5 Mouth-Watering Foods You Must Eat When Traveling To Brussels

As a two-time traveler to Brussels, Belgium, I’m beyond qualified to tell you what fabulous foods you absolutely must track down when traveling through this tiny taste-bud-tastic city. From sweets to meats and everything in between, read on for a round-up of 5 mouthwatering meals, along with prices (to the best of my memory) and my go-to suggestions of where you get your fix.

1- Falafel!

Looking for a cheap handheld meal in a hurry? Pick up a falafel pocket with fresh veggies for a taste of Turkey while you’re walking the busy streets of Brussels.

What’s In It? A basic falafel pocket usually packs 3-4 glistening, freshly fried up falafel balls with mounds of crunchy shredded lettuce and veggies. The whole thing is smothered in a sauce of your choice – from mild to spicy. I’m a sucker for the Andalouse. No – seriously. I’d bathe in that sauce if I could.

Where Do I Get Some? Sultans of Kebab is my go-to. If you’re in the heart of downtown, near the Brussels Stock Exchange (Bourse de Bruxelles), check out the one on Boulevard Anspach 16. Conveniently located, always friendly service.

How Much This Gonna Cost Me? I never remember paying more than 4€, and that includes a can of Coke (or a Jupiler, if you’re feeling festive). A bargain for not-the-healthiest-but-super-delicious grub on-the-go.

2- Mussels from Brussels!

A classic dish that’s simple yet elegant. Plus, it rhymes!

What’s In It? Expect to be served a big ole’ pot of mussels cooked in your choice of sauce – from delicate white wine to hearty marinara. Traditional accompaniment to the mussels is a heaping pile of frits… drop a handful in the pot and let them soak up all the brothy-saucy goodness.

Where Do I Get Some? Just off the edge of Grand Place, a network of cramped but
alleys unfolds brimming with seafood restaurants manned by smiling maître d’ eager to seat you. Look for Rue des Bouchers and you’ll be in the right place.

How Much This Gonna Cost Me? Many of these joints boast competitive prix fixe menus hovering between 12,50€-20€ for a tasty three course meal you won’t soon forget. Shop around before you settle – the closer you are to Grand Place (a.k.a. Tourist Trap Central), the more you’re likely to shell out.

3- Frits!

Not in the mood for mussels? Ditch the main dish and stick with the starches. For many Belgians, frits are a meal unto themselves.

What’s In It? Frits, baby. Oh, and amazing sauces you get to pick. You already know my recommendation. (Hint: Starts with an “anda” ends with “oh-my-goodness-that’s-amazing-louse.”)
Where Do I Get Some? Hands down, head to Fritland at 49 Rue Henri Maus, along the right side of Bourse de Bruxelles. Often packed, and with good reason. Fritland sells a variety of other “fricadelle” style eats if you end up wanting something a little… meatier.
How Much This Gonna Cost Me? A staggering 2€ will get you the paper cone of your dreams, packed to the top with hot, crispy, perfectly cooked frits and a teeny little plastic fork with which to eat them.

4- A Belgian Waffle!

You just have to.

What’s In It? Oh good gracious, what’s not in it? Or, more accurately – on it. Most waffle vendors serve ‘em up plain (amazing), covered in whipped cream, drenched in chocolate, topped with sliced fruit, sprinkled with chopped nuts, dusted with powdered sugar— you name it. Any way you choose, you will not be disappointed.

Where Do I Get Some? Pretty much anywhere. From fancy sweet shops to standalone kiosks to traveling trucks, waffles are a Belgian classic, and they make themselves remarkable available to hungry pedestrians across the city. I personally recommend the stands along Rue Di Midi, in between Bourse de Bruxelles and Grand Place.

How Much This Gonna Cost Me? For a plain waffle, don’t pay more than 1€, maybe 1,50€. Extra toppings will cost you a little more.

5- Bonus: Anything on the Menu at Arcadi Café

Some of the best food I’ve ever had, in such a romantic and adorable location. Take a leisurely stroll through Galerie du Roi, and when you get to the end (walking away from Grand Place), hook a right. There stands Arcadi Café, where they’re serving up everything from tasty quiches to flavorful pasta dishes not to mention an exquisite bakery selection. Healthy portion sizes run roughly between 7-20€.

Prepare yourself for an authentic local café experience: The menu is entirely in French, the staff doesn’t speak English so well, and it’s rather cramped inside. But again – think “café,” and you won’t be surprised. In fact, I daresay, you’ll be marvelously charmed.

Author’s recommendation: Order up the spaghetti aux champignons, or spaghetti with mushrooms. I still have pathetically vivid dreams about this dish.

Bon Appétit!