Leonidas Belgian Chocolates

Leonidas is a world-renowned Belgian chocolate brand that traces its history back to 1913. It was founded by Leonidas Kestekides, a Greek confectioner who, after moving to Belgium and marrying a local woman, opened his first tea room in Ghent. The brand became famous for its 'Manon' praline and its commitment to making high-quality chocolate accessible to the general public.

Today, Leonidas remains a truly Belgian brand. All of its chocolates are manufactured in Brussels, Belgium, ensuring the preservation of traditional recipes and the use of fresh ingredients like real butter and fresh cream. The company operates hundreds of stores worldwide but maintains a strict policy of centralized production to uphold its quality standards.

Ownership of the brand has remained within the family of the founder. Leonidas remains a private company owned by the descendants of Leonidas Kestekides through a family holding structure. Unlike many other major confectionery brands that have been acquired by multinational conglomerates, Leonidas has maintained its independence and Belgian heritage.