The late Queen Elizabeth II may have been known for her disciplined lifestyle and careful eating habits, but the late monarch also harboured a sweet secret that endeared her to chocolate lovers worldwide; she was an unabashed 'chocoholic'. But as is befitting her legacy, her chocolate preferences were as distinguished and particular as her royal tastes.Former Buckingham Palace chef Darren McGrady, who served the royal household from 1982 to 1993, revealed fascinating insights about the Queen's chocolate preferences during a 2018 CNN interview. "She likes chocolate, but only dark chocolate, the darker the better," McGrady shared, noting that Her Majesty showed little interest in milk or white chocolate varieties.There was one favourite among her most chocolate indulgences which was Bendicks Bittermints, which earned the coveted Royal Warrant in 1962. These after-dinner dark chocolate-covered mint fondants are readily available in British supermarkets for around £5 a box and were frequently spotted in the Queen's private quarters. Despite their relatively modest price point, these mints held a special place in the Queen's heart, with McGrady confirming they were her "favourite for snacking."The monarch's chocolate consumption was seamlessly integrated into her daily routine, which consisted of four small meals: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. While she started her day on a simpler note with Earl Grey tea and biscuits, chocolate often made appearances throughout her day, particularly during dessert time. "Anything we put on the menu that had chocolate on, she would choose, especially chocolate perfection pie," McGrady recalled.

Beyond her beloved Bendicks, the Queen also favoured creations from luxury chocolatier Charbonnel et Walker, whose prestigious offerings can command prices up to £280. This royal preference for fine chocolate was so well-known that a box of Bendicks Bittermints was even spotted on her desk in the background of an official photo, offering a glimpse into her personal indulgences.Also Read: Despite her fondness for chocolate, Queen Elizabeth maintained a balanced approach to her diet, predominantly consuming healthy meals rich in vegetables, fish, and meat. Her chocolate consumption, while regular, was measured and discriminating, focusing on quality over quantity. This sophisticated approach to enjoying sweets while maintaining overall healthy eating habits perhaps contributed to her longevity and vitality throughout her reign.The Queen's chocolate preferences also reflected a broader appreciation for British craftsmanship and tradition, as both Bendicks and Charbonnel et Walker represent longstanding pillars of British confectionery. Her loyalty to these brands helped maintain their prestigious status and contributed to their enduring success in the competitive chocolate market.