VIP pass: Make Your Own Chocolates Workshop with Tastings

Experience the Craft of Chocolate Making in Brussels with a Hands-On Workshop

Imagine spending an engaging 1.5 hours in a bright, well-equipped training center, learning how to craft handmade chocolates from premium cacao beans. Located just near Gare Centrale and Mont des Arts, this VIP chocolate workshop is hosted by The Belgian Chocolate Makers, a certified artisan chocolatier proud to operate Belgium’s only certified bean-to-bar chocolate production.

This experience is designed for anyone with a sweet tooth or interest in chocolate’s journey from bean to bar. We love how you’ll not only create your own truffles, mendiants, and personalized chocolate bars, but also gain a deeper understanding of sustainable cacao sourcing—with all chocolates made from traceable, ethically sourced beans.

One thing to consider is that the workshop can get a bit chilly since the space is fully air-conditioned, so dressing in layers is wise. And if you’re hoping for a long, leisurely tasting session, be aware that the activity lasts about 1.5 hours — a perfect morning or afternoon treat but not an all-day affair.

This workshop suits travelers who love interactive experiences, enjoy learning about food production, and want a memorable souvenir to take home (your handmade chocolates are all yours). It’s especially ideal if you appreciate authentic, small-scale craftsmanship over industrial processes.

Key Points

• Hands-On Chocolate Crafting – Make your own truffles, mendiants, and personalized chocolate bars.
• Educational Content – Learn about bean to bar chocolate making, including tasting premium origin cacaos.
• Authentic and Ethical – Chocolate sourced from small farmers in Haiti, with a 100% traceable supply chain.
• Tastings and Flavors – Experience tasting fresh cacao beans, cacao liquor, and mucilage—the juice of cacao pods.
• Exclusive Discounts – Enjoy 20% off on all chocolates in the store after the workshop.
• Additional Perks – VIP upgrades include a glass of champagne, embroidered apron, and a visit to the laboratory.

A Complete Guide to the Belgium Chocolate Workshop Experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Location and How to Find It

The workshop is based at Place de la Justice 5, near the Gare Centrale and Mont des Arts. From these central spots, it’s an easy walk into the heart of Brussels’ historic district. When you arrive, you’ll check in at the booking desk and receive your hairnet, wristband, and quiz card—which gets you a 20% discount in the store.

There are two nearby stores—one on Rue Lebeau and the other on Rue de Namur—both close enough to be reached comfortably after your check-in. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring you’re ready for the 11am, 2pm, or 5pm session. Remember, check-in at least 5 minutes before the start because once the workshop begins, late arrivals are not accepted.

The Workshop Setting and Atmosphere

The 150m² training center is modern, spacious, and bright. Its fully air-conditioned environment makes for a comfortable experience, though it can feel chilly, so don’t forget a sweater. The space can accommodate up to 60 participants, which makes it lively but not overwhelming.

Throughout the session, you’ll wear a hairnet—a small but important detail that keeps the environment clean and hygienic. Water dispensers and accessible facilities are available, making the experience inclusive for all.

What You’ll Be Doing

Once checked in, you’ll be guided through an interactive, hands-on process. The core of the experience is crafting your own chocolates—including truffles, mendiants, and a personalized chocolate bar you’ll take home as a sweet souvenir.

The guides, all certified handcraft chocolatiers, are eager to share their knowledge. They explain each step, from selecting beans to tempering chocolate, with a focus on ethical sourcing—all chocolates are made from cacao from small farmers in Haiti with no child labor or deforestation involved.

Tasting and Learning Highlights

A unique aspect of this experience is the tasting. You will:

• Taste fresh cacao beans, which are extremely bitter but essential for understanding chocolate flavor.
• Sample cacao liquor—a rich cocoa paste with no alcohol—highlighting the “bean to bar” process.
• Discover the mucilage, the juicy pulp around cacao beans, which has a fresh, fruity flavor.

The workshop also includes a hot chocolate (winter) or chocolate granita (summer), plus a glass of champagne if you upgrade to VIP. Everyone gets to take home a box of their handmade chocolates, and you’ll enjoy 20% off on subsequent purchases.

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The Crafting Process

Participants work at individual stations, guided step by step. You’ll learn how to temper chocolate for that glossy finish and snap, how to decorate your creations with toppings, and how to personalize your chocolate bar with ingredients of your choice.

One guest remarked, “We loved the way the guides explained everything clearly, making it easy for novices,” which is typical of the friendly, knowledgeable staff. Another said, “The process of making chocolate was quite fun, and the tasting was very educational,” reflecting how much value there is in the detailed guidance.

The Final Product and Takeaways

At the end of the workshop, you get to pack your chocolates, with everything you’ve made being yours to keep. Many reviewers appreciate that this isn’t just a tasting but a true hands-on experience—and that the chocolates are all handcrafted from ethically sourced cacao.

The VIP upgrade adds a touch of luxury, with a champagne glass and an embroidered apron, making it a memorable gift for yourself or a loved one.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to other chocolate workshops in Brussels, this one offers a comprehensive and authentic experience. You’re not just snacking but gaining insight into sustainable chocolate production from small farmers to your hands. The inclusion of a laboratory visit (for VIPs) is an extra bonus, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the machinery.

While the workshop lasts only 1.5 hours, it’s packed with education, tastings, and hands-on crafting—making it a great value, especially with the 20% discount in the store afterward.

Who Would Love This?

Travelers who enjoy interactive culinary experiences will find this workshop perfect. It’s also well-suited for those interested in ethical sourcing and small-scale craftsmanship. If you want a fun, educational activity that results in delicious souvenirs, this workshop hits the mark.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a longer tour or a quiet, contemplative tasting—this is lively, informative, and hands-on. The minimum age of 6 years makes it family-friendly, so you can bring kids who love sweets too.

The Sum Up

For anyone curious about how chocolate is made and eager to create their own, this Brussels workshop delivers in both form and flavor. The knowledgeable guides, coupled with delicious tastings and the chance to craft your own chocolates, make this a memorable experience worth seeking out.

It offers a great blend of education, authenticity, and fun, especially if you value ethically sourced ingredients. Whether you’re a chocolate novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation and, of course, a box of your own sweet creations.

This experience is particularly good for food lovers, families, and curious travelers who want an authentic taste of Belgian craftsmanship without the industrial shortcuts. It’s ideal for those who enjoy interactive activities and want a tangible souvenir to remember Brussels by.

FAQ – Your Questions About the Chocolate Workshop

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old can participate, making it a good family activity. Kids often love the tactile process of making chocolates and the tasting of fresh cacao beans.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended as the workshops are popular and run at set times (11am, 2pm, 5pm). Walk-ins are unlikely to be accommodated once the session starts.

What should I wear?
Everyone wears a hairnet and an apron (if VIP), so comfortable, casual clothing is fine. Since the room is air-conditioned, dressing in layers is a good idea.

Are the chocolates vegan or lactose-free?
The chocolates used are from Haiti and include dark and milk options. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, you’ll mainly work with dark chocolate; toppings may contain nuts.

What’s included in the VIP package?
VIP upgrades include a glass of champagne, embroidered apron, and a visit to the laboratory. Regular tickets exclude these extras but still include tastings and the chance to craft chocolates.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity during a day of sightseeing.

Can I purchase chocolates afterward?
Absolutely. There’s a 20% discount on all chocolates in their store, so it’s a good chance to stock up on high-quality Belgian chocolates.

Is the workshop accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the training center is wheelchair accessible, and facilities such as disabled toilets are available.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets, smoking, large luggage, food or drinks not provided by the venue, unaccompanied minors, and oversize luggage are not permitted.

What if I’m late or need to cancel?
Late arrivals are not accepted once the workshop begins. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance; otherwise, a full refund isn’t possible.

In sum, this Make Your Own Chocolates Workshop offers a perfect blend of fun, education, and deliciousness for anyone in Brussels craving a hands-on sweet experience. With its focus on ethical sourcing, professional guides, and authentic craftsmanship, it stands out as a highlight for chocolate lovers and curious travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: