2025-10-21 | TRAVEL GUIDE
Brussels, the heart of Belgium and capital of the European Union, is far more than a city of grand squares, impressive architecture, and political institutions. It's a vibrant culinary destination that seamlessly blends traditional Belgian cuisine with international flavors, offering food lovers an extraordinary dining scene that rivals any major European capital. From classic Belgian brasseries serving perfectly prepared mussels to innovative fine dining establishments pushing culinary boundaries, Brussels provides unforgettable gastronomic experiences for every palate and budget.
Whether you're visiting for business, exploring the city's rich cultural heritage, or simply seeking exceptional food, this guide to the 13 best restaurants in Brussels will help you navigate the capital's diverse dining landscape. These carefully selected establishments represent the very best of what Brussels has to offer, each providing a unique experience that showcases the city's culinary excellence.
Located in the heart of Brussels at Rue des Bouchers 34, The Lobster House stands as a temple to Belgian seafood traditions. This restaurant perfectly captures the essence of Belgian dining, offering an extensive menu of seafood specialties in a welcoming, atmospheric setting.
As the name suggests, lobster features prominently on the menu, prepared in various styles that highlight the natural sweetness and delicate texture of this prized crustacean. However, The Lobster House offers much more than its namesake dish. The restaurant serves traditional bouillabaisse, the classic French seafood stew that has been adopted and perfected in Belgian coastal cuisine, alongside aromatic paella that showcases Spanish influences.
The true star of the menu, however, might be the mussels. Belgium is famous for its moules-frites (mussels with fries), and The Lobster House prepares them in numerous traditional and creative variations. Whether you choose mussels steamed in white wine with shallots and parsley, cooked in Belgian white beer for a uniquely local flavor, or prepared Provençal-style with tomatoes and garlic, each version offers a distinct and delicious taste experience. The mussels are always fresh, perfectly cooked, and served with golden, crispy Belgian fries that are legendary in their own right.
The restaurant's location on Rue des Bouchers places it in one of Brussels' most atmospheric dining districts, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with energy. The interior combines traditional Belgian hospitality with maritime touches, creating an environment that's both comfortable and celebratory.
Open daily from 11am to 10pm
Rue des Bouchers 34, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 502 20 16
contact@thelobsterhouse.be
For anyone seeking authentic Belgian seafood cuisine in the heart of Brussels, The Lobster House delivers an experience that combines tradition, quality, and atmosphere in perfect measure.
Sometimes the best culinary experiences in a city come from stepping outside traditional local cuisine to explore international flavors prepared with authenticity and passion. Thai Buri, located at Rue des Teinturiers 6, brings the vibrant, complex flavors of Thailand to Brussels with remarkable success.
What sets Thai Buri apart is its commitment to traditional Thai recipes and cooking methods. This isn't fusion cuisine or adapted flavors – it's genuine Thai food prepared as it would be in Thailand, using authentic ingredients and time-honored techniques. The menu covers the full spectrum of Thai cuisine, from aromatic curries and stir-fried noodles to refreshing salads and comforting soups.
The curry selection deserves special attention, particularly the Massaman curry. This rich, relatively mild curry features tender meat or tofu simmered in coconut milk with potatoes, roasted peanuts, and a complex blend of spices that creates layers of flavor – sweet, savory, slightly spicy, and deeply satisfying. It's comfort food at its finest, showcasing why Thai cuisine has captivated food lovers worldwide.
Vegetarians will find Thai Buri particularly welcoming, with numerous dishes featuring tofu or simply highlighting vegetables without relying on meat substitutes. The fresh vegetable preparations maintain the authentic Thai approach to vegetarian cooking, which has a long and sophisticated tradition.
The restaurant's intimate atmosphere creates a relaxed dining experience where you can focus on the food and conversation. Service is friendly and knowledgeable, with staff happy to explain dishes and adjust spice levels to your preference.
Closed Mondays
Tuesday-Sunday: 6pm – 9:30pm
Rue des Teinturiers 6, 1000 Brussels
+32 485 04 96 41
info@thaiburi.eu
For those seeking a break from European cuisine or anyone who appreciates authentic Thai food, Thai Buri offers a delicious escape to Southeast Asia without leaving Brussels.
Italian cuisine has conquered the world with its emphasis on quality ingredients, simple preparations, and bold flavors. Pasta Divina, located at Rue de la Montagne 16, brings this Italian philosophy to Brussels in a restaurant that celebrates the art of pasta.
The concept at Pasta Divina is beautifully straightforward: choose your pasta, choose your sauce, and enjoy a freshly prepared dish that showcases both elements. The pasta selection includes various shapes and styles, all made with quality and attention to tradition. The sauce options range from classic preparations like carbonara, amatriciana, and cacio e pepe to more creative combinations featuring seasonal ingredients.
This build-your-own approach might seem simple, but it requires excellent execution – the pasta must be cooked perfectly al dente, the sauces must be properly balanced and freshly prepared, and the combinations must work harmoniously. Pasta Divina succeeds on all counts, delivering dishes that would satisfy even critical Italian palates.
For those overwhelmed by choice or seeking expert guidance, the kitchen is happy to provide recommendations. The staff's knowledge and passion for Italian cuisine shine through in their suggestions, which often highlight seasonal specialties or less familiar regional dishes that deserve wider recognition.
Beyond the food, Pasta Divina offers an atmosphere that captures the warmth and conviviality of Italian dining culture. The restaurant's interior creates a relaxed, welcoming environment perfect for leisurely meals with friends or family. The pacing is unhurried, allowing you to savor your food and enjoy the experience rather than feeling rushed.
Closed Sundays
Monday-Saturday: 12pm-2pm and 6pm-9pm
Rue de la Montagne 16, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 511 21 55
info@pastadivina.be
For pasta lovers and anyone who appreciates Italian cuisine prepared with care and authenticity, Pasta Divina represents one of Brussels' finest Italian dining experiences.
The rise of health-conscious dining has brought exciting new options to cities worldwide, and Brussels' Yummy Bowl represents this trend at its best. Located at Rue des Éperonniers 49, this restaurant proves that healthy food can be both delicious and satisfying.
The concept centers on bowls – artfully arranged combinations of grains, proteins, vegetables, and flavorful dressings that create complete, nutritious meals. The variety is impressive, with options ranging from vegan chicken bowls to combinations featuring hummus, diverse vegetables, and various grain bases. Each bowl is thoughtfully composed to balance flavors, textures, and nutritional content.
Beyond bowls, Yummy Bowl offers ramen and pho, two of Asia's most beloved noodle soups. These warming, aromatic dishes provide comfort and satisfaction while remaining relatively light and healthy. The broths are flavorful, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings add both nutrition and interest.
What truly sets Yummy Bowl apart is its commitment to making healthy eating accessible and appealing. The food is colorful, attractively presented, and genuinely tasty rather than bland or austere. Portion sizes are generous, ensuring you leave satisfied rather than still hungry despite eating "healthy" food.
The restaurant also caters to those with a sweet tooth, offering desserts that balance indulgence with quality ingredients. The daily cake is always worth trying, showcasing seasonal flavors and house-made quality.
The casual, modern atmosphere makes Yummy Bowl perfect for quick lunches, relaxed dinners, or takeaway meals. The weekend hours extend into the afternoon, making it an excellent brunch or lunch destination.
Monday-Friday: 10:30am – 3pm
Saturday-Sunday: 10:30am – 5pm
Rue des Éperonniers 49, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 265 18 02
For health-conscious diners, vegetarians, vegans, or anyone seeking fresh, flavorful food that happens to be nutritious, Yummy Bowl delivers an excellent Brussels dining experience.
Fish and chips might seem like simple pub food, but Bia Mara has elevated this British classic into something special. Located at Rue du Marché aux Poulets 41, this restaurant makes it their mission to create unique, high-quality versions of this beloved dish.
The key to Bia Mara's success lies in their approach to ingredients and preparation. Rather than relying on a single type of fish, they offer various options, allowing diners to choose based on preference or try different varieties on subsequent visits. The fish is always fresh, perfectly battered or breaded, and fried to golden perfection – crispy outside, tender and flaky inside.
The chips deserve equal attention. These aren't limp, greasy fries but perfectly cooked Belgian-style frites – crispy, golden, and addictively delicious. The sauce selection elevates the entire experience, with options including classic tartar sauce, curry sauce, and other creative preparations that complement the fish beautifully.
Beyond fish and chips, Bia Mara's menu has expanded to include burgers, tacos, chicken dishes, and vegetarian options. This diversity makes the restaurant suitable for groups with varying preferences while maintaining the focus on quality and freshly prepared food. The homemade sauces tie everything together, adding distinctive flavors that make each dish memorable.
The atmosphere at Bia Mara is casual and welcoming, perfect for relaxed meals without pretension. The varied opening hours accommodate both lunch and dinner guests throughout the week, with extended hours on weekends.
Monday-Thursday: 12pm-2pm & 6pm-9pm
Friday: 12pm-2pm & 6pm-10pm
Saturday: 12pm-10pm
Sunday: 12pm-9pm
Rue du Marché aux Poulets 41, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 502 00 61
info@biamara.com
For anyone craving comfort food prepared with care and quality, or those curious about elevated takes on classics, Bia Mara offers one of Brussels' most satisfying casual dining experiences.
Fin de Siècle, located at Rue des Chartreux 9, represents Brussels dining at its most authentic and welcoming. This restaurant has built a loyal following by combining traditional Belgian hospitality with a diverse menu that satisfies various tastes and dietary preferences.
The menu at Fin de Siècle demonstrates impressive range, offering everything from fresh salads and pasta dishes to high-quality fish and meat specialties. This diversity makes the restaurant suitable for any occasion, whether you're seeking a light lunch, substantial dinner, or meal with friends who have different preferences.
What's particularly noteworthy is Fin de Siècle's commitment to vegetarian and vegan options. Rather than offering token meatless dishes, the restaurant takes plant-based cuisine seriously. The vegan moussaka deserves special mention – a layered dish of vegetables, tomato sauce, and plant-based béchamel that captures the essence of this Mediterranean classic while being entirely animal-free. It's satisfying, flavorful, and proves that vegan food can be every bit as delicious as traditional preparations.
The dessert menu continues the restaurant's commitment to quality and variety. Classic offerings like tiramisu and crème brûlée are prepared with skill and attention to detail, providing sweet endings that complete the meal perfectly.
The atmosphere at Fin de Siècle strikes an excellent balance between casual and refined. The restaurant feels welcoming and relaxed without being overly informal, making it suitable for various occasions from casual dinners to celebrations.
The extended hours (open daily from noon until midnight) make Fin de Siècle particularly convenient for both lunch and dinner, or even late meals after exploring Brussels' nightlife.
Open daily: 12pm – 12am
Rue des Chartreux 9, 1000 Brussels
+32 493 37 80 62
info@findesiecle.be
For those seeking versatile, quality dining in a welcoming Brussels atmosphere, Fin de Siècle delivers consistently excellent experiences.
Step into Ricotta & Parmesan at Rue de l'Écuyer 31, and you'll find yourself transported to Italy through retro décor, delicious food, and warm hospitality. This restaurant celebrates Italian cuisine with particular emphasis on pizza, pasta, and classic dishes that have made Italian food beloved worldwide.
The wood-fired pizzas at Ricotta & Parmesan deserve top billing. Cooked in traditional fashion at high temperatures, these pizzas feature perfectly charred, bubbly crusts with just the right balance of chew and crispness. The toppings range from classic combinations to more creative options, all prepared with quality ingredients.
The Pizza Burrata with pesto exemplifies the restaurant's approach: take excellent ingredients (creamy burrata, aromatic basil pesto, quality dough) and let them shine through simple, skilled preparation. The result is a pizza that's far greater than the sum of its parts, showcasing why Italian cuisine has conquered the world through its emphasis on ingredient quality and restrained preparation.
Beyond pizza, the pasta dishes, cannelloni, and other Italian specialties maintain the same high standards. Each dish demonstrates respect for Italian culinary traditions while being prepared fresh to order.
Families will appreciate the children's menu, thoughtfully designed to appeal to younger palates while maintaining quality. This makes Ricotta & Parmesan an excellent choice for family dinners where everyone, from young children to adults, can find something satisfying.
The retro décor creates a playful, nostalgic atmosphere that adds charm without feeling kitschy. Combined with the tasty aperitifs and Italian wines, the restaurant provides a complete Italian experience in the heart of Brussels.
Open daily: 12pm-2:30pm and 6pm-11pm
Rue de l'Écuyer 31, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 502 80 82
booking@ricottaparmesan.be
For Italian food lovers and anyone seeking a family-friendly restaurant with character and quality, Ricotta & Parmesan delivers authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
La Vigne, located at Rue Jourdan 6, brings together Belgian classics and grilled specialties in a restaurant that celebrates hearty, satisfying food. If you're a fan of barbecue, grilled meats, or traditional Belgian dishes, this is your destination.
The menu at La Vigne showcases variety and substance. Belgian mussels appear alongside perfectly grilled entrecôte, Greek-style gyros, and fresh salads. This eclectic mix might seem unusual, but it works beautifully, offering something for everyone while maintaining quality across all dishes.
One of La Vigne's most attractive offerings is the three-course menu, available for €49. This prix fixe option allows you to create your own meal from a selection of starters, main courses, and desserts, providing excellent value while ensuring a complete dining experience. The ability to customize your menu means each diner can craft their ideal meal based on preferences and appetite.
The special lunch menu, available from noon until 6pm, provides another opportunity for value-conscious diners to enjoy La Vigne's quality at particularly attractive prices.
The restaurant's atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, focused on good food and comfortable dining rather than formality or pretension. It's the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy substantial portions, and leave satisfied without breaking the bank.
Monday-Saturday: 12pm – 11pm
Closed Sundays
Rue Jourdan 6, 1060 Brussels
+32 2 538 12 07
For those seeking generous portions, grilled specialties, or Belgian classics in a friendly atmosphere, La Vigne offers excellent value and consistently satisfying meals.
Pois Chiche, located at Place de la Chapelle 15, brings the vibrant flavors of Levantine cuisine to Brussels in a fast-casual format that prioritizes quality, freshness, and authentic taste. This restaurant proves that "fast food" doesn't have to mean compromised quality or bland flavors.
The menu focuses on flatbreads, mezzes, and dips – the building blocks of Middle Eastern cuisine that have sustained and delighted people for millennia. The flatbreads are freshly made, warm and slightly charred, perfect for wrapping around grilled meats and vegetables or tearing apart to scoop up creamy hummus and other dips.
The mezze selection showcases the variety and sophistication of Levantine small plates. These aren't afterthoughts or sides but carefully prepared dishes that work beautifully together or stand alone. The dips, in particular, demonstrate the magic that can be achieved with simple ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, eggplant, and olive oil when prepared with skill and care.
Weekend visitors should take advantage of the special brunch menu. The brunch platter provides an excellent introduction to Pois Chiche's offerings, combining various mezzes, flatbreads, and accompaniments into a feast that's perfect for leisurely weekend mornings.
A unique and delightful feature is the unlimited homemade lemonade available for just €5.50. This fresh, refreshing beverage complements the food perfectly and adds value to your meal while showcasing the restaurant's commitment to making everything in-house.
The relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering over your meal, chatting with companions, and enjoying the experience rather than rushing through.
Monday-Wednesday: 12pm-9pm
Thursday-Friday: 12pm-10pm
Saturday: 11am-10pm
Sunday: 11am-9pm
Place de la Chapelle 15, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 306 33 20
info@poischiche.be
For anyone seeking fresh, flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine in a casual, welcoming environment, Pois Chiche delivers authentic taste and excellent value.
Brasserie Signature, located at Place Jourdan 52 in Etterbeek, represents Brussels dining at its most refined and elegant. This restaurant combines beautiful surroundings, excellent food, and a distinguished wine and champagne selection to create memorable dining experiences.
The setting offers flexibility with both a lovely terrace for warm weather dining and a modern, elegant interior for year-round comfort. The design creates an atmosphere that's sophisticated without being intimidating, making it suitable for both special occasions and elevated everyday dining.
The menu at Brasserie Signature focuses particularly on high-quality meat and fish preparations. These proteins are sourced carefully and prepared with skill, showcasing classic techniques and allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. Whether you choose a perfectly cooked steak or fresh fish, you can expect excellent execution and thoughtful accompaniments.
The wine and champagne selection deserves special attention. The list has been curated to offer variety, quality, and interesting options beyond the obvious choices. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about wine, happy to suggest pairings or help you discover something new based on your preferences.
The combination of quality food, extensive beverage selection, and beautiful setting makes Brasserie Signature ideal for celebrations, romantic dinners, business meals, or any occasion that calls for something special.
Open daily: 12pm – 11pm
Place Jourdan 52, 1040 Etterbeek Brussels
+32 2 230 60 40
For those seeking elegant dining with emphasis on quality ingredients and excellent wines, Brasserie Signature provides a refined Brussels experience.
Brasserie Ommegang, located at Rue de la Montagne 4, embodies Belgian brasserie culture at its finest. This restaurant combines traditional Belgian cuisine, an impressive beer selection, and special touches like live piano music to create a distinctly Belgian dining experience.
The specially decorated interior creates immediate atmosphere, transporting diners into a world of Belgian hospitality and tradition. The varied menu offers something for everyone, from Belgian classics to international dishes, all prepared with care and attention to quality.
Beer lovers will find Brasserie Ommegang particularly appealing. The extensive selection from Brasserie Haacht showcases Belgian brewing excellence, offering everything from classic Belgian styles to more adventurous options. Belgium is famous for its beer culture, and Brasserie Ommegang celebrates this heritage with pride.
The weekend evenings provide something extra special: a pianist performs live, adding an elegant soundtrack to your meal. This musical accompaniment elevates the dining experience, making Friday and Saturday evenings particularly memorable. It's a reminder that dining is about more than just food – it's about creating complete experiences that engage all the senses.
The welcoming atmosphere and varied menu make Brasserie Ommegang suitable for various occasions, from casual dinners to celebrations. The extended weekend hours accommodate those seeking later meals after exploring Brussels.
Sunday-Thursday: 11am – 10:30pm
Friday-Saturday: 11am – 11pm
Rue de la Montagne 4, 1000 Brussels
+32 2 387 51 61
ommegang.brussels@gmail.com
For authentic Belgian brasserie experience complete with excellent beer and live music, Brasserie Ommegang delivers tradition and hospitality in the heart of Brussels.
Màloma, located at Chemin des Deux Fermes 5 in Rixensart, requires a journey outside Brussels' city center, but this trip rewards diners with one of the region's most distinctive culinary experiences. The restaurant's "farm-to-table" concept isn't marketing rhetoric but a genuine commitment realized through location and philosophy.
The suburban location allows Màloma to forge direct relationships with local suppliers, accessing fresh produce, meats, and other ingredients directly from nearby farms and producers. This connection to the land and local food systems shines through in every dish, with vegetables that taste of the season and proteins that reflect careful, sustainable raising.
The menu design reflects this farm-to-table approach, built around fresh vegetables with optional fish and meat additions. This plant-forward philosophy doesn't mean vegetarian or limiting – it means putting vegetables at the center of the plate where they deserve to be, treating them with the same care and creativity usually reserved for proteins.
The creative presentations at Màloma demonstrate that farm-to-table food can be beautiful and refined without sacrificing the honest, direct flavors that make this approach so satisfying. Each dish is composed thoughtfully, with the eye discovering layer upon layer of visual interest while the palate deciphers individual flavors that somehow work together harmoniously.
The limited service hours reflect the restaurant's commitment to quality and seasonality – they're open when they can source the best ingredients and provide the attention each dish deserves.
Closed Saturday-Monday
Tuesday-Wednesday: 7pm-8:45pm
Thursday-Friday: 12pm-1:45pm and 7pm-8:45pm
Chemin des Deux Fermes 5, 1331 Rixensart, Belgium
+32 456 01 18 42
For those willing to venture beyond Brussels proper, Màloma offers a farm-to-table experience that connects diners to the land and seasons through beautiful, creative cuisine.
Le Corbier, located at Rue des Minimes 51, brings the elegance and sophistication of French cuisine to Brussels in a setting that's both inviting and artistic. This restaurant represents the culmination of our list – a destination for special occasions and memorable meals.
The owners of Le Corbier have created something special through attention to atmosphere and ambiance. The colorful artwork, comfortable velvet sofas, and carefully considered lighting work together to create warmth and invitation rather than intimidation. This is refined dining that welcomes rather than excludes, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy rather than worry about formality.
The cuisine represents French culinary tradition meeting modern creativity. Classic techniques and time-honored preparations provide the foundation, while contemporary thinking and creative touches keep the food feeling fresh and exciting rather than stodgy or predictable. This balance – respecting tradition while embracing innovation – defines the best modern French cooking.
Each dish at Le Corbier demonstrates technical skill and thoughtful composition. The kitchen clearly understands that refinement doesn't mean complication – sometimes the most sophisticated approach is knowing when to step back and let quality ingredients speak for themselves.
The evening service hours encourage leisurely, multi-course dining experiences where food and wine can be savored properly. This is dining as an event, an experience to be enjoyed over hours rather than rushed through.
Closed Sunday-Monday
Tuesday-Saturday: 7pm – 11pm
Rue des Minimes 51, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
+32 2 705 59 95
info@lecorbier.be
For special occasions, celebrations, or evenings when you want to experience French cuisine at its most refined and creative, Le Corbier provides an unforgettable Brussels dining experience.
Brussels' culinary scene reflects the city's position at the crossroads of Europe – you'll find Belgian traditions alongside French refinement, Italian comfort, Thai authenticity, and Middle Eastern flavors. The 13 restaurants highlighted here represent the diversity and quality that make Brussels such an exciting destination for food lovers.
From casual spots like Bia Mara and Yummy Bowl to refined establishments like Le Corbier and Brasserie Signature, from traditional Belgian brasseries to innovative farm-to-table concepts, Brussels offers dining experiences for every taste, budget, and occasion. The common thread connecting all these restaurants is commitment to quality – quality ingredients, quality preparation, and quality service.
When visiting Brussels, make dining experiences central to your trip rather than afterthoughts. Reserve tables in advance for the most sought-after restaurants, particularly on weekends. Be adventurous and try restaurants outside the immediate city center like Màloma – the journey often rewards you with both excellent food and glimpses of Brussels beyond the tourist zones.
Don't limit yourself to Belgian cuisine, no matter how excellent. One of Brussels' great strengths as a dining destination is its cosmopolitan character, reflected in the variety of international cuisines prepared with authenticity and skill. Thai Buri's authentic Thai food and Pois Chiche's Levantine specialties showcase how Brussels has become home to diverse culinary traditions.
Remember that Belgian dining culture encourages lingering over meals. Lunch and dinner are occasions to be savored rather than rushed, with multiple courses, good wine or beer, and conversation being as important as the food itself. Embrace this approach and you'll discover that some of your best Brussels memories will be made around restaurant tables.
Whether you're seeking perfect mussels and frites, innovative vegetable-forward cuisine, authentic international flavors, or refined French cooking, Brussels delivers. These 13 restaurants provide an excellent starting point for your culinary exploration of this remarkable city. Bon appétit, or as they say in Brussels, "Smakelijk!"