Best Places for Fries in Brussels- Top 10

Hungry and in Brussels? Look no further! Here are the top 10 best places for fries in Brussels!

French fries are actually Belgian and are known as “Frites.” There is a lot of debate about the history and origins of this popular side dish, but the most popular belief is that American soldiers accidentally confused their geography when returning home and mislabeled them as “French” instead of “Belgian.” However, the history of Belgian fries dates back to the 1600s, when the Meuse River froze, and locals turned to potatoes, preparing them in the same manner as they did with their fish… fried.

What Makes Belgian Fries Different?

To some, fries are fries, but for foodies, there is a noticeable difference. Belgian fries are usually cut from the Bintje potato, which has a high starch content and a low moisture level. The potatoes are first cooked in hot oil at a low temperature before being cooled and cooked again at a higher temperature. This gives them a crunchy exterior and soft interior. Lastly, Belgian fries are served with a larger variety of sauces beyond ketchup, with many restaurants making their own homemade specialties. As tempting as it is to stick with ketchup, don’t be basic. Try to change it up during your visit to Brussels.

Café Georgette

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Starting off, this was by far the most recommended spot by locals. It is essentially a hole-in-the-wall operation that is cash only, so you know it is authentic. What makes this place so popular and delicious is its truffle sauce and that they leave the potato skin on the fries, which makes them more crunchy. Additionally, they have a lot of homemade sauces available, including their own Georgette sauce. This was the first place where I tried Belgian fries, and it was definitely one of my favorites.

Friterie de la Barrière

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Known for its Carbonnade a la Flamande, which is basically the Belgian version of poutine—Belgian fries smothered in a traditional beef stew. If you prefer the more traditional dry fries, there are plenty of fries and sauces to go around. A bonus, this place is open late into the evening, which is perfect for a food break in between pub crawling.

Maison Antoine

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A popular frites spot with both locals and tourists. Located in the European Quarter, Maison Antoine has been operating since the 1940s. This place serves large portions for a fraction of the prices at tourist traps. You know that this is an authentic frites spot because there’s always a line waiting, and they’re cash only. A special note: many of the bars in the surrounding area allow you to bring your fries in as long as you purchase a drink.

Frites Atelier

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Near Grand Place is a friterie that likes to add a twist to the traditional frites. In this shop, you’ll notice that they serve up more than just fries, such as burgers, and that they also offer unique specialty toppings such as dried seaweed chips and Japanese furikake. If you’re interested in trying something a little, then Frites Atelier is the place to be.

Patatak

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The best place for fries for vegetarians and vegans in Brussels. The shop is not exclusively vegetarian, but you get to choose how you want your fries to be cooked, and vegan and vegetarian options are available. They even have sweet potato fries.

Frit Flagey

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These fries are the true definition of Belgian frites with a crunchy exterior and soft interior, cooked to perfection. They offer a large variety of mayo-based sauces as toppings to challenge you to try something other than ketchup. Due to their popularity, large crowds and lines are usually outside, so expect a little wait.

Friterie Tabora

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Another hole-in-the-wall shop is located next to Grand Place. This spot is open late into the evening, making it a perfect stop while on your way back to your hostel or hotel from the bars. This was my favorite spot in all of Brussels because of the fries, the sauce choices, and because of their sandwich options!

Friture de la Chapelle

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For a snack with a view, choose Friture de la Chapelle which is right next to Notre Dame Church. Try something a little different with their mitraillette, which are fries in a crispy baguette. There are a few tables available for sitting to enjoy your meal with the view, but they fill up quickly so this may be your in-between sightseeing spot.

Friterie Saint-Josse

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A unique pairing of Belgian frites with sausage snacks. Stop here for the freshest fries, with the potatoes being chopped onsite. In addition to friendly service, and giving your recommendations, this spot is open late into the evening throughout the week and is open 24 hours on Saturdays.

Fritland

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Operating since 1978, this place is on the route of the Comic Mural Strip walk by Grand Place. Grab a cone of fries or a fry sandwich and enjoy while admiring the comic murals, or grab a seat at one of their many tables. Additionally, their fries are made with fresh potatoes daily.

Exploring the culinary landscape of Brussels unveils a myriad of options to indulge in the best places for fries in Brussels. From quaint hole-in-the-wall joints to iconic establishments steeped in tradition, each friterie offers a unique take on this beloved Belgian delicacy. Whether you’re drawn to crispy exteriors, fluffy interiors, or innovative toppings, there’s something to satisfy every fry enthusiast’s palate. So, embrace the rich history and diverse flavors of Belgian fries as you embark on a delicious journey through the streets of Brussels, where every cone of fries promises a culinary delight worth savoring.

Considering a visit to Belgium? Check out my complete travel guide.