When a mysterious stranger, Vianne Rocher (Juliette Binoche), arrives in a tranquil French town in the winter of 1959, nobody could have imagined the impact she would have on this old-fashioned community. Within days, Vienne opens a very unusual chocolate shop. Her ability to perceive her customers private desires and satisfy them with just the right confection coaxes the villagers to abandon themselves to temptation and happiness.

Reynaud, the self-appointed leader of the town, is shocked that Vianne is tempting the parishioners with her delicacies. But when another handsome stranger arrives in town (Johnny Depp), and joins Vianne in her quest, a dramatic confrontation arises.