Chocolate history workshop Ghent ENGLISH

Discover how chocolate was made in the past and is made today by crafting your own bar, recreating a 17th-century hot chocolate recipe, and tasting artisanal bonbons from Belgium's top chocolatiers.
Welcome to our chocolate shop in the heart of Ghent, just around the corner from the Castle of the Counts. Located in one of Ghent’s oldest houses, dating back to the 16th century, our workshop space offers an authentic setting to discover Belgian chocolate.

Our chocolate expert will begin with a short introduction on how chocolate is made from cacao. Then, you’ll dive right into crafting your own chocolate bar using a unique variety of cacao beans. We promise it’s the most rewarding workout you’ll ever do!

As you work, our expert will guide you through 5,000 years of chocolate history, sharing countless fun anecdotes. From the Mayas and Aztecs to Martha Washington and Marie-Antoinette, from bloodstained lips to the invention of the bonbon in a pharmacy, the history of chocolate is anything but boring. Along the way, you’ll sample different historical drinks and chocolate products, gaining a thorough understanding of chocolate’s evolution through the ages.

Once your bar is shaped, it’s time to recreate a 17th-century hot chocolate recipe. Customize it by adding your preferred amounts of spices, chocolate, and sugar—just be careful with the chili; it’s more powerful than you might think!

To finish the workshop in style, you’ll taste four chocolate bonbons from different top Belgian chocolatiers, ranging from traditional to more modern flavors.

At the end of the workshop, you can taste your chocolate bar or take it home to share your creation with family and friends.

As this activity takes place in a chocolate shop, you’ll also have the opportunity to browse and shop for chocolate if you wish (there’s absolutely no obligation). If you like, we can provide personalized recommendations based on your workshop favorites.

After the tasting, you’ll be fully energised to continue your sightseeing! Within a five-minute walk, you can visit the Castle of the Counts, Patershol, Graslei/Korenlei, or even enjoy a boat tour.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.