Brussels is Belgium's capital and the de facto capital of the European Union, with the Grand Place, Art Nouveau houses, comics and the Atomium.
Brussels cooks Belgian brasserie classics - mussels and frites, carbonade flamande, waterzooi, stoemp and fresh-from-the-iron waffles - alongside French, Congolese, Turkish and Moroccan restaurants. Beer is used both in the glass and in the pot, and many bistros pair dishes with specific beers.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Brussels.
Moules-frites
Steamed mussels with double-fried frites, traditionally in season September to April.
Carbonade flamande
Beef stew braised in dark Belgian beer with onions and mustard.
Waterzooi
Creamy stew of chicken or fish with vegetables.
Stoemp
Mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, served with sausage.
Brussels waffle
Light rectangular waffle dusted with sugar or topped with fruit.
Speculoos
Spiced shortcrust biscuits, also as a spread.
Praline chocolates
Filled chocolates invented in Brussels in 1912.
Gueuze and kriek
Spontaneously fermented lambic beers from the Senne valley.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Bakery
Food Hall
French
Frites
Historic Cafe
Food tours & tastings in Brussels
Eat your way through Brussels with a guide.
Browse food experiences in BrusselsWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Frites with sauce
A paper cone of double-fried potatoes with mayonnaise or andalouse.
Liège waffle
Dense sugar-studded waffle sold on the street.
Mitraillette
Baguette stuffed with meat, fries and sauce.
Shrimp croquettes
Crisp croquettes with North Sea shrimp.
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Marché du Midi
Sunday market near Gare du Midi, 06:00-13:00.
Place Flagey market
Produce stalls and street food on market mornings.
Sainte-Catherine fish market area
Seafood stalls and restaurants by the old fish quay.
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Lunch is usually 12:00-14:30 and dinner after 18:30; kitchens often close between meals.
Tipping is not required; round up or leave 5-10%.
Water is free from the tap if you ask for 'une carafe d'eau'.
Avoid fixed-price menus on Rue des Bouchers touts.
Many places close on Sunday evening and Monday; check opening days.
A service charge is included in prices, so a tip is optional.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | €15-25 (~$17-29) per day | Frites, sandwiches and a bakery lunch. |
| Mid-range | €40-70 (~$46-80) per day | A brasserie lunch and bistro dinner with a beer. |
| Upscale | €100-180 (~$115-207) per day | Michelin-style dinner and wine. |