If you’re looking for that perfect sweet treat or luxurious gift, London has some of the world’s best chocolates at your fingertips. Legendary chocolatiers and newcomers to the confection scene can be discovered all over the city; so, if cocoa-laden confections is what you desire, read on for the most tempting of treats!
Rococo
A stalwart on the British chocolate scene, Rococo first popped up on the King’s Road back in 1983 and over 40 years later are still providing Londoner’s with some of the very best chocolates in the capital. From fresh at-the-counter truffles, luxury hampers to seasonal gifting, there’s nothing you won’t find to satisfy that craving. Oh, and the packaging is incredibly chic – if only they did wallpaper…
Where to find Rococo
Various locations throughout the city but we particularly love the store in Marylebone.
Our suggestion
Pick up a box of the Milk Chocolate Sea Salt thins – a personal favourite at Plate & Place.
William Curley
If you’re after the haute couture of chocolate, then look no further that William Curley. William began his career at the prestigious Gleneagles Hotel before moving on to The Savoy and becoming the youngest ever Patissier. William’s dedication to quality, using only the finest ingredients, ensures a positively superlative tasting experience. His couture chocolate boxes are legendary, and worth every penny – the perfect gift for the true chocolate-lover in your life.
Where to find William Curley
Our suggestion
The ‘Nostalgia’ range is so much fun, and takes you back to the choccies of your childhood.
Melt
Searching for the freshest chocolate without the high sugar content or artificial nasties? We can heartily suggest, Melt, as the perfect choc of choice. Founder, Louise Nasom, wanted a healthier, quality confection for her friends and family which kickstarted her desire to make the very best chocolate, starting her award-winning business back in 2005. On a personal note, no trip to Notting Hill is complete without popping into their divine store on Ledbury Road – you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Where to find Melt
Our suggestion
If you’re after vegan chocolate, try the Orange Dark Chocolate Bar for an addictive treat.
Prestat
Perhaps you’re in the market for the finest chocolate with a slice of history? You’ll be pleased to know that Prestat are uniquely a cut above. Famously holding the Royal Warrant for over 35 years, this prestigious chocolate brand was known to be the Queen’s favourite. Their decadent creations, packaged in their signature bright pink, make the most gorgeous gifts around. Did you know that the truffle we know and love today was invented by Prestat founder, Antoine Dufour, in 1895? This is the veritable OG of chocolate shops!
Where to find Prestat
Our suggestion
The Pink Marc de Champagne truffles are truly exquisite and make the perfect gift or indulgent, not-for-sharing treat.
Dark Sugars
If you’re looking for the most decadent and exquisite hand-crafted chocolates, Dark Sugars, is a treasure trove of cocoa-laden goodness. Founder Nyanga, wanted to bring the taste of Africa to her customers with her exceptional range of truffles, malakoffs and dark chocolate slabs. If you’re in the mood for something of the liquid variety, you have to try the hot chocolate which is one of the best in town. Their flagship store has recently opened in Greenwich, and lucky for us, it’s just round the corner.
Where to find Dark Sugars
Our suggestion
You can’t leave without a box of the Jamaican White Rum Truffles – heaven in a box.
Charbonnel et Walker
The grande dame of chocolate, Charbonnel et Walker, have been in the business of chocolate excellence since 1875. Madame Charbonnel (a chocolate maker in Paris) joined forces with Mrs Walker (maker of exquisite jewellery boxes) to make confections which would be packaged in the most decadent and prettiest of boxes. The original store, opened in New Bond Street, still remains to this day and can be found in the Royal Arcade in the heart of Mayfair.
Where to find Charbonnel et Walker
Various locations throughout the city but we particularly love the store in Old Bond Street.
Our suggestion
For a real taste of the past, try a box of their Milk and Dark Chocolate Heritage Collection.
Melange
For any city dweller passionate about their chocolate, the name Melange will be a familiar one. Truly one of London’s most innovative chocolatiers, famous their experimental flavour combinations which continue to delight loyal fans (Plate & Place included). Try the milk chocolate thins which come in a variety of flavours, including: vanilla and white pepper, mint and cumin, and rose and thyme. They can also boast one of the best hot chocolates in the city – a must-try.
Where to find Melange
Our suggestion
You can’t leave without a box of truffles… and a hot chocolate, of course.
Artisan du Chocolat
If you haven’t tried their sea salt caramel truffles can you even call yourself a chocolate lover? Artisan du Chocolat truly put sea salt and caramel on the map; their decadent Salted Caramel truffles were commissioned by Gordon Ramsay in 2002 during his time at Claridges, and have since become a must-have for any caramel aficionado. Additionally, their dark ganache pearls are oh-so addictive and that decadent treat you won’t want to share.
Where to find Artisan du Chocolat
Our suggestion
It has to be the No1 Salted Caramel Originals – a classic for a reason.
De Rosier Chocolates
Husband and wife team, Andrew and Leona, have been making their sublime handmade chocolates from their delightful Wimbledon Park coffee shop since 2012. As relative newcomers to the chocolate game they have already impressively won a Great Taste Award. Whether you’re looking for Champagne truffles or a pack of their make-your-own hot chocolate, this divine store is one not to be missed.
Where to find De Rosier Chocolates
Our suggestion
The ‘London Bar’ has the cutest packaging as well as being choc full of caramelised hazelnuts.
Leonidas
Belgian Chocolatier, Leonidas, is a familiar name around the world for their deliciously decadent chocolates, with stores in a staggering 40 countries. The company remains family owned since 1913, and continues to produce chocolate of exceptional quality, using only the finest ingredients. There’s nothing quite like a gift of their assorted pralines and caramels all presented in an exquisite jewellery box.
Where to find Leonidas
Various locations throughout the city but we particularly love the store in Kensington.
Our suggestion
The Leonidas Pyramids are filled with chai latte and cappuccino and are utterly addictive.
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