A mouthwatering guide to the best chocolate shops and bakeries in Brussels
Brussels is not just the capital of Europe, it's also a real paradise for chocoholics or anyone with a sweet tooth. Between the long-established names, chocolate shops in Brussels and traditional patisseries, foodies can find a little gem around every corner. To make sure you don't miss anything during your visit, hop on board one of our sightseeing buses in Brussels – you can stop off at the best chocolate shops and bakeries in the city between iconic sights.
Why Brussels is the world's chocolate capital
Brussels is considered the world's chocolate capital for several reasons. It's here, in 1912, that Jean Neuhaus invented the praline, a chocolate shell filled with ganache or cream that revolutionised Belgian confectionery. The city then saw many iconic companies pop up, like Mary, Wittamer and Neuhaus, keeping a unique craft alive and making chocolates with high-quality ingredients. But it's not just history that's given Brussels its reputation: with more than 200 chocolate makers, the city has a remarkable concentration of shops, from major, internationally renowned companies to local artisans. Visitors can also go on chocolate-themed trails, discover original creations and have a complete chocolate experience. It's this combination of history, tradition, innovation and passion that makes Brussels the true global epicentre of chocolate.
The most unmissable chocolate shops in Brussels
We can't talk about chocolate in Brussels without mentioning the big names. Mary, founded in 1919, offers handmade pralines and truffles loved by locals and visitors alike.
To taste their classics, hop off at stop 7: Grand Place/Manneken Pis on the red line.
In Sablon, Wittamer draws visitors in with its elegant and sophisticated creations: each praline is a little gem and each pastry a reason to indulge.
Hop off at stop 6: Poelaert/Louise/Palais de Justice to check out all their creations.
For fans of surprising flavours, Laurent Gerbaud offers unusual combinations like curry, olive oil and exotic fruits.
To taste their creations, hop off at stop 1: Gare Centrale on the red line.
Pastries and desserts not to be missed in Brussels
No visit to Brussels is complete without a taste of its famous waffles. Maison Dandoy, founded in 1829, is still a go-to with its light waffles and homemade speculoos biscuits.
To try these delicious treats, hop off at stop 8: Bourse on the red line.
When it comes to handmade biscuits and local treats, the farm Nos Pilifs stands out for its organic, fair-trade biscuits, which it produces with respect for tradition while providing jobs for people with disabilities. If you want to taste a typical Brussels dessert, you can't beat a sweet, melting tarte au sucre, or sugar tart, which you can find in several city centre bakeries. With these snack stops, you can explore Brussels not just with your eyes, but with your taste buds.
Chocolate-themed activities in Brussels
In Brussels, chocolate lovers can go from tasting to making. At the Choco-Story museum, you learn all about the history of cacao and, guided by a master chocolatier, make your own chocolate bar or a few pralines you can proudly take away with you.
Hop off at stop 7: Grand Place/Manneken Pis on the red line.
The workshop at Laurent Garbaud is a fun, creative experience: you gather your dried fruits, citrus peel and spices, make your chocolates and go away with your own handmade creations. These workshops are perfect for families and anyone who is curious about chocolate making or just wants to prolong their Brussels chocolate experience.
To try this unique experience, hop off at stop 1: Gare Centrale on the red line.
Practical tips for chocolate lovers
To get the most out of Brussels and its chocolate, start exploring early in the day so you can avoid the queues at the most popular shops. Then wander around the small, artisan chocolate shops that offer original creations at affordable prices, like Elisabeth and Atelier Sainte Catherine. Save some space in your suitcase so you can take some pralines, chocolate bars or artisan biscuits away with you: these sweet treats are the perfect souvenir to keep the taste experience going after you get home. With these simple tips, every chocolatey snack stop you make can be delicious and stress-free.
Brussels is an absolute paradise for chocoholics or anyone with a sweet tooth. For a different way to explore the city, combining cultural attractions with tasty treats, hop on board our sightseeing bus tour in Brussels. A sweet, convenient and unforgettable experience for your eyes and your taste buds!