Best Chocolate in Bruges: Brands, Shops and Experiences
When you think of Bruges, it’s impossible not to imagine chocolate. This picturesque medieval city is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Bruges is world-famous for its artisanal chocolate shops, each offering unique and delightful creations. The city has something special for every chocolate enthusiast, from chocolate workshops to museum tours.
In Belgium, chocolate is not just a treat; it’s a part of the national identity, reflecting the country’s love for fine food and craftsmanship. From festive occasions to daily indulgence, chocolate plays a vital role in Belgian culture. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of Bruges’s best chocolate shops, brands, and experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in this rich cultural tradition.
A Brief History of Bruges’ Chocolate
Belgium’s chocolate legacy dates back to the 17th century when Spanish explorers brought cocoa beans from the Americas. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that Belgian chocolate became a worldwide phenomenon. With its rich history and deep appreciation for craftsmanship, Bruges naturally became a hub for this indulgent art. Today, chocolate is woven into the fabric of Bruges’ culture.
What Makes Belgian Chocolate So Special?
Belgian chocolate stands out due to its exceptional quality and precise craftsmanship. The secret lies in three key factors:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Belgian chocolatiers craft their confections using only the finest cocoa beans, butter, and other natural ingredients.
- Traditional Craftsmanship: Many chocolatiers in Bruges still follow time-honored techniques passed down through generations.
- Strict Regulations: Belgian law requires that chocolate contain at least 35% pure cocoa to be labeled as such, ensuring a premium product.
What to Look for When Buying Chocolate in Bruges
When buying chocolate in Bruges, always check the ingredient list to ensure you’re getting the best. Authentic Belgian chocolate should contain a high percentage of cocoa and no artificial additives. Additionally, look for certifications like Fair Trade or Organic, which guarantee ethical and sustainable practices.
Popular Chocolate Brands in Bruges
Bruges is home to some of the most famous Belgian chocolate brands:
- Leonidas: Affordable yet high-quality, Leonidas is perfect for those looking to stock up on Belgian chocolate without breaking the bank.
- Neuhaus: Known for inventing the praline, Neuhaus offers rich and creamy chocolates with exquisite packaging.
- Godiva: One of the most recognizable Belgian brands globally, Godiva excels in both classic and contemporary chocolate.
Artisan Chocolate vs. Mass-Produced Chocolate
While big brands like Godiva and Neuhaus are popular, Bruges is also renowned for its artisan chocolatiers. Artisan chocolate has a richer, more complex flavor compared to mass-produced chocolate. It’s hand-crafted, ensuring the finest attention to detail, and often uses more natural, higher-quality ingredients.
Best Chocolate Shops in Bruges
A beautifully wrapped box of pralines is one of the best gifts you can bring back from Bruges. Many shops offer assorted chocolate gift boxes in a range of flavors. Don’t forget to ask about special seasonal chocolates for a unique touch. Here’s a guide to the most famous ones you should visit:
The Old Chocolate House
A cozy family-run chocolate shop known for its delightful hot chocolate and artisanal pralines. The Old Chocolate House offers a variety of traditional Belgian chocolates and a unique hot chocolate experience where you mix your cocoa drink from a chocolate “bomb” that melts in a cup of warm milk.
Address: Mariastraat 1c, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: https://www.oldchocolatehouse.be/
Price: €10 – €20 per person
You should Try: Traditional pralines, hot chocolate “bombs,” and hand-crafted truffles.
The Chocolate Line
Known for pushing the boundaries of traditional chocolate, The Chocolate Line creates bold and inventive flavors, including spicy, fruity, and even savory options. Run by the innovative chocolatier Dominique Persoone, this shop is ideal for those seeking out-of-the-box chocolate experiences.
Address: Simon Stevinplein 19, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: https://www.thechocolateline.be/
Price: €7 – €20 per person
You should Try: Exotic pralines with flavors like wasabi, bacon, and passion fruit.
Chocolates & Happiness
A relatively new yet popular chocolate shop that emphasizes ethical chocolate production. Chocolates & Happiness offers organic and fair-trade chocolates that don’t compromise on taste. Their selection ranges from traditional pralines to vegan-friendly options.
Address: Wollestraat 12, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: https://www.chocolatesandhappiness.com/
Price: €1 – €10 per person
You should Try: Vegan chocolate bars, pralines, and gluten-free chocolate options.
Olivier’s Chocolate Shop & Bar
A warm, inviting chocolate bar and shop located in the heart of Bruges. Olivier’s offers a range of artisanal chocolates and serves rich hot chocolate in their café. It’s the perfect spot to take a break and indulge in the chocolate experience.
Address: Sint-Amandsstraat 14, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: https://www.chocolates-olivier.be/
Price: €1 – €10 per person
You should Try: Handmade chocolate bars, pralines, and custom chocolate gifts.
Artisanale Chocolaterie
This quaint chocolate shop is known for its handcrafted pralines and attention to detail. Artisanale Chocolaterie prides itself on making small batches of high-quality chocolate using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Address: Walstraat 1, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Website: Not available
Price: €10 – €20 per person
You should Try: Handmade pralines and chocolate-covered nuts.
Chocolatier Dumon
One of Bruges’ most iconic chocolate shops, Chocolatier Dumon is a family-owned business with multiple locations in the city. Known for its traditional Belgian pralines, Dumon offers an extensive variety of high-quality chocolates.
Address: Eiermarkt 6, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: http://www.chocolatierdumon.be/
Price: €10 – €25 per person
You should Try: Classic pralines, chocolate caramels, marzipan, and truffles.
Pol Depla Chocolatier
Pol Depla is another well-established chocolatier in Bruges, offering a range of premium chocolates that cater to both traditionalists and those looking for unique flavors. The shop’s minimalist design reflects the refinement of its products.
Address: Mariastraat 20, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: http://www.poldepla.be/
Price: €1 – €10 per person
You should Try: Luxury pralines, chocolate bars, and seasonal specialties.
Choco-Story, The Chocolate Museum
Choco-Story is more than just a chocolate shop—it’s a museum dedicated to the history of chocolate. Visitors can learn about the origins of chocolate, its cultural significance, and even watch live demonstrations of praline-making.
Address: Wijnzakstraat 2, Sint-Jansplein, 8000 Bruges, Belgium
Website: https://www.choco-story.be/
Price: €11 – €13 per person
You should Try: The museum shop sells artisanal chocolates and chocolate-making kits.
Unique Chocolate Experiences in Bruges
While eating chocolate is one thing, making it yourself takes the experience to a new level. Bruges offers plenty of chocolate workshops where you can craft your pralines. For those who prefer to sit back and learn, guided chocolate tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at how these delectable treats are made.
Don’t forget to visit Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate, from its origins to modern-day production.
