VIP pass: Make Your Own Chocolates Workshop with Tastings

If you’re heading to Brussels and love the idea of crafting your own chocolates while learning about the fascinating journey from cacao bean to bar, this workshop might just be the sweet highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally whipped up a batch, reviews paint a picture of a fun, educational, and delicious class that appeals to chocolate lovers of all levels.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines hands-on participation with insider knowledge — you won’t just be snacking, you’ll be creating. Plus, the opportunity to taste premium origin cacaos and fresh cacao beans makes it stand out from typical tourist treats.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the workshop is quite structured and runs on a tight schedule with limited time to perfect each creation. If you’re looking for a leisurely, unhurried experience, you might find it a bit brisk.

This workshop suits travelers who appreciate artisan craftsmanship, want a memorable souvenir to take home, or simply enjoy interactive, tasty activities. Families with children over 6, couples, or solo travelers eager to learn about chocolate will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic artisan focus: Only handcrafted, bean-to-bar chocolate is used.
• Educational and fun: Learn about cacao, from the pod to finished product.
• Creative hands-on activity: Make your own chocolates, including a personalized bar.
• Premium tasting: Sample high-quality cacaos from different regions.
• Value-added perks: 20% discount on store chocolates and a box to take your creations home.
• Well-equipped environment: Modern, air-conditioned workshop with expert guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Brussels Chocolate Workshop

What’s Included and the Overall Experience

This 1.5-hour chocolate-making workshop offers much more than just a chance to snack. It’s a comprehensive journey into the world of Belgian craft chocolate, led by certified artisan chocolatiers. You’ll work with 100% traceable cacao from Haiti, ensuring you’re supporting sustainable, fair-trade practices without any involvement in deforestation or child labor.

Your experience begins at the training centre near Gare Centrale, where you’ll check in at the booking desk and receive a hairnet, wristband, and quiz card. The latter grants you a 20% discount at the store afterwards, giving you a nice incentive to pick up more chocolates. The workshop is fully air-conditioned, so dress comfortably but be prepared for a slight chill — a small detail, but one that affects your comfort during the session.

The Hands-On Chocolate Making

Once inside, the fun begins. You’ll craft mendiants, truffles, and a customized chocolate bar, all of which are yours to keep. The process is guided by talented certified Belgian chocolate makers, who explain each step, from bean selection to tempering and molding.

A highlight of the workshop is tasting various premium cacaos from different countries. You’ll learn how flavor profiles vary based on origin, and get to taste fresh cacao beans — a surprisingly bitter experience but an essential part of understanding chocolate’s complexity. You will also sample chocolate liquor (just cacao mass, no alcohol) and discover the unique taste of cacao pod mucilage, a sweet, tangy juice from the cacao pod.

What Sets This Workshop Apart

Unlike mass-produced chocolate workshops, this one emphasizes artisan quality. The makers are certified professionals, and the entire process revolves around small-scale, traceable cacao supply chains. They pride themselves on not using industrial chocolate, making this a truly artisan experience.

The workshop space itself is modern and spacious, accommodating up to 60 participants at a time, but the experience is designed for interactive engagement. The presence of disability-accessible facilities, water dispensers, and a well-equipped laboratory tour (if you opt for the VIP upgrade) adds value.

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The Value for Money

At first glance, the price might seem steep for a 90-minute activity, but when you consider the quality of ingredients, expert guidance, and personalized goodies, it offers good value. The included tastings, the chocolates you craft, and the discount coupon make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those wanting an authentic, high-quality experience.

The Reviews: Authentic Feedback

Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and the delicious tastings. One quote from a recent guest captures the essence: “This was so informative and fun!” and “The process of making chocolate is well explained and you get to make 3 different kinds.”

Others highlight the friendly atmosphere and the chance to share the experience with a guide who genuinely knows their craft. The apron souvenir and personalized chocolates stand out as memorable keepsakes, making the experience not just educational but also personal.

Who Will Love This?

If you’re a chocolate enthusiast, a family wanting a fun activity, or someone interested in sustainable artisan foods, you’ll find this workshop rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who want to understand the story behind their favorite treats. The class is not recommended for children under 6 or travelers with food allergies or intolerances.

Tips for a Great Experience

• Arrive early to check in and get your accessories; workshops start promptly.
• Dress in comfortable clothing suitable for wearing a hairnet.
• If you have food allergies, inform staff at check-in.
• Take advantage of the store discounts afterwards to buy more chocolates.
• Consider booking the VIP upgrade for additional perks like a lab visit and champagne.

The Sum Up

This chocolate workshop offers a genuine, hands-on glimpse into Belgian craftsmanship that’s both educational and delicious. It’s an ideal experience for food lovers, families, or anyone curious about the journey from cacao bean to chocolate bar. The fact that everything is handcrafted from premium cacao and that the guides are certified artisans ensures quality and authenticity.

While the pace is brisk and the focus is on learning and creating, the overall value is clear. You leave with your own chocolates, a new appreciation for artisan chocolate-making, and a deeper connection to the story behind each bite.

For those wanting a memorable, interactive experience that supports sustainable practices, this workshop hits the sweet spot. Just plan ahead, arrive on time, and prepare to enjoy a delicious and informative journey into the world of Belgian chocolate.

FAQs

Is the workshop suitable for children?
Yes, but only children over 6 years old are allowed to participate, ensuring they can handle the activity and the equipment safely.

What languages are offered for the workshop?
The activity is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
The workshop uses dark and milk chocolates from Haiti. Vegans and lactose intolerant guests can work with dark chocolate only. Toppings contain nuts, so those with nut allergies should be cautious.

How long does the workshop last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with multiple sessions available daily at 11AM, 2PM, and 5PM.

Does the experience include a visit to the chocolate factory?
Yes, if you upgrade to the VIP package, you get a visit of the laboratory and a tour of the bean-to-bar machinery.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and a hairnet are required. The workshop space can be cool, so dress accordingly.

This chocolate-making experience in Brussels offers a fantastic blend of education, creativity, and indulgence. It’s a true chance to learn about and create your own artisan chocolates, all while supporting sustainable, fair-trade cacao practices. Perfect for those who want a meaningful and tasty souvenir of their Belgian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: