Belgian Bites: Uncovering Brussels' Best Chocolate, Waffles, Fries & Hidden Foodie Treasures

• Neuhaus: One of the best chocolate brands from Belgium, this luxury chocolate shop is by far my personal favorite! You can find multiple locations all over the city and even in most European airports. It is on the pricier side, but it's totally worth it! Neuhaus is known for pralines. My favorites are the triangle pralines with crunchy nougat and fresh cream or ganache and the creamy ganache cornets that look like a little ice cream cone. Don’t want to buy a full box? Grab one or two from counter and a chocolate bar to bring home for a more cost-effective option.

• Leonidas: Another well-known luxury Belgian chocolate shop that you can find in multiple locations around Belgium and Europe.

• Planet Chocolate: This is a local shop in the center of town with handmade chocolates. Great prices and you can try some free samples while you shop. Check out their website for workshops and demonstrations.

• Chocolaterie Mary: An artisanal chocolatier with some of the prettiest packaged chocolates you’ve ever seen!

• Choco Story: A museum dedicated to telling the history of chocolate. You can even learn how to make your own chocolate.

• L’Art du Chocolate: One-stop shop for it all! Grab chocolate to bring home, get a waffle with your favorite topping or try some chocolate fondue.

• La Belgique Gourmande: Think of this place as the grocery store or market of Belgian chocolate. There are tons of stores like this one on every street corner and in between. Every inch of these stores is covered with different types of packaged chocolates. Warning: It can be overwhelming, especially for the chocolate lover who wants it all!

All of the stores above can be found in the central area of Brussels, either in Grand Place or a short way away.

Sweet delicacies

• Maison Dandoy: The go-to place for waffles in Brussels. This adorable waffle and tea café has a robust menu with any flavor combination you desire. There are several locations around Brussels, so just search in your maps app to find one near you.

• Moeder Baubeluette: Located near Grand Place, this is a great on-the-go stop for a “street waffle” to take with you.

• Aus Mervielleu de Fred: A great place to stop for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack. Detectable pastries and savory breakfast coupled with your choice of tea or coffee—what more could you ask for? Several locations around Brussels.

• Brasserie Cantillon: Take a tour of the lambic brewery to find out how the local style of beer is made. The tour ends with a few samples and you can walk in anytime for a brew. Located south of Grand Place.

Savory vegetarian food

These exquisite restaurants are a short (five- to 10-minute) walk to the west of Grand Place.

• Woodpecker St. Catherine: A quaint café where you can mix and mingle with the locals. The waffles Benedict are to die for! Definitely worth checking out.

• Frites Atelier: Build your own fries. Great place to try a Brussels specialty. Choose any toppings, cheese, or sauce you desire.

• Nona Pasta: Don’t miss this spot! Farm-fresh pizzas and Italian food with a seasonal menu that frequently changes. Good vegetarian and gluten-free items. Be sure to make reservations for busy times.

These places were all doable in two days in the winter without being rushed (or having a sugar rush!). Everything is walkable—up to 10 minutes from Grand Place—or you can easily take a quick ride share.