Best Places to Eat in Brussels A Food Lover’s Guide

When it comes to dining in Brussels, the options are endless. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy cafe, delicious foodtruck, traditional brasserie, intimate bistro, lively pub, elegant restaurant, sizzling steakhouse, or a classic diner, Brussels has it all.

For a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere, head to one of the city’s charming cafes. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a delicate pastry while soaking in the local ambiance. If you prefer a more casual dining experience, try one of the trendy foodtrucks that offer a variety of cuisines from around the world.

If you’re looking for a taste of Belgian tradition, a visit to a traditional brasserie is a must. Indulge in hearty dishes like moules-frites (mussels and fries) or carbonade flamande (beef stewed in beer). For a sophisticated dining experience, book a table at one of the city’s elegant restaurants, where talented chefs create culinary masterpieces using locally sourced ingredients.

Those seeking a cozy and intimate setting should check out the city’s many bistros. These small, neighborhood eateries are known for their warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as their delicious and unpretentious cuisine. If you’re in the mood for a lively and casual night out, head to one of Brussels’ bustling pubs, where you can enjoy a range of beers along with classic pub fare. For steak lovers, there are plenty of sizzling steakhouse options that offer juicy cuts of meat cooked to perfection.

And if you’re craving a taste of Americana, Brussels also has a few diners that serve up all your favorite comfort foods. From burgers and fries to milkshakes and pancakes, these establishments will satisfy any homesick cravings.

So whether you’re a food connoisseur or just looking for a satisfying meal, Brussels has a diverse range of dining options to suit every palate and preference. Discover the best places to eat in Brussels and embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Europe.

Must-Try Belgian Dishes

If you’re visiting Brussels, you simply cannot miss trying some of the delicious Belgian dishes. Here are a few must-try dishes that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Moules-Frites: This iconic dish consists of mussels cooked in white wine or beer and served with a side of crispy fries. You can find this dish in almost every Belgian cafe, pub, and brasserie.

2. Waffles: Belgian waffles are a true classic. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as powdered sugar, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit. You can find waffle stands and food trucks selling these delicious treats throughout the city.

3. Carbonade Flamande: This hearty stew is made with beef, onions, and beer. It is slowly cooked to perfection and served with a side of fries or mashed potatoes. You can find this dish in traditional Belgian restaurants and brasseries.

4. Waterzooi: Waterzooi is a creamy soup made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and cream. It is a traditional Flemish dish that is often served with a side of bread. You can find it in many traditional Belgian restaurants and bistro.

5. Stoemp: Stoemp is a comforting dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables such as cabbage or carrots. It is often served with sausages or other meats. You can find this dish in traditional Belgian pubs and bistros.

6. Flemish Beef Stew: This stew is made with beef, onions, and beer, similar to the Carbonade Flamande. However, it is cooked for a longer time to make the meat tender and flavorful. It is often served with fries or mashed potatoes and can be found in traditional Belgian restaurants and steakhouses.

7. Belgian Chocolate: No visit to Brussels is complete without trying some Belgian chocolate. Whether you visit a chocolate shop or indulge in a chocolaterie, you’ll find a wide variety of handmade chocolates and pralines to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Moules-Frites: A Classic Belgian Delicacy

If you’re a food lover visiting Brussels, you simply cannot miss trying moules-frites, a classic Belgian delicacy. Moules-frites, which translates to mussels and fries, is a popular dish that can be found in various types of establishments, including pubs, diners, pizzerias, bistros, cafes, restaurants, steakhouses, and brasseries.

While each of these establishments may have their own unique twist on the dish, the basic concept remains the same – a steaming pot of fresh mussels served with a side of crispy golden fries. The mussels are typically cooked in a flavorful broth made with white wine, garlic, onions, and various herbs and spices. This creates a rich and aromatic base for the mussels to soak up.

The fries, which are an essential component of the dish, are often double-fried to achieve the perfect level of crispiness. They are served piping hot and sprinkled with salt, adding a delicious crunch to each bite of mussels. Some places may also offer a variety of dipping sauces to accompany the fries, such as mayonnaise, aioli, or ketchup.

When it comes to enjoying moules-frites, there are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind. First, it’s common to eat the mussels using an empty shell as a utensil to scoop out the meat. This allows you to savor the flavor of the broth as you eat. Additionally, it’s customary to use a fork to eat the fries, rather than your fingers.

Whether you choose to enjoy moules-frites at a cozy bistro or a bustling brasserie, this classic Belgian dish is a must-try for any food lover visiting Brussels. So grab a seat, pour yourself a cold Belgian beer, and indulge in the delicious combination of mussels and fries that has become an iconic part of Belgian cuisine.

Carbonade Flamande: Hearty and Flavorful Stew

The traditional Belgian dish, Carbonade Flamande, is a hearty and flavorful stew that is a must-try for food lovers in Brussels. This dish is a perfect representation of Belgian cuisine and can be found in many restaurants, brasseries, and bistros across the city.

Carbonade Flamande is made with tender beef, typically from a local butcher, that is slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce. The beef is marinated in Belgian beer, which adds depth and complexity to the dish. The stew is then cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, creating a delicious and comforting flavor profile.

This stew is typically served with a side of frites, which are Belgian-style fries, and a dollop of tangy mustard. The combination of the tender beef, flavorful sauce, and crispy fries creates a satisfying and fulfilling meal.

While Carbonade Flamande can be found in various dining establishments in Brussels, some of the best places to try this dish include traditional brasseries, cozy bistros, and authentic Belgian restaurants. These places often take pride in their traditional recipes and use high-quality ingredients to create the best Carbonade Flamande.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy restaurant, a lively pub, or a food truck experience, you’re sure to find a place in Brussels where you can enjoy a delicious serving of Carbonade Flamande. Don’t miss out on this classic Belgian dish during your visit to Brussels!

Speculoos: A Traditional Belgian Spiced Cookie

When it comes to traditional Belgian treats, speculoos is a must-try. This spiced cookie has a rich history and is loved by locals and tourists alike. Speculoos is often enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it the perfect sweet accompaniment to your meal.

Speculoos can be found in a variety of places in Brussels, from diners and pubs to pizzerias and cafes. Many restaurants and food trucks also offer their own unique twists on this classic cookie, incorporating it into their desserts or using it as a topping for ice cream.

One popular spot to indulge in speculoos is a traditional Belgian brasserie. These cozy eateries often serve speculoos alongside your coffee or as a side with a dessert. The warm, spiced flavor of the cookie pairs perfectly with the hearty dishes typically found in a brasserie.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, a steakhouse or fine dining restaurant may also offer speculoos-inspired desserts. These establishments may serve a deconstructed speculoos cheesecake or a speculoos-infused mousse, showcasing the cookie in a more sophisticated way.

Whether you’re enjoying speculoos at a quaint cafe or indulging in a decadent dessert at a high-end restaurant, this traditional Belgian spiced cookie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.

Top Restaurants in Brussels

When it comes to dining out in Brussels, there is no shortage of options. From traditional Belgian brasseries to trendy food trucks, the city offers a diverse range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget.

If you’re looking for a traditional Belgian dining experience, head to a brasserie. These classic eateries serve up hearty dishes like moules-frites (mussels and fries) and carbonnade flamande (beef stewed in beer). With their cozy atmosphere and extensive beer menus, brasseries are a great choice for a relaxed meal.

For a more casual dining experience, try a food truck or bistro. Food trucks can be found throughout the city, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. Bistros, on the other hand, are small, cozy restaurants that serve simple yet delicious meals. They often feature daily specials and seasonal ingredients.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, there are plenty of fine dining options in Brussels. From Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy fusion spots, the city has it all. Whether you’re craving French cuisine, sushi, or Mediterranean fare, you’re sure to find a restaurant to suit your taste.

Craving pizza? Brussels has a number of excellent pizzerias where you can enjoy a slice of authentic Italian pizza. From thin and crispy to thick and cheesy, you’ll find a wide variety of styles and toppings to choose from.

If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, check out a diner. These casual restaurants serve up classic comfort food like burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes. Whether you’re in the mood for a greasy cheeseburger or a fluffy stack of pancakes, diners have something for everyone.

If you’re a meat lover, Brussels has you covered with a range of steakhouse options. From traditional Belgian steak frites to American-style ribeye, you’ll find plenty of juicy, tender cuts of meat to satisfy your cravings. Many steakhouse restaurants also offer a variety of delicious sides and sauces to complete your meal.

Finally, if you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax with a cup of coffee or a light meal, head to a cafe. Brussels is known for its cafe culture, with charming establishments lining the streets. Whether you prefer a trendy coffee shop or a traditional tearoom, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.