Tosh Show Episode Summary: "My Favorite Chocolatier - Phil Covitz"

Release Date: April 15, 2025
Host: Daniel Tosh
Guest: Phil Covitz, Second Generation Chocolatier

Introduction

In this episode of the Tosh Show, comedian Daniel Tosh sits down with Phil Covitz, the senior chocolatier of the renowned Covitz & Sons Chocolatier based in Beverly Hills. With over three decades of experience, Phil shares insights into the family's chocolate business, the evolution of their products, and the intricate art of chocolatiering.

Family Background and Business Inheritance

Phil Covitz opens up about his upbringing in a chocolate-loving family and the legacy handed down by his parents.

• Daniel Tosh: "You grew up in Los Angeles. Your parents ran a successful chocolate business in Beverly Hills selling premier chocolate. This is why other parts of the country hate us. Here in California, you're aware of that, right?"
  [13:14]

• Phil Covitz: "It was wonderful. Very lucky. Lived in LA, grew up in Westwood, around the corner from where the shop was, and had a great younger brother. Parents still together."
  [13:14]

Phil discusses how his mother, originally from Brazil, identified a gap in the U.S. market for high-quality European chocolates and coffee, prompting the family to start their own artisanal business.

Transitioning to a Second Generation Leader

Phil details the decision process behind taking over the family business alongside his brother Mark.

• Daniel Tosh: "What made you decide to take over the family business?"
  [15:06]

• Phil Covitz: "My mom had always suggested it, offered it over the years. When we came back to LA later, both my brother and I were moving on to new careers, and it was the right time to take over."
  [15:10]

He emphasizes the smooth transition and the collaborative relationship with his brother, which has been pivotal in modernizing the business.

Modernizing the Chocolate Business

Phil explains how Covitz & Sons Chocolatier has evolved from importing Swiss chocolates to crafting their own unique products.

• Phil Covitz: "We realized the business had become a little out of date. So, we started making our own products using ethically sourced cacao and local dairy to elevate the quality."
  [15:24]

He highlights the importance of quality ingredients and ethical sourcing in their production process, aiming to create chocolates that are both delicious and responsibly made.

Crafting Exquisite Chocolates

The conversation delves into the meticulous process of creating high-end chocolates, including collaboration with top chefs and artists.

• Daniel Tosh: "Your chocolates are made, I mean, to sound cliché, the finest ingredients in the world. And your chef that you hired, Chef Sandy from the French Laundry."
  [16:28]

• Phil Covitz: "She makes decisions about everything we do—ingredients, process, freshness, design. We're always innovating new products."
  [17:02]

Phil discusses the role of Chef Sandy, formerly of the prestigious French Laundry, in refining their chocolate recipes and ensuring consistency in quality. Additionally, he talks about their unique packaging collaborations with local artists to enhance the gifting experience.

Product Line and Innovations

Phil showcases a variety of their chocolate offerings, emphasizing creativity and quality.

• Daniel Tosh: "Do you have any direct competition here in Los Angeles for high-end chocolate?"
  [18:05]

• Phil Covitz: "No, not in Los Angeles. You have to go to Belgium. Our chocolates receive positive feedback internationally."
  [18:11]

Phil introduces several signature pieces, including:

1. 64% Dark Chocolate Ganache (64:00)
   Phil explains it's made with Madagascan cacao, offering a rich and smooth flavor.

2. PB&J Chocolate (30:09)
   A fusion of farmer's market strawberries and peanut praline, replicating the classic PB&J sandwich in chocolate form.

3. Lemon Meringue Macadamia (31:09)
   An innovative blend of citrus and nut flavors with a crunchy meringue texture.

4. Salted Caramel Piece (32:40)
   Combines local butter with milk and dark chocolate ganache, topped with a hint of salt.

5. S’mores Chocolate (33:17)
   A deconstructed version of the traditional s’more, featuring vanilla marshmallow, graham cracker, and milk chocolate.

Phil emphasizes the artistry involved in each piece, from flavor balancing to aesthetic presentation, ensuring each chocolate is a sensory delight.

Packaging and Branding

Covitz & Sons places significant emphasis on packaging as an extension of their brand's luxury appeal.

• Phil Covitz: "Our packaging is designed to make the chocolate experience special. We collaborate with local artists, and our boxes often feature unique artwork, making them suitable for display or gifting."
  [25:07]

• Daniel Tosh: "You have to go to Belgium to find the competition. Do your chocolates ever end up there?"
  [18:22]

Phil discusses their collaboration with muralist Bumblebee Loves You, creating artistically designed boxes that serve as collectibles. This strategy not only enhances the unboxing experience but also strengthens their brand identity as premium chocolatiers.

Marketing Strategies and Customer Engagement

The Covitz & Sons team employs thoughtful marketing tactics to maintain their market position and customer loyalty.

• Phil Covitz: "We use various channels, including our website and email lists, to connect with customers. However, we avoid aggressive discount tactics to maintain our brand's exclusivity."
  [40:20]

• Daniel Tosh: "Why do you not participate in events like the Oscars or local high-profile gatherings?"
  [41:14]

Phil explains their cautious approach to partnerships and marketing, focusing instead on quality and word-of-mouth endorsements to build their reputation. They also ensure their chocolates are present in key retail locations, including duty-free shops, to reach a broader audience.

Challenges and Industry Insights

Phil offers candid insights into the challenges faced by high-end chocolatiers in a competitive market.

• Daniel Tosh: "Why does your gourmet chocolate box cost $20 for four pieces?"
  [22:15]

• Phil Covitz: "The cost reflects the quality of ingredients, craftsmanship, and packaging. Everything from ethically sourced cacao to the artisanal labor involved adds value."
  [22:22]

He discusses the balance between maintaining premium quality and pricing strategies, ensuring sustainability for the business while delivering exceptional products.

Tasting Session

A highlight of the episode is an interactive tasting session where Phil introduces various chocolates for Daniel Tosh to sample.

1. 64% Dark Chocolate Ganache (29:27)

   • Daniel Tosh: "I eat the whole thing. That's delicious."
     [29:51]

2. PB&J Chocolate (30:09)

   • Daniel Tosh: "That's delicious."
     [30:33]

3. Lemon Meringue Macadamia (31:09)

   • Daniel Tosh: "It's really good... I'm excited about this. This alone is the prettiest thing ever."
     [34:16]

4. Salted Caramel Piece (32:40)

   • Daniel Tosh: "You like that one? So it's local butter, milk, and dark chocolate ganache..."
     [32:58]

5. Florabama Bar (34:47)

   • Daniel Tosh: "I don't like fizz. That's too much chocolate to consume. But it's good."
     [35:05]

The tasting not only showcases the diverse range of flavors but also exemplifies the attention to detail and quality that Covitz & Sons instills in every product.

Conclusion

Daniel Tosh wraps up the episode by expressing his admiration for Phil and the Covitz & Sons Chocolatier team.

• Daniel Tosh: "Phil, I appreciate you guys coming by. All the best. And thank you very much for the chocolate."
  [44:46]

He encourages listeners to visit their shop online at toshshowstore.com and stay tuned for new merchandise and upcoming tours. The episode underscores the blend of tradition and innovation that defines Covitz & Sons, positioning them as leaders in the artisanal chocolate industry.

Notable Quotes

1. Phil Covitz: "We realized the business had become a little out of date. So, we started making our own products using ethically sourced cacao and local dairy to elevate the quality."
   [15:24]

2. Daniel Tosh: "You have to go to Belgium to find the competition. Do your chocolates ever end up there?"
   [18:22]

3. Phil Covitz: "Our packaging is designed to make the chocolate experience special. We collaborate with local artists, and our boxes often feature unique artwork, making them suitable for display or gifting."
   [25:07]

4. Daniel Tosh: "Why does your gourmet chocolate box cost $20 for four pieces?"
   [22:15]

5. Phil Covitz: "The cost reflects the quality of ingredients, craftsmanship, and packaging. Everything from ethically sourced cacao to the artisanal labor involved adds value."
   [22:22]

Key Takeaways

• Legacy and Innovation: Covitz & Sons leverages family legacy while continuously innovating to meet modern tastes and ethical standards.

• Quality Over Quantity: Emphasis on premium ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship justifies their pricing and distinguishes them in a crowded market.

• Artistic Collaboration: Partnerships with local artists enhance packaging aesthetics, creating a collectible and memorable gifting experience.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on quality and customer feedback drives product development and maintains brand loyalty without relying heavily on discounts or aggressive marketing.

• Sustainability and Ethics: Commitment to ethically sourced ingredients reflects a broader trend towards responsible consumption in the luxury food sector.

For those interested in premium chocolates crafted with passion and precision, Phil Covitz and Covitz & Sons Chocolatier offer an inspiring glimpse into the world of high-end confectionery.