OCT 2024 (Re-visit)
Ordered the Autumn parfait and the Marjolaine cake. The parfait was delicious like last time with many different components, this time centered around chestnut and chocolate. The Marjolaine cake has chocolate ganache, whipped cream and praline cream sandwiched between layers of crumbly and nutty sponge; it was not too sweet and quite tasty. Also bought the souvenir curry which tasted interesting with a noticeable bitter dark chocolate flavor; trying it once was enough.
APRIL 2023
Visited during afternoon tea time and it was a little busy but was able to get a seat in the back corner. All the cakes looks good which made it hard to choose, but decided on the Mont Blanc chocolate cake which contains alcohol and had it as a set with the cacao fruit carbonated drink which is topped with a cacao fruit sorbet. The cacao fruit drink was definitely interesting, light and refreshing. Never tasted the actual cacao fruit but could imagine this to be the taste with a hint of cacao chocolate flavor. If you like chestnut, chocolate and hazelnut, their Mont Blanc version is a must as they were able to combine all three flavors in harmony; very delicious. Also had to try out their seasonal strawberry themed parfait which had over ten different components layered and beautifully presented. The parfait tasted just as amazing as it looked, it was nice to enjoy so many sweet flavors and textures which were well crafted from top to bottom. Finally had the bean to cacao hot chocolate drink which was quite expensive but did not expect it to be two cups worth of hot chocolate. It was a rich and smooth high quality chocolate drink, but wish they offered different serving sizes. The cakes and parfait are on the expensive end but the quality justifies the prices. Service was great; the staff checks if you have any allergies and advise if you are ok with cakes/chocolates that contains alcohol, and the parfait didn't take long to be served after I finished the cake.
Ordered a cake set with the muscat grapes ganache. A very dark chocolate base that is rather bitter that is meant to balance the heavy sweetness above. Above the bitter chocolate base you reach a much sweeter ganache, and above that the even sweeter cream with the white chocolate slices. The white chocolate slices seemed rather extraneous, and the grapes, high quality and sweet by themselves, get drowned out by everything else going on. Overall, interesting, but I honestly didn't enjoy it and wouldn't recommend it.
It was neither harmonious nor striking. I'm glad I got it with coffee instead of a sweeter drink, but the coffee itself was just average.
Moreover, it was actually difficult to eat - the decision of what to eat in a bite was constant with the bitter base, which itself was in a word, hard - it could not be delicately broken apart and either penetrating with a fork or cutting with the knife was difficult.
But then I tried the complimentary honey chocolate that came complimentary with the set, and it was fantastic. Sublime. Experiential. All that.
Overall, don't be me, stick with the strengths of this establishment: chocolate, or at least a cake with a stronger chocolate presence. Despite the mediocre rating I gave the place, I will buy some chocolate to take home based on the strength of that single complimentary chocolate.
The cake set with drink and cake is well-priced for a high end chocolatier, especially considering the location on the ground floor of a major shopping area in downtown Tokyo, along with a reasonable interior and service. Demand is high for seats - several groups in front of me gave up because the wait was substantial.
The chocolates on the other hand, are substantially more expensive than I'm used to paying for top quality chocolate. Odd to me, but I can't complain about the quality of the chocolate so far.
Chocolatier Palet D’or in Tokyo is a luxurious destination for anyone passionate about fine chocolates. The moment you step inside, you notice the elegant and sophisticated design, with clean lines, soft lighting, and beautifully arranged displays that highlight the artisanal nature of each product. The atmosphere immediately makes you feel that you are experiencing something special.
The chocolates themselves are exquisite. Each piece is a work of art, meticulously crafted to balance flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Palet D’or excels in using high-quality ingredients, from rich cocoa to fresh fruits and delicate nuts, ensuring every bite delivers a perfect taste experience. Seasonal and limited-edition selections add an element of excitement, encouraging repeat visits.
Staff are courteous, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. They guide you through the selection process, offering recommendations and explanations that help you understand the nuances of each chocolate. This personalized approach elevates the shopping experience, making it feel both exclusive and approachable.
Presentation is also remarkable, with elegant boxes and thoughtful packaging that make their chocolates ideal for gifts or souvenirs. The store is clean, well-organized, and easy to navigate, even during busy times.
Overall, Chocolatier Palet D’or provides an unparalleled chocolate experience in Tokyo, combining quality, creativity, and attentive service. For anyone seeking indulgence and sophistication, it is an absolute must-visit.