The Best Chocolate Stores

Friday, January 17th

2025 Chocolate Store Reviews

Z Chocolat

• Luxury French chocolates
• Numbered collection of 24 unique flavors + signature "Z chocolate”
• Will often double the chocolates in your order at no extra charge
• $19.53 shipping fee on all orders up to 5 items
• Gorgeous options for gift packaging
• Exceptional satisfaction guarantee
• Thousands of 5-star reviews

Since its inception in the early 2000s by Jean-Philippe Khodara, zChocolat has epitomized the pinnacle of luxury chocolates, distinguished by its commitment to exceptional ingredients, unparalleled flavors, and exacting standards. Collaborating with master artisan Pascal Caffet, zChocolat swiftly garnered acclaim from chocolate aficionados worldwide.

Fantastic chocolate and packaging

Renowned not only for its exquisite French chocolates but also for its exceptional packaging and customizable offerings, zChocolat has cultivated a devoted global following of over 200,000 customers across more than two hundred countries. Despite its remarkable expansion, the brand remains steadfast in its dedication to quality and customer service, continuously pushing the boundaries of traditional chocolate with innovative creations. From the sweet-salty fusion of caramel and hazelnuts to a diverse array of cutting-edge confections, zChocolat remains true to its roots in Forcalquier, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France, where every aspect of production and customer interaction is meticulously overseen.

Why the "z”?

Wondering why this chocolatier is called zChocolat? It represents the infinite range of whole numbers and the 26 letters of the alphabet, both of which are embodied by zChocolat's 24 recipes in their Numbered Collection and their signature Z chocolate. Intrigued? It goes deeper: even the shape of the candies follows Da Vinci's "golden ratio” proportions. And, the "z” can also represent "zero” - as in, zero preservatives, zero coloring, zero alcohol, zero palm oil, zero GMO. These candies are truly made with the finest of fine ingredients, including 100% pure cocoa butter, high cocoa content, and as little sugar as possible.

The flavors behind the numbers

While we absolutely encourage you to visit the zChocolat site and see exactly what's behind the curtain of each chocolate-by-the-numbers, we'll give you a preview of the recipes designated as bestsellers:

• 0: 40% West Africa milk chocolate, bits of California almonds, hazelnut praline
• 2: Italian gianduja praline, 70% intense Venezuelan dark chocolate wrapped in 40% West Africa milk chocolate
• 5: Venezuelan and Madagascan blend of 70% dark chocolate with a 62% dark Venezuelan ganache filling
• 8: Finely-ground caramelized hazelnuts, phyllo dough, coffee ganache, covered in 70% Venezuelan and Madagascan dark chocolate
• Dark Z: caramel and crunchy praline, covered in 70% Venezuelan and Madagascan dark chocolate
• White Z: the same as Dark Z, but covered in white chocolate
• Milk Z: the same as Dark Z, but covered in milk chocolate

Double your chocolates at no cost, and shipping is still reasonable

Incredibly, every time we've visited zChocolat, there's been a promotion in place that doubles the chocolates, macarons, and jams in the order at absolutely no extra cost. (So don't flinch when you see the price of any chocolates you're considering, because you'll actually get double.) And, your shipping cost will always be a flat rate of $19.53 for up to 5 items: quite reasonable given that you're getting overnight (in the New York area) or second-day shipping from France.

Extraordinary gift-giving features

The are many ways in which gift giving with zChocolat is second to none.

• Our favorite way to experience zChocolate is simply by buying the All Numbers collection. It comes with all 24 of the numbered chocolates, as well as five pieces of legendary Z chocolates, a duo of a lush and salty caramel with Bourbon-Vanilla from Madagascar and a slow-roasted Piedmont hazelnut praline. This incredible tasting experience has a starting price of just $94.36, and you can include a gift message at no extra cost.
• zChocolat also has a novel preview tool where you type your greeting directly on the image, to see exactly how your card will look.
• For an additional $8.67, you can add a picture to the presentation box, either one of zChocolat's predesigned ones or upload your own.
• It doesn't stop there: you can also choose elegant gift wrapping with or without a customized black wax seal, a padlock with a combination of your choosing if you want to add a fun touch to your gift recipient's eager anticipation of opening up your present, and accessories like a wooden charm/ornament with the message and shape of your choice.
• You can even choose from their extraordinary gift box options, which include mahogany keepsakes handmade in France, each with a unique serial number carved into the bottom.

Lots of chocolates outside of the numbered ones too

But, the Numbered Collection is far from being the only star on the stage here. You can also find Truffles, Gianduja, Alizee (sugar-free), the Hearts collection, Orangette (candied Coriscan orange peel covered in dark chocolate), single origin chocolate bars, macarons, jams, and fruit pates for those who might need a break from chocolatey goodness for a moment.

Unparalleled satisfaction guarantee

zChocolat offers the most generous satisfaction guarantee of any chocolate store on our list. You'll be offered a replacement, exchange, or refund if your order isn't 100% perfect: "anytime, for any reason”.

Over 6,000 5-star reviews

We're fairly confident in telling you that you'll never need to put that policy to the test. One look at the six thousand 5-star reviews for zChocolat on Trustpilot alone is enough proof that this chocolatier delivers everything it promises and then some. It's not often that any store has such consistent quality regardless of where their products are delivered, much less when it's a highly-perishable item like chocolate. But, zChocolat excels, whether you're sending Easter treats to Stockholm or an anniversary gift to Cincinnati. Customer service here is described as "unparalleled”, the chocolates are often called "top-shelf” and "superb”, and even the chocolatier's replies to compliments from customers are heartfelt, warm, and gracious.

World's best chocolate store

zChocolat undeniably lives up to its status as a first-rate chocolate store, consistently exceeding expectations with its unparalleled commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. From its exquisite French chocolates crafted with the finest ingredients to its sophisticated packaging and customizable options, every aspect of the zChocolat experience exudes luxury and excellence. Whether indulging in their signature recipes or exploring their ever-expanding catalog of cutting-edge confections, you can trust that you are embarking on a journey of unparalleled sensory delight here. Without a doubt, zChocolat continues to deserve our highest rating, setting the standard for luxury chocolate and leaving an indelible mark on the world of confectionery.

Gearharts Fine Chocolates

• Small family-owned chocolatier
• Signature line of hand-dipped chocolates includes novel flavor pairings
• Selection also includes chocolate bars, truffles, candied nuts, and more
• Great for gift-giving
• Free shipping on orders $75+
• $12.50 flat-rate shipping on orders under $75
• Save 10% on your first order when you sign up for the mailing list
• 30-day satisfaction guarantee
• Over 1,000 5-star reviews
• In business since 2001

When Tim Gearhart founded Gearharts Fine Chocolates in 2001, artisan chocolate was a rarity in the United States. Drawing from his extensive culinary background, including training at The Culinary Institute of America and experiences in professional kitchens across the globe, Tim established his Charlottesville shop. Today, Gearharts Chocolates is celebrated for its distinctive artisan creations enjoyed by customers near and far.

16 incredible flavors

Gearharts' flagship product is the 32-piece assortment of their signature line chocolates, priced at $68. Start browsing the flavor list of the 16 different types of chocolate and you'll feel that "wow” factor right away. There are some more traditional selections, like Maple Pecan or even Vanilla Bean Brulee, but most of the flavors will have you wondering why you ever settled for a boring supermarket-shelf assortment. You won't find Tequila Lime, Apricot Brandy, Earl Grey, or Pistachio Toffee Orange in those boxes, that's for sure. Gearharts Fine Chocolates also allows you to create a custom assortment for $1 more; the flavor possibilities are the same, but you can opt to leave any of them out if they're not to your liking. Enter any quantity requests in the comment box (maybe you want 5 Michigan Cherry pieces instead of just 1 or 2).

Spend $75 to get free shipping

Gearharts has a wide range of specialty chocolates and chocolate-adjacent items to choose from as well. Popular options include the Chocolate-Dipped Pistachio Toffee ($12), Chai-Spiced Chocolate Dipped Pecans ($10), Brownie Mix ($12), and even a UVa Cavalier chocolate assortment ($30). You may want to add one of those to your 32-piece assortment, if that's what you're ordering, so that your order meets the $75 threshold to qualify for free shipping.

2 gift arrangements

If you're looking to give Gearharts Fine Chocolates as a gift, but you don't have the time to select each item one by one, look in the Gift Box section. Both options come with an assortment of the signature line chocolates and several selections from the specialty collection; your only decision is if you'd like to send the regular gift box ($125) or the large one ($175).

Get discounts when you sign up for emails

When you sign up for the Gearharts Fine Chocolates email list, you'll be notified of special events and promotions, and you'll get a 10% discount on your first order. We saw comments from customers who had gotten even bigger discounts at different times of the year, so it's worth it to subscribe to the mailing list if you're thinking of ordering chocolates from Gearharts sometime in the future.

Has a very loyal following

People are enthusiastic and effusive in their praise for Gearharts Fine Chocolates. Over 1,000 independently-verified reviews, this chocolate store has earned an impressive average of 4.92 stars, with 99% of customers offering their most positive recommendation. From the Maya Drinking Chocolate to the Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey Truffles, there's nothing but love: reviews often use superlatives like "best I've ever found” and "most delicious we've ever tasted”. One of our favorite comments was "this company is a good friend to know for ALL husbands”, from a customer who gives his wife these chocolates every year. Compliments also extend to the packaging - "beautiful presentation”, "gorgeous bow” - and the delivery that ensures that the chocolates arrive on time and are still well-chilled.

30-day satisfaction guarantee

And, even though you probably won't ever need it, Gearharts Fine Chocolates offers a 30-day refund policy, giving you a refund or replacement if anything isn't right with your order. They do prefer that you reach out right away, though, so that they can fix the problem sooner rather than later.

Fantastic chocolate store

Gearharts Fine Chocolates is one of our new favorites. We love the incredible variety of flavors in the signature selection, the specialty products definitely caught our attention, and the chocolatier's reputation is practically flawless. If you're ready to take your love of chocolate to the next level, you won't want to miss what Gearharts delivers.

Ethel M

• Chocolates made in small batches with no artificial preservatives
• Unique flavors include prickly pear, liqueurs, and more
• Beautiful packaging suited for gift-giving
• Part of the Mars/M&M brand family
• Free shipping on orders of $50+ with code
• Free shipping on orders of $100+ without code
• 100% unconditional guarantee

Forty years ago, inspired by a desire to return to his family's roots, Forrest Mars (yes, as in the Mars/M&Ms brand creator) founded Ethel M Chocolates in the Mojave Desert. Today, Ethel M remains committed to Mars' vision, offering handcrafted chocolates that embody the desert's hidden wonders. With flavors ranging from sea salt caramel to prickly pear and top-shelf liqueur, every bite celebrates the joy of indulgence and cherished moments shared with loved ones.

Hand-crafted chocolates made with love

Despite being part of the Mars brand overall, there's nothing mass-produced about Ethel M chocolates. You don't have to take a tour of their factory in Nevada to see the hand-crafted nature of these treats (although you're absolutely welcome to visit). Options range from assortments to bars, from caramels to nuts, in a delicious spectrum of flavors like the ones we mentioned.

Taste-tempting flavors for the custom assortment

One of our favorite options at Ethel M is the extremely popular Custom Chocolate Box, with nearly 1,000 ratings averaging an impressive 4.8 stars. Beautifully packaged in a copper-colored box, tied with the ribbon of your choosing (like "thank you” or "happy anniversary”) and a cute copper medallion tied in the center, this assortment lets you pick 6, 8, or 10 different flavors to be distributed evenly, for a total of 12, 24, or 40 pieces. Just be warned: you're going to have a hard time choosing just 6-10 flavors when you see what's on offer here. Some of our favorites include:

• Lemon Satin Creme Heart Dark Chocolate
• Passion Fruit Heart Dark Chocolate
• Blood Orange Heart Dark Chocolate
• Bananas Foster Milk Chocolate Truffle
• Almond Butter Krisp Milk Chocolate
• Taittinger Brut Champagne Milk Chocolate Truffle
• Cinnamon Pecan Milk Chocolate Truffle

And can you believe that a 40-piece assortment is only $85? You'll easily pay double that with some chocolate stores.

Do you like pecan brittle? You will now.

Another best-seller at Ethel M is the Signature Pecan Brittle Collection available in classic, chocolate drizzled, or mixed varieties. With nearly 500 people leaving 5-star ratings for this treat, you're sure to love it as well. It comes in 12- and 24-piece options, with prices starting at $40.

Easy-breezy gift-giving

Ethel M shines in the gift-giving arena. Visit the Gifts section of the site to see for yourself. We particularly appreciate that there are links to shop by budget (Gifts Under $25 and Gifts Under $100), by holidays and occasions, as well as a full panorama of chocolates suitable for offering as Corporate Gifts. Just add a message for your recipient during checkout and you're good to go.

You'll need to spend $50 to $`100 to get free delivery

How about shipping costs? The answer is "it depends”. At the time of our last visit to the Ethel M online store, there was a promo code at the top of the site offering free delivery on orders of $50+. You'll normally have to spend $100 to qualify, so hopefully something similar will be in place when you're ready to order. Otherwise, your costs will depend on what you're ordering and the destination of your chocolates; on the plus side, there's no upcharge for warm weather delivery here, as far as we could tell.

Your satisfaction is fully guaranteed

Also, Ethel M offers a 100% unconditional guarantee on all of their products. They don't spell it out in detail, but we're confident that if anything goes wrong with your order, you'll have no trouble getting an appropriate solution.

Many customers say this is the best chocolate they've ever had

You're not likely to need that guarantee, though, because these chocolates get rave reviews from chocolate fanatics around the globe. One enthusiastic customer said, "This is by far the most amazing dark chocolate I have ever had. They not only taste delicious but they are so beautifully crafted. Each piece of chocolate is like a little gift. I will never eat another brand of chocolate again!” Another raved, "I consider myself an expert in the world of gourmet chocolates, and I have to say that the liqueur chocolates are incredibly addicting.”

Deserves a chance to be your new favorite chocolatier

We'll be honest: we had our doubts that a chocolate store affiliated with such a huge name like Mars could deliver a taste experience that would impress. After all, you can find the Mars/M&Ms candies in vending machines and store shelves everywhere: not exactly the pinnacle of hand-crafted delights, right? But, Ethel M really deserves to be considered as a brand apart. There's so much love and care given to each chocolate they make, the flavors are truly unique, and the presentation is superb. We highly recommend you consider Ethel M for your next chocolate order.

Simply Chocolate

• Part of the 1-800-Flowers family of companies
• Can get high-quality chocolates from a variety of brands
• Great selection of traditional chocolates and beyond
• Excellent features for gift-giving
• Free shipping with 1-year Celebrations Passport membership
• 100% satisfaction guarantee

Simply Chocolate is part of the 1-800-Flowers brand family, with other famous names like The Popcorn Factory and Harry & David in the portfolio. If you like the idea of having a one-stop-shop for gift-giving, or of being able to buy from multiple well-established chocolatiers in one order, you'll love browsing what Simply Chocolate has to offer.

Can get chocolate from several different brands

In fact, as you take a look at the list of brands available through Simply Chocolate, you'll see some familiar names. (Hint: just take a look at some of our other chocolate store reviews...) Your options here include Ethel M, Godiva, Harry & David, Jacques Torres, Moonstruck, Neuhaus, Venchi Chocolates, and several others, in addition to the Simply Chocolate line itself. That gives you a much broader range of chocolates to choose from, compared with the average store.

Site makes it easy to find the chocolate you need

But, so that you won't feel overwhelmed, Simply Chocolate makes it easy to narrow down the choices and get right to what you're looking for. Boxed chocolates? A particular holiday or occasion? Gifts? You can use the filters, or jump to the box that says, "Find the Perfect Gift” and use the dropdowns to indicate who it's for, what's the occasion, and, sometimes most importantly, what's your budget. You'll be choosing from tasty treats in no time. Just be aware that if you use that tool, you'll also be shown gifting options outside of chocolates (like Wolferman's Berry Breakfast Box with English muffins and jam).

So many options

It's also really easy to shop by Holidays & Occasions, Boxed Chocolates, Brand, Price, or general Product type. That includes the traditional Bars and Squares, Gift Baskets or Towers, and so on. But, the selection at Simply Chocolate also includes Chocolate Dipped Gifts, Chocolate Covered Fruit Gifts, Hostess Gifts, and Gifts with Wine. And, the Say It Simply collection offers a classic 17-piece assortment of various chocolates, and you choose the box that communicates your message: Thank You, Congratulations, Happy Birthday, Welcome Baby, and even the (somewhat odd?) Deepest Sympathies are just a few of your options.

Browse the Premier section for top-shelf gift-giving

If you're trying to send an impressively thoughtful gift, the Premier Chocolate Exclusives Collection is the section of Simply Chocolate you'll want to visit first. The most luxe option there is the Jacques Torres Signature Collection Gift Box, priced at $199.99. (Yes, that is THE Jacques Torres from Netflix's "Nailed It” series) Described as a "sophisticated selection of the most revered chocolate creations” by this award-winning chocolatier, this gift arrangement includes a 25-piece bonbon assortment, a canister of classic hot chocolate, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts and almonds, milk chocolate pretzels, 3 chocolate bars, and more.

Your gift-giving partner

Speaking of gift-giving, the tools at Simply Chocolate are fantastic. Not only will they give you suggested gift messages (if you don't feel particularly wordsmith-y on your own), you can also choose a particular delivery date for your lucky person's chocolates to arrive. And, if you're not so great at remembering this occasion from one year to the next, you can have Simply Chocolate send you an automated reminder.

Passport is worth considering if you order often

If you provide Simply Chocolates with your email address, they'll give you 10% off your first order. You might also save money by signing up for the Celebrations Passport membership. Priced at $19.99 for the first year and $29.99/year thereafter, it gives you free standard shipping on eligible items and reduced expedited shipping/service fees (which sometimes can apply to chocolates being sent to warmer areas or in the summertime), lets you earn points for rewards and perks, and applies across all of the brands in the 1-800-Flowers portfolio. That's a big benefit if you plan on using Simply Chocolate often, or as a mix-and-match with the other affiliated stores.

More reviews would be nice, but still trustworthy in general

How does Simply Chocolates do with respect to customer satisfaction? While we would have liked to see more shopper feedback on individual selections (even the Splendid Sweets Basket in the Bestsellers category only had 32 reviews, all of them 5 stars), we're not concerned. Simply Chocolate offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and its affiliation with 1-800-Flowers should give you plenty of peace of mind that they'll honor that, no questions asked.

Solid option among chocolate stores

Good chocolate. Good selection. Good as a gift-giving resource. Good satisfaction guarantee. What more could you want from a chocolate store? Simply Chocolate is a hassle-free way of sending some sweet joy wherever you'd like it to go. It might be lacking a little bit of novelty in terms of the chocolatiers and the available flavors, but not everyone is looking for a palate-expanding experiment. (Because, let's be honest, sometimes those can be an expensive disappointment...) Simply Chocolate will get the job done and leave you looking like an amazing friend, partner, coworker, you get the idea.

Vosges Haut-Chocolat

• Options include dark and milk chocolate, caramel, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free chocolates
• Very unusual flavor combinations
• Unique selection of chocolates for sleep, meditation, and rituals
• Gorgeous, unique packaging is part of the experience
• Free ground shipping on orders of $150+ to select states
• $28 for UPS 2nd Day Air (required for most packages)
• "No Melt Guarantee”

It's not every day you can savor chocolates created by a self-described "chocolatier and alchemist”, but that's what Vosges Haut-Chocolat brings to the world. Founder Katrina Markoff's journey began in Spain in apprenticeship at the renowned El Bulli, where she first discovered that what one eats can be transformative and visceral. Traveling the world, she encountered what she calls "good, meaningful food”, and upon her return to the US, Vosges Haut-Chocolat was born. If you too are looking to "travel the world through chocolate”, this is the right chocolate store for you.

Travel the world through chocolate

We recommend starting with Vosges' Exotic Truffle Collection. With a flawless 5-star average rating across more than 500 reviews, it's clearly well-loved by everyone who tries it. Priced at $50 for a 16-piece assortment, these truffles will take you on a journey - around the world and almost through the founder's adventures as well. Take a look at some of the flavors you can experience in this collection:

• Naga: housemade and toasted curry masala with coconut puree and 45% cacao deep milk chocolate
• Absinthe: fennel, Chinese star anise, coconut ash, Kubler absinthe, and 62% cacao dark chocolate
• Ambrosia: Australian macadamia nuts, Cointreau, 36% cacao white chocolate, 23K gold leaf
• Black Pearl: freshly-grated wasabi, 72% cacao dark chocolate, Wakaya ginger, ceremonial matcha
• Budapest: Kalocsan paprika + 62% cacao dark chocolate
• Soul & Motown: 45% cacao deep milk chocolate, Fleur de Sel sea salt, sweet churned cultured butter ganache

Seasonal chocolates are popular

The truffle collection is a year-round option at Vosges Haut-Chocolat, but this chocolate store places a heavy emphasis on seasonal flavors and styles. For example, if you visit the site in the spring months, you'll find Crispy Lemon Rabbits and Peanut Butter Bonbon Eggs, while the weeks leading up to the winter holidays feature Advent Calendars and Christmas candy. If you're looking for something outside of the seasonal selections, your best bet is to shop by category (truffles, bars, new arrivals) or by type. Vosges has a wonderful array of options for those who prefer chocolates that are dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan, and you'll find them most readily if you browse by type.

The artistic packaging is part of the experience

You'll also be blown away by the gorgeous way Vosges Haut-Chocolat presents all of its products, described as "chocolate storytelling in high art packaging”. The boxes, bags, and bows here are the diametric opposite of what you'll see with a traditional assortment of chocolates: no white crinkly inserts or individual brown wrappers to be found, but rather explosions of color, perfectly-themed boxes, and all so beautiful you'll want to keep the packaging even after the chocolates have been enjoyed.

Chocolate for... meditation?

There's definitely an element of the mystical here. Each item has tasting notes that might remind you of a grounding meditation, encouraging you to breathe, see, touch, smell, and then finally taste the chocolate. And, we're pretty sure you won't find any other chocolate stores with a Tom Petty collab, with bars that are "bathed in the melodies and rhythms of Petty's iconic tunes... inspired by the idea that music can influence the crystallization process of chocolate, imparting a unique texture”. If that's your vibe, make sure to visit the Cacao Wellness section of Vosges Haut-Chocolat's online store, where you'll see options for sleep, rituals and meditation, and pure plant chocolate bars with "high vibe cacao as nature intended”.

Free shipping for some orders

Now, let's move on to some of the more down-to-earth details. While you can qualify for free shipping if your order is at least $150, that only applies to orders delivered to certain states (and Vosges doesn't list which ones those are; we'd guess it'd be within a radius of their corporate offices in Chicago, but don't quote us on that). Instead, your order will likely require UPS 2nd Day Air, to ensure your chocolates arrive in ideal condition. So, figure on adding $28 to the total cost of the order.

Easy replacements if your chocolate arrives melted

We love that this chocolate store provides a "No Melt Guarantee”. While they take every step to get your chocolate delivered in perfect condition, adding any necessary cooling materials based on the forecast and your delivery area, they'll replace your order if anything arrives melted. Just reach out with photos sent to their Chocolate Concierge Department within 2 days.

High praise from many chocolate-lovers

For the most part, Vosges Haut-Chocolat receives plenty of positive feedback from customers. While there's the occasional snag with deliveries or with reaching the customer service team to make changes to addresses before orders ship out, those issues are few and far between. Praise for Vosges includes compliments like "the chocolate is painstakingly curated and among the best in the world” and "every chocolate has been a gastronomic delight”.

Most unique chocolate store on our list

Truth be told, Vosges Haut-Chocolat isn't for everyone, but we mean that in the most complimentary of ways: once you've tried a truffle, bonbon, or even a piece of a chocolate bar, you're not going to want to share. Whether you opt for one of the more traditional chocolates elevated by its carefully-sourced ingredients (like caramel toffee made with pink Himalayan sea salt) or you take your palate on adventure with a combination you've never imagined before (like a Parmesan, Walnut, and Fig chocolate bar), Vosges Haut-Chocolat will deliver an experience you're bound to tell others about.

Lindt

• Swiss chocolates in a variety of forms (bars, truffles)
• History dates back to 1845 in Switzerland
• Chocolate and other ingredients are sustainably sourced
• Online shop has much more than what local stores carry
• Save 10% when you subscribe to the newsletter
• Free ground shipping on orders $75+
• Satisfaction guaranteed within 14 days of purchase

Lindt, a globally recognized chocolate brand, traces its origins back to 1845 when David Sprungli-Schwarz and his son Rudolf Sprungli-Ammann opened a small confectionery shop in Zurich, Switzerland. The company's commitment to quality and innovation quickly propelled it to prominence, leading to the development of the iconic Lindt chocolate in 1879.

Worldwide reputation

Renowned for its smooth texture and rich flavor, Lindt chocolate has become a beloved treat worldwide. Over the years, Lindt has expanded its product range to include a wide variety of chocolate bars, truffles, pralines, and seasonal specialties, maintaining its reputation for excellence in every indulgent creation. Today, Lindt continues to delight chocolate enthusiasts with premium, sustainably-sourced offerings sold through its online chocolate store, embodying the tradition of Swiss chocolate craftsmanship combined with a passion for culinary artistry.

Lindt vs. LINDOR: do you know the difference?

But first, let's clear up a common question: "What's the difference between Lindt and LINDOR?” If you've wondered that too, you're not the only one. Here's the answer: Lindt is the name of the chocolatier, while LINDOR (yes, they capitalize it) refers to the iconic round, individually-wrapped truffles we all know and love.

Best selection is online, not in-store

Now that we got that out of the way, we can talk about chocolate. The selection through the Lindt online store is much broader than what you'll find at your supermarket. There's even a whole section for Online Exclusives; at the time of our most recent visit, that included a number of special gift basket arrangements (Chocolate Lover's, Chocolate Classics, and so on), as well as a few limited-time seasonal selections.

Try truffle flavors you've never seen before

You can also have fun creating your own assortment of LINDOR truffles in the Pick & Mix section of this chocolate store. When we were shopping, there was a sale going on that gave us two 75-piece assortments for $50 (down from the regular price of $31.49 each). First, pick your packaging: a traditional gold box with a cocoa-colored bow, a gold tote, a seasonal gift tube, an organza bag, and so on. You'll then choose from among 20 different flavors of LINDOR, though since they have to be added in quantities of 25, you'll want to select one of the larger quantities to get the widest assortment in your box or bag. You'll spot all of the flavors you already know and love, like Milk Chocolate and 60% Extra Dark, and also a long list of new ones you'll be dying to try, like:

• Cheesecake
• Birthday Cake
• Raspberry and Cream Milk Chocolate
• Blood Orange Milk Chocolate
• Neapolitan
• Blueberries and Cream
• Non-Dairy Oatmilk (Light and Dark Chocolate)
• Matcha White Chocolate
• Pistachio

Don't miss the Master Chocolatier selection

That's only the beginning. You can also get chocolate bars, gift tins, seasonal items (like bunnies at Easter or Santas at Christmas), ingredients for baking, and even buy Lindt in bulk. Our favorite best-kept not-so-secret of the Lindt store, however, is the Master Chocolatier section. Ever tried a Hazelnut Nougat Fioretto? Swiss Thins? Miniature bars of Lindt Swiss Premium Chocolate? This is where you'll discover the heart of Swiss chocolate: it almost reminds us of the Special Collections section at the library, but these "titles” can and should be checked out!

Anything can be sent as a gift

You won't have any trouble choosing from the Lindt inventory if you're looking to send chocolate as a gift. Whether you shop directly from the Gifts section of the chocolate store or send something tasty you spotted elsewhere as you browsed, anything you send can have an included gift message.

Lots of ways to save

Scroll down to the bottom of the Lindt website if you'd like to score some savings. When you enter your email address to receive promotional marketing from Lindt, you'll get a 10% discount. Just keep in mind that it may take up to 2 days for your discount code to arrive, so plan ahead if you want to use it on your first order. We also saw promotional deals scattered throughout the site, like the Pick & Mix discount we mentioned earlier and a Buy 3 Get 1 Free on chocolate bars that we spotted as we continued browsing.

No extra charge for warm-weather deliveries

You'll also get free standard shipping if your order is at least $75. Unlike many of Lindt's competitors, we didn't see any exclusions here for warm weather destinations/deliveries. It looks like no matter where or when you're sending chocolates, Lindt will take care to get them there in great condition, adding chill packs or whatever else is needed at no additional cost to you.

Happiness guaranteed

And, Lindt guarantees your satisfaction with anything you order. Reach out within 14 days of your order if there's anything not quite right with what you receive.

Dependable for high-quality, somewhat-traditional chocolates

All in all, Lindt is an excellent choice for buying chocolate online. Although you won't see any crazy flavor combinations (no herbs, florals, or spicy add-ins here), you'll have access to the full spectrum of Lindt deliciousness -including many items that are really unlikely to be on your grocery store's shelves, ever. You can rely on Lindt to deliver a satisfying, sweet experience every time, so this chocolate store earns a well-deserved strong rating here.

Ghirardelli

• Famous for chocolate squares in many flavors
• Pick & Mix is a popular choice
• Options for easy gift-giving
• Free shipping on orders of $75+ (with some exceptions)
• Save 15% on your first order with mailing list sign-up
• "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB

You may have been pronouncing it wrong this whole time, but Ghirardelli is a household name when it comes to good chocolate. With a history going all the way back to the 1800s and its first brick-and-mortar store in San Francisco, to today when its famous squares and bars are on the shelves of most supermarkets, Ghirardelli chocolate is a reliable favorite.

Squares in both new and familiar flavors

And, of course, Ghirardelli squares are the most iconic type of chocolate in this brand. Who hasn't had the pleasure of breaking open a square and rushing to eat all of the yummy caramel in the middle? Of course you can get that flavor through Ghirardelli's online shop, but you can also try out brand-new flavors before you can find them at your grocery store. At the time of our review, Milk Chocolate Caramel Waffle Cone was the latest to hit the virtual shelf, and we're here for it.

Pick & Mix your favorites

Another great reason to get your Ghirardelli's from their website is the Pick & Mix option. Offered at a 15% savings during our most recent visit, this option lets you mix-and-match from 15-500 squares in a bag, tin, or box, with 5 or 25 squares of each flavor you select. So, in the 500-piece Pick & Mix (priced at $169.96 prior to the discount), these were the available choices:

• Milk Chocolate Caramel Waffle Cone
• Assorted Bunnies
• Dark Chocolate Macchiato
• Milk Chocolate Caramel
• Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel
• White Chocolate Caramel
• Milk Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel
• Milk Chocolate
• Milk Double Chocolate
• Dark Chocolate Mint
• Dark Chocolate Raspberry
• Intense Dark Chocolate Crispy Rice
• Intense Dark Sea Salt 60% Dark Chocolate
• Intense Dark Chocolate 60% Cacao
• Intense Dark Chocolate 72% Cacao
• Intense Dark Chocolate 86% Cacao
• Intense Dark Chocolate 92% Cacao
• Intense Dark Sea Salt Almond Dark Chocolate

As you add to your Pick & Mix box, there's a helpful indicator at the bottom that shows you what percentage of the box you've filled. You can also click to see which ones you've already selected, so that you don't miss any favorites.

Cocoa, bars, and chips, oh my

There are a few other ways to get your chocolate on at Ghirardelli, like hot cocoa and chocolate bars, as well as bags of chocolate chips for baking (including 5 lb. bulk sizes), but it shouldn't be a surprise that the star of the show here is the famous square.

Good for giving as a gift

Ghirardelli makes gift-giving easy, whether you choose a ready-made gift arrangement or you build one on your own. Start with the Gifts section of the online store and go from there. You'll add a gift message during checkout, and your order will ship shortly after it's been received. (There's no scheduling your gift to go out in advance, unfortunately.)

Shipping gets spendy when it's sunny

If there isn't a 15% off promo in place when you're ready to buy your Ghirardelli chocolates, don't worry. You can sign up for their emails anytime and get the same discount. You'll find that at the bottom of the page. You'll also get free standard shipping if your order is $75+, no promo or code required. However, that's impacted by the destination of your chocolates: sending them to Florida in April, for example, means that you'll be paying for FedEx Expedited (which was $37 on a $60 gift basket we tested out sending).

Reputation is definitely not an issue

Ghirardelli's reputation is hard to beat. The chocolate store is "A+” rated and accredited by the Better Business Bureau, and customers rarely have anything bad to say about the treats themselves or about the experience of buying them online. While we'd love to see reviews on individual items in the store, that's almost unnecessary given how well-known Ghirardelli's chocolates are overall.

A dependable (but maybe a bit boring) chocolate store

That "commonness” of Ghirardelli is what keeps it from ranking a little higher on our list, though. While certainly better than average, Ghirardelli chocolates are somewhat ordinary compared with some of the chocolate stores' selections we tested out. Even the new flavors released here aren't what we would call novel or legendary, just dependably likable. Ghirardelli is the right choice if you need that kind of consistency (or you're gifting someone who's really particular and, shall we say, non-adventurous), but for a top-shelf, foodie-level experience, you'll need to look elsewhere.

Astor Chocolate

• Premium Belgian chocolates
• Vegan-certified options
• Ethically-sourced and produced
• 4th generation family business
• In operation for over 95 years
• Free ground shipping on orders of $75+
• 100% satisfaction guarantee

Founded by Erwin Grunhut, Astor Chocolate represents the epitome of quality and innovation in the confectionery world, where respect for ingredients, traditional craftsmanship, and sustainability principles intertwine.

Dedication and legacy

For over nine decades, Astor has embodied Erwin's unwavering dedication to superior chocolate, fostering a legacy that transcends generations. Pioneering milestones such as importing pure Belgian chocolate to the US and introducing confections to travelers staying at luxury hotels, Astor continues to redefine chocolate luxury. With a portfolio boasting groundbreaking creations like the chocolate liquor cup and turndown chocolates, Astor remains synonymous with indulgence, favored by discerning patrons worldwide.

Online store is a little iffy

That long-standing history and commitment to excellence is why we were a little taken aback by our experience as we started browsing the Astor Chocolate online store. We went to the Collections section of the site first and were puzzled as to why the previous year's Hanukkah selection was still being featured more than a few months later, or why another grouping had a URL instead of a descriptive name. We also kept getting a pop-up that said "You have previously bought this. Want a second bite?” Given that this was our first purchase from Astor Chocolate, we weren't sure whether we should be annoyed or confused. Those are "oopsies” we wouldn't have expected from a brand that characterizes itself as an option chosen by luxury hotels.

Several different kinds of chocolate

But, let's take a look at the chocolates themselves, all website glitches aside. There are several signature collections at Astor for you to choose from:

• Gourmet Squares: these range from the traditional pillow-top turndown sweets in milk and dark chocolate, to sleep-promoting flavor profiles like Orange Valerian and Raspberry Chamomile. You'll also find vegan-certified options in Dark Mint and Dark Chocolate.
• 100 Calories: sold in cases of 24 bars, in flavors from Red Velvet to Espresso, these are the perfect little treat when you don't want to blow your dessert calorie "budget” in one sitting.
• Moodibars: here's where you'll find all of the fun. Maybe you want a "flirty” Moodibar in Dark Chocolate Champagne Strawberry to send a little message to your love interest, or you're feeling sleepy and the "tired” Moodibar in Dark Chocolate Espresso would be the perfect pick-me-up. There are also some cute sets for weddings, like "Wifey-Hubby-Team Bride-Team Groom”, and most of the non-matrimony flavors come in squares too.
• Liquor Cups: all vegan-certified, these chocolate shot cups are up to you to fill with dessert or liquor. They come in boxes of 12 or 60 pieces.
• Peanuts Collection: perfect for your favorite Charlie Brown fan, these chocolates include truffles, squares, and candy bars, with themes from "Happiness is...” to "The Gang's All Here”.
• Gourmet Gifts: in all frankness, you aren't going to be overly impressed with this collection. It consists of options you've probably already seen in the other categories (like Serene Ginger Passionflower-Infused squares, Liquor Cups, and assortments of Moodibars). The more novel options, like filled and decorated truffle cups and milk chocolate "smash bark”...were, unfortunately, sold out when we visited the Astor Chocolate store.

Not all orders qualify for free shipping

If your order is $75+, you'll qualify for free ground shipping... sometimes. Be aware that unless your order is going to select states in New England, you'll have to choose 2nd Day or Expedited shipping from April 15-September 15. And, unlike some of its rival chocolate stores, Astor does charge extra - not just for the speedier shipping, but also an additional $5 if they determine they need to use insulation and a cold pack to get your chocolates to their destination in ideal condition. The good news is that you can still get free 2nd Day Shipping if your order is at least $150 during the warm weather months, and it'll only cost you $10 on orders of that size during non-warm-weather shipping times.

"Chocolate concierge” will fix any issues

As you would expect from a high-end chocolatier, Astor Chocolate guarantees your satisfaction. If your chocolate arrives melted or you're unhappy for any reason, they ask that you simply reach out to their "chocolate concierge” so that they can rectify the issue. Fortunately, although there aren't thousands of reviews on the various chocolate selections here, what's out there is consistently positive enough that we don't think you'll need to put that guarantee to the test.

Not bad, but not as impressive as we hoped

However, we're not blown away by Astor. Maybe our expectations were too high, given the brand's reputation as a luxury hotel supplier, but the online shopping experience here is average at best. We also didn't find anything so over-the-top awesome in the chocolate selection that would compete with Astor Chocolate's higher-ranking rivals in our evaluation. If you've tried Astor's squares during a recent overnight stay and you absolutely must have them for your own personal nightly turndown service at home, have at it. On the other hand, if you're simply looking for some wonderful treats to send to a loved one or you want to get adventurous with new flavors, we recommend that you circle back to Astor after you see what's on offer with the other chocolate stores on our list.

Russell Stover

• Wide selection of traditional chocolate favorites
• Great options for sugar-free chocolate and other candy
• Sign up for email updates and save 15%
• Made in the USA
• Free standard shipping on orders of $75 to $600 (with exceptions for some states during warm weather)
• "No-Melt Guarantee”

Russell Stover has a storied history dating back to 1923 when Clara Stover began crafting chocolates in her Denver bungalow. Since then, the company has become synonymous with quality confections, now calling Kansas City home while expanding its reach with factories in Texas and Colorado. With a commitment to sourcing ingredients from across the country, including cream and milk from Oklahoma, cherries from Michigan and Oregon, and peanuts from the South, Russell Stover ensures that every bite of their chocolates is made with care and attention to detail.

Classic chocolate favorites

Visit the Russell Stover online store and you'll find yourself faced with a tantalizing array of treats and brands, ranging from classic chocolate bars to individually wrapped bites, alongside a surprising assortment of non-chocolate goodies like jelly beans, taffy, mints, and hard candies. While the selection may seem somewhat random, it offers something for everyone, whether you're craving a traditional chocolate fix or looking to try something new. And, with the brand relationship with Whitman's (in the classic yellow box) as well as Pangburn's, Russell Stover's online store gives you access to those regional, nostalgic favorites as well.

Get assortments of the chocolates you like most

Ever have that feeling of trying an assorted box of chocolates and wishing it had more of one particular kind of candy (or less of another)? Russell Stover has you in mind with its offerings of specific assortments. Big fan of the cream-filled centers? Prefer all things nut, chewy, and crisp? You've got it!

Ample selection of sugar-free treats

One reason you may want to take a fresh look at Russell Stover is its extensive range of sugar-free chocolates, catering to those with dietary restrictions or simply looking to indulge without the guilt. Made with Stevia extract, these sugar-free options provide a satisfying alternative to traditional chocolates, so that everyone can enjoy Russell Stover's delicious creations. The selection includes treats similar to some of your favorite candies made by other brands, like miniature peanut butter cups and "candy coated chocolate peanut gems” (*cough* Peanut M&Ms *cough*), so Russell Stover might be able to scratch the itch of some of your most beloved chocolates without spiking your insulin levels.

Most affordable chocolates on our list

In terms of pricing, Russell Stover offers reasonable rates that are comparable to other chocolate companies, making it an accessible option for chocolate lovers on a budget. For example, you can get 3 oz. bags of sugar-free candies for $3.99, 6 oz. bags of several kinds of regular chocolates for $6.99, and numerous options for under $20. The most expensive chocolates are still just $99.99 for a generous 5-lb. box of assorted flavors. Plus, with a 15% discount available for email subscribers and free standard shipping on orders over $75, it's even easier to stock up on your favorite treats without breaking the bank.

Shipping is expensive sometimes

But, be aware that where you live and the time of year (warm weather) will impact your shipping options. You can only opt for standard shipping if you live within two days' delivery distance from the FedEx distribution center in Missouri. That includes a good portion of the nation, but if you live in the western part of the country or the furthest points northeast and southeast (looking at you, Florida and New England), you won't always qualify for no-cost delivery. Russell Stover still provides their "No-Melt Guarantee” and uses insulated shipping containers and gel packs at no extra cost, but you could be paying some hefty delivery costs ($25.95 and up).

They'll keep you satisfied

Russell Stover stands by the freshness and quality of its products, offering a satisfaction guarantee to ensure that every customer is happy with their purchase. While the company's refund policy isn't explicitly outlined, they are known to address any issues on a case-by-case basis, underscoring their commitment to their customers.

Not exactly gourmet

However, despite its long-standing reputation and solid track record, Russell Stover falls short of being considered a gourmet brand. While their chocolates are decently delicious, they lack the sophistication and refinement often associated with higher-end chocolatiers. Additionally, the company's reputation with the Better Business Bureau dropped to a "B+” since our last review: hardly evidence of some terrible trend, but still not what we'd like to see for this chocolate store.

Just okay

At the end of the day, Russell Stover is fairly average as a chocolatier. This could be a good option if you're not looking for an upscale taste-testing experience and you've got some favorite assortments in mind, or if "sugar-free” is at the top of your priority list. On the other hand, there are other chocolate stores on our list to consider if you're eager to try something new, send an impressive gift, or savor some chocolates that aren't mass-produced. Russell Stover earns a "just average” rating.

Godiva

• Just under 50 types of chocolate to choose from
• Free standard shipping on orders $45+ with code FREESHIP45
• Customize a greeting card at checkout for gift-giving
• 30-day replacement guarantee
• "Warm Weather Guarantee”
• "A+” rated by the BBB

Godiva is a globally renowned brand of premium chocolate. Inspired by the legendary tale of Lady Godiva, this company traces its roots back to 1926, when a father and his sons began crafting pralines in Brussels. Although it closed all of its in-person stores back in 2021, Godiva offers an array of nearly 50 kinds of chocolate treats online.

Thousands of 5-star ratings for popular assortments

With over 7,600 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, Godiva's bestseller is the Assorted Chocolate Gold Gift Box. Available in sizes ranging from a 19-piece sampler to a 105-piece stunner, this assortment lets you try some of Godiva's most iconic chocolates. In the larger boxes, for example, you'll get everything from White Praline Hearts to Macadamia Mosaics, ganaches and caramels, fruits and nuts. This collection also comes in an 8-piece and a 140-piece arrangement, but those were out of stock during our most recent visit to the Godiva online store. Pricing ranged from $36 to $160 for the selections that were available.

Options online that you won't see locally

The best reason to shop at Godiva's online store is if you know you love what they offer but you just can't find a particular flavor or collection at your local grocery store. Maybe you really want to send someone a box of Happy Birthday Truffles, or you never even knew that Godiva makes a Patisserie Dessert Truffles assortment. Godiva offers just under 50 options for chocolate through their website, which is surely more than what you'll see in a brick-and-mortar location.

Gift-giving welcome here

Speaking of gift-giving, Godiva tries to make it easy-peasy. Choose the chocolates you want to send and enter your customized gift message during checkout. You can even specify Saturday delivery if you're trying to get it there right on the special day.

Easy to qualify for free shipping

If your order is at least $45, you'll get ground shipping for free with the code FREESHIP45. Unlike some of the chocolate stores we evaluated, Godiva doesn't require you to choose a particular shipping speed to qualify for their Warm Weather Guarantee: they take care of monitoring where your package is being delivered, so that the chocolates are in great condition when the box is opened. You'll have 30 days to request a replacement or exchange if anything isn't quite right with your order; be aware that Godiva doesn't offer refunds under any circumstances.

Customer service isn't great

That matters, because we were surprised (and disappointed) to see lots of reports from shoppers about Godiva's horrible customer service. Despite having an "A+” from the Better Business Bureau, this chocolate store seems to be falling down on the job in many ways. More than one person said that Godiva made a substitution when what they ordered wound up being out of stock, without getting confirmation that the new item would be acceptable. That's a big deal if you're dealing with allergies, or if you're sending Godiva chocolates as a gift and your recipients get a kind they really dislike despite your best efforts to send their favorites.

Last choice on our list

All of this combines to earn Godiva a lower rating from us. The brand used to have a certain cachet, but now these chocolates are relegated to being one more just-okay option you can easily get on a supermarket's shelves. We recommend buying your next treats from one of the higher-ranked chocolate stores on our list.