The Neuhaus Belgian Chocolate Factory is the closest thing to heaven to countless chocolate aficionados around the world. Founded by Swiss chocolatier, Jean Neuhaus, in 1857 and made world-famous by his grandson, Jean Neuhaus II, today Neuhaus is one of the most famous brands on the planet with 1,500 selling points in 50 countries. The factory is located in Vlezenbeek, near Brussels, and allows its visitors to eat as much chocolate as they can.
A True Chocolate Paradise
Guests of the factory are often left in awe by the fact that they are allowed to glut themselves with chocolate while they’re on the premises – free of charge! While this policy may seem odd to many business owners, it actually has a practical purpose. Neuhaus is so proud and confident in the quality of its confectionaries that it believes people will be tempted to buy at least one box of anything they sample. And given the amazing quality of their products, they’re probably right.
There Are Rules!
While visitors are allowed to gorge on delicious products, they must obey two specific rules to do so. First and foremost, guests can sample chocolate only while in the factory. It is forbidden to hoard confectionaries and eat them later. You can take something home, only after you buy it. Next, all boxed and sealed products are off-limits. They can solely be purchased.
How to Get There
You can easily get to the Belgian chocolate heaven. Get on the 5 Metro Line and travel to the end of the line. Descend at the Erasme Metro station and the factory is a 15 minutes walk. Make sure to visit it on an empty stomach because you’ll undoubtedly try everything that comes along your path.
Don’t forget to try the caprice pralines, as they’re Neuhaus’s signature confectionary. Also, purchase some for your friends back home!