A captivating mix of medieval architecture and contemporary energy, Ghent’s historic centre features some of the city’s best restaurants and bars serving up local specialties, craft beers and innovative culinary experiences.
(Photo: Oak)
With its pretty canals, cobbled streets, and enough history to make you feel cultured after just a short stroll, it’s not just the views that’ll steal your attention in the Belgian city of Ghent. From snug little cafes serving up heart-warming coffee to markets brimming with treats and gourmet restaurants at every turn, you’re never far from something delicious. Whether you’re after a quick snack or a grand feast, the options are endless. To make life easier, we’ve rounded up 7 city centre spots you shouldn’t miss.
Oak
Tucked away near Ghent’s bustling Korenmarkt, the Michelin-star Oak offers a refined yet approachable fine dining experience. The menu focuses on simplicity rather than innovation, with stand-out dishes including the venison paired with earthy root vegetables and the sea bass served with a citrus beurre blanc. Unlike some restaurants of this calibre, Oak has a relaxed atmosphere, making it feel more informal and welcoming than certain other establishments that can err on the stuffy side. For a memorable meal after a long day of sightseeing, Oak is a solid option.
Burgstraat 16
Mémé Gusta
(Photo: Mémé Gusta)
Nestled just three doors down from Oak on the same street, Mémé Gusta is the kind of unassuming gem that wins you over instantly. It’s refreshingly affordable for the quality of the food, offering Belgian classics without the usual price tag. The duck confit is hailed for being crisped to perfection, while the Flemish stew is the sort of dish that wraps you in comfort. In a city where dining out can often feel like a splurge, Mémé Gusta offers a satisfying option without breaking the bank.
Burgstraat 19
Roots
In a section of the city where tired tourist traps are ten a penny, Roots stands out from the crowd as a beloved local haunt. It has that easy, neighbourhood charm, where everyone’s a regular and the food is what you might expect at home – if your mamma happens to be an exceptional cook. Think traditional Belgian classics – satisfying stoofvlees or seafood that tastes fresh-off-the-boat, even if you happen to be miles from the nearest coastline. It’s a relaxed, unpretentious eatery where you’re assured an authentic, no-fuss meal that makes you feel like part of the family.
Vrouwebroersstraat 5
Frites Atelier
(Photo: Frites Atelier)
A slick chain with venues across Belgium, Frites Atelier has earned its reputation as one of the top places for frites in Ghent – and across the country as a whole. The Ghent branch, just a short stroll from the Korenmarkt, serves up fries that are a step above the rest. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and paired with a variety of toppings and sauces, from truffle mayo to beef stew, these are by no means your average fries, making it the ideal spot to indulge in one of Belgian’s most simple but quintessential culinary experiences.
Groentenmarkt 20
A Food Affair
If you’re craving something beyond stoofvlees and frites, A Food Affair, just a short walk from St. Bavo’s Cathedral, is a popular option. Their menu features a mix of international dishes, from fragrant Thai curries to fresh Mediterranean meze to mouth-watering Moroccan tagine, each offering a burst of flavour and a chance to try something a little different. In short, it’s the perfect spot for adventurous palates seeking a little culinary adventure.
Hoogstraat 58
Dulle Griet
(Photo: Dulle Griet)
In a city brimming with culinary delights, Ghent is also home to its fair share of places where the food only tells half the story. Dulle Griet, something of a legend in these parts, is one such place. Known for its towering beer list of over 500 brews and the bizarre-but-fun tradition of serving drinks in glass boots, it’s a spot that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Located in the heart of the city centre, it’s the go-to choice for those seeking a casual, character-packed pitstop where the focus is firmly on enjoying the moment.
Vrijdagmarkt 50
Hotsy Totsy
Another drinking spot brimming with personality, this quirky bar, situated just off the beaten path on the fringes of the city centre, is far from your standard watering hole. With its vintage furniture, neon signs and funky atmosphere, it offers a whole different vibe to many of the city’s other establishments. The bar regularly hosts live music, adding a lively soundtrack to your evening that will almost certainly leave you with an earworm the next morning, while the intimate setting makes it feel like a place you’ve been entrusted to discover but won’t share with anyone else.
Hoogstraat 1