A gourmet guide to Brussels: savour the city's culinary palette like a local
Savour unforgettable culinary experiences at Corinthia Brussels, then let us guide you beyond our doors to uncover the city's hidden markets, acclaimed fine restaurants,under-the-radar delicacies and vibrant food events that make Brussels a gastronomic haven. It is a city of a thousand flavours and visionary chefs - a place where global aromas captivate and delight. In Brussels, exceptional dining is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Tempted? Let’s take you on a taste-filled tour of outculinary capital.
Make a reservation on your itinerary for fine dining
Starting with the crème de la crème, the Brussels culinary scene is a magnet for talented chefs, boasting 31 Michelin stars. That's more than Rome or Madrid. With so much competition, local restaurants are famed for their quality, and many excellent establishments are en route to starred status too.
Some of the best establishments are within walking distance of Corinthia Brussels. At the BOZAR restaurant, Karen Torosyan reinterprets Belgian pastry dishes like pâté en croûte and pithiviers, blending decadence and delicacy. Further down the Rue Royale you arrive at L'Écailler du Palais Royal – one of Europe's finest luxury seafood restaurants. Or sample Giovanni Bruno's Italian cuisine at nearby senzanome. His subtle mousse of stracciatella works wonders with basil, tomato and sorbet.
We encourage you to cast your net wide, but rest assured, you needn’t venture far to indulge in one of the city's premier culinary destinations - right from the comfort of your accommodation. Guests at Corinthia Brussels can enjoy a blend of Japanese, Belgian and French cuisine courtesy of chef David Martin at the Palais Royal, or have a table at Le Petit bon bon where Christophe Hardiquest offers new spins on traditional Belgian braserie dishes.
Join the locals at Belgian gourmet food shops and markets
Returning to town, it's time to discover Brussels culinary diversity. To do so properly, you must visit the city's thriving food markets.
One of our favourites is Wolf Sharing Market. Located on Rue du Fossé aux Loups, just northwest of Corinthia Brussels, Wolf hosts 17 mini-restaurants and bars. Tuck into gourmet Syrian bread, healthy Poké bowls, Vietnamese feasts or authentic Indian dhal. Gare Maritime Food Market near Belgica Metro is another standout. Situated in the Tour & Taxis entertainment complex, it's a great stopping point for families checking out local attractions. Then there's FOX - the perfect summer market. Waterfront seating, global cuisine and a chilled party vibe make it a wonderful social space. It's a little out of the centre but you can easily get there via the Tenreuken tram stop. Add a gourmet twist to your visit to the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle. After uncovering unique treasures, savour a Ricard at Le Marseillais, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling district as you plot your next adventure.
Relax with casual dining and charming cafes
One of the great things about Brussels is that quality reaches down to local bars and casual dining favourites. Delicate patisseries from Wittamer on Pl. du Grand Sablon are perfect for those whose tastebuds yearn for sweetness. Devour them on the run or settle down with a coffee to absorb the local buzz.
Sample a local snack at Mer du Nord, a popular fish shop known for its shrimp croquettes and kibbeling (fried fish). Enjoy your meal on their terrace, with a view of the Church of Saint Catherine.
End your day at one of the city’s elegant bars and terraces. Unwind with fine wine and cigars in the chic salon of Le Corbier, near Place du Grand Sablon. For a more relaxed vibe, enjoy oysters and champagne on the terrace at Chez Richard. If you're looking for a cosy retreat, the Palm Court at the heart of the hotel offers the perfect setting to sip an aperitif after a day of exploring.
Explore out of this world wineries
One of the most unexpected aspects of Brussels’ culinary scene for newcomers is the strength of the local wine scene. Beneath the surface you'll discover one of Europe's finest crops of up and coming wineries. Venture just outside town to the Valke Vleug in Puurs-Sint-Amands, which pours some of Belgium's finest cuvées or wander the idyllic vineyard at Entre-Deux Monts to sample the distinctively Belgian notes of Martin Bacquaert's creations.
Sample treats that many visitors miss
While Maison Dandoy is famous for its iconic speculoos biscuits, the lesser-known Pain à la Greque is a local specialty that often goes unnoticed. Typically enjoyed as a small dessert or sweet bite during a coffee break, it’s surprisingly not connected to Greece in any way.
Also Leopold's Cuberdons are a sweet worth sharing.. These raspberry-scented "noses" are Unique in both taste, shape and texture.. With so many unmissable delicacies on display, it will be hard not to take some home with you.
Visitors in the cooler months must try Brussels' traditional roasted chestnuts as well. There's no better winter pick-me-up.
Arrive in time for Brussels' annual food events
Finally, Belgians have a deep passion for festivals, and this extends well beyond music.. Discover an annual calendar filled with vibrant culinary events. These gatherings are the perfect opportunity to mingle while discovering the signature flavours that make Brussels a true haven for food lovers.
It may not be imaginatively named, but September's EAT festival sees local artisans battling for champion status. That's good news for gourmands, who can try mouthwatering dishes like the finest shrimp croquettes or Belgian cheeses during the competition. The BXLBeerFest (also in September) is the ideal companion, hosting craft beers from Belgium's world-famous brewing scene. Or if you have a taste for adventure, reserve a seat at Dinner in the Sky between May and June. There's nothing quite like enjoying gourmet meals in the sky high above Brussels landmarks.
Stay with us for a culinary retreat
Fine dining is woven into the very fabric of Belgium’s capital and Corinthia Brussels is the perfect starting point for your culinary adventure. From sumptuous seafood and delicate pastries to Michelin-starred masterpieces, Brussels offers a rich tapestry of flavours to satisfy every craving. Curate your restaurant list, check the event calendar and prepare for a gastronomic getaway that’s as unforgettable as the city itself.
