Belgium · tool
Ghent food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Ghent.
What to eat in Ghent
5 signature dishes, 3 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Waterzooi
$18–$28
A creamy stew traditionally made with fish, but now more commonly chicken, vegetables, and herbs, it's a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the region's culinary heritage.
Where to try: Found in many traditional restaurants, particularly around the Graslei and Korenlei areas.
Gentse Neuzen (Cuberdons)
$3–$7
These cone-shaped, purple candies have a hard outer shell and a gooey, raspberry-flavored center. They are a unique local specialty with a distinct, almost medicinal aroma.
Where to try: Street vendors and sweet shops, especially in the historic city center and near the Vrijdagmarkt.
Stoverij
$20–$32
A rich beef and onion stew, slow-cooked in Belgian beer (often a dark ale), typically served with fries. The long cooking time tenderizes the meat and deepens the flavor.
Where to try: Traditional 'eetcafés' and brasseries throughout the city, particularly in the Patershol district.
Balletjes in tomatensaus
$15–$25
Meatballs (often a mix of pork and beef) served in a rich tomato sauce, a popular comfort food. Sometimes served with fries, sometimes with mashed potatoes.
Where to try: Ubiquitous in local eateries and brasseries; look for them on menus in the vicinity of the Kouter.
Pistolet
$0.5–$2
A crusty, round white bread roll, often eaten for breakfast or lunch with various toppings. It's a simple yet essential part of Belgian daily life.
Where to try: Bakeries and sandwich shops across Ghent, especially those near the Vrijdagmarkt.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Patershol
Historic and charming, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and intimate dining scene.
Traditional Belgian CuisineCozy AtmosphereRomantic Dinners
Vrijdagmarkt Area
Lively and bustling, especially on market days, with a mix of historic buildings and modern eateries.
Street FoodCasual DiningLocal Markets
Graslei and Korenlei
Picturesque waterfront setting with a concentration of restaurants and cafes offering scenic views.
Waterfront DiningTourist-Friendly OptionsPeople Watching
Dietary notes
Belgian cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with many dishes featuring pork, beef, and stews. While vegetarian options are becoming more common, they may require specific searching. Gluten-free options are limited, especially with fried items like fries, though some establishments are becoming more accommodating.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not strictly required as service is usually included, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small extra tip for excellent service is appreciated.
- •While card payments are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, it's wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases, market stalls, or older establishments.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekend evenings.
- •Meals are generally enjoyed at a relaxed pace; rushing through a meal is not customary.
Plan the rest of your Ghent trip
Food guides elsewhere