The Ultimate Guide to Belgian Waffles in Bruges
Bruges, often described as a fairy-tale town with its cobbled streets, gothic façades, and peaceful canals, offers more than just postcard-perfect scenery. It is also one of the most enchanting places in Belgium to savour a true culinary icon: the Belgian waffle.
In Belgium, waffles are far from a tourist gimmick—they are a proud national delicacy with deep regional roots. While cities like Liège and Brussels have their own distinct styles, Bruges offers an elegant and authentic setting to enjoy both varieties and beyond. Whether you prefer your waffles soft and airy or caramelised and chewy, this guide will take you through the best spots in Bruges to experience this beloved Belgian treat.
In This Travel Guide
Understanding Belgian Waffles
Before diving into where to eat, it’s important to distinguish the two primary types of Belgian waffles:
- Brussels Waffle – Rectangular, light, and crisp with deep pockets. Traditionally served with a dusting of powdered sugar, though often topped with fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate.
- Liège Waffle – Smaller, denser, and oval-shaped, made with a brioche-like dough and pearl sugar that caramelises during baking. Rich, chewy, and often enjoyed plain or slightly warm.
Bruges offers both types—and occasionally creative spins that blend tradition with innovation.
Top Places to Eat Belgian Waffles in Bruges
1. Chez Albert
Location: Breidelstraat, near the Belfry of Bruges
Chez Albert is perhaps the most well-known waffle stand in Bruges, and for good reason. This is the quintessential grab-and-go experience—expect crispy Liège waffles, served warm and topped with fresh strawberries, Belgian chocolate, or whipped cream. While designed for tourists, the quality is consistently high, and the location couldn’t be more central.
Try: Classic Liège waffle with melted Belgian chocolate and strawberries.
2. Lizzie’s Wafels
Location: Sint-Jakobsstraat
A favourite among foodies, Lizzie’s Wafels specialises in oversized Brussels-style waffles, freshly made to order. The atmosphere is casual yet stylish, and their menu leans into indulgence with options like homemade whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and fruit. The waffles are light, golden, and served with an elegant flair.
Try: Giant Brussels waffle with fresh fruit and vanilla ice cream.
3. House of Waffles
Location: Wollestraat
A sit-down restaurant entirely devoted to waffles, House of Waffles offers an extensive menu with both sweet and savoury options. You can choose your waffle type, toppings, and sauces to create a personalised plate. It’s perfect for those who want a more leisurely dining experience in a charming, rustic interior.
Try: Waffle with speculoos cream and caramel drizzle for a local twist.
4. Oyya
Location: Noordzandstraat
Known primarily for its artisanal ice cream, Oyya also serves superb Liège waffles. What sets them apart is the perfect texture—crispy on the outside, soft and dense inside, with just the right hint of sweetness from caramelised sugar pearls. Combine a warm waffle with a scoop of their homemade vanilla or hazelnut ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Try: Plain Liège waffle with a scoop of artisan pistachio ice cream.
5. Fred’s Waffles
Location: Markt Square
Just off the main square, Fred’s Waffles offers a street-side waffle experience that is simple, fast, and delicious. Their Liège waffles are compact but packed with flavour, ideal for eating while exploring the city. Toppings include classic chocolate, banana, and whipped cream, and their prices are especially reasonable.
Try: Waffle with Belgian dark chocolate and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Pairing Tips: What to Drink with Your Waffle
While waffles are often enjoyed on their own, pairing them with the right beverage enhances the experience:
- Coffee or Espresso – A traditional pairing with Brussels waffles, especially for breakfast or an afternoon break.
- Hot Chocolate – A rich Belgian hot chocolate complements the sweet and caramel notes of Liège waffles.
- Fruit Tea or Herbal Infusion – Lighter waffles with fruit toppings pair beautifully with a floral tea.
- Craft Beer – For a more adventurous palate, certain Trappist beers can pair surprisingly well with waffles featuring caramel or nutty elements.
Conclusion
In Bruges, waffles are more than just a sweet indulgence—they’re part of the city’s cultural and culinary fabric. Whether enjoyed at a charming café or from a street vendor near the Belfry, a Belgian waffle in Bruges is a sensory experience that blends texture, tradition, and artistry. With each bite, you savour not only a beloved national dessert but also a slice of Belgian heritage.
For any visitor with a sweet tooth—or a curiosity for European culinary traditions—waffle tasting in Bruges is not just recommended, it is essential.
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