In April I stumbled across the Godiva factory outlet in Brussels and decided to taste for myself. The chocolates were far inferior to other brands around town, even as the saleswoman said she found the US version inferior to the Belgian. It's been a while since I've squandered calories on Godiva in the US but I certainly didn't think Belgian Godiva was any better.

Reading the label on the pre-packed assortment I bought I noted that they contained vegetable oil. This is now permitted in the EU, so you have to be vigilant.

I flew home next to a woman who is allergic to food additives, and she said that Galler is one of the few supermarket brands (they also have storefronts) which doesn't have additives.

Neuhaus was ok but not that thrilling. Leonidas is supposed to be decent and well priced. I didn't see Jeff de Bruges.

If you're in Brussels and shopping for a really nice gift? Marcolini or Wittamer, no question. Though apparently Marcolini has sold out to a large company, to increase distribution....

Bottom line for pralines (filled chocolates): freshness counts.