Short answer: Yes — if you like very fresh, ultra-creamy, high‑quality chocolate with a rich, melt‑in‑the‑mouth texture, Royce' is worth trying.
Why people like it
- Signature texture: their "nama" (raw) chocolates are famously silky and almost ganache‑like because they use lots of fresh cream and cocoa butter.
- Clean, intense flavors: good cocoa balance (especially in darker varieties) and delicate powdered‑cocoa coating on several varieties.
- Fun/unique items: their potato‑chip chocolate (chocolate‑coated thin potato crisps) and thin, crispy chocolate bars are distinctive and popular gifts/snacks.
- Japanese craftsmanship: consistent quality and attractive packaging—often sold as gifts.
What to try first
- Nama Chocolate (milk or “au lait”): the classic Royce' experience — very creamy and approachable.
- Nama Pure Chocolate or Dark Nama: if you prefer more cocoa intensity.
- Potatochip Chocolate: great if you want something sweet‑salty and texturally fun.
- Chocolate bars (e.g., pure cacao percentage): if you prefer something firmer.
Practical notes
- Price: premium — higher than mass-market chocolate. Expect small boxes to cost noticeably more than grocery chocolate.
- Freshness/storage: best kept refrigerated and eaten within the short shelf life indicated (nama especially is meant to be fresh). Let refrigerated nama sit at room temperature a few minutes before eating for best texture.
- Availability: sold at Royce' boutiques, some department stores/airports, online retailers, and specialty importers. If buying abroad or at specialty shops, packaging often indicates production/expiration dates.
- Allergens: contains dairy and often nuts; check labels if you have allergies.
Who should try it
- Definitely: fans of creamy ganachey chocolate, people who enjoy premium confections, and anyone curious about Japanese chocolate treats.
- Maybe skip if: you want inexpensive everyday chocolate, or you dislike very soft/melty textures.
Bottom line: Royce' is a worthwhile treat if you enjoy rich, ultra‑creamy confections and don't mind paying a premium. If it’s your first time, try a small box of nama and one novelty item (potatochip or a bar) to see if you like the texture and flavor.