10 yummy dishes showcasing the best food in Brussels

When it comes to culinary hotspots, Brussels punches well above its weight. Sure, food in Brussels often evokes waffles and fries, but the city’s diverse food scene offers so much more. As the EU’s capital and a crossroads of international culture, Brussels’ cuisine is a dynamic mix of indulgence, tradition, and cosmopolitan flair.

From creamy chicken stews to artisanal chocolates and some of the world’s best beers, this city satisfies every craving. Whether exploring the cobblestone streets by Brussels’ Grand Place or savoring local meals in an old-school brasserie, this guide highlights 10 must-eat dishes no food lover should miss.

1. Moules-frites

This popular food in Brussels reflects Belgium’s love for seafood and potatoes. Fresh North Sea mussels are steamed in a pot with white wine, garlic, onions, and herbs, creating a fragrant broth. Once a meal for Flemish fishermen, moules-frites is now a Belgian classic. Fortunately, we’ve moved on from when the mussel shells were used as makeshift spoons!

How to eat the best moules-frites in Brussels?

Experiment at home by learning the secrets to its perfect broth at a Brussels cooking class, or dive in at a local brasserie. Pair with crispy fries and dip them into the leftover mussel broth, just as the locals do.

2. Belgian waffles

While Belgian waffles are a famous food in Brussels, did you know they were first popularized in the US at the 1964 World’s Fair? The Brussels waffle is crisp, airy, and rectangular, while its Liège counterpart is denser and has caramelized sugar pearls. Historically a fairground treat, waffles are now available throughout the city every day.

How to eat the best Belgian waffles in Brussels?

Enjoy a waffle dusted with powdered sugar or topped with whipped cream and strawberries as you roam Brussels’ neighborhoods. Pair it with hot chocolate for a soul-soothing snack.

3. Belgian fries

Belgium fiercely claims to have invented fries, not France, and they’ve turned them into a famous food — frites culture is even honored with its own museum, the Frietmuseum in Bruges. Fried twice for the perfect crunch, Belgian fries are served at fritkots (fry stands) and drizzled with various sauces. Belgian fishermen originally fried small fish from the Meuse River, but when the river froze, they fried potatoes instead — thus, fries were born.

How to eat the best fries in Brussels?

Between exploring Brussels museums, grab a cone of fries with paprika-spiced Andalouse sauce or curry mayo and pair it with a Belgian pilsner.

4. Chocolate and pralines

Belgium’s love affair with chocolate has made it a global powerhouse since the 19th century, earning it a reputation as the world’s chocolate capital. Pralines — chocolates filled with ganache, nuts, or liqueur — were invented in Brussels in 1912 by chocolatier Jean Neuhaus Jr. Today, chocolate shops like Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini are revered worldwide for their intricate craftsmanship.

How to eat the best chocolate and pralines in Brussels?

Try unique flavors like chili or matcha pralines on a Brussels chocolate tour. Plus, learn how to pair chocolates with Belgian beers — it might sound unusual, but it works.

5. Carbonnade flamande

This hearty beef stew, slow-cooked with dark beer, onions, and spices, reflects Belgian’s love of beer in cooking and is a must for first-timers in Brussels. Dating back to medieval times, it was a popular food for farmers and workers. Some recipe variations call for a dollop of mustard spread on bread and stirred into the stew for added flavor.

How to eat the best carbonnade flamande in Brussels?

Accompanied with fries or bread, it’s a cozy food to eat for chilly Brussels evenings. Wash it down with a Trappist ale or Abbey beer for a meal that screams Belgium.

6. Grey shrimp croquettes

Grey shrimp croquettes are a classic Belgian treat: golden and crisp on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside. Made with North Sea grey shrimp, prized for their sweet and nutty flavor, these croquettes highlight Belgium’s seafood heritage. Historically, peeling the tiny shrimp was a communal activity for coastal families and remains a tradition today.

How to eat the best grey shrimp croquettes in Brussels?

Savor croquettes with fresh lemon wedges and parsley. Pair them with white wine or a tangy Belgian gueuze beer — when it comes to romantic things to do in Brussels, nothing beats a cozy dinner for two.

7. Waterzooi

A creamy Flemish stew steeped in Brussels culture and history, waterzooi originally featured fish but evolved to include chicken in the 16th century when fish became scarce. The name comes from “zooien,” meaning “to simmer,” describing how its combination of vegetables, cream, and herbs is prepared. It was reportedly a favorite of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, a famous gourmand born in Ghent.

How to eat the best waterzooi in Brussels?

Enjoy this velvety, must-eat stew with crusty bread for dipping at family-run favorite La Belle Maraîchère Brasserie. Pair with a Belgian wheat beer like Hoegaarden to complete the dish’s richness.

8. Speculoos

Originally a holiday cookie for St. Nicholas celebrations, speculoos has become a year-round favorite in Belgium — and the world. These spiced, must-eat biscuits, flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, are embossed with intricate designs reflecting religious and cultural symbols.

How to eat the best speculoos in Brussels?

Eat speculoos biscuits on toast for an energizing start to your morning before enjoying a Brussels bike tour. Alternatively, pair it with coffee, crumble it over vanilla ice cream, or try a scoop of speculoos-flavored gelato for a tasty twist.

9. Endive gratin

Belgian endives (or chicons) are considered a national treasure and an essential food to eat in Brussels. Introduced in the 19th century by a Belgian farmer, these vegetables thrive in the local climate and are a staple at local Brussels markets. Baked in creamy béchamel sauce and topped with cheese, endive gratin transforms this humble ingredient into a hearty favorite.

How to eat the best endive gratin in Brussels?

This dish is perfect with a malty amber beer like Palm, made in Steenhuffel, northwest of Brussels. Thanks to its creamy and punchy flavors, cooler seasons like fall in Brussels are the ideal time to dig into this classic comfort food.

10. Lambic and gueuze beers

No exploration of food in Brussels is complete without sampling some of Belgium’s iconic beers. Lambic, naturally fermented with wild yeast, and gueuze, a blend of aged lambics, are specialties of the Brussels region. Their sour, complex flavors pair beautifully with food, enhancing the experience. According to local folklore, wild yeast was believed to come from spirits blessing the air.

How to enjoy the best lambic and gueuze beers in Brussels?

Join a Brussels beer-tasting tour or visit Cantillon Brewery to discover these unique brews. Enjoy your glass of gueuze with sharp cheeses like comté or aged gouda for the perfect combination.

FAQ

Is there street food in Brussels?

Visitors will delight in Brussels' vibrant street food scene. While strolling through the city’s lively streets, they can explore a variety of local delicacies, from waffles to frites. Pairing these snacks with Belgium’s renowned beers enhances the culinary experience. With such a wide range of beer options available, planning ahead ensures you enjoy the best of Brussels’ bar culture.

Is Brussels good for vegans?

Brussels boasts a vibrant vegan scene, making it an excellent choice for plant-based travelers. Whether on a quick city break or exploring Brussels hidden gems, you’ll find plenty of vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes to enjoy.

What are the traditional foods to try in Brussels?

Brussels offers a delightful array of traditional dishes. Indulge in mussels with fries, grilled endive, and vol-au-vent (savory-filled puff-pastry shells). Don’t miss américain (a Belgian-style beef tartare) or tomato stuffed with shrimp. Try a pistolet, a small, round bread with a golden crust and soft interior, for a local treat.

Are there any food tours available in Brussels?

Brussels offers a variety of food tours that allow you to explore its culinary scene, and make new friends if you’re visiting Brussels on your own. These tours often include tastings of local specialties like Belgian waffles, chocolates, and beers. Some tours also provide insights into the history and culture behind the dishes. It’s a great way to experience Brussels’ food culture with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

What are some must-eat desserts in Brussels?

Brussels is famous for its delectable desserts, with Belgian waffles being a must-try. These are typically served with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruits. Another popular dessert is Belgian chocolate, with numerous chocolatiers offering a wide range of pralines and truffles. Speculoos, a spiced shortcrust biscuit, is also a local favorite, often enjoyed with coffee.