7 Unmissable Places for the Best Waffles in Brussels
Having booked a 3 day trip to Brussels in Belgium, as a foodie with a sweet tooth my #1 priority was finding and trying best waffles in Brussels.
After 3 days in Brussels, I can say there is no #1 SPOT for the Best Waffles in Brussels but rather, a series of top places – each worthy of a visit, because why stop at just 1!
Waffles in Belgium – A Brief History
Waffles in Belgium trace their roots back to the Middle Ages, where they began as a simple unleavened cakes made from a basic batter of grain flour and water. They were cooked between heavy iron plates, which were often etched with noble emblems or a coats of arms
What popularized these waffles was Brussels’ strategic location as a bustling centre for European trade. Street vendors began selling them as convenient, affordable snacks and the waffles’ traditionally deep pockets made them ideal for holding toppings.
Two Types of Waffles
But first, you should know what waffles you are looking for. Belgium is famous for its two distinct types of waffles –
Brussels Waffles
The Brussels waffle is lighter, crisp but airy with deep, rectangular deep pockets which make it better for holding toppings. These are made with a yeast-leavened batter. It also has a more subtle sweetness and buttery flavor than the Liege waffle. The Brussels waffle pairs beautifully with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, or if you’re like me – with nutella or speculoos.
Liège Waffles
In contrast, the lesser known Liège waffle, originating from the city of Liège, is denser and sweeter than the Brussels waffle. People typically consider it the more indulgent of the two. It is often shaped irregularly (when authentically made) and made from a brioche-like dough.
It features pearl sugar mixed in, which caramelizes during cooking to create a golden, crisp crust. This waffle has a chewy texture and natural sweetness which makes it a perfect standalone treat. This is at least how most Belgians prefer their Liege waffle. Given it was a standalone treat traditionally, it became a popular street food and has really maintained that reputation as a sweet snack on the go.
I personally prefer the Liège waffle for its denser texture and more crispier golden crust.
Toppings for Belgian Waffles
When it comes to waffle toppings in Belgium, there’s a distinct difference between what the locals enjoy and what’s marketed to tourists. Traditional Belgian waffles—especially Brussels waffles, are traditionally served simply, with a light dusting of powdered sugar. This minimalist approach allows the waffle’s airy texture and subtle flavor to come through without being overshadowed by heavy toppings. For many locals, this is the ideal way to enjoy a Brussels waffle.
However today, you will find most places go a little overboard with the toppings with just about everything imaginable.
Liège waffles, on the other hand, are naturally sweet and rich because of the caramelized sugar in their dough. As such they are typically eaten plain, as the caramelized crust and chewy texture are indulgent enough on their own. However, a light drizzle of melted Belgian chocolate or a small dollop of whipped cream can go well with these.
Ultimately, its a personal preference, however its totally worth trying these waffles at least once with just a simple topping like powdered sugar – you might be surprised how satisfying a simple topping can be on a good quality waffle!
7 Best Places for Waffles in Brussels
So where all should you go to try the best waffles in Brussels? Read on below to learn more –
1. Maison Dandoy
Maison Dandoy is like an institution here in Brussels, and while its waffles are undeniably delicious, I would say the prices definitely reflect its cult like status. The cost is definitely higher for what you get compared to smaller waffle spots in Brussels.
But ultimately its the quality plus the atmosphere inside a Maison Dandoy which justifies a higher price.
Expect a line if you’re heading here during peak hours during summer or on weekends, but I will say the service seemed efficient at least, so the queue moves quickly.
The place also has a good variety of items you can takeaway as gifts or order online – cookies, chocolates etc. They also do a nice variety of coffees and teas to go with the waffles.
The flagship store is located near the Grand Palace and it is the most iconic Maison Dandoy branch. This branch has a tea room upstairs, where you can sit down and enjoy freshly made waffles. Otherwise, you can grab a takeaway.
- Price: Around €7–€10 per waffle, depending on toppings (~$7.50–$11 USD).
- Location: Rue au Beurre 31, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
2. Le Funambule
While Le Funambule’s waffles are fresh and customizable, it is often considered a tourist-centric spot, given its location near Manneken Pis, the city’s most beloved landmark.
You will rarely find this area without a large crowd of tourists. The below is my attempt to get a photo of Manneken Pis, only to realise the wraths of people in front of it. At this point I decided to give up trying to get a good picture of the monument and headed for the waffles instead!
Prices here are reasonable, but the quality might not blow you away compared to less central options. Its convent location and the variety of toppings make it a win though. If you’re short on time or want a quick snack in the heart of Brussels, this is a solid choice. Queues here can get long, however I went around 3pm and didn’t have to wait more than a few minutes.
- Price: €3 for a plain waffle, up to €6 for heavily topped (~$3.50–$6.50 USD).
- Location: Rue de l’Étuve 42, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
3. Veganwaf’
Veganwaf is the most well known and popular choice if you’re vegan or looking for a vegan waffle place to try. Veganwaf’ which literally translates to Vegan waffle – stands out as one of the few places in Brussels offering vegan and gluten-free waffles. While the waffles are pricier than standard options, it is worth it if you have dietary restrictions. The location is again central, but it’s tucked inside a gallery, so it can be a little hard to locate.
- Price: €8–€10 per waffle, depending on toppings (~$9–$11 USD).
- Location: Galerie Agora 48, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
4. Belgaufra
Belgaufra is a pretty no frill chain, and while it lacks the artisanal charm, it does do tasty waffles well! They have a speculoos waffle which is a highlight. The prices are reasonable too.
Speculoos was actually something I discovered in Brussels after seeing it at all these waffle places. Anyway, having it on a waffle actually convinced me to buy a whole jar to savour for after my trip here.
- Price: €4–€5 for most waffles (~$4.50–$5.50 USD).
- Location: Rue Neuve 102, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
5. La Gaufrerie
La Gaufrerie is a hidden gem located near the iconic Manneken Pis, offering freshly made Brussels and Liège waffles. I liked these for their their perfectly crisp texture.
Though you can go crazy here with the range of toppings. I totally agree with the locals’ preference to have less toppings, because I prefer tasting the actual waffle. So I decided to stick with just the nutella (but a lot of it!)
There is seating inside but it is often very busy. There is typically a queue given its super central location, but I went around 4pm and did have to wait too long.
- Price: Around €4–€7 for a waffle, depending on toppings (~$4.50–$7.50 USD).
- Location: Rue de l’Étuve 31, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
6. Mokafé Taverne
Mokafe Taverne is a waffle cafe located in the elegant Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Its elevated ambiance feels a bit more upscale than your average waffle spot.
While the waffles are good, the real draw is the ambiance—perfect for a relaxed break during a day of sightseeing.
The prices reflect the location and dreamy ambiance. A great place to stay a while, perhaps grab a coffee with your waffle for some people watching.
- Price: Around €10 for a waffle and coffee (~$11 USD).
- Location: Galerie du Roi 9, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
7. Chez Albert Brussels Zuid
Chez Albert is a highly rated Belgian waffle chain, perhaps best known in Bruges, where I first tried these waffles. The place in Brussels in located in the train station, but don’t let that location dampen your expectations! The quality of the waffles is far better than what you may come to expect from inside a train station.
A good option if you are short on time or passing through Brussels on the train.
- Price: €4–€8 for most waffles (~$4.50–$9 USD).
- Location: Bruxelles-Midi Train Station Brussels, Belgium.
Where to buy Waffles as Souveniers?
If you’re visiting Brussels and looking to savour these waffles for after the trip, consider getting some packaged ones to go from a bakery, grocery store or food market.
I know its nothing like the freshly made ones, but still the closest thing when you’re returning home from Belgium! I heated up mine in a toaster oven and found the texture and flavour was still pretty good. My main problem was I only brought back 1 bag (rookie mistake) and hence they only lasted a week back in London.
If you want to grab some from a grocery store, consider stopping by a Delhaize or Carrefour and going to the bakery aisle for these.
Supermarket selection typically include both Brussels and Liège varieties. For authenticity, look for waffles from local brands or those labeled as artisanal.
Suzy Waffles
If you’re looking for a particular brand – then Suzy Waffles by Lotus Bakeries are well known for their packaged waffles in Belgium and a popular option if you want something to take home. While they may not offer the freshly made experience of street vendors or waffle cafés, Suzy Waffles hold a nostalgic charm for locals and a good option for a souvenir to take back with you.
Renard Bakery
We were staying in Ixelles there was one bakery that all the locals were raving about – Renard. Renard is a neighbourhood bakery here and does amazing sweets and lunchtime sandwiches as well as occassional vanilla waffles packs to go. I only got to try their savoury lunch items but would highly recommend getting their waffle packs if you get a chance.
What about Waffle Vans in Brussels?
Many locals swear by the waffles from these waffle vans. The good ones typically make fresh waffles on site and these are normally Liege waffles. Its a bit harder to know when and where to find these as a visitor, but some commonly noted spots by locals are –
- Parc du Cinquantenaire: This large park often attracts waffle vans, particularly on weekends or during events.
- Marché du Midi (Sunday Mornings): One of the city’s largest markets, held near the Brussels-South railway station, often features waffle vans alongside food stalls.
- Place Flagey Market (Saturdays): This lively market sometimes hosts food trucks and vans, including those selling waffle
Bon appetit, or as they say in Belgium – Smakelijk!
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