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, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Waterzooi
A creamy, comforting stew traditionally made with fish or chicken, vegetables like leeks and carrots, and thickened with cream and egg yolk. It's a gentle, flavorful dish that showcases fresh, local ingredients.
Gentse Neuzekes (Cuberdons)
These cone-shaped, hard-shelled candies with a gooey, raspberry-flavored center are a unique Ghent specialty. They are notoriously difficult to make and have a very distinct texture and taste.
Stoverij
A rich, dark beef stew slow-cooked in Belgian beer (often a dark ale), traditionally served with fries. The long cooking time makes the beef incredibly tender and the sauce deeply flavorful.
Paling in 't groen
Eel cooked in a vibrant green herb sauce made with parsley, chives, tarragon, and other fresh herbs, typically served with fries. It's a classic Flemish dish with a distinctive herbaceous flavor.
Waffles (Gaufres)
While waffles are found throughout Belgium, Ghent offers excellent versions, from the lighter, rectangular Brussels waffle to the denser, oval Liège waffle often studded with pearl sugar. Enjoy them plain or with toppings.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Historic, charming, and intimate, with cobblestone streets lined with small, often family-run restaurants.
Lively and bustling, especially on market days, with a good mix of traditional eateries and modern cafes.
Picturesque waterfront with numerous restaurants offering canal views, ranging from casual to more upscale.
A more local, up-and-coming area with a growing number of diverse eateries and pubs.
Dietary notes
Belgian cuisine is traditionally quite meat- and dairy-heavy, with many classic dishes featuring pork, beef, and rich sauces. While vegetarian options are increasing, especially in more modern eateries, finding vegan or extensive gluten-free choices can still be challenging in traditional establishments.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is generally not expected as a service charge is usually included, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for exceptional service is appreciated.
- •While many places accept cards, it's wise to carry some cash, especially for smaller cafes, street vendors, or in more traditional pubs.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, particularly on weekend evenings.
- •Meals are typically enjoyed at a relaxed pace; rushing through dinner is uncommon.
- •When offered bread at the table, it's customary to eat it with your meal rather than as a starter.