Flanders, Belgium
Flemish cuisine in Ghent is hearty, rich, and often shaped by French and Dutch traditions. It emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, slow cooking methods, and traditional recipes. Historically, the region's agricultural richness and trade connections contributed to a diverse larder.
Ghent also is an unique status as the "Vegetarian Capital of Europe," with a high concentration of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. This progressive culinary identity sets it apart.
Lunch typically occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Dinner usually begins around 6:00 PM and continues until 9:00 PM or later, especially on weekends.
Recommended for dinner, especially on weekends or at popular restaurants. For fine dining, reservations are often needed well in advance.
Tipping is not obligatory, as a service charge is usually included. However, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service remains common, especially with cash payments. Meals are typically served at a leisurely pace.
A creamy, comforting stew, traditionally with chicken (Kippenwaterzooi) or fish (Viswaterzooi). It includes various vegetables like carrots, leeks, and potatoes, all cooked in a rich cream-based broth. Find it at traditional Flemish restaurants.
A hearty classic. Beef slow-cooked in Belgian beer (often dark beer), onions, mustard, and spices until tender. Almost always served with crispy Belgian fries.
A rustic stew with various meats (like beef, pork, and sausage) combined with hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, onions, and Brussels sprouts. Vegetables often mashed together, making a comforting, filling dish.
High-quality chocolates are available from numerous chocolatiers. Look for artisan shops for unique creations.
Spiced shortcrust biscuits popular year-round. Smoutebollen (Oliebollen) are fried dough balls, often with apple pieces, dusted with powdered sugar, popular in winter.
Ghent has Michelin-starred or highly-regarded restaurants offering contemporary Belgian or international cuisine with innovative preparations and refined service. Examples: Publiek, Chambre Séparée, Vrijmoed.
Abundant options present traditional Flemish cuisine, French, Italian, and other international dishes. Explore Patershol for a concentrated selection. These restaurants offer quality food in a comfortable setting.
For satisfying meals on a budget, and a wide array of international foods.
A historic building, now a regional product center. Sample local produce, cheeses, and charcuterie here.
Historic location for local delights.
A renovated church that sometimes operates as a trendy food hall with various international and local food stalls. Check its current status, as concepts change.
Contemporary dining in an unique setting.
Ghent is very friendly, with many dedicated restaurants and marked menus. The first city with "Veggie Day" (Donderdag Veggiedag).
Awareness is increasing. Many restaurants accommodate if informed in advance.
Dedicated restaurants are limited. Some international restaurants may offer halal options. Research beforehand.
Online search tools like HappyCow for vegan/vegetarian options. Always inform restaurants when booking or upon arrival.
This restaurant offers a sensory dining experience in complete darkness, heightening your other senses.
A unique way to experience flavors.
Ghent has a dynamic culinary scene with temporary pop-up dining experiences, offering innovative menus and unique settings.
Look for these for a distinct meal.
Mussels (Mosselen): Main season typically September to April, served in large pots with steamed vegetables and always with fries.
Jenever, a juniper-flavored spirit, is the precursor to gin. Often served in small shot glasses. A traditional Belgian spirit.
A traditional Belgian dish of mashed potatoes mixed with other mashed vegetables like carrots, leeks, or cabbage. Often served with sausages or meatballs.
