Ghent is a city where the past and present collide on the plate. From centuries-old fish stews to modern takes on Flemish classics, the food scene here is rooted in tradition but never stuck in it. You’ll find €10-15 mains in family-run eateries, €30pp at contemporary brasseries, and €80pp for full tasting menus. The must-try dishes include stoofvlees (beef in beer sauce), waterzooi (a creamy fish stew), and of course, a proper Flemish waffle—served warm with just a dusting of sugar.
Where Should You Eat in Ghent?
What Restaurants Are in Patershol?
Patershol is Ghent’s historic food heartland. You’ll find cozy, old-school inns and taverns serving hearty Flemish fare, with a few modern bistros sprinkled in. The area is best for hearty dinners between 6:30 and 9:30 PM. Expect prices to start at €15 for a main, with full meals in the €30-45 range.
What Restaurants Are in Korenmarkt?
Korenmarkt is a foodie destination in its own right, with the bustling market square and a cluster of cafes and bistros. Look for fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and Flemish patisseries. Prices here are mid-range, with a €20-35 lunch being common. It’s a great place to start your day with a coffee and croissant or end it with a glass of beer and a softie.
What Restaurants Are in Sint-Amandsberg?
Sint-Amandsberg is the artsy, more laid-back side of Ghent. Here, you’ll find a mix of vegetarian, vegan, and fusion restaurants. It’s the place to go for a more experimental meal. Budget €25-40 per person for a full meal. The area is quieter at lunch, but livelier in the evenings.
What Restaurants Are in Wondelgem?
Wondelgem is a short bike ride or tram ride from the city center and offers a more local, suburban feel. The trattorias and kebab spots here are popular with Ghent’s students and families. The food is straightforward and satisfying, with mains often under €20. It’s a good bet for a relaxed dinner with a view of the surrounding greenery.
What Should You Eat in Ghent?
Stoofvlees: Slow-cooked beef in dark beer sauce, often served with fries and a side of mustard. Found in many Patershol restaurants, where it costs around €18-22.
Waterzooi: A creamy fish stew with leeks and herbs, a specialty of East Flanders. Try it at a casual bistro in Korenmarkt for about €16-20.
Flemish Waffles: Lighter and crispier than their Bruges cousins, often served with just sugar. Available at street vendors and patisseries, from €2-4.
Softies: A local sweet, like a mini apple pie with a flaky crust. Try one at a market stall in Korenmarkt for €2-3.
Carbonade Flamande: A rich beef stew with beer, onions, and mustard. Common in Patershol and Sint-Amandsberg for €17-21.
Kapsalon: A popular street food, consisting of French fries with grilled meat and a sauce. Found at kebab spots in Wondelgem, around €5-7.
Mussels à la Provençale: Mussels cooked with tomatoes, white wine, and herbs. Available in many mid-range restaurants, €12-16 per portion.
Chips with Mayonnaise: A Flemish classic. Look for thick-cut fries in any local friterie, from €4-6.
Budget Guide: How Much Does Food Cost in Ghent?
Meal type
Est. cost
What you get
|-----------|--- -- ----|-------------|
Street food / market
€5-10
Kapsalon, waffles, softies, or chips with mayo
Casual sit-down
€15-25
One-course meal or light lunch at a bistro
Mid-range restaurant
€30-45
Full three-course meal with beer or wine
Fine dining
€60+
Tasting menu with wine pairing
How Do You Navigate Restaurants in Ghent?
Reservation culture: For mid-range and fine dining, it’s wise to book a table, especially on weekends. Casual places are usually walk-in friendly.
Lunch vs dinner: Lunch is cheaper and faster. Mains often cost €10-15, and you can get a full lunch for €20-25. Dinner is more of an event and comes at a higher price.
Tipping customs: A 5-10% tip is common and appreciated, though not expected.
1 tourist trap area to avoid for food: Avoid the restaurants in the Gravensteen area, especially near the castle. Prices there are inflated and the food quality is inconsistent.
Best food market or street food spot: Korenmarkt is the top choice. The market square is packed with vendors selling everything from fresh fish to artisanal cheeses, with plenty of street food stalls nearby.
Is Ghent Worth Visiting for the Food?
Yes, Ghent is well worth a visit for food lovers. The city offers a mix of traditional Flemish dishes and modern European cuisine at
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Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Ghent, Belgium