Best Street Food Destinations in Flanders

Street food has become an essential part of the culinary landscape across the globe, and Flanders is no exception. Known for its rich heritage, charming cities, and vibrant food culture, Flanders offers a multitude of street food options that will tantalize your taste buds. From traditional Belgian waffles to exotic Asian delights, the street food scene in Flanders is as diverse as it is delicious.

Ghent: A Culinary Hub

Ghent is a vibrant city that has emerged as a top destination for food lovers. Its bustling streets are brimming with food stalls offering both local and international flavors. The city hosts several food festivals throughout the year, where you can try everything from crispy fries to delectable chocolates.

Friday Market: Known for its eclectic mix of vendors, the Friday Market is a great place to sample a variety of foods. You can find everything from cheese croquettes to organic burgers.
Waffle Stalls: Ghent is famous for its heavenly waffles, with vendors offering intricate varieties topped with fresh fruits, whipped cream, and local syrups.
Vegan Delights: The city is also a haven for vegans, with many stalls dedicated to plant-based street food. Don't miss out on Ghent's vegan burgers and falafel wraps.

Ghent offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern culinary experiences, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Antwerp: A Global Feast

Antwerp, often dubbed the diamond capital, is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its street food diversity. The multicultural city offers an array of delectable street food options that cater to every palate.

Exotic Asian: Antwerp’s street food scene boasts a variety of Asian food stalls offering dim sum, sushi, and curries. Chinatown is particularly famous for its authentic Asian street dishes.
Sweet Treats: If you have a sweet tooth, Antwerp's patisseries and chocolate stalls are unmissable. The city’s chocolate artisans offer unique, innovative flavors that redefine Belgian chocolate.
Artisan Sandwiches: From fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the artisan sandwich stalls in Antwerp offer a savory twist to the traditional sandwich, topped with gourmet cheeses and meats.

Antwerp’s vibrant street food culture makes it a paradise for food explorers seeking diverse culinary experiences.

Bruges: Historic Flavors

Bruges is not just a city of historic beauty; it is also a culinary delight. Embedded in cobbled streets, the city's street food scene is rooted in traditional Belgian flavors with a contemporary flair.

Belgian Fries: Bruges offers some of the best fries in the country, cooked to perfection and topped with a variety of sauces. Try the local favorite mayonnaise or andalouse sauce.
Local Seafood: Given its proximity to the coast, Bruges street stalls often feature a range of local seafood. Fish bites and shrimp croquettes are particularly popular.
Sweet Specialties: Bruges is known for its speculoos and other traditional cookies, which you can find at various stalls around the city, paired perfectly with a warm Belgian coffee.

Bruges blends tradition with innovation, ensuring a delicious experience for street food enthusiasts exploring the city.

Leuven: A Hidden Gem

Leuven might be less famous than its neighbors, but it offers a hidden gem of street food culture. The youthful vibe of this university town lends itself to a dynamic food scene.

Craft Beers and Bites: Leuven is home to Stella Artois, but its street stalls offer more than just beer. Discover local brews paired with gourmet sliders and sausages.
International Dishes: From Indian curries to Middle Eastern falafels, Leuven’s street food scene is globally inspired yet locally perfected.
Pastry Perfection: Delve into freshly baked pastries and indulgent confections. The city’s bakeries on-the-go offer everything from buttery croissants to rich cream-filled éclairs.

Leuven may be modest in size but it's rich in flavors, making it a must-visit for those keen on discovering Flanders’ hidden culinary treasures.

Best Places to Visit for Street Food in Flanders

Ghent Friday Market
Antwerp’s Chinatown
Bruges Market Square
Leuven Old Market

Flanders is a region that celebrates its culinary diversity and traditions through its street food offerings. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, the street food in Flanders promises a flavorful journey that will make you savor every bite.