Charming little restaurant in the old heart of Ostend, decorated in late 19th century brasserie style, with memorabilia of the Golden Days of the city taking up every inch of the walls. The cuisine is more modern, but upholds the keywords bourgeois, fresh and absolutely delicious. Most customers are regulars, so even a foreigner is bound to rapidly feel himself at home here. Owner Annie Cornillie runs the kitchen all by herself, and gets up very early every morning to buy fish at Vistrap. If there are shrimps on the (very limited) menu, she will have peeled them herself.
Exquisite restaurant in the centre of Ostend, just across the street from the famous Grard statue,The Sea, known locally as Fat Mathilde, hence the name of the business.
On the menu, you find the traditional bistro classics, with this difference: they are prepared far more inventively, and are indeed close to perfection.
Each day there are different specials, which means you can eat here for months in a row, without ever having to order the same thing twice. Which is, alas, a bit of shame, as most dishes are really too good to have eaten only once.
Especially recommended are filet américain (raw minced beef, prepared at the table) and salade folle (crazy salad, with goose liver).
During the afternoon break of the kitchen staff, the place operates as a bar.
Despite its name, this restaurant on the edge of the canal is one of the most novel conversions, from the notoriety as a tannery to elegance and fine dining right on the canal. The building itself dates to 1450 and the Declerq family has restored it to its 15th Century grandeur with a new, warm decor serving traditional Flemish cuisine.
Curiosa is a cozy little cellar restaurant set in another 16th-century building. It is a perfect setting for a romantic date or idly chatting with a couple of friends. The menu is diverse, from heavier meals like the Leg of Lamb with Southern Spices to the simple yet flavorful Mussels in White Wine. Any meal can of course be paired with a great beer, one drawback is that the space is quite small which may add difficulty to getting a seat, so book early, especially on weekends.
This bistro right in front of the Belfry of Brugge is just one of many packed spots in the Markt. De Carré specializes in shellfish and seafood, but they have menus for all tastes, evidenced by two kiddie menus. If you seek a bit of tradition out of the Flemish kitchen, the Rabbit with Plums and Steamed Potatoes is a somewhat gamy favorite and the outdoor seating terrace is perfect for watching the folk out on the square.
This is a rather modern café-bar, next to the KNS, where you can talk with your friends or enjoy the restful music in the background. You will find a wide selection of snacks: sandwiches, salads and also meat and fish dishes. 't Vosken also has a party and meeting room.
If the weather is nice, you can sit on the terrace, which offers an exclusive view of the lively Sint-Baafsplein, Sint-Baafskathedraal and the Belfort.
A charming spot in the city to devour traditional French fare, Restaurant De Vijverhoeve is a popular eatery with locals and tourists alike. Jan and his wife Carolien Grahame create an amiable atmosphere in the quaint farmhouse to nibble on refined traditional picks prepared with the choicest of ingredients and served with love. The on-site sommelier helps you with a curated selection of premium wines to complement the restaurant's delectable offerings. When weather remains good, the dining area extends out to the breezy garden that sits by a serene pond and a patio.
The French Restaurant Castor will send your taste buds on a gourmet rollercoaster, with each bite delivering a blast of surprises to your palate. Located in Beveren-Leie, the interiors have a refined atmosphere with minimal decor made up mostly of timber work and sizable glass architectural components that contribute to the creation of a cosy environment. Castor serves you a tasty selection of meals with a medley of pungent flavours and aromas. Chef Maarten Bouckaert adds a distinctive spin to locally sourced seasonal dishes with the assistance of his delicious sauces. Due to the strong demand, reservations are advised.
What began as a working farm soon turned into the world-renowned Belgian gastronomic gem, Hof van Cleve. With chef Peter Goossens at the helm, the restaurant serves five- and seven-course set menus, prepared exclusively using the best of local produce. Rich in fish and shellfish, the menu features star dishes, such as Sea Bass with Ponzu and Black Rice and Turbot with Romanesco and Pollack. This master chef defies the boundaries of imagination. He’s a true blue genius at creating culinary marvels. You will enjoy every second and every bite of this outstanding experience. Contrary to its rustic exteriors, the elegant interiors are replete with works of art created by internationally acclaimed artists from the world over. The hosting and service are super-convivial. The traditional setting and minimal décor are well thought through to bring you this fantastic experience. Reserve a table at this supreme culinary haven today.
A family friendly restaurant through and through, Oak Gent invites it patrons to enjoy scrumptious Belgian fare in a casual setting. The ambiance is warm with wooden decor, beautifully laid out tables, and pleasant lighting. The food is top class, cooked to absolute perfection with the finest ingredients and the freshest of local produce. Their prix fixe menu offers a slew of appetizers, entrees and decadent desserts. Come in to enjoy a hearty meal with your loved ones.
Pure C is situated within the upscale Strandhotel Cadzand in the picturesque seaside town of Cadzand. Renowned chefs Syrco Bakker and Sergio Herman have teamed up to conceptualize a menu inspired by the unique flavors of Zealand, highlighting locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The chic restaurant features stunning interiors that bring out the region's quaint seaside charm. The beautifully presented dishes exemplify classic cooking techniques combined with splendid innovation. Flavorful wine pairings complete the wholesome dining experience. The creative menu and exceptional service have earned this restaurant two Michelin stars.
Quatre Mains with its elegant lighting, wooden furnishings and classy ambiance serves one of the best tapas style fare in the city. With a great wine and quick bites menu to complement, this restaurant is known for their quality European cuisine. Steak Tartar, Burrata, Lomo, hot dogs, etc are some of the specialties from their wide menu. They also offer sharing bites and desserts like lava cake and crumble to go with the fare. Their presentation techniques are enticing, and it is an ideal place to go on a romantic dinner.