Carol samples a Belgian chocolate in the Grote Markt.
Discovering the Best of Belgian Chocolate
One of our main missions in visiting Brussels was discovering the best of Belgian chocolate, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Belgium’s rich chocolate-making heritage is world-renowned, with renowned chocolatiers like Godiva, Neuhaus, and Mary’s offering some of the finest chocolates you can find. From classic pralines to decadent truffles, our chocolate journey through Brussels was an indulgent exploration of both history and flavor.
The country’s chocolatiers were pioneers in refining the methods of chocolate-making. In 1815, the invention of the conche (a machine that refines chocolate) by Belgian chocolatier Jean Neuhaus improved the texture and quality of chocolate, marking a turning point in Belgian chocolate craftsmanship. Neuhaus and other Belgian chocolatiers began experimenting with unique flavor combinations and innovative methods, leading to the creation of pralines, which would later become a hallmark of Belgian chocolate.
Today, Belgium is home to some of the world’s best-known chocolatiers, and the country produces over 220,000 tons of chocolate annually. Belgian chocolates are celebrated for their rich, smooth taste and the wide variety of shapes, fillings, and innovative flavor combinations.
Notable Belgian Chocolatiers
Godiva
Founded in 1926, Godiva is one of the most famous names in the world of Belgian chocolate. The brand’s name is derived from the legendary story of Lady Godiva, and it quickly became synonymous with high-end chocolate in Belgium. Godiva is known for its luxurious packaging and premium ingredients, making it a favorite of chocolate lovers around the world. The brand offers a range of chocolate products, from pralines to truffles, and its signature golden packaging has become iconic. Today, Godiva chocolates are sold in over 100 countries, and the brand remains a symbol of quality and indulgence in the world of luxury chocolates.
Carol and I were the first ones through the door at Godiva, eager to experience the world-famous Belgian chocolate. It’s hard to beat starting your chocolate journey with such a legendary brand. The store, located in the heart of Brussels, offers a tempting display of their finest creations, and we couldn’t resist indulging in some of their signature treats. From classic pralines to unique seasonal flavors, Godiva remains a top choice for those wanting a truly indulgent chocolate experience.
Our next stop, Neuhaus, inventors of the praline
Neuhaus
Founded in 1857 by Jean Neuhaus, Neuhaus is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious chocolatiers in Belgium. The company is credited with the creation of the praline, the chocolate shell filled with various sweet fillings, which revolutionized the chocolate industry. Neuhaus’ innovation did not stop there—the company is also known for producing the first chocolate-covered bonbon and for its use of high-quality cocoa and fresh ingredients. Today, Neuhaus offers a wide range of chocolates, from artisanal pralines to luxurious truffles, and has a global presence. The Neuhaus store in Brussels remains a must-visit destination for chocolate enthusiasts, showcasing the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and excellence.
After sampling Godiva’s chocolates, we were excited to visit the Neuhaus shop, just a short walk away. Carol and I couldn’t wait to indulge in their famous creations. Inside, the rich aroma of fine chocolate filled the air, and the beautifully displayed pralines and truffles were almost too tempting to resist. After much deliberation, we settled on our top three recommendations: the Praliné Café, a coffee-flavored praline with a smooth, rich taste; the Lait au Praliné, a creamy milk chocolate filled with crunchy praline; and the Pistache praline, a delightful blend of smooth chocolate and pistachio cream. Neuhaus continues to be a top choice for those seeking the perfect balance of tradition and innovation in Belgian chocolate.
Mary’s Chocolates: The King’s Chocolatier
Mary’s Chocolates, established in 1919, is one of Belgium’s most revered chocolatiers. The brand has the honor of being awarded the title of “Purveyor to the Royal Court of Belgium”, a special distinction granted by the Belgian royal family. This title is a mark of quality and a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and premium ingredients used in Mary’s creations.
Located in Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, one of the most elegant and historic locations in Brussels, Mary’s is renowned for its handcrafted pralines and other exquisite chocolate delights. The chocolates are made using traditional methods and a secret recipe passed down through generations. Every piece of chocolate is crafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring that each bite offers a smooth, rich, and unforgettable flavor.
The King’s Chocolatier distinction means that Mary’s chocolates have been trusted by the Belgian royal family for years, and this honor underscores the brand’s commitment to excellence. For chocolate lovers visiting Brussels, a stop at Mary’s Chocolates is an absolute must to experience royal-level Belgian chocolate.
During our visit to Mary’s Chocolates, we couldn’t help but be enchanted by their stunning Easter display. The chocolates were beautifully arranged, reflecting the brand’s dedication to both craftsmanship and aesthetics. It was the perfect representation of Belgian chocolate artistry at its finest.
We even brought home a sampler box of chocolates for our team members. There were bright eyes all around when they opened their boxes and saw the delicious goodies inside! 
Mary’s is located in Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Conclusion
Belgium’s chocolate legacy is a source of national pride, and the country’s chocolatiers, like Godiva, Neuhaus, and Mary’s Chocolates, continue to set the standard for excellence in the world of fine chocolate.
Whether you’re enjoying a classic praline, indulging in a decadent truffle, or simply savoring a piece of history, Belgian chocolate remains a treat that transcends time and borders, loved by all who have the pleasure of tasting it.
What makes this experience even better is that all of these world-renowned chocolate shops—Godiva, Neuhaus, and Mary’s Chocolates—are conveniently located in or near the Grote Markt.
Whether you’re visiting Brussels for the first time or returning for a chocolate adventure, the Grote Markt is the perfect place to embark on a journey of discovery through Belgium’s finest chocolates.
See More from Our Journey:
This experience was part of our recent Tauck river cruise through Belgium and Holland.
To see all of our daily highlights, reflections, and photos, visit our full cruise landing page here.
For more information or to book a Tauck river cruise, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
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This article was written with the aid of Perplexity AI, Grok, or ChatGPT. Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
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