A Food Lover’s Guide to the Best Restaurants in Bruges

1. De Jonkman – Michelin-Starred Excellence

📍 Maalse Steenweg 438, 8310 Bruges
💰 Fine Dining | $$$$
⭐ 2 Michelin Stars

For an unforgettable culinary journey, look no further than De Jonkman, run by chef Filip Claeys. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant combines refined Belgian cuisine with sustainable sourcing and creative flair. Set in a charming country-style villa, the ambiance is both elegant and welcoming.

Highlights:

• The tasting menu features North Sea fish and local seasonal vegetables.

• Wine pairing is available with expert sommelier guidance.

• Ideal for a special occasion or foodie pilgrimage.

Insider Tip: Book several weeks in advance—especially for weekend dinners.

2. Bistro Refter – Modern Belgian Bistro by a Master Chef

📍 Molenmeers 2, 8000 Bruges
💰 Mid-range | $$–$$$

Owned by Geert Van Hecke, the legendary chef behind the now-closed De Karmeliet, Bistro Refter brings high-level cuisine to a relaxed, bistro-style setting. The food is unpretentious yet sophisticated, making it a favorite among both locals and travelers.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Belgian grey shrimp croquettes

• Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with thyme jus

• Artisan cheese selection from local farms

Perfect for those who want a taste of Belgian excellence without the full formality of a Michelin-starred experience.

3. Park Restaurant – Romantic Fine Dining in the City Center

📍 Minderbroedersstraat 1, 8000 Bruges
💰 Fine Dining | $$$
💑 Best for Couples

Park Restaurant is a romantic favorite, often booked for anniversaries and special occasions. It offers a 4- or 5-course set menu that leans into traditional European dishes with Belgian ingredients.

Customer Favorites:

• Grilled duck breast with orange and honey

• Lobster bisque served tableside

• Belgian chocolate soufflé

Owner/chef Axel serves as both host and chef, ensuring a warm, personalized experience.

4. Poules Moules – Seafood Heaven in a Lively Atmosphere

📍 Simon Stevinplein 9, 8000 Bruges
💰 Casual Dining | $$

As the name suggests, Poules Moules specializes in mussels and poultry dishes, served with an excellent selection of Belgian beers. It’s centrally located with a lively terrace in summer and a cozy interior for cooler months.

Try:

• Mussels prepared in white wine, garlic, or cream

• Frites with homemade mayonnaise

• A local Tripel or blonde beer to wash it all down

A fantastic option for travelers who want classic Belgian seafood without breaking the bank.

5. Tanuki – Japanese Cuisine with a Belgian Twist

📍 Oude Gentweg 1, 8000 Bruges
💰 Mid to High Range | $$$
🍣 Best Asian Cuisine

Looking for something different? Tanuki offers authentic Japanese fare prepared by Belgian chef Ivan Verhelle, who trained in Japan. The restaurant is sleek, serene, and a welcome break from the otherwise Flemish-heavy menus around town.

Dishes Not to Miss:

• Sashimi platter with seasonal fish

• Miso-marinated black cod

• Tempura vegetables with yuzu dipping sauce

Tanuki proves that Bruges is more than just a one-note culinary town—it’s internationally inspired as well.

6. Réliva – Organic, Farm-to-Table Dining

📍 Goezeputstraat 6, 8000 Bruges
💰 Mid-range | $$–$$$
🥗 Best for Health-Conscious Eaters

Réliva is one of the city’s most beloved organic restaurants, with a menu focused on local, sustainable ingredients. Many dishes are vegetarian or gluten-free, and the team is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

Highlights:

• Fresh North Sea fish

• Seasonal vegetable risottos

• Homemade herbal teas and natural wines

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just health-conscious, Réliva provides a guilt-free way to enjoy Belgian produce.

7. Bistro Christophe – Cozy Local Favorite

📍 Geldmuntstraat 36, 8000 Bruges
💰 Mid-range | $$

Bistro Christophe is a go-to for a comforting Belgian meal in a casual, friendly atmosphere. With its warm wood interiors and attentive service, it feels like a well-kept secret even though it’s just off the main shopping streets.

Go For:

• Flemish beef stew (carbonnade flamande)

• Rabbit in cherry beer sauce

• Warm apple tart with vanilla ice cream

This is one of those rare places that manages to be both tourist-friendly and authentically Belgian.

8. That's Toast – Best Breakfast and Brunch

📍 Dweerstraat 4, 8000 Bruges
💰 Casual | $$
🍳 Perfect for Mornings

Tired of hotel breakfasts? Head to That’s Toast, a bright and stylish café serving all-day breakfast with a twist. Portions are generous, the coffee is strong, and the vibe is laid-back and modern.

Crowd Pleasers:

• Avocado toast with poached eggs

• Homemade granola bowls

• Cinnamon brioche French toast

Ideal for a lazy brunch before hitting the cobblestone streets.

9. De Stove – Intimate and Romantic Belgian Cuisine

📍 Kleine Sint-Amandsstraat 4, 8000 Bruges
💰 Mid to High Range | $$$

With just a handful of tables, De Stove offers an intimate setting and a menu built around local seafood and meats. Run by a husband-and-wife duo, the restaurant is warm, charming, and tucked away from the main tourist areas.

Signature Dishes:

• Seared scallops with truffle oil

• Local turbot in beurre blanc

• Lemon tart with fresh raspberries

Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially during high season.

Final Thoughts: Where to Eat in Bruges

Bruges is a city where food is part of the experience. You don’t just visit Bruges—you taste it. From Michelin-starred innovation to hearty Flemish classics served in age-old taverns, the city's restaurants reflect its unique blend of medieval heritage and modern sophistication.

Quick Tips:

• Reservations are essential at most top spots.

• Lunchtime deals offer excellent value at finer establishments.

• Don’t miss out on Belgian beer pairings—most restaurants take pride in their curated lists.

• Look out for seasonal specialties like white asparagus in spring and game meats in autumn.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a solo foodie retreat, or a cultural city break, Bruges’ culinary scene is as magical as its cobbled alleys and storybook canals.