Brussels, the heart of Europe, is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the Grand Place to the Atomium, the city offers a feast for the eyes. But beyond the sights, Brussels is also becoming a haven for food lovers, and increasingly, for those seeking plant-based culinary delights. While Brussels might be famous for its chocolate, waffles, and fries, a delicious secret is growing: the vegan food scene is blossoming, offering a diverse and satisfying array of options for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious vegetarian, or simply looking to explore healthier and more sustainable food choices, Brussels has something to offer. This guide will take you on a journey through Brussels’ vegan landscape, highlighting the best restaurants, cozy cafes, and delightful bakeries that are redefining plant-based dining in the city. So, prepare your taste buds for an adventure as we delve into the ultimate vegan food tour of Brussels!
Brussels offers a diverse and exciting vegan food scene, catering to various tastes and budgets. Let’s dive in!
Restaurants – Sit-Down Dining Experiences
The restaurant scene in Brussels is as diverse as the city itself, and the vegan options reflect this richness. You’ll find everything from refined dining experiences that elevate plant-based cuisine to comforting eateries serving up familiar favorites with a vegan twist. Gone are the days of limited choices; Brussels chefs are embracing veganism with creativity and passion.
Humus Hortense (Saint-Gilles)
For a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience, Humus Hortense in Saint-Gilles is a must-visit. This restaurant focuses on seasonal and locally sourced vegetables, crafting innovative and artistic dishes that showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients. While not exclusively vegan, Humus Hortense offers an exceptional tasting menu with completely vegan options, prepared with incredible attention to detail and bursting with flavor. Expect elegant presentations and unexpected combinations that will challenge your perceptions of what vegan food can be. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, perfect for a special occasion. Price range: Expect a higher price point, reflecting the quality and artistry of the cuisine. Humus Hortense is a recommended spot because of its commitment to sustainability, its creative and exquisite vegan offerings, and its ability to elevate plant-based dining to an art form.
Le Botaniste (Various Locations)
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and affordable vegan meal, Le Botaniste is an excellent choice. With several locations across Brussels, this restaurant offers a range of delicious and nutritious bowls, soups, and salads, all completely plant-based. Their menu is inspired by Ayurvedic principles, focusing on wholesome ingredients and balanced flavors. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, making it a great spot for a lunch break or a casual dinner. Price range: Affordable. Le Botaniste is a recommended spot because it makes healthy and delicious vegan food accessible and convenient, perfect for those seeking a quick and nutritious meal.
Comocomo (Ixelles)
Craving comfort food with a plant-based twist? Comocomo in Ixelles is the answer. This cozy restaurant offers a menu of classic dishes reimagined with vegan ingredients. Think hearty burgers, creamy pasta, and satisfying stews, all made without any animal products. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, perfect for a casual evening with friends. The price range is moderate. Comocomo is a recommended spot because it proves that vegan food can be both comforting and delicious, making it a great choice for those looking for familiar flavors with a plant-based twist.
Cafes & Casual Eats
Sometimes you just need a quick bite or a light lunch, and Brussels’ vegan cafes offer plenty of delicious and convenient options. From fresh salads and sandwiches to nourishing bowls and tasty snacks, these cafes provide a perfect pit stop for vegan travelers.
Copper Branch (Various Locations)
A popular chain with a focus on plant-based power bowls and sandwiches, Copper Branch offers various vegan options. The menu includes flavorful curries, hearty burgers, and refreshing smoothies. Locations vary on atmosphere, some are bustling, while others are more low-key. The price range is budget-friendly. This cafe is a recommend spot for a quick and satisfying bite.
Café Capitale (Sint-Gillis/Saint-Gilles)
While not entirely vegan, Café Capitale is renowned for its exceptional coffee and also offers delicious vegan pastries and light lunch options. This is a perfect location to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with a coffee and a delicious vegan snack. The atmosphere is trendy, but not pretentious. This is a great place to stop and catch a break.
Sweet Treats & Bakeries
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats, and Brussels is increasingly offering delicious vegan options for those with a sweet tooth. From decadent cakes and pastries to creamy ice cream and tempting chocolates, these bakeries and dessert shops are proving that vegan desserts can be just as satisfying as their traditional counterparts.
Crème (Various Locations)
Craving vegan ice cream? Crème has you covered with a variety of plant-based flavors and toppings. The creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Atmosphere is fun and casual. The price range is affordable to moderate. Crème is recommended for its commitment to delicious vegan ice cream that everyone can enjoy.
Coco Donuts (City Centre)
While not exclusively vegan, Coco Donuts offers a selection of delectable vegan donuts in a variety of creative flavors. These donuts are perfect for a quick treat or a sweet indulgence. Atmosphere is vibrant. The price range is affordable. Coco Donuts is recommended because it provides a fun and accessible way to enjoy vegan desserts.
Markets and Specialty Shops
For those who prefer to cook their own vegan meals or want to discover unique plant-based products, Brussels’ markets and specialty shops offer a wealth of options. From fresh produce and vegan cheeses to plant-based meats and artisanal snacks, these markets are a treasure trove for vegan food lovers.
Marché du Midi (Anderlecht)
One of the largest markets in Europe, Marché du Midi is a vibrant and bustling marketplace where you can find a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other produce. This is the perfect place to stock up on ingredients for your own vegan creations. While not exclusively vegan, the market offers a vast selection of plant-based ingredients at affordable prices.
Färm (Various locations)
A chain of organic shops with several locations in Brussels, Färm is a great place to find a variety of vegan products, including cheeses, plant-based meats, and snacks. Färm also prioritizes local and sustainable products, making it a great choice for conscious consumers.
Tips for Vegan Travelers in Brussels
Navigating a new city as a vegan can sometimes be challenging, but with a little preparation and some helpful tips, you can easily enjoy a delicious and fulfilling plant-based experience in Brussels.
HappyCow is Your Friend
Before you even arrive in Brussels, download the HappyCow app or visit the HappyCow website. This invaluable resource allows you to search for vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area, read reviews from other users, and find out about opening hours and menus.
Learn Some Basic French/Flemish
While many people in Brussels speak English, it’s always helpful to know a few basic phrases in French or Flemish, the two official languages of the city. Being able to ask “Est-ce que c’est végétalien?” (Is this vegan?) or “Heeft u veganistische opties?” (Do you have vegan options?) can make your dining experience much smoother.
Belgian Cuisine Can Be Veganized
While traditional Belgian cuisine often features meat and dairy, many dishes can be easily veganized with simple substitutions. For example, you can ask for fries cooked in vegetable oil instead of animal fat, or enjoy a vegan version of stoemp (mashed potatoes and vegetables) made with plant-based milk and butter. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate vegan requests, so don’t be afraid to ask.
Explore Ixelles and Saint-Gilles
These two neighborhoods are known for their diverse and vibrant culinary scenes, with a high concentration of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and shops. Exploring these areas is a great way to discover new vegan gems.
Conclusion
The vegan food scene in Brussels is thriving, offering a diverse and exciting array of options for plant-based eaters. From refined dining experiences to casual cafes and tempting bakeries, Brussels has something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about exploring plant-based cuisine, Brussels is a city that will surprise and delight you. With a little planning and some helpful resources, you can easily navigate the city’s culinary landscape and discover a world of delicious vegan flavors. So, pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to embark on a vegan food adventure in the heart of Europe. The vegan food of Brussels awaits you! Now that you’ve read about some amazing options, share your favorite vegan spot in Brussels in the comments below!
