Belgian chocolate is regarded as among the best in the world, with premium brands sold across the globe. So, when you’re in the country of its origin, you need to try the real thing.
A trip to Belgium is a dream come true for chocoholics. Known as the home of world-famous, high-quality chocolate, here are ten spots for the best chocolate in Belgium.
Brands such as Godiva, Côte d’Or, Leonidas, to name but a few, have gained Belgian chocolate global recognition as some of the best in the world.
And while we wouldn’t say no to any of these delicious treats, nothing beats enjoying real, authentic Belgian chocolate in the place it was made.
So, if you’re heading to Belgium and want to sample some of the best chocolate in the world, you’re in luck. Here are ten spots for the best chocolate in Belgium.
WBL’s top 5 fun facts about Belgian chocolate
- Belgium produces over 220,000 tons of chocolate per year, making it one of the largest chocolate producers in the world.
- Belgian chocolate has a legal standard that requires it to contain at least 35% pure cocoa, ensuring a high-quality chocolate experience.
- The Belgian town of Bruges is home to the Choco-Story Museum, which explores the history and process of chocolate-making, allowing visitors to learn about the origins and production of Belgian chocolate.
- In 2017, UNESCO recognized Belgian chocolate as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Belgium, acknowledging its cultural significance and craftsmanship.
- It is estimated that over 2,000 chocolate shops can be found throughout Belgium, ensuring that chocolate lovers have plenty of options to explore and indulge in their passion for fine chocolates.
10. The Old Chocolate House, Bruges – for lots of options
A family business owned and operated by Françoise Thomaes, The Old Chocolate House in Bruges is recognisable from the outside for its classic European façade.
Specialising in delicious chocolate, handmade biscuits and gingerbread, and a collection of pralines, you’ll want to try everything on offer here. This is certainly one of the top spots for the best chocolate in Belgium.
Address: Mariastraat 1a, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
9. Chocolatier Dumon, Bruges – for delicious chocolate treats
Dumon Artisanale Chocolatier in Bruges boasts a unique and almost futuristic interior design that complements the display of gorgeous chocolates on offer.
This family-owned business is located near Market Square, making it the perfect place to stop for a tasty sweet treat.
Address: Eiermarkt 6, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
8. Maison Pierre Marcolini, Brussels – for luxury chocolates
This stylish Brussels chocolate shop has gained Pierre Marcolini worldwide renown as one of the best chocolatiers in Belgium. A must for your bucket list.
Procuring only the best rare and unprocessed chocolate beans, what he comes up with is truly delicious. The façade of this shop gives off a designer feel, making you feel like you’re in for a luxury experience.
Address: Steenstraat 10, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
7. Leonidas, Ypres – a global name
Leonidas is a name recognised in chocolate the world over. However, there is nothing like experiencing the original product in the place it was created.
For classic and fresh Belgian chocolate flavours, this understated spot in Ypres is your one-stop-shop.
Address: Grote Markt 7, 8900 Ieper, Belgium
6. Frederic Blondeel Chocolate Factory and Shop, Koekelberg – for innovative flavours
With a vast display of truffles, pralines, and more, stepping into Frederic Blondeel Chocolate Factory and Shop is sure to tickle your tastebuds.
One of the most innovative chocolatiers in Belgium, you are sure to enjoy a chocolate experience like no other.
Address: Rue de Ganshoren 39, 1081 Koekelberg, Belgium
5. Chocolaterie Mary, Brussels – one of the best spots for chocolate in Belgium
When it comes to finding the best spots for chocolate in Belgium, we couldn’t fail to mention Chocolaterie Mary.
One of the most popular chocolatiers in the country, Mary was first opened in 1919 by chocolatier Mary Delluc. Blending tradition and modernity, the glamourous boxes here are the perfect gifts to bring home.
Address: Belgium, Lombardstraat 28B, 1000 Brussel, Belgium
4. Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke, Ghent – for high-quality chocolate
If you’re in Ghent, a visit to Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke is a must. This family business opened in 1982 specialises in authentic Belgian chocolate that will keep you coming back for more.
Using only top quality and locally sourced ingredients, the flavours here are phenomenal. Have your choice of sweets, bars, spreads, and gifts at Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke.
Address: Sint-Baafsplein 15, 9000 Gent, Belgium
3. The Chocolate Line, Dominique Persoone, Bruges – for world-famous flavours
For unique tastes and flavour combinations, you need to visit Dominique Persoone’s The Chocolate Line in Bruges.
One of the few Belgian chocolatiers to appear in the Michelin Guide, Persoone’s creative flair with chocolate making has gained him worldwide recognition. Thus, you can’t visit Bruges without checking out his shop.
Address: Simon Stevinplein 19, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
2. Burie, Antwerp – for intricate and eye-catching chocolate sculptures
Best known for the amazing chocolate sculptures that appear in the shop window, you’ll be hard-pressed to pass this shop without taking a look inside.
A family business opened in 1969, Burie has become somewhat of an Antwerp staple.
Address: Nationalestraat 42, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
1. Laurent Gerbaud, Brussels – best chocolatier in Brussels 2021
Topping our list of spots for the best chocolate in Belgium is the amazing Laurent Gerbaud in Brussels. Elected best chocolatier in Brussels for 2021, this choice was a no-brainer.
Offering delicious treats like bonbons and hot chocolate, as well as chocolate-making workshops, this is a must-visit while in the city.
Address: Rue Ravenstein 2D, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Your questions answered about chocolate in Belgium
We’ve answered some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions in the section below, as well as those that popularly appear in online searches on chocolate in Belgium.
What chocolate is famous in Belgium?
One particular type of chocolate that Belgium is renowned for is pralines. Pralines are chocolate confections with a variety of fillings, such as ganache, caramel, nuts, or fruit creams.
Does Belgium have the best chocolate in the world?
Belgium is widely recognized for its high-quality chocolate and has a strong reputation in the industry as it is often made with a variety of complex ingredients.
What is the chocolate capital of Belgium?
The city of Brussels is often referred to as the chocolate capital of Belgium and is a hub for chocolate lovers and connoisseurs.
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