We don't need much of an excuse to indulge in chocolate, so it wasn't a hard task to hunt out the best chocolate shops in London for National Chocolate Week.
If in need of a sweet present or if you simply fancy indulging yourself HELLO! has discovered the 5 must-visit chocolatiers in London.
CocoaBijoux, Broadwell Parade, West HampsteadNestled down a quiet side road in North West London's West Hampstead, it's easy to miss this sweet gem of a place. Inside you’ll find mouthwatering displays of beautiful luxury chocolates, as well as the owner and chocolate expert Stuart, who will tempt you with samples of chocolates – specialities include Kir Royale and Salt Caramel truffles and Sugared Chocolate Almonds. The legendary hot chocolate is also perfect for the chilly months ahead – sit in and enjoy the view.
Check out CocoaBijoux's delicious selection in West Hampstead
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates, 143 Wardour Street, SohoNamed as Britain’s best chocolatier, Paul A Young brings his passionate and cutting-edge craft to this stunning chocolate boutique, a chocoholic's dream. His award-winning chocolate is available in a beautiful range that offers truffles and brownies – he even offers a brownie baking and tasting class. Flavours and fusions you can expect include white chocolate and masala spices and salted caramel and pecan brownies.
Melange, 184 Bellenden Road, PeckhamThis Peckham shop is a rustic and down-to-earth café run by by Isabelle, an artisan chocolatier. Flavours are wonderful and daring – think cumin and mint and ginger and lime milk chocolate – and have won awards. Their dark raspberry and rosemary is also an award-winner and one of their best sellers.
As well as buying their delicious chocolate you can also take workshops at Melange
Pierre Marcolini, 37 Marylebone High StExpect chocolate hearts, eclairs and macaroons at master Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini’s Marylebone boutique, which opened doors earlier this year. Diane Kruger is a fan of the Paris store so watch this space to see who soon becomes fans of the London chocolate-spot.
Philip Neal, 43 Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick
Fancy something different? If so Philip Neal is the place for you. Whether it’s a chocolate Buddha, theatre mask or a stiletto this wonderfully creative chocolate shop has it all. Expert chocolatiers since 1999 the shop also does delicious truffles and nuts, including their famous Colombian dark truffles, which always go down well.
Philip Neal offers lots of different and innovative chocolate designs
