From its stunning architecture and bustling markets to its rich arts scene, Brussels . Beyond its daytime entertainment scene, the city also boasts a lively nightlife, with a full list of world-class casinos, cosy jazz bars, and energetic clubs to choose from.
Prefer to travel by belly? Brussels is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of traditional Belgian dishes that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. From indulgent sweet treats to hearty comfort food, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
So, what are the best things to eat and drink in Brussels? Here are ten must-try traditional Belgian foods to enjoy in the heart of Belgium’s vibrant capital.
1. Belgian waffles
There are two main types of waffles to try in Brussels: the Brussels waffle and the Liège waffle.
- Brussels waffles are light, crispy, and rectangular, typically dusted with powdered sugar and served with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or Belgian chocolate sauce.
- Liège waffles are denser and sweeter, with caramelised sugar pearls embedded in the dough, giving them a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Whichever you choose, freshly made waffles from a street vendor or a café are an essential Brussels experience.
2. Moules frites
Mussels and fries (moules frites) are a cornerstone of Belgian cuisine. The mussels are steamed in a variety of broths – white wine with shallots and parsley, garlic and cream, or even beer-infused sauces -and served with a generous portion of crispy golden fries.
Traditionally, fries are dunked into the leftover broth or paired with a side of mayonnaise for extra indulgence. This dish is widely available in seafood restaurants across Brussels, particularly in the lively Sainte-Catherine district.
A true Belgian classic, moules frites (mussels with fries) is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Brussels’ culinary heritage. Served in steaming pots brimming with plump, succulent mussels cooked in a fragrant broth, accompanied by a side of crispy golden fries, this dish is perfect for any seafood fan.
3. Chocolate
Belgium is world-renowned for its quality chocolate, and Brussels is home to some of the most famous chocolatiers, including Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, Godiva, and Leonidas. These artisanal chocolates are crafted using high-quality ingredients and refined techniques that have been perfected over centuries.
For an immersive experience, visit the Belgian Chocolate Village museum or take a chocolate-making workshop to create your own pralines, truffles, and ganache-filled delights.
4. Belgian beer
Belgium’s brewing tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, and the country is home to over 1,500 varieties of beer. In Brussels, you’ll find everything from light and refreshing wheat beers to complex Trappist ales brewed by monks.
Popular varieties to try include:
- Lambic beer – A spontaneously fermented beer, often enjoyed in the form of Gueuze (a blend of young and aged lambics) or Kriek (a cherry-flavoured lambic).
- Dubbel and Tripel beers – Strong, malty beers brewed by Belgian monasteries.
- Witbier (white beer) – A cloudy wheat beer with citrus and coriander notes.
For an authentic experience, visit Delirium Café, a legendary Brussels bar boasting a menu of over 2,000 different beers.
5. Frites
Belgian frites are thicker than standard French fries, fried twice to achieve a perfect crispy outside and fluffy inside. Served in a cone with an array of sauces, they make for the perfect street food snack.
Popular sauces include:
- Andalouse – A creamy, slightly spicy sauce with tomato and peppers.
- Samurai – A spicy mayonnaise-based sauce.
- Curry ketchup – A tangy twist on traditional ketchup.
For some of the best frites in Brussels, head to Maison Antoine or Frit Flagey.
6. Speculoos
These spiced shortcrust biscuits are flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and brown sugar, giving them a distinctive warm and slightly caramelised taste. Originally associated with St. Nicholas Day, speculoos are now enjoyed year-round and are often served alongside coffee.
For an even more indulgent experience, try Speculoos spread (Biscoff) – a creamy, cookie butter-like spread that can be enjoyed on toast, waffles, or straight from the jar!
7. Stoofvlees
This rich beef stew is a Belgian comfort food staple, featuring slow-cooked beef simmered in a dark beer-based gravy. The result is tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat in a sauce thickened with onions, mustard, and brown sugar.
Stoofvlees is typically served with frites or crusty bread, perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce. Many restaurants pair it with a local beer for the ultimate Belgian dining experience.
Whether you’re sampling savoury moules frites, indulging in decadent Belgian chocolate, or raising a glass of locally brewed beer, the culinary side of Brussels is a real feast for the senses. Arm yourself with a good appetite, and embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Belgium’s vibrant capital.
8. Waterzooi
Originally from Ghent but popular in Brussels, Waterzooi is a creamy, hearty stew traditionally made with fish but now more commonly prepared with chicken. Traditionally, this delicate broth is thickened with egg yolk, cream, and butter; and flavoured with leeks, carrots, and celery.
It’s a perfect dish for colder days, typically found in many of Brussels’ traditional brasseries.
9. Grey shrimp croquettes (Croquettes de crevettes grises)
A true Belgian delicacy, these crispy, golden croquettes are stuffed with a creamy béchamel sauce packed with North Sea grey shrimp – a prized local seafood treat. Often, they’ll be served with parsley and a wedge of lemon.
If you want to try an exceptional version, head to Noordzee – Mer du Nord, a popular seafood stand in the heart of Brussels.
10. Mitraillette
For a more casual, fast-food-style Belgian dish, try a mitraillette, or a “submachine gun.” This baguette sandwich is packed with a choice of meat (often hamburger, frikandel, or steak), topped with frites and slathered in sauce.
It’s a hearty, indulgent street food favourite and can be found at many friteries across Brussels.
Whether you’re sampling savoury moules frites, indulging in decadent Belgian chocolate, or raising a glass of locally brewed beer, the culinary side of Brussels is a real feast for the senses. Arm yourself with a good appetite, be sure to check out local travel providers like SNCF Connect website for the latest travel timetables before you leave, and look forward to getting your teeth stuck into Belgian cuisine.
Smakelijk (that’s Belgian for “delicious”!)
What are your favourite Belgian foods? Leave a comment to let me know your suggestions.