Bite Into Belgium: Must-Try Dishes You Can't-Miss

The scent of powdered sugar and sweet dough wafts all over Belgian, enticing travelers into food stands and restaurants serving up crisp, golden waffles. There are two main types to try: the Brussels waffle, which is lighter, rectangular, and dusted with powdered sugar, and the Liège waffle, a denser, caramelized treat with chunks of pearl sugar baked into the batter. Eat them topped with fresh berries, drizzled with Nutella, or doused in whipped cream—these waffles are a decadent treat any time of day.

Moules-frites, Belgium’s national dish, is a must-try for anyone visiting the country. This beloved classic features fresh mussels, typically steamed in a fragrant broth of white wine, garlic, and herbs, creating a light yet flavorful dish. However, many chefs put their own spin on the dish—some versions incorporate cream for added richness, beer for a deeper, malty flavor, or even curry for a bold twist.

Served in a steaming cauldron straight to the table, moules are paired with a generous portion of crispy, golden frites, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.

Speaking of fries, Belgium takes its frites very seriously. Belgian frites are a step above typical fast-food fries—thick-cut, double-fried for extra crunch, and served piping hot in a paper cone.

No serving of frites is complete without a delicious dipping sauce. Traditional choices include andalouse, a tangy, mayo-based sauce, or just plain mayonnaise. However, most fritkots—Belgium’s iconic fry stands—offer an extensive selection of sauces, allowing you to customize your fry experience.

A creamy, flavorful stew originating from Ghent, waterzooi is typically made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and a broth thickened with egg yolks and cream. Hearty and satisfying, this dish is perfect for warming up on a chilly Belgian evening.

Stoemp is a hearty and comforting Belgian side dish that takes mashed potatoes to the next level. This creamy blend of potatoes and vegetables—such as carrots, leeks, or Brussels sprouts—adds flavor and texture to the classic dish. The name often reflects the vegetable mixed in, like "Wortelstoemp," with "wortel" meaning carrots in Dutch.

Traditionally served alongside sausages, stews, or other rich meats, stoemp is a deliciously satisfying addition to any meal. This ultra-rich side dish is usually loaded with heavy cream,

If you’ve ever flown with Delta, chances are you’ve already tasted speculoos—Biscoff cookies are one of the most well-known examples of this beloved Belgian spiced biscuit. These thin, crunchy cookies are infused with warm spices like cinnamon, giving them a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream.

But the deliciousness doesn’t stop there. If you can’t get enough of that signature speculoos taste, you’ll want to try speculoos spread—a dangerously addictive, peanut butter-like treat with a smooth, creamy texture. Whether slathered on toast, drizzled over waffles, or eaten straight from the jar with a spoon, this indulgent spread is a must-try for any sweet tooth.

Belgium is home to some of the world’s best chocolatiers, including Neuhaus, Godiva, and Leonidas. If you’re planning a chocolate pilgrimage, head to the Flanders region. Often referred to as “the capital of chocolate,” this area is a hotspot for artisan chocolatiers and the headquarters of two of the world’s largest chocolate manufacturers, Callebaut and Puratos.

While not a dish, Belgian beer is a must-try experience in itself. With a brewing tradition that dates back centuries, Belgium is home to an incredible variety of beers, each with its own distinct flavors, brewing methods, and rich history. From the tart and fruity notes of lambics to the deep, complex profiles of Trappist ales, there is a beer to suit every taste.

With over 300 breweries scattered across the country, beer lovers have endless opportunities to explore and discover new favorites. Consider planning your own Belgian beer trail, hopping from brewery to brewery to sample world-renowned brews, learn about their production, and soak in the rich brewing heritage.