’s not trying to be. Karkar’s work is detail-driven and intentional, and Rull’s reputation speaks for itself. Together, they’re offering the kind of chocolate experience that reminds you why people get so particular about cacao percentages and flavor pairings.
See you there!
Stop by for chocolate that’s been crafted by two people who genuinely know what they’re doing, and celebrate National Chocolate Day the right way. Available while supplies last!
???? Tuesday, October 28 and Wednesday, October 29, 9 AM – 5 PM???? 251 N City Drive, San Marcos?? More info here
See you there, San Diego!