Have you heard of “Pascal Le Gac”? Pascal Le Gac, one of France’s top chocolatiers, creates chocolates that have captivated chocolate lovers worldwide.
Even the famous Minami Tanaka is known to adore Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates. What exactly makes these chocolates so irresistible?
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the unique qualities and craftsmanship of Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates, including the ones personally loved by Minami Tanaka.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll surely find yourself craving Pascal Le Gac’s exquisite chocolates! Be sure to read until the end.
Pascal Le Gac: The Chocolates Loved by Minami Tanaka
Who is Pascal Le Gac?
A Chocolatier France is Proud of
Pascal Le Gac is one of France’s most renowned chocolatiers. His name is celebrated among chocolate enthusiasts worldwide for his innovative yet tradition-respecting chocolate creations. Born in 1961 in the Brittany region of France, he grew up surrounded by abundant nature. This upbringing profoundly influenced his dedication to sourcing high-quality ingredients and achieving harmony with nature in his chocolate-making process.
The Start of a Brilliant Career
In 1978, Pascal Le Gac graduated at the top of his class from the prestigious Ferrandi culinary school in France. Following his graduation, he joined the world-famous chocolatier Maison du Chocolat, where he served as a creative director. In this role, he not only mastered traditional chocolate-making techniques but also honed his ability to bring innovative ideas to life.
Independence and a New Chapter
In 2008, Pascal Le Gac took a bold step toward independence by opening his own chocolatier in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, just outside of Paris. This marked a significant turning point in his career, as his chocolates—crafted with unparalleled technique and aesthetic sensibility—quickly gained widespread acclaim.
From 2009 to 2013, he received the highest rating for five consecutive years from the Club des Croqueurs de Chocolat (C.C.C.), a prestigious chocolate connoisseurs’ organization in France. In 2019, he earned the title “les meilleurs des meilleurs” (the best of the best), solidifying his position as one of the top chocolatiers in the world.
Uncompromising Commitment to Quality
Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates are crafted using the finest, carefully selected cacao beans, along with naturally derived fruits and spices. These ingredients are treated as more than just components; they are carefully balanced to bring out their maximum potential. This meticulous attention to detail is what allows him to create chocolates that seamlessly blend tradition and innovation.
Reputation and Appeal
Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates are renowned for their smooth texture and complex yet harmonious flavors. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, and their visual beauty resembles works of art. This has made his creations beloved not only by chocolate enthusiasts and experts worldwide but also as popular gifts for special occasions.
By preserving French traditions while incorporating contemporary sensibilities, Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates stand out as one-of-a-kind masterpieces. His creations go beyond mere confections, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that resonates with those who taste them.
The Tradition of French Chocolatiers
Pascal Le Gac and the Legacy of French Chocolatiers
Pascal Le Gac deeply respects the tradition of French chocolatiers, staying true to their techniques and knowledge. The history of French chocolatiers dates back to the 17th century when chocolate was enjoyed as a delicacy among royalty and aristocrats. By the 18th century, chocolatiers—skilled chocolate craftsmen—began to emerge, developing unique techniques and recipes that elevated chocolate into a more refined luxury.
Pascal Le Gac inherits this proud tradition, allowing no compromises in ingredient selection or manufacturing processes. Only the finest quality cacao beans, sourced from around the world, are used in his creations. These beans are carefully roasted, refined, and conched using traditional methods. Additionally, fillings like ganache and praline are handcrafted with great attention to detail, preserving traditional recipes.
Pascal Le Gac also embraces innovation alongside tradition, continually experimenting with new ideas in chocolate making. For example, he draws inspiration from Japanese ingredients and culture to develop unique new flavors. By blending tradition with innovation, Pascal Le Gac bridges the rich history of French chocolatiers with the future of chocolate artistry.
A Message from Amélie Le Gac
Amélie Le Gac, the daughter of Pascal Le Gac, grew up in an environment surrounded by chocolate. For her, chocolate evokes nostalgic memories of her father and has always sparked her curiosity. During her student years, she interned at “La Maison du Chocolat,” where her father worked for over 25 years, gaining a deep appreciation for the complexity of chocolate-making.
When Pascal Le Gac opened his chocolatier, Amélie actively joined the business, becoming her father’s right-hand support. Today, she manages the store in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, overseeing customer relations, new product development, and various other responsibilities.
Amélie holds deep respect for Japanese culture and its people and feels honored to share Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates with customers in Japan.
The Popular Pascal Le Gac Chocolates Chosen by Minami Tanaka
Enchanting Moments with Pascal Le Gac’s Chocolates Loved by Minami Tanaka
Renowned for her elegance, Minami Tanaka has showcased Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates on TV programs. In March 2021, she introduced the “Heart Bonbon Chocolates Assortment” on Konya Kurabete Mimashita, and in February 2015, she highlighted the “Bonbon Chocolates Assortment” on Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai.
Although the same products might not always be available on the online store, Pascal Le Gac’s “Bonbon Chocolates” continue to bring moments of joy with their variety of flavors. Crafted with carefully selected cacao beans, they offer a rich aroma and smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture, promising a blissful experience.
For women like Minami Tanaka, who radiate beauty, Pascal Le Gac’s chocolates seem to hold a magical quality that enhances their brilliance. Why not indulge in this magic yourself?
Recommended Products from Pascal Le Gac
1. Bonbon Chocolates Assortment (8 pieces)
- Price: 3,780 yen (990 yen shipping fee)
This set includes the 2025 new flavor “Shiso (Perilla)” along with Takashimaya exclusives like “Passion Fruit and Spices” and “Rum Raisin.” It also features “Salted Milk Caramel,” “Citron,” “Cassis,” “Spices,” and “Praline Coconut,” offering a harmonious balance of ingredients and flavors.
2. Bonbon Chocolates & Orange Confit Assortment
- Price: 4,590 yen (990 yen shipping fee)
This assortment features nine bonbon chocolates, including the new 2025 flavors “Shiso” and “Cherry Rosemary,” as well as “Vanilla” and “Praline Feuilletine.” It also includes “Orange Confit,” a traditional French delicacy of candied orange peel coated in thin layers of bitter and milk chocolate.
3. Truffle Assortment
- Price: 4,320 yen (990 yen shipping fee)
This set includes the classic “Nature” and the limited-edition “Raspberry.” The “Nature” truffle features rich ganache with bold cacao flavors, while the “Raspberry” truffle offers a fragrant tartness with a smooth texture.
Buying Pascal Le Gac Chocolates Online
You can purchase Pascal Le Gac chocolates online from several retailers:
Official Online Store
The official online store offers a wide variety of products, including assorted bonbons, macarons, and tablette chocolate bars. You can also find limited edition items and gift sets.
Department Store Online Stores
- Takashimaya Online Store: Pascal Le Gac
- Isetan Online Store: Pascal Le Gac
Salon du Chocolat / Amour du Chocolat
Pascal Le Gac chocolates are also available at the annual chocolate festivals “Salon du Chocolat” and “Amour du Chocolat,” which are usually held from January to February.
- Salon du Chocolat: Official website
- Amour du Chocolat: Official website
Important Notes When Buying Online
- During peak seasons like Valentine’s Day and Christmas, orders may be concentrated, and some products may be out of stock. It is recommended to place your order early if you want to secure your purchase.
- Shipping fees and delivery times vary depending on the online store. Please check the details beforehand.
Enjoy Pascal Le Gac chocolates through your preferred shopping method.
Pascal Le Gac Store Locations
Currently, Pascal Le Gac has locations in both Japan and France, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the charm of his chocolates firsthand. Below are the key store details.
1. Pascal Le Gac Tokyo (Akasaka)
- Address:
2-12-13 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan - Business Hours:
- Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last order: 6:00 PM)
- Saturdays & Public Holidays: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last order: 5:00 PM)
- Closed: Sundays
- Access:
- 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Akasaka Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
- 1-minute walk from Exit 11 of Tameike-Sanno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Namboku Line)
Features:
- Akasaka is the second global store and replicates the luxurious ambiance of the French flagship store.
- Offers exclusive items such as “Éclair Chocolat” and “Tarte Chocolat,” available in Japan for the first time.
- The 12-seat eat-in corner provides an immersive chocolate experience, featuring hot chocolate and special menu items.
- Uses custom-designed tableware in collaboration with Japanese manufacturer Noritake, also available for purchase as souvenirs.
2. Pascal Le Gac Flagship Store (Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France)
- Address:
61 Rue de Pologne, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France - Business Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Closed: Mondays
- Phone Number:
+33 (0)1 39 18 52 68
Features:
- A flagship store with an attached atelier that seamlessly blends French tradition with modern techniques.
- Offers a wide selection of bonbon chocolates, macarons, and seasonal limited-edition items.
- Allows visitors to enjoy the authentic ambiance while appreciating the craftsmanship of skilled chocolatiers.
Whether in Tokyo or France, Pascal Le Gac’s stores provide a refined and immersive chocolate experience, showcasing the artistry and passion behind every creation.
Pascal Le Gac’s Highlights (Summary)
- Pascal Le Gac is one of France’s most renowned chocolatiers.
- Founded his shop in Saint-Germain-en-Laye in 2008.
- Combines traditional methods with innovative ideas in chocolate-making.
- Uses only the finest cacao beans and maintains meticulous production standards.
- Received the highest rating of 5 tablets from C.C.C. for 5 consecutive years.
- Featured on Japanese TV programs by Minami Tanaka.
- Offers seasonal and limited-edition products during holidays.
- Operates two stores: in France (main store) and Tokyo (Akasaka).
- Available at select department stores such as Takashimaya and online.
- Provides a variety of products, including bonbons, macarons, and truffles.