Bruges, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” is not only famous for its medieval architecture and canals but also for its remarkable food scene. When I decided to embark on a culinary journey through this charming Belgian city, I had three main goals in mind: savor the best waffles, indulge in rich Belgian chocolate, and experience the country’s renowned beer culture. Spoiler alert: Bruges did not disappoint.
From the moment I arrived, the aroma of freshly baked waffles and melted chocolate filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat. My journey through Bruges turned into a delectable tour, filled with indulgent stops and unique local flavors.
First Stop: Belgian Waffles at Chez Albert
You simply can’t come to Belgium without trying a Belgian waffle, and one of the best places in Bruges to start this culinary journey is Chez Albert. Located right off the Markt, Bruges’ central square, Chez Albert is a small, unassuming waffle stand, but don’t let its size fool you. The waffles here are legendary.
I ordered a Liege waffle, known for its caramelized sugar coating and denser, chewier texture. While the classic waffle with powdered sugar was tempting, I couldn’t resist the one topped with Belgian chocolate and whipped cream. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate and the perfectly crispy waffle was heavenly. The sweetness wasn’t overwhelming, and the waffle itself had the ideal balance between crunch and softness.
At Chez Albert, a waffle with chocolate and whipped cream costs around €5, and it’s worth every cent. They don’t take reservations (it’s a walk-up stand), but it’s best to go early in the day to avoid long lines. The stand is located close to some of Bruges’ most popular attractions, so after indulging, you can easily explore the Belfry Tower or the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Chocolate Heaven: Choco-Story and The Chocolate Line
Belgian chocolate is legendary for a reason, and Bruges is home to some of the finest chocolatiers in the world. My first chocolate stop was the Choco-Story Museum, which is as informative as it is delicious. Located just a few minutes from the Markt, this museum offers an in-depth look at the history of chocolate, from its origins in ancient civilizations to the modern-day chocolate-making process.
After exploring the exhibits (and tasting a few samples along the way), I gained a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every chocolate bar. Entry to the museum is €11, and it includes tastings at various stages of the tour.
But my chocolate journey didn’t end there. Just around the corner is The Chocolate Line, a chocolate shop renowned for its innovative flavors. Owned by Dominique Persoone, one of Belgium’s most famous chocolatiers, The Chocolate Line offers a range of quirky and daring combinations. I tried a few pralines, including one filled with mango and passionfruit and another with a surprising hit of Szechuan pepper. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, a testament to how creative Belgian chocolate-making can be.
Prices here vary depending on what you buy, but expect to spend around €8-10 for a small box of assorted pralines. The Chocolate Line is a perfect stop if you want to bring some treats home for family and friends, though be warned: you might eat everything before you leave Bruges!
Beer Bliss: Tasting Local Brews at De Halve Maan
No trip to Bruges would be complete without delving into Belgium’s rich beer culture, and for that, I headed to De Halve Maan Brewery, the only family-run brewery still operating in Bruges. Located just a 10-minute walk from the city center, this brewery is famous for its Brugse Zot, a local beer brewed right on-site.
I joined the brewery tour, which costs around €14 and includes a beer tasting at the end. The tour itself was fascinating—our guide explained the brewing process in detail, from the fermentation tanks to the bottling line, and even shared some amusing stories about the brewery’s long history. The highlight, of course, was the tasting. I tried the Brugse Zot Blond, a refreshing and slightly fruity beer that pairs beautifully with local cheeses. If you prefer darker, more robust flavors, the Brugse Zot Dubbel is a must-try—it’s rich with notes of caramel and dried fruit.
De Halve Maan also has a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of Bruges, making it the perfect place to enjoy your beer while soaking in the scenery.
Lunch Stop: Traditional Flemish Stew at Cambrinus
After a morning filled with waffles, chocolate, and beer, I was ready for a hearty lunch, and Cambrinus was the perfect choice. This traditional Belgian beer restaurant is just a short walk from the Markt and is known for its extensive beer menu—over 400 varieties—as well as its classic Flemish dishes.
I ordered the Flemish stew, a slow-cooked beef stew made with dark beer and served with a side of crispy fries. The meat was incredibly tender, and the rich, flavorful sauce had a slight sweetness from the beer, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. The dish cost around €18, and it was worth every bite.
Cambrinus has a warm, cozy atmosphere, with wooden beams and old beer advertisements decorating the walls. The staff was friendly and happy to recommend beers that paired well with my meal. I went with a local dark beer that perfectly complemented the stew’s flavors.
Exploring More Local Breweries: Bourgogne des Flandres
For those wanting to dive deeper into the world of Belgian beer, I recommend visiting the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery, located along one of Bruges’ many picturesque canals. The brewery specializes in Flemish red-brown ales, and their signature beer is a blend of young and old ales, resulting in a complex flavor profile that’s both sweet and tart.
The brewery offers a self-guided tour for €12, which includes a beer at the end. The tour is interactive, allowing visitors to see the brewing process up close, and there’s even a chance to try blending beers yourself.
The beer garden at Bourgogne des Flandres is one of my favorite spots in Bruges—sipping a cold beer while watching boats glide down the canal was the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.
Street Food Delight: Frites at Frietmuseum
Bruges takes its frites (fries) seriously, and if you want to learn more about the history of this beloved Belgian snack, the Frietmuseum is a must-visit. It’s a quirky little museum dedicated entirely to fries, explaining their origin and the best way to cook them. Entry is €7, and while it’s a fun stop, the highlight is the fries at the end of the tour. Served with a generous helping of mayonnaise or samurai sauce, these golden, crispy fries were some of the best I’ve ever had.
Frites stands are scattered throughout the city, and they’re an affordable way to grab a quick snack while exploring. Prices for a cone of fries are usually around €3-5 depending on the size and topping.
Planning Your Own Culinary Adventure
Bruges is a city that’s best explored slowly, and the same goes for its culinary scene. Here are a few tips to make the most of your food journey:
- Walk or cycle: Bruges is compact, so it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. Walking helps you burn off those waffles and frites, and it also allows you to discover hidden gems along the way.
- Pace yourself: With so many delicious treats, it’s easy to overindulge. I recommend spreading out your meals and snacks throughout the day to fully enjoy each one.
- Be adventurous: Belgian cuisine is full of surprises, so don’t hesitate to try something new. Whether it’s a chocolate praline with an unexpected filling or a beer with a flavor you’ve never encountered, Bruges is the place to broaden your palate.
- Budget accordingly: While many of Bruges’ food experiences are affordable, some, like chocolate shops or brewery tours, can add up. Be sure to allocate some of your budget for these indulgent treats.
My culinary adventure through Bruges was nothing short of extraordinary. From the sweet perfection of Liege waffles to the bold flavors of local beers, every bite and sip was a celebration of Belgian culture and tradition. Whether you’re a foodie or simply someone who loves to eat, Bruges is the ultimate destination for indulging in some of the world’s best waffles, beer, and chocolate.
