An old chocolate shop in Ghent

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck Belgium is a country with many types of chocolate shops in many styles, spread everywhere, more than convenience stores. In addition to having many well-known branches of big chocolate brands, each city often has small local favorite shops that are only open in that city. Some shops have been around for a long time, passing down the skills of the family from generation to generation, until it became a taste that the locals are familiar with, like Van Hecke Chocolaterie in Ghent. Van Hecke was opened in 1937 by Mr. Florent Van Hecke, who is the great-grandfather of the current owner (4th generation), Stephen Van Hecke. Because it is a local shop, run by a family and a small business, it is different from other famous brands in terms of the shop's design, which is simple. There is no need to create an image or brand with a clear concept. There is no need to design the atmosphere or decoration of the shop much. Originally, this shop only had a counter for take-away. When the next generation expanded, there were drinks available to order and tables and chairs were set up for people to sit and eat in the shop. Then add cakes, bakery, to simple savory items like sandwiches and soups to the menu to make it complete. It can be said that if there is anything that can be sold, there is the strength and skills to do it, gradually add it. Although in terms of branding, it may not seem very systematic, but in the end, it is convenient for customers like us. In addition to selling food and chocolate, recently there is also a workshop for those who want to try making chocolate. The price is not specified. You can contact us via the website. [Chocolates] The cuteness of this local style shop is that the customers in the shop are usually locals who are regulars and come here often. When we, an Asian with dark hair, walked in and stood in front of the display case with chocolates lined up until we couldn't decide, there were aunties...er...older sisters who were sitting and eating before, got up and helped recommend some interesting pieces for us to try. In the end, we got to try the following: ➡️ Advocaat - Advocaat is a Belgian/Netherlands drink made from eggs, sugar and brandy. It is available as a liquid drink. And the thick creamy eggnog type, when stuffed with chocolate, it goes well together. ➡️ Mousse Café – Coffee-flavored cream filling, this is a classic flavor that goes well together. ➡️ Champagne Truffle – The texture is very soft. It is my favorite flavor that I always like when I order it anywhere. ➡️ Manon Café – This one is very sweet because the shell is fondant sugar with coffee flavor. But it is a sweetness that is well-balanced with the richness of the fresh cream filling inside. The walnuts that are put in are crispy and freshly roasted. They smell good. In conclusion, I am very impressed. It is worthy of being the highlight that customers in the shop like. ➡️ Thé – It is a dark chocolate with a clear Earl Grey tea filling. It is quite okay. ➡️ Diamond – It is a dark chocolate with a cream filling mixed with liquor from this shop. I can't remember the name, but it is delicious. [Drinks] ➡️ Advocaatje – It is a coffee with Advocaat in the form of thick cream at the bottom of the cup and topped with milk foam on top. Served with a long spoon. When eating, scoop Advocaat from the bottom of the cup into your mouth first, then drink coffee through your throat at the same time (similar to taking medicine). The aroma of coffee mixed with the sweet and hot Advocaat goes together very well. I like it very much. ➡️ Kriek on the Rocks – .. People all over the world normally pair Cheese & Wine, but if you come to Belgium.. you have to have Chocolates & Beer Pairing to be cool.