Seamus Blackley, the mastermind behind Microsoft’s Xbox console, has embarked on a new, tantalizing venture within the walls of Pacific Light & Hologram in San Gabriel. This unassuming office space harbors a treasure trove of Blackley’s eclectic interests, from a 1970s Dodge camper once owned by physicist Richard Feynman to a mechanical Acrocanthosaurus jaw model. The whimsical decor is a testament to Blackley’s multifaceted passions, which now include a fascination with chocolate.
Blackley’s latest project involves a seemingly impossible task—growing cacao trees in the unyielding climate of Southern California. This endeavor, akin to his viral bread-baking exploits during the pandemic, is not merely a hobby but a serious pursuit. With his partner, Asher Sefami, Blackley envisions the creation of an L.A.-based chocolate company, unlike any other in the bean-to-bar movement.
The roots of Blackley’s chocolate endeavor lie in his insatiable curiosity and relentless pursuit of the extraordinary. Drawing parallels between scientific processes and culinary arts, Blackley believes that the key to innovation lies in setting aside human biases and embracing evidence-based feedback. This philosophy underpins his approach to chocolate-making, where he strives to capture the essence of pure Los Angeles chocolate without any unnecessary additives.
Transforming a vision into reality, Blackley and Sefami have embarked on a journey fraught with challenges and learning curves. From sourcing cacao trees on eBay to mastering the art of indoor cultivation and pollination, their chocolate-making odyssey is fraught with setbacks and triumphs. The fruits of their labor, a robust dark chocolate block with earthy undertones, herald a promising future for their nascent chocolate enterprise.
As Blackley and Sefami navigate the uncharted waters of chocolate production, they have garnered the attention and support of culinary luminaries like José Andrés. The prospect of integrating their chocolate into Andrés’ culinary creations underscores the potential of their venture. With a blend of scientific rigor and artistic flair, Blackley and Sefami are poised to redefine the chocolate landscape in Los Angeles and beyond.
In a world where innovation and imagination converge, Blackley’s chocolate enterprise stands as a testament to the transformative power of curiosity and dedication. Through the lens of chocolate-making, Blackley invites us to rediscover the childlike wonder and unbridled curiosity that fuel creative endeavors. As the tantalizing aroma of Los Angeles-grown chocolate wafts through the air, Blackley’s dream of a Willy Wonka-esque chocolate empire seems closer to realization than ever before.
