Melt’s Amazing Bonbons making in Notting Hill

Melt’s Amazing Bonbons Making in Notting Hill: A Detailed Review

If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a sweet, hands-on experience in London, you might have come across Melt’s bonbon-making class in Notting Hill. This 2-hour activity offers a chance to craft your own luxurious chocolates under the guidance of a trained chocolatier, all in a cozy setting in one of London’s most charming neighborhoods.

What makes this experience worth your time? First, the small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Second, the focus on sensory memories—using scents, flavors, and textures—adds an unexpected emotional layer that elevates the typical chocolate workshop. Lastly, the opportunity to take home a box of your own handmade bonbons offers a tangible souvenir of your London trip.

However, one potential drawback is that some participants felt the class was somewhat basic, with pre-made chocolate shells and limited hands-on crafting. This might be less appealing if you’re seeking a full-fledged chocolate-making experience from scratch.

All in all, this experience would suit those who want to enjoy a fun, memorable activity that combines chocolate tasting, sensory exploration, and a bit of creative play—especially if you’re interested in a relaxed, small-group environment.

Good To Know

• Small Group Size: With a cap of 10, this class offers more personal attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Sensory Focus: The workshop emphasizes childhood nostalgia through scents and flavors, creating an emotional connection.
• Tangible Souvenir: You leave with a box of your own handcrafted bonbons.
• Price Point: At just over $75, it’s a decent value for a unique, creative experience.
• Duration: It lasts around 2 hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity.
• Mixed Reviews: While many enjoyed the fun and friendly staff, some found the class too minimal or not fully hands-on.

What to Expect at Melt’s Bonbon-Making Class

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The class begins at 59 Ledbury Rd in Notting Hill, a lively area known for its colorful houses, boutique shops, and vibrant cafes. Most guests appreciate the proximity to public transportation, making it easy to reach without fuss. The activity concludes back at the starting point, leaving you free to explore Notting Hill afterward.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With a maximum of 10 participants, you’re in for a more intimate experience. Reviewers have mentioned that this setup allows for more interaction with the chocolatier, Emma, and creates a friendly, personalized environment. Emma’s approachable manner and enthusiasm for chocolate really shine through, according to those who’ve attended.

The Content of the Class

The core of the experience revolves around learning about chocolates and their flavors, tasting different varieties, and understanding insider tips for working with chocolate. One of the highlights is the sensory journey—using scents like clementines, pine, or even fire—designed to evoke childhood memories. These scents help to reconnect participants with simple pleasures, making the activity more meaningful.

Making Your Own Bonbons

Contrary to some reviews, participants do get a chance to create their own custom-flavored bonbons. You’ll select from various sensory ingredients, like scents and flavors, to personalize your chocolates. However, some reviewers note that much of the work involves filling pre-made shells rather than making everything from scratch. The shells are pre-bought, which might disappoint those seeking a more intensive hands-on process, but it does allow for more focus on flavor combinations.

Tasting and Learning

Throughout the session, you’ll sample different types of chocolates—an element many reviewers find particularly enjoyable. Emma shares insider tricks that are great for home cooks or anyone curious about chocolate craftsmanship. The focus on storytelling—using scent and taste to transport you back to childhood—adds a delightful emotional layer.

Taking Your Bonbons Home

At the end, you’ll have a box of handmade bonbons, tailored to your sensory preferences. Reviewers highlight that this makes the experience special: “You walk away with a tangible souvenir of your London trip that’s both delicious and sentimental,” one guest noted.

Authentic Experiences from Guests

While most reviews are positive, a few point out that the class can feel somewhat basic. One guest remarked, “The chocolate shells were premade, bought shells. We had one pot for three people to melt the chocolate,” which suggests that the hands-on portion may be limited.

Conversely, others loved the storytelling aspect and the relaxed, friendly vibe. As Emily_K shared, “The staff is so friendly, and the whole experience exceeded our expectations.” This sentiment hints that the value isn’t solely in the technical skill but also in the sensory and emotional connection fostered during the session.

Cost and Value

For $75.26 per person, the class is reasonably priced considering it’s a two-hour activity in central London with a small group. It’s not a full day of chocolate-making, but it offers a memorable, sensory-rich experience that many guests feel is worth the price—especially given the personalized attention and the takeaway bonbons.

Practical Tips

• Arrive on time—the meeting point is straightforward, but punctuality ensures you won’t miss any part of the class.
• Consider your expectations—if you want to learn advanced chocolate-making techniques from scratch, this might not be the perfect fit.
• Bring your curiosity and sense of play—the focus on childhood memories and sensory exploration is what makes this special.
• Book in advance—it’s a popular activity, and most guests book about 48 days ahead.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is best suited for chocolate enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, intimate activity. It’s perfect if you enjoy sensory experiences, storytelling, and small-group fun. The emotional aspect—recreating childhood memories—adds depth for those interested in more than just making chocolates.

If you’re traveling with kids or friends who love chocolate, this could be a fun and memorable part of your London trip. It’s also suitable if you want a unique gift idea or a creative break from sightseeing.

However, if you’re a serious chocolatier or looking for an intensive, full-scale workshop, this might feel too superficial. Be prepared for a more guided, sensory journey rather than a comprehensive hands-on class.

The Sum Up

Melt’s bonbon-making experience in Notting Hill offers a sweet escape into the world of chocolate, with a focus on sensory memories and personal creativity. The small-group setting makes it approachable and friendly, perfect for those who want a relaxed, fun activity rather than a technical mastery session.

While some may find the class a bit minimal—particularly if they’re looking for a full chocolate-making experience—it excels at evoking childhood nostalgia and offering a delightful sensory adventure. The chance to leave with your own box of handcrafted chocolates makes it a memorable souvenir of London.

This experience provides good value, especially for travelers wanting something different from museums or tours. It’s a charming, intimate activity that combines storytelling, taste, and a bit of creative play—great for curious travelers, chocolate lovers, or anyone looking to add a special touch to their visit.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the class is designed for adults, children with an interest in chocolate might enjoy the sensory and nostalgic aspects, though the age limit isn’t specified. It’s best to check directly with Melt Chocolates for any age restrictions.

How long does the class last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity for a half-day.

What’s included in the price?
You pay for the lesson, tasting, and creating your own bonbons, plus you’ll take home a box of your own chocolates. Be aware that some shells may be pre-made, focusing the activity more on flavor combinations.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this class is popular and typically booked around 48 days ahead. Securing your spot early is recommended.

Is transportation nearby?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access from central London.

Whether you’re a serious chocolatier or a casual chocolate fan, Melt’s bonbon-making class offers a charming, sensory adventure in Notting Hill. It’s a great way to indulge your sweet tooth while creating lasting memories—and chocolates—to take home.