Français avec Pierre in Brussels: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Brussels

Must-try foods in Brussels

• Brussels Waffle (Gaufre de Bruxelles)
  Brussels Waffle (Gaufre de Bruxelles)Distinct from the denser Liège variety, the Brussels waffle is light, airy, and rectangular with deep pockets. Traditionally eaten with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, 2026 trends see locals enjoying them at seated tea rooms like Maison Dandoy rather than the over-topped 'tourist' versions found on the street.
• Mitraillette
  MitrailletteBrussels' iconic street food sandwich, literally meaning 'submachine gun.' It consists of a half-baguette stuffed with fried meat (often a frikandel or burger), a mountain of Belgian fries, and a drenching of 'Andalouse' sauce. It remains the top late-night fuel for locals near the Bourse.
• Filet Américain
  Filet AméricainBelgium’s take on steak tartare, made from lean minced beef seasoned with capers, onions, and a spicy mayonnaise-based dressing. It is commonly served as a 'Toast Cannibale' or as a main course with fries, with Au Vieux Saint Martin in the Sablon remaining a top destination for the most authentic version.
• Pistolet
  PistoletA traditional small, round Belgian bread roll with a light, crispy crust and soft interior. While traditionally a breakfast item, 2026 food trends have elevated the pistolet into a gourmet lunch option, stuffed with artisanal fillings like 'américain' or local cheeses.
• Speculoos
  SpeculoosThe famous Belgian spiced shortcrust biscuit, traditionally flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. While ubiquitous as a coffee accompaniment, Brussels artisans like Maison Dandoy continue to bake them using 19th-century wooden molds for a truly traditional experience.
• Boulets à la Liégeoise
  Boulets à la LiégeoiseLarge, tender meatballs served in a sweet and savory sauce made from 'sirop de Liège' (a concentrated fruit syrup of apples and pears). Though originating in Liège, they are a beloved fixture on Brussels brasserie menus, providing a unique fruity-savory profile typical of the region.

Trip guide

• About Brussels
  About BrusselsBrussels, the capital of Belgium, developed from a 10th-century fortification on Saint-Géry Island into a center for the Burgundian and Habsburg courts by the 15th century. The city's architectural landscape contains a mix of styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Brussels is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October), which offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. While summer (June to August) provides the warmest weather and peak festival activity, it is also the most crowded and expensive time to travel. Regardless of the season, the weather is famously unpredictable and rainy.
• Getting around
  Getting around Brussels

  • International High-Speed Rail Brussels-South (Midi) station is a major European hub with direct high-speed connections via Eurostar and ICE from London (2h), Paris (1h 22m), Amsterdam (2h), and Cologne (1h 50m).
  • Brussels Airport Train The most efficient way from Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is the direct train located at level -1, which reaches the city center in approximately 18 minutes with six departures every hour.
  • STIB/MIVB Public Transport Network Local travel is managed via an integrated metro, tram, and bus system; you can use contactless payment (tap-to-pay) on all vehicles for a flat fare of €2.10 per journey with a daily cap.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Goedendag' upon entering to respect local social norms.
  • Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is included in the bill, though rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
  • Carry small change (0.50€ to 1.00€) as most public toilets, even in restaurants and train stations, require a fee for use.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Brussels

  • Kanal-Centre Pompidou: The long-awaited opening of Europe's largest new contemporary art hub in a converted 1930s Citroën garage (November 2026).
  • GAT: A viral 'hole-in-the-wall' coffee concept in Ixelles where drinks are served by an anonymous hand through a concrete opening.
• visit.brussels↗
  visit.brusselsThe official tourism and communications agency for the Brussels-Capital Region, providing visitor information, event listings, and travel resources.