Beyond Vanilla: My/Mochi's 'Dubai Chocolate' Taps Into Global Flavor Trend

November 04, 2025 | Ronald King

Los Angeles, CA – In a market saturated with predictable dessert options, My/Mochi Ice Cream is taking a bold step beyond vanilla and chocolate with the launch of its “Dubai Chocolate Style” mochi. The new flavor, inspired by the popular confection found in the United Arab Emirates, blends creamy pistachio ice cream, crunchy kadayif (shredded phyllo dough), and chocolate bits wrapped in chocolate-flavored mochi dough. It’s a move that reflects a wider trend: consumers are increasingly seeking authentic global flavors and unique culinary experiences.

While the initial rollout begins in club stores this November, the ambition is clear: to capture a slice of the growing demand for internationally-inspired desserts. My/Mochi, already the world’s largest producer of mochi ice cream, is betting that a taste of Dubai will resonate with American palates.

Riding the Global Flavor Wave

The launch isn’t happening in a vacuum. According to recent industry reports from Mintel, the demand for ethnic and globally-inspired flavors in the food and beverage sector has been steadily increasing over the past five years. “Consumers are becoming more adventurous with their food choices,” explains one food industry analyst. “They’re no longer satisfied with just the standard flavors. They want to explore new cultures and experiences through food.”

The “Dubai chocolate” trend itself has been gaining traction, driven in part by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Videos showcasing the confection have garnered millions of views, highlighting its unique combination of textures and flavors. Google Trends data confirms a steady rise in searches for “Dubai chocolate” over the past few years, particularly in the U.S. and the Middle East.

“What we’re seeing is a shift in consumer behavior,” states a marketing expert specializing in food trends. “People are actively seeking out products that tell a story, that have a cultural connection. The ‘Dubai Chocolate Style’ mochi is a perfect example of that.”

A Strategic Move for My/Mochi

My/Mochi currently holds a significant 35% share of the U.S. mochi ice cream market. The company has consistently innovated with new flavors and formats to maintain its leadership position. “Innovation is key to staying relevant in this competitive market,” explains a source within the company. “We’re always looking for new ways to delight our customers and expand our reach.”

The “Dubai Chocolate Style” flavor is a strategic move to attract new consumers, particularly those who are interested in trying new and exciting flavors. While competitors like Bubbies and Mochidoki offer more traditional and organic options, My/Mochi is differentiating itself by focusing on global flavors.

“There’s a risk in launching a very specific regional taste,” admits a food industry consultant. “But in this case, the risk is mitigated by the growing popularity of Middle Eastern cuisine and the increasing consumer appetite for authentic experiences.”

Kadayif: The Unexpected Star

Beyond the familiar flavors of pistachio and chocolate, the inclusion of kadayif is a key differentiator. This shredded phyllo dough, traditionally used in Middle Eastern desserts like baklava and kunafa, adds a unique crispy texture and a subtle sweetness.

“Kadayif is often overlooked in Western desserts,” explains a chef specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine. “But it’s a fantastic ingredient that adds a wonderful textural contrast and a subtle nutty flavor.”

Social media buzz surrounding the flavor consistently highlights the kadayif as a standout ingredient. “People are genuinely curious about kadayif,” says a social media analyst. “It’s something new and different, and that’s what’s driving the excitement.”

Packaging as a Storytelling Tool

My/Mochi isn’t just relying on flavor to capture attention. The “Dubai Chocolate Style” mochi features distinctive emerald green packaging, deviating from the company’s typically pastel colors. The design incorporates elements inspired by Dubai’s architecture and cultural motifs, further reinforcing the flavor’s authenticity.

“The packaging is an integral part of the storytelling process,” states a branding expert. “It’s not just about making the product look appealing; it’s about communicating the brand’s values and the product’s unique story.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Flavor

The launch of “Dubai Chocolate Style” mochi is more than just a new flavor; it’s a reflection of a broader trend: the increasing globalization of food and the growing consumer demand for authentic, culturally-inspired experiences. As consumers become more adventurous with their food choices, brands like My/Mochi will need to continue innovating and exploring new flavors and ingredients to stay ahead of the curve.

“The future of flavor is all about authenticity and storytelling,” concludes a food trend forecaster. “Consumers want to connect with the food they eat on a deeper level. They want to know where it comes from, how it’s made, and what it represents.”

My/Mochi’s “Dubai Chocolate Style” mochi, with its unique blend of flavors and cultural inspiration, is a delicious example of this emerging trend – and a promising sign of the exciting flavors to come.