Where Can I Get The Best Ghent-Style Waffles?

Ghent, Belgium is one of the most visited locations in all of Europe, especially if you are looking for a true Belgian experience. From castles and cathedrals to museums and cultural sites, Ghent has something for everyone. But one of the city’s most iconic attractions is the local cuisine.

One of the most popular dishes to sample when visiting Ghent is the traditional Ghent-style waffle. This type of waffle is made from a leavened batter (similar to a pancake batter) that contains yeast for a fluffy texture, and is topped with butter, sugar, and sometimes, fruit or chocolate spread.

If you are looking for the perfect Ghent-style waffle, here are some top places to visit:

1. Waffle Factory

Waffle Factory has become one of the most popular spots for travelers in Ghent. Founded in 2008, Waffle Factory has become renowned for its traditional Ghent-style waffles. Available in both sweet and savory varieties, these waffles are freshly made to order and served with a variety of toppings and sauces. Perfect for a quick snack or meal, Waffle Factory is always a hit with tourists. You can find Waffle Factory at Kaasstraat 4bis in Ghent.

2. Waffelaria

Another favorite spot in Ghent is Waffelaria. This small family bistro opened in 2015 and quickly gained a strong following; due to their handmade waffles using only the freshest ingredients. With options available for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets, there is something for everyone at Waffelaria. You can find Waffelaria at Jodenstraat 51 in Ghent.

3. Le Grand Cafe

For those looking for something a bit more upscale than your typical waffle bistro, Le Grand Cafe is the place to be. Located in the heart of Ghent’s historic city center, Le Grand Cafe offers sophisticated Belgian cuisine with a modern twist. Among its menu items is the classic Ghent-style waffle with an accompanying house-made artisanal syrup. For those looking to indulge a bit more, they offer additional toppings such as smoked maple syrup, boozy whipped cream, and more. You can find Le Grand Cafe at Vijfwegelstraat 2 in Ghent.

No matter where you choose to get your Ghent-style waffles, you won’t be disappointed. They are sweets you’ll never forget! Whether you’re a tourist or a local, you can’t go wrong when it comes to treating yourself to Belgium’s own treasure – Ghent-style waffles!

Insider’s Guide to Ghent, Belgium

Welcome to Ghent, a charming medieval city located in the heart of Belgium. Known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and delicious waffles, Ghent is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this insider’s guide, we will show you where to find the best Ghent-style waffles and explore the city’s top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Attractions

Ghent has a rich history, with many attractions that reflect its cultural and architectural heritage. Some of the top attractions in the city include:

– Gravensteen Castle: This medieval castle dates back to the 12th century and is one of the best-preserved castles in Europe. Here you can visit the castle museum, see the weapons collection, and climb the castle towers for a stunning view of the city.
– St. Bavo’s Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral houses many works of art, including the famous altarpiece, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, by Jan van Eyck.
– Ghent Belfry: Located in the heart of the city, this iconic bell tower offers breathtaking views of Ghent’s skyline. Climb the 300 plus stairs to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
– Graslei and Korenlei: These picturesque quaysides along the river are lined with historic buildings and offer a perfect spot for a scenic walk, a drink or to watch the boats go by.

Dining spots: Where to find the best Ghent-style waffles

When in Ghent, trying the local cuisine is a must, and what better way to do it than to indulge in a fresh, hot Ghent-style waffle. Here are our top picks for the best Ghent-style waffles:

– Max: This family-owned bakery has been in business for nearly 100 years and is known for its delicious Ghent-style waffles. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, served with a dollop of whipped cream and your choice of toppings.
– Alice: This trendy spot in the heart of Ghent’s historic district serves one of the best Ghent-style waffles in town. They go all out with toppings like fresh fruit, Nutella, and whipped cream.
– Gandolfi: Located in the center of the city, Gandolfi has been serving up Ghent-style waffles since 1936. Their waffles are light, airy, and come with a variety of toppings, including fruit, syrup and chocolate.

Cultural Experiences

Besides the top attractions, Ghent also offers a wonderful array of cultural experiences. Here are some must-see cultural attractions:

– Museum of Fine Arts: This museum houses one of the country’s premier collections of art, including works by Belgian and Dutch masters, along with temporary exhibitions.
– The Design Museum: Located in a renovated 18th-century mansion, the Design Museum boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary design, fashion, and furniture.
– Dr. Guislain Museum: Explore the world of psychiatry and its history in this thought-provoking museum dedicated to the treatment of mental illness.

Local History

Ghent is a city that boasts a rich history that spans over a millennium. Here are just a few of the city’s historical highlights worth exploring:

– St. Nicholas’ Church: This stunning church is one of Ghent’s oldest and dates back to the 13th century. It features a beautiful interior and houses many works of art.
– The Gravensteen Castle: An attraction in the top attractions list, the Gravensteen Castle is a must-see for history buffs too. The castle served as a residence for the Counts of Flanders in the early Middle Ages.
– The Waterfront: The quayside in the heart of the city has played a vital role in Ghent’s history as a trading center. The city’s rich trade history with precious goods has given a distinct character to its waterfront area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Sights

When you have explored the top attractions and enjoyed the city’s must-try waffles, venture out and explore these hidden gems:

– The Patershol neighborhood: This historic neighborhood is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. Enjoy exploring streets lined with traditional Flemish houses, independent restaurants, and charming boutiques.
– Designcenter De Winkelhaak: A thriving creative hub in Ghent, Designcenter De Winkelhaak is a meeting place for designers and design enthusiasts where exhibitions, workshops and lectures relating to contemporary design are held.
– The Ghent University Botanic Garden: Located just outside the city center, this peaceful oasis offers a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist attractions. Explore the gardens with over 6,000 species of plants, and enjoy a relaxing stroll.

In conclusion, Ghent offers an abundance of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path sights to its visitors. Don’t miss out on exploring this amazing city on your next trip to Belgium.