One of the biggest contribution of Belgians to the food is chocolate, being known the fact that Belgian Chocolate in one of the best in the world and for a good reason. Did you know that they invented the pralines? But, since there are more than chocolate, mentioning only the beer, the waffles and frites, I’ve put together my favorite places where to find the best food and drink specialties in Brussels, some of them still hidden gems.
Chocolate and patisserie
Darcis Chocolatier which you will probably discover by chance, since is located just in Grand Place. But here you will find artisanal chocolate, patisserie and macaroons, all made with passion and creativity by a a well-known chocolatier. If you will visit Brussels during warm season, don’t miss their ice-cream made with natural ingredients. You can choose different flavors such as chocolate, caramel salé or strawberry, they all are simply delicious.
Patisserie Chocolaterie Yasushi Sasaki is a truly hidden gem and the favorite patisserie of many locals. This patisserie is a family business, their passion for good quality products made this place so well appreciated between the locals. Here you will find some of the best homemade bread, croissants, cakes, pralines, macaroons and jam. The address: 10 Avenue des Franciscains 1150 WSP Bruxelles, in Chant d’Oiseux neighborhood. You can get there with a direct bus (no 36) from Schuman (EU quarter).
Coffee
Aksum Coffee House is a well-known Ethiopian coffee made from organically grown beans located in Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. It is a good place for coffee lovers, but also a good place for authentic specialties: African fair-trade drinks, homemade cakes, South African wine and more.
Restaurants and places to eat
Pistolet Original is a grocery store where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch in a cozy and enjoyable atmosphere. “Pistolet” is a Brussels traditional type of bread used in order to make the perfect homemade sandwich. Here you will find many original specialties from home-made steak tartare to cheese specialties, burger and cakes, having a multitude of options for a delicious sandwich.
Maison Antoine for the delicious and well appreciated Belgian frites. Frites are how the Belgians make the fries. They are considered the best fries because they are made in a unique way using only fresh potatoes boiled twice in a special oil, mostly made from animal fat (good to know if you are vegetarian). Also, the frites mostly are served in a paper cone or in a take away container. There is even a Frites Museum in Bruges where you can find out more about the history and how frites are made.
Ellis Gourmet Burger – here you will find gourmet burgers served in an unconventional and cozy place. There are many Ellis Gourmet in Belgium, so you can enjoy their burgers in other Belgian cities.
NONA – here you will enjoy a good pizza made from organic ingredients selected from Belgian farmers all in a lively and cheerful place. Address: Rue Sainte-Catherine 17-19, 1000 Brussels
Beer
BrewDog is a good place for beer lovers, here you will find many beer specialties made locally by Belgian producers. They served also food. It is located just across Brussels Central Station and has an amazing terrace where you can enjoy a panoramic view over Brussels.
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