While on a mission trip in the Dominican Republic I wanted to take the youth I was working with on an adventure. The hotel we were staying in recommended Mundo Autrntico. So, I went the day before to check it out to be sure it would work. It was a super fun place to visit.
We started out in the souvenir shop, then went to the jewelry store, then to the coffee shop and then my favorite was the cacao shop. (there was also a rum and cigar shop that I did not take the youth too)
There was not much shopping in the area, so this place is some place I would recommend.
The Souvenir Shop had lots of fun items to look through. I was able to purchase some fun gifts to bring home for friends.
The Coffee shop and tasting area.
Here was my favorite, shop...the Cacao tea shop! The day before I got few Ubers and tried to find tea around the area. I was unsuccessful in finding tea, but I did enjoy seeing the sights.
So I was thrilled to find this unexpected tea shop here at Mundo Autrnitco.
"The cacao bean is found inside the pulp of the cacao fruit and serves as the raw ingredient for chocolate. The nutrient-dense shell of the cacao bean has been used to brew cacao husk tea for thousands of years and serves as the foundation for our hand-selected teas. Using the natural properties of this superfood, we deliver a mood-boosting, caffeine-free, antioxidant powerhouse (40x more than blueberries) without a single calorie. That's right - zero calories. So, try a cup today and experience the amazing benefits of our delicious organic cacao tea."
The guys in the shop were super fun. We tried hot coco cacao and hot cacao tea. Then we also did cacao chocolate tasting. The cacao chocolate was incredible!
The cacao shell tea is light with a hint of chocolate and packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—everything you need for a healthy mind and body. It's the calorie-free and guilt-free pleasure you never knew you always wanted.
"Studies have shown that cacao is packed with health benefits. In particular, cacao is naturally rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and a natural compound called theobromine, which provides a gentle energy boost while relaxing the body, decreasing blood pressure, improving brain function, and supporting healthy digestion, circulation and respiration. Cacao is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, calcium, copper and zinc." https://www.cacaoteaco.com/
"Here are some of the benefits of the vitamins and minerals found in the tea:
- Magnesium – Aids in bone health, decreased risk of Type 2 Diabetes, helps with muscle and nerve function, lower blood pressure, mitigates migraines, may reduce depression and anxiety
- Iron – Helps in proper function of hemoglobin, increased energy and focus
- Zinc – Aids with immune system and metabolism functions, prevents macular degeneration, activates T-cells
- Vitamin C – Helps with immune system, can lower blood pressure, lowers risk of heart disease, aids in memory
- Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant preventing cells from damage, moisturizes skin, promotes wound healing, reduces eczema and psoriasis, prevents fine lines and wrinkles, and promotes nail health." https://wildkauaichocolate.com/the-health-benefits-of-our-cacao-tea/
The Cacao tea is like drinking chocolate- really!!! And it is healthy for you and caffeine free!! It is true. It was so yummy!! I bought a couple bags to take home.
Below is a statue with the cacao bean.
The tea is yummy tasty. The price is good. The staff was fun and friendly. Cacao is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, calcium, copper and zinc. Cacao Husk Tea gets 5 tea cups from me.
Side note- when I make it at home I make it as a latte with almond or oat milk. It really elevates the flavors.
