Pocky Buying Guide: Top Picks and What to Look For

Instantly recognisable, Pocky is much more than just a Japanese biscuit: it's a true institution that has won over foodies far beyond its borders. With its crunchy stick coated in a delicious frosting, Pocky comes in a myriad of flavours, from the most classic to the most surprising. Faced with such diversity, it can be hard to know where to start, whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer wanting to try Pocky for the first time.

This guide is here to help you make sense of it all. We'll break down the different facets of this iconic Japanese snack and present our top picks to help you make the right choice, based on your tastes and cravings.

How to Choose Your Pocky?

Before you dive into our selection, here are a few criteria to consider when hunting for the perfect box of Pocky.

1. The type of flavour

The Glico Pocky range is immense. The flavours can be grouped into a few main families:

• The classics: The unbeatable milk chocolate Pocky, closely followed by strawberry. These are safe bets, perfect for a first tasting or for pleasing a crowd.
• Fruity flavours: Blueberry, banana, mango… These variations add a touch of freshness and exoticism. They are often found as limited-edition Pocky.
• Japanese-inspired flavours:Matcha Pocky (green tea) is a must-try for those who enjoy more complex and less sweet tastes. Other typical flavours like azuki (sweet red bean) are also worth exploring.

2. The occasion

Your choice of Pocky also depends on the context:

• For a solo break: Be bold and try the flavours that intrigue you, even the most original ones. It's the perfect time to treat yourself!
• For sharing: Classic flavours like chocolate are a sure thing. You might also consider offering an assortment of several boxes so there's something for everyone.
• For gifting: Limited editions, with their often beautifully designed packaging and unique flavours, are an excellent and original gift idea, highly appreciated by connoisseurs.

3. The format

Pocky boxes vary in size. Standard formats usually contain between 40g and 70g of biscuits. Some special or family-sized editions offer more generous quantities or individual packets, which are very practical for maintaining freshness and for taking on the go.

Our Recommended Pocky Selection

To help you choose, here are three products that perfectly illustrate the richness of the Pocky range.

Glico Pocky Heartful Blueberry

Why we love it: This version stands out immediately with its heart-shaped sticks. The creamy blueberry coating offers a fruity and tangy flavour that's a refreshing change from the classics. It's a special edition, perfect for celebrating an occasion or simply for enjoying a cute, sweet treat.

Pros:

• A delicate, fruity blueberry flavour.
• Adorable and original heart-shaped biscuit.
• Packaged in two freshness-sealed bags.

Who is it for? For those who want to try something different and discover a more creative side of Pocky. It's also an excellent choice for a small romantic or friendly gesture.

Glico Pocky Biscuit Chocolate Flavour

Why we love it: This is THE gold standard, the chocolate Pocky in its most iconic form. The crunchy biscuit stick is coated in a rich, smooth chocolate frosting. The balance between the plain biscuit and the sweetness of the chocolate is perfectly executed, making it a timeless classic.

Pros:

• A classic, timeless taste that's a crowd-pleaser.
• The perfect balance between biscuit and chocolate.
• Pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Who is it for? The ideal choice for those new to Pocky, as well as for purists who appreciate a reliable classic. It's the ultimate go-to snack, perfect for an office break or a movie night.

Glico Pocky Biscuit Sticks Matcha Flavour

Why we love it:Matcha Pocky is an excellent gateway to more authentic Japanese flavours. The coating is a matcha green tea cream that offers a distinctive, earthy flavour, with a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness. A more complex and refined taste experience.

Pros:

• An authentic matcha green tea flavour.
• Less sweet than most other varieties.
• A sophisticated alternative to traditional snacks.

Who is it for? For green tea lovers and those who enjoy flavours with more character. If you're curious to discover a Japanese biscuit with a unique aromatic profile, Matcha Pocky is a must-try.

Want to Explore Other Flavours?

Our selection is just a taste of the immense Pocky universe. Many other flavours, both permanent and limited-edition, are waiting to be discovered.

To explore a wider range of treats from Japan, take a look at our dedicated category.

? Discover our entire collection of Japanese snacks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What exactly is Pocky? Pocky is a snack created by the Japanese company Glico. It consists of a thin, crispy biscuit stick, partially coated in various flavours, the most famous being chocolate. The uncoated part serves as a handle, allowing you to eat them without getting your fingers messy.

2. What are the most common Pocky flavours? Besides milk chocolate, the most common flavours internationally are strawberry, matcha (green tea), and almond. However, in Japan and other Asian countries, there are dozens of other varieties, including highly sought-after seasonal or regional limited editions.

3. Where can you buy Pocky online in France? You can buy Pocky online on many platforms. Online Asian grocery stores, as well as major marketplaces like Joybuy, offer a varied selection that often includes flavours that are rare in physical stores. It's the ideal way to compare prices and find new releases.

By the Joybuy Editorial Team