Belgium's rich chocolate heritage has produced a variety of exceptional brands, each offering unique and delectable creations. From the luxurious pralines of Neuhaus to the innovative flavors of Pierre Marcolini, Belgian chocolatiers continue to captivate taste buds worldwide.
In this article, we'll explore the top Belgian chocolate brands you need to taste, highlighting their distinctive qualities and must-try offerings.
The Top Belgian Chocolate Brands
Belgium's rich chocolate heritage is showcased through its renowned chocolatiers, each offering unique and delectable creations. Here's a curated list of top Belgian chocolate brands you must experience:
1. Godiva
Founded in Brussels in 1926, Godiva has become synonymous with luxury Belgian chocolate. Their signature truffles and pralines are celebrated for their smooth textures and rich flavors.
Godiva's global presence allows chocolate lovers worldwide to indulge in their exquisite offerings.
2. Neuhaus
Established in 1857, Neuhaus is credited with inventing the praline in 1912, revolutionizing the chocolate industry.
Their artisanal approach results in a diverse range of pralines, each crafted with precision and passion.
3. Leonidas
Since 1913, Leonidas has been dedicated to making high-quality Belgian chocolates accessible to all.
Offering over 100 varieties, including their famed Manon Café, Leonidas combines affordability with exceptional taste, making it a beloved brand both in Belgium and internationally.
4. Pierre Marcolini
Pierre Marcolini, established in 1995, epitomizes premium artisanal chocolate-making. Sourcing rare cocoa beans directly from plantations, Marcolini crafts chocolates that are both innovative and luxurious.
His creations, like the Grand Cru tablets, offer a refined tasting experience.
Mary Chocolatier
Founded in 1919 by Mary Delluc, Mary Chocolatier has epitomized Belgian chocolate artistry for over a century. Renowned for its exquisite pralines, truffles, and marzipan creations, the brand blends tradition with elegance.
As a Belgian Royal Warrant Holder since 1942, Mary Chocolatier continues to uphold its commitment to quality and refinement, offering confections that delight both locals and international visitors.
The Chocolate Line
Established in 1992 by Dominique Persoone, The Chocolate Line is celebrated for its inventive and avant-garde approach to chocolate-making.
With boutiques in Bruges and Antwerp, the brand has earned a place in the Michelin Guide, reflecting its commitment to quality and creativity.
Corné Port-Royal
Established in 1932 by Maurice Corné in Brussels, Corné Port-Royal has become a distinguished name in Belgian chocolate.
Their signature creation, the 'Manon Sucre'—a praline combining smooth cream, crisp nougatine, and fresh walnuts—has become a staple in Belgium's cultural heritage.
Less luxurious but still important Belgian Chocolate Brands are:
Côte d’Or
Founded in 1883, Côte d’Or is a household name in Belgium, known for its robust and intense chocolate flavors.
Their iconic products, such as the milk chocolate bar and Bouchée, have been favorites for generations, embodying the rich Belgian chocolate tradition.
Galler
Founded in 1976 by Jean Galler in Liège, Galler is an independent Belgian chocolaterie renowned for its filled chocolates, bars, and pralines.
As a supplier to the Belgian Royal Court since 1994, Galler upholds a commitment to quality and ethical practices, utilizing 100% Fairtrade cocoa and eschewing palm oil in their products.
What Makes Belgian Chocolate Unique?
Belgian chocolate's esteemed global reputation stems from a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship, superior ingredients, and meticulous production techniques. Here's what sets Belgian chocolate apart.
Traditional Craftsmanship
Belgian chocolatiers uphold time-honored methods, ensuring each creation reflects a legacy of excellence. Brands like Neuhaus, the inventor of the praline, exemplify this dedication to artisanal quality.
High-Quality Cocoa Beans
A commitment to sourcing premium cocoa beans is central to Belgian chocolate-making. Chocolatiers such as Pierre Marcolini select rare beans from around the world, crafting chocolates with distinct and refined flavors.
Meticulous Production Techniques
Processes like conching, a prolonged mixing that refines texture and flavor—are integral to Belgian chocolate. This technique results in the smooth, melt-in-the-mouth quality characteristic of brands like Côte d’Or.
Discover all about how Belgian Chocolate is made in the Choco-Story Museum in Brussels!
Where to Find the Best Belgian Chocolate?
Belgium's rich chocolate heritage is showcased in its vibrant cities, each offering unique experiences for chocolate enthusiasts. Here's a guide to discovering the finest Belgian chocolates in Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, along with practical tips for both tourists and online shoppers.
Brussels: The Heart of Belgian Chocolate
Which brands to find?
Neuhaus
Pierre Marcolini
Mary
Leonidas
Côte d’Or
Govida
Find all the famous chocolate shops in Brussels on the map.
Bruges: A Chocolate Lover's Haven
The Chocolate Line
Chocolatier Dumon
Antwerp: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The Chocolate Line
Elisabeth Chocolatier
The Masters Behind the World’s Best Chocolate
Belgium's esteemed chocolate reputation is shaped by visionary chocolatiers who blend tradition with innovation. Two luminaries in this field are Pierre Marcolini and Dominique Persoone, each bringing a unique approach to chocolate-making.
Pierre Marcolini
Pierre Marcolini is celebrated for his meticulous bean-to-bar process, sourcing rare cocoa beans directly from plantations worldwide. This dedication ensures unparalleled quality and distinct flavor profiles in his creations.
Must-Try Creation: The 'Cœur Framboise'—a delicate heart-shaped confection filled with raspberry ganache, exemplifying his commitment to quality and artistry.
Dominique Persoone
Dominique Persoone, founder of The Chocolate Line, is renowned for his adventurous spirit and innovative flavor combinations.
Must-try: the 'Chill Pill', a praline that harmoniously combines the flavors of grass, yuzu, and green apple, exemplifying his talent for crafting unique taste experiences.
Best Chocolate-Making Experiences
Brussels
2.5-Hour Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop / BEST PRICED Â / FOCUS ON KNOWLEDGE
Delve into the delectable world of Belgian chocolate with this immersive experience at Choco-Story Brussels. Begin your journey with a hands-on workshop led by a professional chocolatier, where you'll craft personalized chocolate tablets, mendiant chocolates, and lollipops to take home.
For only €35 you discover everything about Belgium Chocolate!
Brussels
Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop with Tastings / BEST RATED / FOCUS ON CREATING CHOCOLATE
Guided by expert chocolatiers, you'll craft your own personalized chocolate bar, truffles, and mendiants using ethically sourced Haitian chocolate. At the end of the session, beautifully wrap your handmade chocolates to take home.
Currently available at a 20% discount, priced at €52 per person.
Bruges
Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop / BEST RATEDÂ / FOCUS ON CREATING PRALINES
Immerse yourself in the art of Belgian chocolate-making with this hands-on workshop in Bruges. Under the guidance of an experienced chocolatier, you'll learn to craft traditional pralines and mendiants from scratch. By the end of the session, you'll have created over 30 pieces of delicious chocolate to enjoy or share with loved ones.
For €56 you can enjoy your very own pralines, a once in a lifetime experience. Likely to sell out!
Bruges
Chocolate Making Workshop and Chocolate Museum Entry / BEST FOR FAMILIESÂ / WHOLE DAY CHOCOLATE THEMED
Introduce your children to the enchanting world of Belgian chocolate with this family-friendly experience in Bruges. Begin with a visit to the Choco-Story Museum, where interactive exhibits and engaging displays reveal the rich history of chocolate. Following the museum tour, participate in a hands-on workshop where both kids and adults can craft their own chocolate creations under the guidance of expert chocolatiers.
€38 per person for a day with your kids you'll never forget. You're not in Belgium every day right?
FAQs About Belgian Chocolate
Can I buy Belgian chocolate online?
Yes, most Belgian chocolate brands, including Godiva, Galler, and Côte d’Or, offer online shopping options. They often ship internationally, so you can enjoy authentic Belgian chocolate from the comfort of your home.
What are pralines, and why are they popular in Belgian chocolate?
Pralines are filled chocolates that were invented in Belgium by Neuhaus in 1912. They often contain ganache, cream, caramel, or nuts, and their smooth, luxurious texture has made them a hallmark of Belgian chocolate.
What is the best time to visit Belgium for chocolate lovers?
Belgium is a year-round destination for chocolate enthusiasts. However, visiting during the colder months or around holidays like Easter and Christmas offers the added bonus of seasonal chocolate specialties and festive packaging.
Are Belgian chocolates suitable for vegetarians?
Most Belgian chocolates are vegetarian, but it’s always best to check ingredient lists, as some products may include non-vegetarian ingredients like gelatin in certain fillings.
Which is the oldest Belgian chocolate brand?
Neuhaus, founded in 1857, is one of the oldest and most iconic Belgian chocolate brands, credited with inventing the praline.
Are there vegan Belgian chocolates available?
Many brands, such as Galler, offer vegan-friendly options made without dairy or animal-derived products. Be sure to check the label.
In conclusion, if you’re on the hunt for the best Belgian chocolate, you’re in for an indulgent adventure. Belgium’s rich chocolate heritage, combined with its world-renowned craftsmanship, offers an unparalleled variety of luxurious confections.
From Neuhaus's iconic pralines to Pierre Marcolini's innovative bean-to-bar creations, and the accessible yet exquisite offerings of Leonidas, there’s a taste for every chocolate lover.
Whether you’re wandering the charming streets of Brussels, Bruges, or Antwerp, or exploring online options to bring a piece of Belgium to your home, there are countless ways to discover the magic of authentic Belgian chocolate. Be sure to visit iconic boutiques, participate in chocolate-making workshops, or dive into the history of chocolate at places like the Choco-Story Museum.
For a true chocolate enthusiast, Belgium isn’t just a destination—it’s a sensory journey through the finest Belgian chocolate brands.
So why wait? Start planning your trip or shop online to savor the sweet legacy of the best chocolate in Belgium today. Your taste buds will thank you!
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