Ypres Flanders, Belgium Travel Guide
Belgian cuisine combines robust flavors and big helpings. It highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients, specifically seafood from the North Sea and local farm produce.
Beer plays an integral role, as an ingredient in cooking and as a meal pairing. The region's history, with agricultural roots, influences its comforting and robust culinary identity. Ingredients include potatoes, mussels, endive, asparagus, various meats, and seafood. Flavors are rich, savory, often with hints of sweetness.
Lunch is usually 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Dinner begins around 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM, with kitchens often closing by 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM in Ypres.
Dinner reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Service is generally good. Tipping is customary for good service (round up or 5-10%), though a service charge is often included.
Request the bill by saying "de rekening, s'if you please." Bread is often served with meals, sometimes as a chargeable extra.
Steamed mussels, often in white wine or beer broth, with Belgium's twice-fried fries. Widely available.
A classic pairing with Belgian fries.
Beef stewed in strong Belgian beer, often a dark ale, with onions, mustard, and gingerbread. A hearty, savory dish.
Mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables like carrots, leeks, or cabbage, often served with sausages or meat.
A rich, creamy stew, traditionally made with fish or chicken.
Puff pastry filled with chicken, meatballs, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
Endive wrapped in ham, baked with a velvety cheese sauce.
Renowned worldwide. Pralines are a must-try. Many chocolatiers operate in Ypres. Consider a Godiva chocolate assortment.
Spiced shortbread biscuits, often with coffee. Also, rich chocolate mousse.
True fine dining is limited in Ypres, but several dining places offer upscale Belgian and French food with excellent service and wine lists.
This is the main common type, providing a comfortable dining an experience involving a good variety of Belgian and foreign foods.
For inexpensive, satisfying meals, head to friteries. Sandwich shops and bakeries are good for quick, affordable lunches. Supermarkets allow for self-catering.
While Belgian cuisine dominates, you find a limited selection of Italian, French, and Asian restaurants in Ypres.
Offers fresh produce, cheese, bread, and prepared foods.
Awareness of gluten-free ("sans gluten" or "glutenvrij") and other allergens is growing. Communicate your needs clearly to staff.
Carrying an Allergy translation card in Dutch or French may be useful.
Fries are often fried in animal fat. Inquire about vegetable oil options if you have strict dietary needs.
Online restaurant review sites, like HappyCow for vegan and vegetarian options, aid in finding suitable places.
A cozy restaurant known for its traditional Flemish dishes and a wide selection of local beers.
A popular pub with a great selection of Belgian beers, including many rare plus seasonal variations drafts.
A modern bistro with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a lighter take on Belgian classics.
A highly anticipated seasonal delicacy when available.
Look for "witte asperges" on menus.
Best enjoyed in months ending in 'R', typically September to April.
A staple of Belgian dining.
Many of the mid-range and upscale restaurants around Grote Markt have a personal atmosphere.
Brasseries and larger eateries accommodate groups, especially for traditional Belgian feasts.
Friteries and sandwich bars are plentiful for quick and budget-friendly meals.
Always check opening hours, especially on Sundays and public holidays, as some smaller establishments may close.
