Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Brussels
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Brussels. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Moules-Frites
Moules-Frites is a classic Belgian dish consisting of mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and herbs, served with crispy fries. It's a staple in local bistros and offers a delightful seafood experience.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
This dish reflects Belgium's coastal influence and is often enjoyed in social settings.
Where to try it
Carbonnade Flamande
Carbonnade Flamande is a hearty beef stew braised in Belgian beer, often served with bread or fries. This dish showcases the rich flavors of Belgian beers and is perfect for colder days.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
A traditional Flemish dish, it highlights the importance of beer in Belgian cuisine.
Where to try it
Stoemp
Stoemp is a comforting mashed potato dish mixed with various vegetables like carrots, leeks, or spinach. It's often served as a side to sausages or meat dishes, making it a favorite among locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
This dish embodies the heartiness of Belgian home cooking and is popular in brasseries.
Where to try it
Tarte au Sucre
Tarte au Sucre is a sweet pie made with a creamy filling of sugar and cream, often featuring a buttery pastry crust. This dessert is a delightful representation of local baking traditions.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
A traditional dessert from the Walloon region, it's a beloved treat enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Where to try it
Speculoos
Speculoos are spiced shortcrust biscuits, often enjoyed with coffee. They have a unique flavor from spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making them a popular local snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
These biscuits are especially popular during the Christmas season, reflecting local traditions.
Where to try it
Belgian Beer
Belgian beer is renowned worldwide, with a wide variety of styles including Trappist, Abbey, and Lambic. Enjoying a local brew is a must when visiting Brussels, offering a taste of the country's brewing heritage.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Beer is an integral part of Belgian culture, with a long history of brewing craftsmanship.