Belgium’s chocolate legacy is renowned for its exceptional quality, rich cocoa, and diverse array of flavors. As you wander around the iconic Grand Place in Brussels, the air is thick with the irresistible allure of chocolate, with boutiques lining every corner offering an indulgent taste of this sweet heritage.
If you are looking for the perfect souvenir to take home, here are exquisite Belgian chocolate brands that are sure to delight any connoisseur.
Neuhaus
Neuhaus is a cornerstone of Belgian chocolate, famed for its creation of the Praline — a delicate chocolate filled with a variety of exquisite fillings like cream, caramel, and hazelnut. The brand’s legacy traces back to Jean Neuhaus II, who first introduced pralines at the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries in 1857. Today, Neuhaus offers a luxurious range that includes truffles, biscuits, and ice creams, with a focus on beautifully packaged assortments. With a presence in over 50 countries and more than 1,500 stores worldwide, Neuhaus remains a symbol of chocolate elegance.
Website: neuhauschocolates.com
Leonidas
Founded in 1913, Leonidas is a beloved brand known for offering premium chocolate at accessible prices. Their chocolates are crafted from pure cocoa butter, free from palm oil, ensuring an indulgent yet ethical treat. Specializing in classic pralines, their playful kid’s collection is particularly charming, featuring colorful designs that make them irresistible. You will find 4 Leonidas boutiques in the Grand Place area, including locations in both the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries and the northern side of the square.
Website: leonidas.com
Pierre Marcolini
Pierre Marcolini, the esteemed Belgian pastry chef, has turned chocolate-making into an art form. His brand is a testament to precision, creativity, and sustainability. Marcolini sources the finest cocoa beans from around the globe and selects the most exceptional ingredients for his creations, including Moroccan berries, Iranian pistachios, Sichuan peppercorns, and Sicilian lemons. Each piece is meticulously crafted, reflecting the chef’s dedication to both taste and aesthetic. His boutique, located at the Galerie de la Reine near Grand Place, is a must-visit for anyone seeking an artisanal chocolate experience.
Website: eu.marcolini.com
Mary
Founded by Mary Deluc in 1919, the Mary brand is synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, every chocolate is a masterpiece, from its delicate flavor to its artistic presentation. The brand also prides itself on its stunning packaging, which makes their chocolates perfect for gifting. You will find Mary’s boutique in the Galerie de la Reine and on the eastern side of Grand Place, where it continues to offer a taste of chocolate indulgence in its most refined form.
Website: mary.be
Herman Van Dender
Though only 12 years old, Herman Van Dender has already earned a stellar reputation for its modern approach to chocolate-making. Recognized in 2014 as the creator of the most innovative chocolate factory in Belgium, the brand takes an artisanal approach to every step of production, from roasting cocoa beans to creating the finest textures. In 2023, it was named Brussels’ best chocolatier by French food critics Gault & Millau, an accolade that speaks to the brand’s exceptional quality. Visit their store to experience their award-winning creations firsthand.
Website: vandender.com
Let’s come to taste Belgian Chocolatiers. Fly to Brussels with Thai Airways!
