Must Experience Foods in Belgium

Belgium is one of those places where the food becomes part of the trip.

Before we went, I knew I wanted to try real Belgian pommes frites. They were already on my list, along with waffles, chocolate, and Belgian beer. But even though I was looking forward to them, I was still surprised by how much I loved them.

Here are the foods I think are worth experiencing on a trip to Belgium.

Pommes Frites

We had them more than once, and they were wonderful everywhere we went. But the one I remember most was in Bruges, right near the square. Maybe it was because it was our first Belgian frites experience, or maybe it was because Bruges already feels like a storybook.

Belgian fries are usually thicker than regular fast food fries, crisp on the outside, and soft on the inside. They are also traditionally fried twice, which helps give them that perfect texture.

And of course, the sauces are part of the experience. The classic choice is mayonnaise, but you will often see other sauces too.

Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffles are another food you should try in Belgium.

Brussels waffles are usually lighter and crispier, while Liège waffles are sweeter and denser. Both are worth trying if you have time.

Whether you eat one from a café or as a quick treat while sightseeing, waffles are one of those foods that just feel right in Belgium.

Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate is everywhere, and the chocolate shops are part of the experience.

You can stop in for pralines, truffles, or a small box to take home. Even if you only buy a few pieces, it is worth visiting at least one chocolate shop while you are there.

Moules Frites

Moules frites is one of the classic Belgian meals.

It is mussels served with fries, usually in a flavorful broth. This is a good dish to try if you want a sit down meal that feels very Belgian.

Carbonnade Flamande

Carbonnade Flamande is a Flemish beef stew made with Belgian beer.

It is rich, cozy, and perfect if you are visiting Belgium in cooler weather. This is the kind of meal that feels especially good in a warm, historic café.

Belgian Beer

Belgian beer is part of the country’s food culture.

Even if you are not a beer expert, it is worth trying a local beer with a meal or in a traditional café. Belgium’s beer culture is even recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.

Final Thoughts

Belgium surprised me as a food destination.

I expected to enjoy the waffles, chocolate, and beer, and I already knew I wanted to try pommes frites. But I did not expect the fries to become one of my favorite memories from the trip.

Sometimes the best travel memories are simple.

Sometimes they are just a cone of hot fries near a beautiful old square.