How to Find the Best Restaurants in Brussels?

When it comes to the culinary capital of Europe, Brussels is definitely the city of choice. Located at the epicenter of Europe, Brussels has a variety of delicious dishes to offer to its visitors. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting the best restaurants.

In this article, we’ll show you how to find the best restaurants in Brussels and offer you some tips on where to eat when you visit. We’ll also provide you with some of our favorite restaurants in the city and a few ideas on where to spend your budget. Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a romantic night out, or just a casual visit to have some traditional Belgian beer and food, we’ve got you covered.

Explore Brussels’ Many Cuisines

The savory and often overlooked food of Brussels is an intensely enjoyable experience for all. Many of these dishes are richly flavored, with spices, herbs and a delightful combination of unique flavors that draw on the city’s strong gastronomic history. Local favorites like carbonnade flamande, as well as international staples such as curry-soaked mussels and Indian specialties, are just some of the rich and varied cuisines you’ll find in Brussels.

Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Brussels?

The best restaurants in Brussels are those that bring everything together. Traditional Belgian cuisine, fine international dining and dishes from around the world can all be sampled. Many top-notch restaurants have sprung up across the city, often in unique locations that build on the flavor and charm of their surroundings. Here are a few places to explore when you visit:

1. Le Potager des Halles

At this chic and cozy restaurant located near Marolles quarter, you will find classic French cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Specialties range from roasted fennel and onions to oven-baked mussels, all delightfully complemented by a sophisticated list of natural wines.

2. Au Vieux St.-Martin

Set beneath awe-inspiring gothic arches, this award-winning restaurant offers a fantastic fusion of classic Belgian fare and modern French gastronomy. The menu changes often depending on the season, but signature dishes such as pork belly with truffle strudel or salmon with black olive tapenade are always available.

3. L’Entrepot Deconinck

With its rustic decorating complementing its fabulous classic French food, L’Entrepot Deconinck is the perfect spot for a romantic night out or a cozy family meal. Delights from the kitchen include escargot croquettes with tomato coulis and old-fashioned mussel potage with white wine and cream.

4. De Kat

This lively restaurant serves up traditional Belgian delights such as beef carbonnade, carbonade Flamande and Belgian food with an innovative twist. The atmosphere is always cheerful and warm, perfect for a cheerful get-together among family and friends.

5. Sea Grill

The Sea Grill is one of Brussels’ leading seafood restaurants that offers a diverse menu composed of fresh fish caught directly from the North Sea. Dishes include freshly caught crab cakes, Dorado served with garlic butter sauce and oven baked salmon in a creamy parsley sauce. The sea view balconies are perfect for romantic evenings spent over oysters and champagne.
Frankly speaking, you’re sure to love all the diverse cuisine that Brussels has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a cozy family meal? Or out for celebration with pals, there’s plenty of great restaurants around every corner worth exploring. We highly recommend checking out some of the great websites out there that provide more specific recommendations such as TheFork’s, which offers reviews from professional chefs and critics on budget-friendly places in Brussels.

An Insider’s Guide to Brussels: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

Brussels is a city that is bursting with life, food, culture, and history. While it is known for its stunning architecture, grand squares, and museums, it offers more than what meets the eye. There are countless hidden gems that only locals know about, waiting to be explored by curious tourists. If you’re looking for an authentic Brussels experience, you’ve come to the right place.

Local Attractions: Discovering Brussels’ Hidden Gems

Brussels is full of surprises, and there are plenty of lesser-known attractions to keep you busy. Here are a few that are off the beaten path:

– The Comic Strip Museum: Brussels is famous for its comic strip scene, and a visit to the Comic Strip Museum is an absolute must for comic lovers. The museum is located in a beautiful Art Nouveau building and showcases the history and art of comic books throughout the ages.
– The Sonian Forest: Take a break from the city bustle and head to the Sonian Forest. It spans over 5,000 hectares and features walking and cycling trails, a golf course, and several lakes. It’s the perfect retreat for nature lovers.
– The Marolles Flea Market: This vibrant market takes place every day (except for Mondays) and is the perfect place to find vintage clothing, antique furniture, and other quirky items. It’s a mecca for treasure hunters and adventurers.

Dining Spots: Where to Taste Brussels’ Local Cuisine

Belgium is known for its waffles, chocolates, and beers, but there’s more to Brussels’ culinary scene than meets the eye. Here are a few dining spots that offer a true taste of the city’s food culture:

– Chez Leon: This iconic restaurant has been around since 1893 and is known for its mussels in white wine, fries, and beer. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to sample traditional Belgian cuisine.
– Les Brigittines: For an upscale dining experience, head to Les Brigittines. The restaurant is located in a converted convent and offers an inventive menu that puts a modern twist on Belgian classics.
– Friterie Flagey: No visit to Brussels is complete without trying the fries. Friterie Flagey is a small food stand near the Flagey Square that serves up some of the best fries in the city.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Brussels’ Customs

Brussels is a city that’s steeped in tradition and history. Here are a few cultural experiences that will give you a deeper appreciation of this vibrant place:

– The Atomium: This iconic landmark was built for the 1958 World Expo and offers a unique perspective on the city. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about Brussels’ history and architecture.
– The Belgian Comic Strip Center: Comics are deeply ingrained in Brussels’ culture, and the Belgian Comic Strip Center showcases the rich history of this art form. From Tintin to the Smurfs, the museum is a must-visit for fans of comic books.
– The Flower Carpet: Every two years, the Grand-Place of Brussels is transformed into a stunning flower carpet that spans over 1,800 square meters. The event draws visitors from all over the world and is a testament to Brussels’ vibrant cultural scene.

Local History: Stories That Will Take You Back in Time

Brussels has a long and fascinating history. Here are a few intriguing stories that will give you a glimpse into the city’s past:

– The Manneken Pis: This famous landmark is a small bronze statue of a boy peeing into a fountain. Legend has it that a boy once saved the city from a fire by peeing on it, and the statue was created to honor his bravery.
– The Jeanneke Pis: The Manneken Pis has a female counterpart called the Jeanneke Pis. Unlike her male counterpart, the Jeanneke Pis is not as well known but is still worth a visit.
– The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: The Royal Greenhouses were built in the 19th century for King Leopold II and are only open to the public for a few weeks every year. The greenhouse complex is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture and features a wide variety of exotic plants.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Adventures You Won’t Forget

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few tips that go beyond the conventional:

– Tram Experience: Enjoy a gourmet meal while riding a tram across the city. It’s a unique way to experience Brussels’ food and sights.
– Brussels by Bike: Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city, and there are plenty of bike tours available that will take you to hidden gems that you wouldn’t find otherwise.
– The Delirium Cafe: With over 2,000 types of beer to choose from, the Delirium Cafe is a beer lover’s paradise. It’s a great place to unwind and savor the local brews.

Conclusion

Brussels is a city that’s full of surprises. Whether you’re interested in food, culture, history, or adventure, there’s something for everyone. By following this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to experience the city like a local and come away with memories that will last a lifetime.