Our 5 favorite restaurants in Brussels, Belgium

Welcome to culinary wonderland Brussels!

A city that delights in serving a melting pot of flavors from around the world. With its rich history and diverse cultural influences, the restaurants in Brussels offer a gastronomic adventure like no other.

From charming traditional eateries dishing out Belgian classics like moules-frites and waffles to trendy bistros blending global cuisines, there is something to satiate every palate.

Whether you seek Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants in Brussels or cozy hidden gems tucked away in narrow alleyways, the restaurants in Brussels promise a journey of indulgence and discovery.

So, come hungry, leave satisfied, and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable exploration through the culinary delights of this vibrant and captivating city.

Our choice

We live in Antwerp, so for us Brussels is just a 50 minute train ride away.

Needless to say that we often find ourselves wandering the streets of our Belgian capital to soak in the vibrant atmosphere that is everywhere.

And of course we love to eat, so we do have our favorite restaurants in Brussels too.

“Where’s a good place to eat well in Brussels?”, is one of the questions that we get very regularly from our readers.

Which prompted us to write this little article about our most favorite restaurants in Brussels, the ones we love to go to. Nothing chic or outrageously expensive.

Good food for reasonable prices, reservations are highly recommended!

Curious to see what our favorite restaurants in Brussels are?

Let’s take a look!

Our 5 most favorite restaurants in Brussels

1. Aux Armes de Bruxelles

Amidst the cobbled labyrinth surrounding the famous ‘Rue des Bouchers’ in Brussels lies a venerable culinary institution, and a living ode to Belgian gastronomic excellence…

Welcome to the enchanting world of Aux Armes de Bruxelles!

Step inside, and you are greeted by an old-world charm that resonates through every nook and cranny. Polished brass fixtures glimmer like stars in the dimly lit dining hall, casting a warm and welcoming glow upon the mahogany tables dressed in crisp white linens. Vintage paintings and weathered photographs adorn the walls, narrating the tales of generations past, of joyous feasts and timeless celebrations.

The super professional and attentive waitstaff, dressed in immaculate black and white attire, are masters of their craft, guiding you through the culinary symphony that awaits. The gorgeous menu presents an array of indulgent dishes, each a masterpiece that celebrates the finest Belgian traditions.

Plump and succulent moules-frites, their shells shimmering like pearls, paired with golden crispy fries that sing of culinary perfection. Rabbit stew, seafood platter, choucroute, dame blanche and crêpes flambées…

Whenever we find ourselves in Aux Armes de Bruxelles we have a hard time choosing which dishes we would like.

Definitely recommended are the beef tartare (€19,85), salade Veulemans – absolutely iconic (€17,50), chicken vol au vent, eels in green sauce (€28,50), fish waterzooi – a monument (€26,55) and dame blanche ice cream (€9,75).

In every dish, in every nuance of flavor, Aux Armes de Bruxelles weaves a tapestry of culinary artistry that encapsulates the very essence of Brussels.

So, surrender to the culinary magic, raise your glass to the spirit of Brussels, and let Aux Armes de Bruxelles enchant you with a symphony of flavors that will linger in your heart and soul long after you bid adieu.

Address: Rue des Bouchers 13, 1000 Brussels

2. Strofilia

On the outskirts of the Saint Catherine neighbourhood one of Brussels best hidden culinary gem awaits.

Strofilia, a divine haven of Mediterranean delight.

From the moment you step foot into this lovely restaurant, your senses are seduced by the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked bread and aromatic herbs dancing in the air.

In the dining room rustic sun-kissed terracotta walls adorned with delicate vine motifs transport you to the heart of Greece, evoking a warm embrace from the Mediterranean sun.

The interior is an ode to rustic elegance, with wooden tables, and the smiling faces of patrons gathered in lively conversation.

The walls are adorned with captivating photographs of serene Greek landscapes, telling tales of age-old traditions and mesmerizing folklore.

On your table succulent kalamata olives, a bottle of excellent greek olive oil and bread is waiting for you while you browse through the short and sweet menu.

We should also mention the superb Greek wine menu, and the top notch recommendations from Strofilia’s sommelier.

Be ready, because a symphony of flavors is coming to you as the attentive staff brings forth a sumptuous parade of mezze sharing dishes that celebrate the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.

We love the yellow split pea dip (€7), called fava, garnished with fried capers and shallots. And don’t you forget to try the white tarama (€7): the best fish roe dip we have ever tasted! The tomato and bean salad (€10) is to die for as well. They all whisk you away on a gastronomic journey across azure seas and sun-soaked shores.

The 24 hours low and slow braised lamb will make your tastebuds pop, and so is the mount Olympus black pig served with olive mash and tomatoes (€26).

However, the pièce de résistance lies in the tender embrace of perfectly grilled octopus, exquisitely paired with a lukewarm chickpea salad and bell pepper sauce (€26).

Each bite is passion and love.

As the evening gently unfolds, the ambiance deepens, the wine starts to flow and laughter resonates through the air. Strofilia is not just a restaurant; it is a sanctuary where time slows down, and every second is a culinary pleasure.

Let the sunny flavors dance upon your tongue, and allow Strofilia to take you on a Mediterranean culinary escape.

Address: Rue du Marché aux Porcs 11/13, 1000 Brussels

3. Bouillon Bruxelles

Back to the labyrinthine streets around the bustling rue des Bouchers…

Like a time-traveling portal, stepping into the Bouillon Bruxelles restaurant is like journeying back to a bygone era, where art deco flourishes and vintage French allure intertwine.

The decor speak of timeless elegance. The soft glow of pendant lights casts a warm and inviting ambiance.

The very mildly priced menu boasts an array of hearty dishes that pay homage to traditional Belgian cuisine and honours seasonal products such as asparagus, oysters, artichokes and game. Also check the suggestion board for any specials!

The attentive waitstaff, dressed in red aprons, exude a sense of professionalism and charm that is synonymous with European hospitality.

What dishes should you try out?

Definitely the bone marrow (€9,90), shrimp croquettes (€11,10), moules frites (€16,60), the beef tartare (€16,60), potjevleesch meat terrine (€15,50)and vegetable waterzooi (€13,30). And don’t hesitate to go for the 1 litre bottle of red table wine, for less than 20 euros!

Here at Bouillon Bruxelles, flavors and history intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on your palate and a lasting memory in your heart.

Surrender to the allure of yesteryears, and let Bouillon Bruxelles transport you on a nostalgic journey through the rich culinary heritage of Brussels.

Address: Rue des Dominicains 7/9, 1000 Brussels

4. ‘t Kelderke

Tucked away on the Brussels famous Grand Place is a small door leading you to another lovely place amidst the vibrant and tourist filled streets of Brussels city centre.

‘t Kelderke is a whimsical haven for food adventurers seeking an enchanting gastronomic escapade.

As you descend down a narrow, winding staircase, you are transported into a dark subterranean wonderland, where time seems to have slowed, and the outside world is but a distant memory.

The ambiance is an eclectic mix of rustic charm and eccentricity, with exposed brick walls adorned in vintage posters. The restaurant’s name means ‘cellar’ in Flemish.

Soft yellow light flickers, casting playful shadows on the wooden tables filled with a healthy mix of locals and visitors.

The menu is an ode to traditional Belgian fare, boasting an array of classic dishes that evoke the essence of a rustic countryside kitchen. The tantalizing aroma of stoemp wafts through the air, mingling with the rich fragrance of Flemish beef stew. Perfectly paired with freshly served ice cold draft beer.

The chicken vol au vent (€19,50) is lush, and so is the stoemp, a vegetable mash served with your choice of pork belly, pork chop or sausages (€16,90). Also check out the black and white ‘boudin’ sausage with rustic applesauce and mash (€18,50).

‘t Kelderke is not just a restaurant; it is an immersive journey into the heart of Belgian cuisine, where every dish carries a story and every taste is a delight.

Address: Grand Place 15, 1000 Brussels

5. La Marée

And surely La Marée should be part of our favorite restaurants in Brussels!

Join the culinary voyage of La Marée, where Brussels’ streets give way to the enchanting rhythm of the sea. As you step inside this maritime haven, the oceanic charm engulfs you, and the air hums with the nostalgic scent of saltwater and brine. A symphony of seashells, blue and white colors and nets adorns the walls, whispering tales of far-off fishing expeditions and maritime legends.

The interior is a whimsical fusion of nautical and contemporary design, with wave-like patterns accentuating the tranquil blue hues that mimic the ocean’s depths.

The menu is an ode to the ocean: succulent oysters, plump mussels, shrimp, cod and tender calamari grace the tables. Every dish is a symphony of flavors, carrying you on a culinary voyage.

The Portuguese owners are hands on and very likeable.

Every time we come here, we go for the exact same dishes: a crispy grey shrimp croquettes (€19) and the steamed cod with butter sauce and vegetables (€32).

The croquette is served with the classic deep fried parsley, and is packed with a creamy and deeply flavoured shrimp béchamel and a generous amount of shrimp. The cod is massive, thick and perfectly flakey. Cooked to perfection and in excellent company of a classic butter sauce and al dente vegetables.

A true delight.

This is not just a restaurant.

Let La Marée sweep you away on a culinary journey that celebrates the majesty of the ocean and the artistry of gastronomy.

Address: Rue de Flandre 99, 1000 Brussels

How about you?

Have you visited one of these restaurants in Brussels?

Do you agree with us?

Perhaps you think of another lovely restaurant that we should try out and include here?

Let us know what your favorite restaurants in Brussels are!