History of chocolate in Orleans
From Saintoin to today’s chocolatiers
The history of chocolate in Orleans is inextricably linked with the development of chocolate and confectionery, thanks in particular to Saintoin Frères.
In the 18th century, the Loire served as a transport route for cocoa and cane sugar, enabling many chocolate factories to set up in the region. Founded in 1760 by Jean Saintoin, the confectionery became a benchmark under Louis François Saintoin, who transformed his business into a modern factory in the early 19th century. Thanks to the introduction of steam engines and industrialisation, chocolate production took a major turn. The Saintoin family enjoyed great renown, winning numerous awards at World Fairs, before the dynasty gave way to the Borne-Mercier family at the beginning of the 20th century.
This rich and prestigious chocolate heritage continues to inspire the chocolate makers of Orléans today, who perpetuate the tradition of top-of-the-range chocolate while bringing new creations and innovations to seduce cocoa lovers.
Sébastien Papion
The chocolate craftsman who sublimates our taste buds
Chocolatiers in Orleans have talent, and Sébastien Papion is a perfect example! A magician with chocolate, he knows how to combine passion and creativity to make our taste buds travel. Recognised as one of France’s top chocolatiers by Le Monde in 2022, he has made a name for himself thanks to his exacting standards and his love of taste. This chocolate-maker from Orleans relies on a rigorous selection of his suppliers, favouring local ingredients of impeccable quality, for creations that are both subtle and eco-responsible. You’ll feel the craftsmanship in every bite, where authenticity and emotion come together for an unforgettable chocolate experience.
Shops :
- 38 Faubourg Bannier in Orleans
- 32 Rue Jeanne d’Arc in Orleans
- Halles Châtelet in Orleans
- 5 Avenue du Traité de Rome in Saint-Pryve-Saint-Mesmin
- 25 Rue Jean Bertin in Checy
Chocolaterie Royale
The art of chocolate at the heart of Orléans history
Under the historic arcades of the rue Royale in Orleans, the Chocolaterie Royale perpetuates exceptional French chocolate-making expertise. Daniel Mercier, heir to the Mercier family since 1912, creates pralines, ganaches and confectionery with passion and precision. Inspired by history, he combines tradition and modernity, and each chocolate is decorated by hand. Rigorous selection of ingredients, limitless creativity: here, chocolate becomes a truly royal art.
Shop : 51 Rue Royale in Orleans
Chocolaterie Cordier
An exceptional taste journey
Since 1981, the Cordier chocolate factory has been delighting the people of Orléans with its hand-crafted creations: fine chocolates, pastries, breads, ice creams and delicatessen products. Voted Meilleur Ouvrier de France Glacier in 1997, Bruno Cordier selects exceptional cocoa from the world’s best regions, including Papua, Ghana and Mexico. Combining expertise and passion, each chocolate is an invitation to take a real taste journey, combining tradition and innovation.
Shop : 20 Rue Bannier in Orleans
L’Atelier du Chocolat
Chocolate craftsmanship at its best
L’Atelier du Chocolat offers quality handmade creations, made in the traditional way. Each chocolate is made from rigorously selected raw materials, with particular care taken in assembling the cocoa beans. In the boutique, you can discover unique specialities such as chocolate bouquet and hand-coated almond rochers. The workshop, a real production area, offers a chocolate experience combining expertise and creativity.
Shop : 12 Rue de la République in Orleans
Chocolaterie Victorine
A gourmet escape between tradition and creativity
The Victorine chocolate factory in Orleans offers unique chocolates, combining French tradition and artisan creativity. Each sweet is made with exceptional ingredients, offering an experience that is both visual and gustatory. With over fifty varieties, melting pralines, ganaches and creamy caramels, Victorine is sure to appeal to fans of refined sweets. For every festive season, themed creations are added to the range, inviting you to rediscover the pleasure of chocolate in every season.
Shop : 26 Rue Jeanne d’Arc in Orleans
La Chocolatière
A family heritage at the service of chocolate
La Chocolatière, a gourmet institution in Orleans, was founded over three decades ago. Founded by enthusiasts, it has grown by building on solid values: quality, craftsmanship and a keen sense of service. Today, the next generation of the family is brilliantly ensuring the continuity of this great adventure. Each member of the family puts their heart and soul into their work, guaranteeing refined, authentic chocolate creations. True to French tradition, La Chocolatière offers products made using only natural ingredients and pure cocoa butter, for unrivalled chocolate pleasure.
Shops :
- 27 Rue Jeanne d’Arc in Orleans
- 140 rue de Guyenne in Olivet
Aux Palets Or
The art of refined chocolate in Orleans
Aux Palets Or shares a genuine passion for chocolate, combining traditional expertise with a love of taste. All year round, this Orléans chocolate factory offers a refined range of in-house creations: delicate chocolate bonbons, melting ganaches, crunchy pralines and many other gourmet delights, available in bars or as unique specialities. Aux Palets Or stands out for its exclusive and original creations, elegant compositions that delight the eyes as much as the taste buds. Creativity and authenticity are at the heart of this must-visit address for chocolate lovers in Orleans.
Shop : 15 Rue Bannier in Orleans
Alex Olivier
A gourmet escape in the heart of the Orléans region
The Alex Olivier chocolate factory, a gourmet institution in the Orléans region, combines traditional know-how and innovation to create exceptional chocolate creations. Bonbons, spreads and generous bars delight the most demanding palates. Committed to a world of solidarity and responsibility, the chocolate factory also supports the Initiatives-Cœur boat in sailing races to help sick children. For young and old alike, there are even fun workshops where you can create your own chocolates and discover the art of the chocolatier!
Shops :
- 1 route de Boigny in Boigny-sur-Bionne
- 4 rue de l’Ardoisière in Neuville-aux-Bois
Max Vaucher
Unique chocolates to awaken your senses
The Max Vauché chocolate factory is a place where innovation meets excellence. Its 17 chocolatiers create unique chocolates, combining exceptional cocoa beans and bold flavours to surprise the palate. Each creation strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and generosity, offering an unforgettable taste experience. Inspired by the seasons, the creations are invitations to escape, where textures and tastes awaken the senses. Imagination and the search for new sensations are at the heart of each piece, offering a suspended moment with each tasting.
Shops :
- 50 Rue du commerce in Blois
- 2 Rue des Albizias in Contres
- 22 Les Jardins du Moulin in Bracieux
- 21 – 23 Rue du Change in Vendôme
- 20 Place de la Résistance in Tours
Jeff de Bruges
Local chocolate
Although not originally from Orleans, the Jeff de Bruges chocolate factory embodies the spirit of a local chocolate factory. As well as its classic recipes, it knows how to surprise its customers with seasonal novelties and limited editions, always carefully presented. One of the strengths of Jeff de Bruges lies in its ethical and responsible commitment: the cocoa beans used come from plantations in Ecuador, managed by the brand itself.
Shops :
- 16 Rue de la République in Orleans
- 181 Rue d’Artois in Olivet
- Centre Commercial Cap Saran in Saran
- Centre Commercial des Trois Fontaines in Sainte-Jean-de-la-Ruelle
