Culinary tour in Belgium

When it comes to food and drink, Belgium has more to offer than the world's best fries, luxurious chocolates, and surprising regional beers. The country is a patchwork of culinary traditions, with each region proud of its own specialties. A food tour through Belgium is a feast for your taste buds. Join us on our culinary journey through Flemish, Walloon, and Brussels cuisines, with tips on where to best sample these delicacies.

Ghent Waterzooi in the Leie Valley

Waterzooi, the creamy stew of chicken or fish, vegetables, and potatoes, is a true Ghent classic. Originally made with fish from the Leie River, it's often prepared with chicken today. Try the dish in one of the traditional restaurants along Graslei in Ghent. Combine a tasting with a bike ride along the Leie River, where you'll encounter charming villages, castles, and inns.

Asparagus Route in Limburg

Limburg is famous for its asparagus. During the asparagus season, from April to June, you'll find this "white gold" on menus everywhere. The classic preparation is with melted butter, hard-boiled egg, and parsley. Along the Asparagus Route (https://www.visitlimburg.be/nl/wat-te-doen/aspergeroute), you'll find numerous farms and restaurants serving fresh asparagus. Along the way, you'll cycle or walk through expansive fields and orchards.

Beer Cycling Routes Westhoek

Four Beer Cycling Routes have been mapped out in the Westhoek region, around Poperinge and Ypres. Along the way, signs shaped like beer bottles provide information about the sights. Discover breweries, beer pubs, and hop fields, and sample local stews prepared with Rodenbach or other regional beers.

Eel in Green - Paling in't groen

This unique dish of eel in a spicy green sauce comes from the Scheldt region, particularly Temse and Dendermonde. The sauce contains fresh herbs such as sorrel, parsley, mint, and tarragon. It's best enjoyed at a local eatery by the water.

The capital is a culinary melting pot. You'll find classic Belgian dishes and influences from around the world.

Eating Stoemp in the Marolles

Stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage) is a true Brussels comfort food. Take a stroll through the old working-class Marolles neighborhood and discover traditional eateries and markets. You can sample the many flavors of Brussels on one of the culinary city walks and gastronomic tours.

Moules-frites

Although mussels are popular elsewhere, they are often associated with Brussels. Served in a black pot, steamed with white wine, garlic, or cream, and always with fresh fries. Chez Léon in Rue des Bouchers has been a household name for this traditional treat for decades.

Brussels Waffles

Fluffier and more rectangular than the Liège version, and traditionally without sugar pearls. Perfect with powdered sugar, strawberries, or whipped cream. Stroll along the Grand Place and you'll smell them. Maison Dandoy on Karel Bulsstraat in the heart of Brussels is highly recommended for authentic Brussels waffles.

Walloon cuisine is generous, hearty, and deeply connected to nature.

Liège Meatballs

Liège is home to the famous Liège meatballs (boulette liégoise)(boulets in a sweet and sour sauce). You can sample these and other regional specialties, such as Liège syrup, cheeses, and artisan pastries, along the beautiful Meuse Cycle Route.

Game and Ham in the Ardennes

In the Ardennes, especially in autumn, you'll find numerous game dishes on the menu, such as wild boar, venison, and rabbit. And of course, you can also indulge in the famous smoked Ardennes ham and pâté. Visit local restaurants in Durbuy, La Roche, or Bouillon for a delicious game menu, often paired with wild mushrooms and regional wines.

Petit Gris in Namur

Petit Gris isn't just a snail and a culinary specialty in the region; it's the mascot of Namur. Legend has it that the people of Namur are as slow as snails. In surrounding villages, such as Warnant and Fernelmont, snail farms raise the Petits Gris, which are served in local restaurants. But Namur has much more to offer foodies. One way to discover it is to join a guided culinary walk.

-Cycling or walking routes: Culinary routes exist throughout Belgium, where you can sample regional products along the way. Inquire at the tourist office. -Download local apps and maps: Many regions offer a free app or walking/cycling map with culinary routes and addresses of producers, restaurants, and shops. -Visit during theme weeks: During asparagus or game season, there are additional tastings, workshops, and events. -Local markets: Visit regional markets such as those in Namur, Bruges, or Leuven for fresh produce, cheese, meats, and sweets. -Pair with local beer: Every dish tastes better with a matching Belgian beer. Ask for recommendations at restaurants.