La Grand Place in Brussels isn’t just a beautiful square; it’s also one of the best places to enjoy Belgian food. I worked nearby, so I often took business partners there to enjoy the view and try some of the city’s best dishes.

It’s a convenient spot with plenty of restaurants serving classic Belgian meals.

One dish I always recommend is stoofvlees with fries. It’s a hearty beef stew, and my favorite version is made with Hoegaarden beer, which reminds me of my hometown.

If you’re looking to try Belgian food in restaurants in Brussels near La Grand Place, this guide has you covered.

Why La Grand Place is Perfect for Tasting Belgian Food

La Grand Place is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. It’s not just a UNESCO World Heritage site; it’s also a hub for Belgian culture and cuisine.

What makes La Grand Place even more special for food lovers is its proximity to some of the best restaurants serving authentic Belgian food.

You’ll find places within walking distance offering classic dishes like mussels and fries, stoofvlees, and Belgian waffles.

Eating at La Grand Place also comes with the bonus of a historic setting. Enjoying a meal while surrounded by centuries-old buildings adds to the experience.

Ready to explore the best spots near this iconic square? Let’s dive into the top restaurants in the area for Belgian cuisine.

Our recommended Restaurants in Brussels Near La Grand Place

If you’re looking for authentic Belgian cuisine near La Grand Place, these restaurants are some of the best options. Each one offers a unique take on traditional dishes, from hearty stews to seafood favorites. Here are the top picks to check out:

1. Le Marmiton: Belgian Classics with a Touch of Elegance

Le Marmiton is a favorite for its traditional Belgian dishes served in a refined setting. Located in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, just steps from La Grand Place, this restaurant offers specialties like waterzooi, escargots, and their signature seafood dishes. It’s a great spot for business lunches or a quiet dinner.

2. The Blue Restaurant: Modern Belgian Cuisine

The Blue Restaurant offers a contemporary twist on Belgian flavors. Their menu features a mix of classic and modern dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The cozy yet stylish atmosphere makes it perfect for both casual and formal dining near the square.

3. ’t Kelderke: Rustic Charm on La Grand Place

Located right on La Grand Place, ’t Kelderke is a go-to for hearty Belgian food in a cozy, rustic setting. Known for dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew), rabbit in beer sauce, and sausages, this spot is ideal for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Belgian comfort food while soaking in the historic surroundings.

4. Nüetnigenough: Beer and Comfort Food Done Right

Nüetnigenough is a short walk from La Grand Place and is known for its incredible pairing of Belgian beer and comfort food. Their shrimp croquettes, meatballs, and house-made sauces are highly recommended. The beer list includes rare Belgian brews, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

5. Ballekes (Grote Markt): Belgian Meatball Heaven

Ballekes specializes in Belgian-style meatballs with a variety of sauces, including tomato, beer, and mushroom. Located close to Grote Markt, it’s a casual spot to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal. Pair your meatballs with crispy fries for a true Belgian experience.

6. C’est Bon C’est Belge: A Cozy Spot for Regional Flavors

Tucked away near La Grand Place, C’est Bon C’est Belge offers a homestyle dining experience. Their menu highlights regional specialties made with care, including stews, croquettes, and seasonal dishes. It’s a quieter alternative for those looking to escape the bustling square.

7. The Brothers Brasserie: Classic Belgian Dining on La Grand Place

Located directly on La Grand Place, The Brothers Brasserie combines traditional Belgian cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere. Their menu includes mussels and fries, grilled meats, and a selection of Belgian desserts. It’s a great choice for those who want a meal with a view of the iconic square.

Where to find the restaurants?

To make it easier for you to explore these amazing restaurants, I’ve included a map with all the locations. Each spot is just a short walk from La Grand Place, so you won’t have to venture far to enjoy authentic Belgian food.

What to Order at These Restaurants?

What to Order at These Restaurants

Belgian cuisine is all about hearty, comforting dishes, and when you’re near La Grand Place, there are some classics you absolutely have to try. Here are my personal recommendations:

1. Stoofvlees (Beef Stew) with Fries

Stoofvlees is hands down my favorite Belgian dish. It’s a rich, slow-cooked beef stew made with Belgian beer—if you find one made with Hoegaarden (my hometown beer), don’t miss it. The beer gives the stew a deep, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy golden fries. Triple Karmeliet, another beer from Hoegaarden, is also worth trying, whether in the dish or in your glass.

2. Vol-au-Vent

Belgium is often divided over what’s better—stoofvlees or vol-au-vent. Some swear by the creamy chicken and mushroom-filled puff pastry, while others will always choose the stew. For me, it depends on the day, but you really can’t go wrong with either. If you’re torn, just flip a coin!

3. Mussels and Fries (Moules-frites)

One of Belgium’s most iconic dishes, moules-frites, features fresh mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, or cream-based sauces. Pair it with a side of fries and a cold Belgian beer for the ultimate dining experience. Most restaurants only put this on the menu during Summer, so not always available!

4. Steak – Roquefort, Bearnaise, Peper, …

When I’m feeling fancy, steak with Roquefort sauce is my go-to. It’s a bit pricier than other dishes, but it’s worth every penny. The creamy, tangy Roquefort sauce perfectly matches a tender steak. You can also combine your steak with a Bearnaise sauce or even pepper or mushroom sauce. If you see it on the menu, treat yourself—you won’t regret it.

The waiter will ask how you would like your meat cooked. The right way to say this in Brussels is by using these terms:

• Bleu – Rare (very lightly cooked, essentially seared on the outside with a cool, red center)
• Saignant – Medium rare (warm with a red center)
• À point – Medium (pink and warm throughout)
• Bien cuit – Well done (fully cooked with no pink)

5. Shrimp Croquettes

These crispy, golden croquettes are filled with a creamy mixture of North Sea shrimp and béchamel. Often served as a starter or a light meal, they’re a quintessential Belgian treat. You can also find them in Cheese version only.

6. Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try, but you’ll need to choose between Brussels waffles and Liège waffles. Honestly, I wouldn’t choose—just try both! Brussels waffles are light and crispy, while Liège waffles are denser and sweeter with caramelized sugar. Perfect for dessert or a snack as you explore the city.

Insider Tips for Dining Near La Grand Place

Dining near La Grand Place is a great way to experience the heart of Brussels, but a little insider knowledge can make your meal even better. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the best food and avoid common pitfalls:

1. Timing is Everything

If you want to avoid crowds, aim for an early lunch or a slightly later dinner. La Grand Place is a popular tourist spot, so peak hours can get busy, especially at well-known restaurants like ’t Kelderke or Le Marmiton.

2. Make Reservations

For popular spots like Nüetnigenough or The Blue Restaurant, reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends or holidays. Many restaurants near La Grand Place are small and fill up quickly.

3. Skip the Tourist Traps

Not every restaurant near La Grand Place delivers on quality. Stick to the places recommended in this guide to ensure you’re getting authentic Belgian food instead of overpriced, average meals. But you need to know eating near the Grand Place WILL be pricier than other places in Brussels like le Sablon. But worth it!

4. Pair Your Meal with Belgian Beer

Belgian beer is more than just a drink; it’s a part of the meal. Ask your server for pairing recommendations—they often know the best beer to complement dishes like stoofvlees or steak Roquefort.

Stronger beers like:

• Triple Karmeliet
• Westmalle Triple
• Duvel

or a refreshing lighter beer like

• Hoegaarden
• Jupiler, Stella
• Leffe

5. Explore Seasonal Specials

Belgian cuisine often highlights seasonal ingredients. If you see something marked as a seasonal dish on the menu, it’s worth trying. Restaurants like C’est Bon C’est Belge are known for their rotating specials.

6. Waffles for Dessert, Not Dinner

While you’ll find waffles sold everywhere as a snack, they’re best enjoyed as a dessert or an afternoon treat. Pair a Liège waffle with a coffee or indulge in a Brussels waffle topped with whipped cream and chocolate.

7. Don’t Rush

Dining near La Grand Place isn’t just about the food—it’s about soaking in the atmosphere. Take your time to enjoy the meal, the view, and the historic charm of the area.

Read more about the Food culture in Belgium

FAQs About Dining Near La Grand Place

What’s the best time to visit restaurants near La Grand Place?

The best times to visit are during early lunch hours (around 12 PM) or later dinners (after 8 PM) to avoid peak crowds. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

Are reservations necessary?

It depends on the restaurant. For popular spots like Nüetnigenough or The Blue Restaurant, reservations are highly recommended, especially during evenings or weekends. Smaller restaurants also tend to fill up quickly.

What are the typical prices at these restaurants?

Prices vary depending on the restaurant and the dish. For example, casual spots like Ballekes are budget-friendly, while dishes like steak Roquefort at upscale places might be more expensive. Generally, expect to spend €15–€25 per person for a main course.

Are these restaurants family-friendly?

Most of the restaurants near La Grand Place welcome families. Places like Ballekes and C’est Bon C’est Belge are particularly good for casual family meals, offering comfort food that appeals to all ages.

What’s the difference between Brussels and Liège waffles?

Brussels waffles are light, crispy, and rectangular, typically served with toppings like powdered sugar or whipped cream. Liège waffles are denser, sweeter, and caramelized, often eaten plain or with minimal toppings. Both are delicious!

Can I find vegetarian options at these restaurants?

Yes, many of these restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. Options may include vegetable soups, salads, or waffles for a sweet treat. It’s always a good idea to check the menu or ask the staff for recommendations.

Are these restaurants open late?

Most restaurants near La Grand Place close around 10–11 PM, though some may stay open later, especially during busy tourist seasons. Always check the specific restaurant’s hours beforehand.

What’s the best beer to pair with Belgian food?

This depends on your dish! Hoegaarden pairs well with lighter dishes, while richer beers like Tripel Karmeliet complement hearty meals like stoofvlees or steak. Many restaurants offer beer pairing suggestions.

La Grand Place isn’t just the heart of Brussels—it’s where you’ll find some of the best Belgian food in the city. From cozy spots like ’t Kelderke to the rich flavors at Le Marmiton, every restaurant on this list offers something special.

For me, nothing beats sitting down with a plate of stoofvlees and fries, especially when it’s made with Hoegaarden beer. It reminds me of home and everything I love about Belgian cooking. If you have time, I’d also recommend trying vol-au-vent or treating yourself to steak with Roquefort sauce—it’s worth it! And of course, you can’t leave without tasting both kinds of waffles.

Exploring these restaurants is about more than just the food; it’s about enjoying the history and charm of Brussels. I hope you’ll enjoy these spots as much as I have. Let me know which dish was your favorite or if you discovered a new one—I’d love to hear about it!