Brussels, Belgium is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it the perfect destination for food enthusiasts to explore unique and exotic dishes from around the world. With its rich history and diverse population, the city boasts an array of restaurants and cafes that offer authentic and delicious dishes from every corner of the globe. From spicy Indian curries to sizzling Japanese yakitori, Brussels has something for everyone.
One of the reasons why Brussels is such a great destination for food lovers is its proximity to other European countries. With easy access by train or car, visitors can easily explore the culinary offerings of neighboring countries like France, Italy, and Germany. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood from the coast of France or hearty pasta dishes from Tuscany, Brussels is the perfect base for your European food adventure.
Another reason why Brussels is a foodie’s paradise is its vibrant international community. With residents from all over the world, the city has a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that are reflected in its cuisine. From traditional Belgian dishes like mussels and frites to exotic cuisines like Moroccan tagine and Ethiopian injera, there’s something for everyone in Brussels.
In addition to its diverse culinary offerings, Brussels is also home to a number of food festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, beer, or seafood, there’s a festival in Brussels that celebrates it all. These festivals provide visitors with the opportunity to sample local and international dishes, as well as learn about the history and traditions behind them.
Overall, Brussels is a food lover’s paradise, offering an array of delicious and authentic dishes from around the world. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant international community, and numerous food festivals, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore new and exciting flavors.
What are the some of the local fast food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Moules Marinières: This dish of mussels in a white wine sauce is a staple in Belgian cuisine, and Brussels is no exception. The freshness of the mussels and the rich flavor of the sauce make this a popular choice for seafood lovers.
2. Chimay Cheese Frites: This dish is a Belgian classic that combines crispy fries with creamy cheese curds. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Liège Waffles: These thick, fluffy waffles are a staple in Belgian cuisine, but the version from Liège is particularly popular in Brussels. They are typically served with whipped cream and fruit, making them a sweet treat that is both indulgent and satisfying.
4. Waterzooi: This hearty stew is made with beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots, and is often served with crusty bread. It is a comforting dish that is perfect for cold Belgian winters.
5. Beer: Belgium is famous for its beer, and Brussels is no exception. There are numerous breweries in the city, and locals love to sample the different varieties of beers available. Whether you prefer a light, refreshing lager or a rich, malty stout, there is something for everyone in this bustling city.
What are the some of the traditional food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Moules Marinières: This classic Belgian dish of mussels cooked in white wine, shallots, and butter is a must-try for seafood lovers. The dish is typically served with frites, or Belgian-style French fries, which are thicker and crispier than their American counterparts.
2. Chimay: This hearty cheese from the Chimay region of Belgium is known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor. It’s often used in sandwiches or on top of pasta dishes, and is a popular ingredient in Belgian-style mac and cheese.
3. Waterzooi: This stew made with carrots, potatoes, onions, and beef is a traditional Belgian dish that’s easy to find in many restaurants. What sets it apart from other stews is the use of white wine instead of broth, which gives the dish a lighter, more delicate flavor.
4. Waffles: While waffles are not uniquely Belgian, they are a popular food item in Brussels and throughout Belgium. Belgian-style waffles are thicker and crispier than American waffles, and are often topped with whipped cream, fruit, or chocolate.
5. Chocolate: Belgium is famous for its chocolate, and there are many traditional Belgian chocolate shops in Brussels that offer a wide variety of flavors and fillings. From dark chocolate with nuts to white chocolate with fruit, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What are the some of the Indian food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Chaat Masala: This spicy snack is a must-try for Indian food lovers in Brussels. It consists of crispy chickpea flour wafers, tangy tamarind chutney, and a blend of spices that give it a unique flavor. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish an unforgettable experience.
2. Samosas: These fried or baked pastry pockets filled with savory ingredients like potatoes, peas, and spices are a staple in Indian cuisine. In Brussels, you can find samosas filled with a variety of unique ingredients such as Belgian waffles or truffle oil, adding a twist to the classic dish.
3. Dosa: This thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter is a popular breakfast item in India. In Brussels, you can find dosas filled with unique ingredients like smoked salmon or mushrooms, giving it a modern twist.
4. Masala Dosa: This type of dosa is filled with a spicy potato and onion mixture and is a favorite among Indian food lovers. The combination of the savory filling with the delicate texture of the dosa makes it a satisfying and flavorful dish.
5. Chutnify: This unique Indian street food item consists of a crispy chickpea flour waffle topped with a spicy tomato and onion chutney and a dollop of yogurt. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a delicious and satisfying snack that is perfect for on-the-go.
What are the some of the Chinese food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. “Frites” – Belgian-style French fries are a must-try in Brussels, especially when paired with mayonnaise or ketchup for dipping. These thick-cut, crispy potatoes are typically served as a side dish to accompany other dishes such as stews and salads.
2. “Moules Marinières” – This classic Belgian seafood dish features mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and shallots. The dish is often accompanied by frites and is perfect for a hearty and filling meal.
3. “Cha Ca Lau” – This Chinese-Vietnamese fusion dish is made with shredded chicken, rice noodles, and a spicy peanut sauce. It’s a unique blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
4. “Peking Duck” – This famous Chinese dish is made by roasting a whole duck until it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The meat is typically served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce for dipping.
5. “Dim Sum” – This traditional Chinese meal consists of small bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. Dim sum is a great way to sample a variety of dishes and is perfect for sharing with friends or family.
What are the some of the Italian food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Carbonara: This dish is a staple of Roman cuisine, but it has gained popularity in Brussels as well. It’s made with eggs, cheese, pancetta or guanciale, and black pepper. The uniqueness of this dish lies in the fact that it’s traditionally made without cream or tomatoes, making it a rich and indulgent meal.
2. Cotechino: This is a type of cured sausage that originates from Italy. It’s typically served as an appetizer or main course and has a distinctive pink color and a nutty flavor. The uniqueness of this dish lies in its use of a blend of pork, beef, and spices to create a delicious and versatile ingredient.
3. Parmigiano-Reggiano: This is a type of hard cheese that’s commonly used in Italian cuisine. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a nutty, salty flavor. The uniqueness of this dish lies in its use as a finishing touch to many different dishes, giving it a versatile and delicious taste.
4. Prosciutto: This is a type of cured ham that’s commonly used in Italian cuisine. It has a distinctively salty and savory flavor and is often served as an appetizer or main course. The uniqueness of this dish lies in its use of pork belly to create a rich and flavorful ingredient.
5. Spaghetti alla Carbonara: This dish is made by combining spaghetti, eggs, cheese, pancetta or guanciale, and black pepper. It’s traditionally served as a main course and has a rich and indulgent taste. The uniqueness of this dish lies in its use of cream instead of tomatoes, making it a delicious and versatile meal.
What are the some of the Japanese food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Ramen: Ramen is a popular Japanese noodle dish that can be found in many restaurants in Brussels. It consists of a flavorful broth, tender noodles, and various toppings such as sliced pork, boiled eggs, and green onions. The unique aspect of ramen is the rich, savory broth that is often made with ingredients like soy sauce, miso paste, and dried fish flakes.
2. Sushi: Sushi is a type of Japanese cuisine that consists of vinegared rice combined with various ingredients such as raw fish, vegetables, and egg. The unique aspect of sushi is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the delicate balance of flavors and textures in each dish.
3. Tempura: Tempura is a Japanese dish made by coating seafood or vegetables in a light batter and deep-frying them until they are crispy and golden brown. The unique aspect of tempura is the use of a light, airy batter that allows the flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
4. Yakitori: Yakitori is a Japanese dish made by skewering and grilling chicken. It can be seasoned with a variety of sauces such as soy sauce, mirin, or wasabi. The unique aspect of yakitori is the use of fresh, succulent chicken that is perfectly cooked to perfection on the grill.
5. Okonomiyaki: Okonomiyaki is a Japanese savory pancake made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage. It can be topped with a variety of ingredients such as seafood, meat, and vegetables. The unique aspect of okonomiyaki is the use of a crispy, chewy batter that is perfectly balanced with the flavors and textures of the toppings.
What are the some of the Mexican food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Chiles Rellenos: This dish is made with poblano peppers that are stuffed with cheese or meat, battered, and fried. The result is a crispy exterior and a warm, cheesy interior. Chiles Rellenos are a Mexican classic and can be found in many restaurants in Brussels, Belgium. What makes this dish unique is the use of poblano peppers, which have a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the richness of the filling.
2. Tacos al Pastor: This dish is made with marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical spit called a trompo. The pork is then shaved and served in warm tortillas with pineapple, cilantro, and onions. Tacos al Pastor are a popular street food in Mexico and can be found in many restaurants in Brussels, Belgium. What makes this dish unique is the use of marinated pork, which gives it a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Enchiladas: This dish is made with tortillas that are rolled around a filling, such as cheese or meat, and then covered in a spicy sauce. Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that can be found in many restaurants in Brussels, Belgium. What makes this dish unique is the use of tortillas, which give it a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior.
4. Mole: This dish is made with a rich, dark sauce that is typically made with chocolate, chili peppers, and nuts. Mole is a classic Mexican dish that can be found in many restaurants in Brussels, Belgium. What makes this dish unique is the use of chocolate, which gives it a sweet and rich flavor that pairs well with the spiciness of the chili peppers.
5. Chilaquiles: This dish is made with fried tortilla chips that are simmered in salsa and topped with cheese, sour cream, and sometimes chicken or eggs. Chilaquiles are a popular Mexican breakfast dish that can be found in many restaurants in Brussels, Belgium. What makes this dish unique is the use of fried tortilla chips, which give it a crunchy texture that pairs well with the richness of the salsa and cheese.
What are the some of the Thai food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Pad Thai: This classic Thai dish of stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce is a must-try in Brussels. The unique twist on this popular dish comes from the use of Belgian-style mussels instead of shrimp, giving it a distinct seafood flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy Thai flavors.
2. Tom Yum Soup: This hot and sour soup is made with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and other fragrant herbs and spices. It’s often served with shrimp or chicken, mushrooms, and tomatoes, giving it a delicious and refreshing taste. The unique aspect of this soup is the use of Belgian-grown lemongrass, which adds a bright and citrusy flavor that sets it apart from traditional Thai versions.
3. Larb Moo: This spicy pork salad is a staple in Thai cuisine and is a must-try in Brussels. Made with minced pork, herbs, chilies, lime juice, and fish sauce, it’s a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The unique twist on this dish comes from the use of Belgian-style bacon instead of the traditional pork belly, giving it a smoky and savory flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.
4. Pad See Ew: This stir-fried noodle dish is made with rice noodles, Chinese broccoli, garlic, chilies, and a sweet and salty sauce. It’s often served with shrimp or chicken, giving it a protein-packed meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of Belgian-style pork belly instead of the traditional Chinese version, which adds a rich and savory flavor that complements the spicy Thai flavors.
5. Green Curry: This creamy and flavorful curry is made with green chilies, coconut milk, lemongrass, and other fragrant herbs and spices. It’s often served with chicken or fish, giving it a protein-packed meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of Belgian-grown curry leaves, which add a distinct earthy flavor that sets it apart from traditional Thai versions.
What are the some of the Middle East food dishes to eat in Brussels, Belgium?
1. Falafel – This Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices is a must-try in Brussels. The crispy exterior and soft interior make for a delicious and satisfying meal. One unique aspect of falafel in Belgium is that it is often served with a side of pickled vegetables, which adds a tangy flavor to the dish.
2. Kebab – Another popular Middle Eastern dish in Brussels is the kebab. It consists of marinated meat (such as chicken or lamb) grilled on a skewer and served over a bed of rice or pita bread. What makes Belgian kebabs unique is that they often include a variety of toppings such as hummus, tahini, and pickled vegetables.
3. Shawarma – Similar to falafel and kebab, shawarma is another Middle Eastern dish that is popular in Brussels. It consists of thinly sliced meat (such as chicken or lamb) wrapped in a pita bread with lettuce, tomato, and other toppings. One unique aspect of Belgian shawarma is that it is often served with a side of pickled vegetables or fries.
4. Baklava – This sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey is a popular dessert in the Middle East and is also commonly found in Brussels. What makes Belgian baklava unique is that it is often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the sweetness of the pastry.
5. Harissa – This North African spice paste made from red peppers, chilies, and spices is a popular condiment in Brussels. It is often used as a marinade for meats or as a dipping sauce for vegetables. What makes Belgian harissa unique is that it is often infused with garlic, which gives it a strong and pungent flavor.