Every year, culinary guide Gault&Millau names four winners in a competition that lies very close to many a Belgians’ heart: the best chocolatiers of the country. Three, because one winner is chosen for Wallonia, Flanders and Brussels and one newly opened chocolatier gets a chance to stand on the winner’s podium too. This year was no different and thus on September 11th, the best Belgian chocolatiers of 2023 were announced. Just in time for the shortening days during which we all need a bit of comfort and self-care, even though a box of chocolates from one of these addresses will do very well underneath the Christmas tree as well.
In total, 128 nominees strived for the title of best chocolatier of their region. A jury tried and tested chocolates from all of them, which were evaluated both on aesthetics and taste. Finally, the four winners were announced.
1. Brussels: Yasushi Sasaki
Based in Woluwé-Saint-Pierre since 2007, Yasushi Sasaki’s approach to chocolate is rather unique. He uses cocoa from different origins to create different taste combinations, often adding a Japanese touch to his creations.
2. Wallonia: Legast
For Legast, you could say that the Gault&Millau prize doesn’t exactly come as a surprise. Over the years, this chocolate shop has received multiple recognitions, both in Belgium and internationally. According to the jury, their chocolate bars and pralines all deserve a taste.
3. Flanders: Chocoladehuis Boon
Master chocolatiers Patrick Mertens and Tom Theysmans have been around for a while with their Chocoladehuis Boon: since 2005 to be precise. All their creations are a sight for sore eyes and a perfect Belgian souvenir. Eager to try? Thanks to Boon Academy, you can learn how to make that perfect chocolate yourself.
4. Best newcomer: Belle et chocolat
Even though she hasn’t been around for long, Louise Gérard has already proven to be a great chocolatier. Her atelier is located in the Walloon province of Namur but you can buy all her creations online, so no need to even get off your sofa to order some delicious chocolates.
