How to Best Enjoy the Eating Culture of Brussels

The Belgian capital, Brussels, is a cosmopolitan city with world-class cuisine. And while Brussels may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of foodie destinations, it does have a thriving and well-seasoned restaurant and café culture. In this article we will look at how to make the most of the eating experiences available in Brussels, from the locally product specialties, to the world-renowned Michelin-starred restaurants. We’ll discuss the best places to eat, where to find the truly local haunts, and what to look for when selecting a place to eat.

The Local Food Specialties

Brussels is home to many traditional Belgian dishes, and there is no better source to find these than the city’s traditional open-air markets. Most days, you’ll find dozens of local vendors selling their homemade dishes, so make sure to take in the sights and smells while you sample some of the favorites. From savory pâtés to sweet waffles and the famous Belgian “frites” (fries) you won’t want to miss out on tasting these local delicacies. As well as being a great source of food, these markets are also great for picking up souvenirs and craft items for friends and family back home.

Must-Try Michelin Restaurants

Aside from traditional Belgian fare, Brussels is home to some of the world’s finest restaurants. In 2017 alone, Brussels welcomed four new Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as an impressive array of other high-end eateries. Some fan favorites include “Comme Chez Soi’, a two-star Michelin restaurant situated in the city center; and “Bon Bon’, a one Michelin-star restaurant serving delicious seafood dishes. For an overview of all the Michelin-starred restaurants in Brussels, visit this website Michelin Guide International.

Authentic Local Hangouts

Being a tapestry of different cultures, Brussels has an incredible diversity of local restaurants and small eateries. You won’t find any of these establishments advertised in tourist brochures or large-scale publications, but rather through word of mouth or by venturing off the beaten path. One such example is Moeder Lambic which is a local favorite boasting a unique selection of craft and imported Belgian beers, as well as a varying food menu served daily. The atmosphere here is always buzzing and you won’t be disappointed with the outstanding selection of artisanal beers available on tap or in bottles.

Shopping for Foodie Treats

For those into sampling local produce, you really can’t go past “Delirium Café’ which offers a unique food shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for some candy or indulging in some chocolates, Delirium Café has unparalleled access to some genuinely exotic snacks and treats from around the globe. You can even pop along on Wednesday evenings where every week they serve up an all-you-can-eat buffet at very reasonable prices.

Conclusion

Brussels is an exciting city for any foodie aficionado. Whether you’re looking for traditional Belgian cuisine or some fine dining at one of their Michelin-starred restaurants, Brussels has something for everyone. Don’t forget to also explore the local markets and hole-in-the-wall eateries – there are lots to choose from – and make sure to take home some souvenirs too!

An Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Eating Culture of Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city that blends the old and the new, as well as the French and Flemish cultures. It’s famous for its stunning architecture, delicious chocolate, world-renowned beer, and one of the best eating cultures in Europe. Below is an insider’s guide to help you discover the city’s diverse cuisine, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Brussels has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions, including the iconic Atomium, a stunning steel structure from 1958 that is now a museum. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnificent example of Baroque-style architecture, while the Manneken Pis is a cute and funny statue that represents Brussels’ history and folklore.

The city is also home to several excellent museums, such as the Belgian Comic Strip Center, the Horta Museum, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, and the Museum of Natural Sciences.

Dining Spots

When it comes to eating in Brussels, the city has got it all. From Michelin-starred restaurants to street-side waffles, there is no going wrong when it comes to indulging in the local cuisine.

For traditional Belgian dishes, head to Aux Armes de Bruxelles for hearty stews, Carbonnade Flamande, and Moules-frites, or to Chez Léon, known as the home of mussels. For fine dining and gastronomy experiences, visit Comme Chez Soi, the epitome of Belgian haute cuisine, or Bon-Bon, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers contemporary Belgian cuisine with a touch of innovation. Be sure to enjoy your meals with the famous Belgian beer or wine.

Don’t forget to save room for desserts! Marvel at the exquisite chocolate creations at Pierre Marcolini, Jean-Philippe Darcis, and Wittamer, or indulge in the iconic Belgian waffle at Le Funambule or Maison Dandoy.

Cultural Experiences

Brussels is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including music, art, and festivals. The city is home to several museums and galleries, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, BOZAR, and the WIELS, where you can explore the local and international art scene.

If you’re looking to experience the authentic Brussels culture, explore the Marolles neighborhood in the city center. With its traditional shops, vintage markets, and friendly locals, it’s a great place to experience the local lifestyles and traditions.

Lastly, don’t miss the annual Ommegang Festival, a reenactment of the pageantry and festivities of the Habsburg court of the 16th century, held every July in the Grand Place.

Local History

To learn more about the city’s history, a visit to the splendid Royal Palace, the historic castle of Laeken, and the Palace of Justice is a must. The Belgian Comic Strip Center also tells the story of Brussels’s comic strip culture.

Ebbs and flows of the city’s rich history are also marked by the countless monuments and landmarks, such as the Mont des Arts, Musee de la Ville, and the European Parliament.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a day trip outside the city, head to Waterloo, where Napoleon was famously defeated, or to Bruges, a picturesque Belgian town with canals, cobbled streets, and Gothic architecture.

If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, visit the Cinquantenaire Park, which has an outstanding collection of Art Nouveau buildings and museums, and the Bois de la Cambre, which is a beautiful park with lakes, walking paths, and cafes.

Lastly, some of the city’s lesser-known treasures include the street art in the Parcours Street Art, the antique markets in Sablon, and the abundance of jazz clubs and bars in Place Flagey.

Conclusion

Brussels is a charming and captivating city that offers a rich and diverse cultural experience. Its vibrant cuisine, fascinating history, and picturesque view make it an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore the best of Europe. So pack your bags, hop on a plane, and get ready for an adventure.