Prestat Chocolates: London's Historic Royal Chocolate Artisan
Discover London's historic royal chocolatier blending tradition, artistry, and exquisite truffles in the heart of Piccadilly.
Prestat Chocolates, located at 14 Princes Arcade, Piccadilly, London, is one of the city's oldest and most prestigious chocolate shops. Founded in 1902 by French émigré Antoine Dufour, Prestat is famed for inventing the chocolate truffle and holds multiple Royal Warrants. The boutique offers luxurious, handcrafted chocolates and truffles, blending rich heritage with artistic packaging and a commitment to quality, making it a must-visit for chocolate connoisseurs and gift seekers alike.
A brief summary to Prestat Chocolates
- 14 Princes Arcade, Piccadilly, London, SW1Y 6DS, GB
- +442074943372
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more intimate shopping experience.
- Try their signature chocolate truffles and explore the vegan-friendly dark chocolate bars.
- Consider purchasing beautifully designed gift boxes, perfect for special occasions.
- Check out seasonal and limited-edition chocolates, often inspired by theatrical themes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Piccadilly Circus station, then walk approximately 5 minutes through the arcade to reach Prestat Chocolates. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and the walk is flat and accessible.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Piccadilly Circus, including routes 14, 19, and 38. From the bus stop, it is a short 5-10 minute walk to 14 Princes Arcade. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares starting at £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Taxi / Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services like Uber can drop you directly at Princes Arcade. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 20 minutes from central London areas. Expect fares starting around £10.
Prestat Chocolates location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Prestat Chocolates
Origins of a Chocolate Legacy
Prestat was established in 1902 by Antoine Dufour, a French émigré whose family invented the chocolate truffle in Chambéry, France, in 1895. Bringing this delicacy to England, Dufour opened the first Prestat shop on South Molton Street, London, quickly gaining acclaim for his exquisite chocolates. The business expanded with additional shops on Oxford Street and in the City of London, serving a growing clientele that included the financial district’s elite. The name 'Prestat' honors Pierre Prestat, a relative of Dufour’s wife, reflecting the personal heritage behind the brand.Royal Patronage and Artistic Craftsmanship
Prestat’s reputation was solidified with the awarding of Royal Warrants as Purveyors of Chocolates to Her Majesty The Queen in 1975, Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1999, and King Charles III. These honors highlight Prestat’s status as a supplier to the British royal family. The shop’s packaging is a work of art, featuring designs by Kitty Arden and collaborations with fashion designers like Lulu Guinness, emphasizing the brand’s fusion of craftsmanship and aesthetic elegance.Contemporary Excellence and Global Reach
Today, Prestat operates its flagship boutique in Princes Arcade, Piccadilly, and maintains a presence in Harrods' Chocolate Hall. The chocolates are freshly made daily in a modern facility in West London, using single-origin Côte d'Ivoire cocoa sourced sustainably. Owned by the Italian Domori company under the Illy Group since 2019, Prestat continues to innovate with vegan-friendly bars and environmentally conscious production methods. Its products are exported globally to markets including Japan, Australia, and Europe.A Unique Chocolate Experience
Visitors to Prestat can expect a boutique atmosphere reminiscent of a Parisian café, complete with elegant chandeliers and refined décor. The range includes classic truffles, inventive flavor combinations like Earl Grey and Red Velvet, and seasonal specialties. Prestat’s chocolates are celebrated for their smooth texture, rich flavor, and artistic presentation, making them prized gifts and indulgences.Connection to London's Cultural Fabric
Prestat’s history is intertwined with London’s cultural scene, particularly the West End theatre district. The brand’s creations, such as the Red Velvet Truffle, evoke the drama and elegance of the stage, reflecting a deep inspiration from the arts. Esteemed patrons from the theatrical world have long enjoyed Prestat’s chocolates, adding to its aura of sophistication and tradition.Enduring Heritage and Future Prospects
Despite challenges including wartime closures and retail shifts, Prestat has maintained its commitment to quality and heritage for over a century. Its blend of historic recipes, royal recognition, and modern innovation ensures it remains a beacon of British chocolaterie. Whether for a special gift or personal indulgence, Prestat offers a timeless chocolate experience rooted in craftsmanship and luxury.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Essential places to dine
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Elegant
- Boutique
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
