riga eats: chocolates at emils gustavs and laima

Chocolate Truffles at Emils Gustavs.

Who knew that Riga has two big chocolatiers? I certainly did not. 

Laima is a brand sold in the other parts of the Baltics. In fact, I first ran into this brand in Vilnius, Lithuania, and saw it again in Tallinn, Estonia. But, Laima chocolates actually come from Riga. And, the factory is located in the Miera Street area - which is a fun, artsy place to visit - where people can tour the facility.

If you don't have time to trek to Miera, there is a huge Laima store located by Freedom Square. Otherwise, you cab easily buy them at grocery stores. Laima's chocolates were good but were better for those who need a quick fix. 

The Laima sign outside the store by Freedom Square.

The Laima store outside Freedom Square.

The Laima Factory on Miera Street.

Emils Gustavs chocolates, on the other hand, were perfect for savoring. Their chocolates and truffles tend to be more nuanced, fancy and pricey. It gets really popular though so a table might be hard to snag if you want to hang out. I recommend a visit especially if you visit in winter and you are in desperate need of a hot chocolate.

Emils Gustavs.

The selection at Emils Gustavs.

More Emils Gustavs chocolates.

More on Emils Gustavs.

Emils Gustavs' hot chocolate - a typical European one - was thick and rich. The truffles were similarly rich and creamy. I loved visiting so much I kept on going back.

Bailey's Truffles, Nut Cream Truffle and Caramel Truffle.

Balzams Truffle, Dark Chocolate Truffle, Champagne Truffle.

Which place you've visited had amazing chocolates?