Whatever the season, the irresistible smell of waffles fills the air in Brussels. Plain or topped, hot or cold, savoury or sweet: they have won over the hearts and stomachs of people all over the world! But where can you find the best ones in the capital? Here are a few tips to help you choose.
Everything you need to know about waffles in Brussels
01 October 2025
© Pardon Bruxelles
The Brussels waffle, a classic from the capital!
Brussels waffles are quite generously sized. Rectangular in shape, they usually have 20 to 24 holes (which is a sure-fire way to recognise them). Light as air, they hide a light, fluffy and subtly flavoured centre beneath their crispy exterior dusted with icing sugar.
Did you know?
It is said that the honeycomb pattern of waffles was inspired by honeycombs from beehives. This anecdote is supported by the etymology of the word ‘waffle’, which comes from ‘wāfla’, which means ‘cake’ or ‘honeycomb’!
A bit of history
Although the first records of Brussels waffles date back to the 16th century, notably in the paintings of Bruegel, the first written mention of this illustrious delicacy only appeared in the 1830s. What is certain is that they were a festive treat, eaten especially during carnival season! In his painting ‘The King Drinks’, housed in Brussels' Royal Museums of Fine Arts, painter Jacob Jordaens even had waffles on the menu for the feast of the Epiphany!With centuries of tradition behind them, waffles are a symbol of Belgian street food. As the people of Brussels will tell you, they are eaten on the go, at any time of day, and with your fingers, of course!
© Jacques Jordaens, Le roi boit, Musées royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique, Bruxelles / photo : J. Van Seghbroeck
Did you know?
In the 1960s, the King, Elvis Presley, appeared in an advert for Belgian waffles, contributing to their viral popularity across the Atlantic! What can we say? ‘We can't help falling in love with them!’
The eternal question: Brussels or… Liège?
Did you know? Belgium is actually home to two types of waffles. The Liège waffle has rounded corners than its cousin from the capital. Smaller, plumper and softer, it is a real treat for the taste buds, with sugar crystals melted into the batter that give you a delicious crunch with every bite!
Savouring tradition: where to enjoy a delicious waffle?
To really enjoy Belgian waffles to the fullest, check out our favourite spots:
- Maison Dandoy: Does the iconic Maison Dandoy still need introducing? Its history may be inextricably linked to speculoos biscuits, but this distinguished Brussels establishment is equally skilled in the art of waffle-making. With local suppliers and carefully sourced, predominantly organic ingredients, it is the quality and beauty of the craftsmanship that truly sets them apart
- Maison des Gaufres: Antoine Akayyan has been passionate about waffles since 1982. Combining tradition and innovation, he has reinvented this authentic pastry by offering new flavours and formats. The ‘King size, light and crispy’ is one of his signature creations. On the menu, you can choose from a combination of Brussels and Liège waffles available in a variety of sophisticated flavours (kriek, chocolate-orange, tiramisu or Belle-Hélène topping).
- Pardon: Marrying waffles and specialty coffee? That's the gamble that Pardon has successfully pulled off. With waffles topped with cherry tomatoes, poached pears or passion fruit, this Saint-Gilles establishment loves to innovate with organic and seasonal produce. Their signature dish, the Pardon, is a small, filled and glazed brioche waffle that comes in countless wonderful variations (filled with praline, tonka nuts and vanilla with dark chocolate!). So don't delay, just go for it!
- Fernand Obb Delicatessen: Fernand Obb may already be renowned for its multi-award-winning shrimp croquettes, but did you know that they have combined two icons of Belgian cuisine in a single dish? Introducing the Gaufrite! A waffle-shaped chip made from Belgian potatoes. A unique combo!
- Mokafé: Fancy a sweet treat in a picturesque setting? This little café nestled under the neoclassical arcades of the King's Gallery serves delicious waffles. Their traditional Brussels waffle, perfectly crispy, is served with chocolate sauce!
