In Brussels, the smell of warm bread and buttery pastries is almost part of the landscape. From passionate craftsmen to out-of-the-ordinary addresses, the capital abounds in sweet, crunchy nuggets. We’ve wandered the streets (and tasted far too many croissants) to bring you our favorite bakery-pastry shops.
Renard Bakery
Not to be confused with Maison Renardy, one of our favorite tearooms, also in Ixelles! At Renard Bakery, bread is given a new lease of life like nowhere else: here, the baguette is returned to its purest form – water, flour and sourdough, quite simply! It’s hardly surprising, then, that Renard Bakery is adored by the locals for its light, creamy, top-quality crumb. As for desserts, let yourself be tempted by a choice of éclair, choco-praline cake or cinnamon brioche: the delights of the house!
📍 Address: Place Fernand Cocq 3, 1050 Ixelles.
Aux Merveilleux de Fred
Sure, it’s a very touristy location, but how could we not mention the number 1 address for marvelous things in Brussels? This delicious cake of meringues sprinkled with chantilly has something for every sweet tooth. Offering marvelous cakes in a variety of tastes and sizes, this heart-of-town bakery also makes a point of serving cramiques: brioche buns with chocolate chips, yum! One of the best bakeries in the capital!
📍 Address: Rue du Marché Aux Herbes 7, 1000 Brussels.
Brian Joyeux
Thanks to the open kitchen in the heart of the patisserie, you can chat with the owner – no more, no less! But the surprise is also in the cakes . Their Brussels chocolate moelleux, Paris Brest and apple tarts are undoubtedly among the best we’ve tasted in Brussels! Refined workmanship, often organic ingredients, precise and delicate combinations… you know where to go!
📍 Address: Rue du Congrès 3, 1000 Brussels.
Boulengier
If you’re looking for the best bakeries and pastry shops in Brussels, Boulengier is a must! No, you read that right! There’s no spelling mistake in the name. Boulengier is the kind of artisanal bakery we love in Saint-Gilles. Here, breads are made with ancient and organic flours, giving them an absolutely inimitable taste. The workshop, which is visible to customers (a bit like Brian Joyeux’s), gives it a unique atmosphere, as close as possible to the know-how of its creators. Their pistachio flan is simply exceptional.
📍 Address: Avenue Jean Volders 11, 1060 Saint-Gilles.
Gâteau
The name couldn’t be simpler! Chez Gâteau’ s pastries are of such high quality that you’ll have to come early in the day, otherwise you’ll leave empty-handed! In addition to 100% artisanal work, a wide choice of breads awaits you: seed, rye, wholemeal, wheat… But our favorites are undoubtedly their pains au chocolat and croissants, airy and tasty. Here again, a view of the workshop shows us first-hand the passion of our craftsmen. One of our favorite bakeries in Brussels!
📍 Address: Rue des Boers 7, 1040 Etterbeek.
Cokoa
Maison Cokoa, run by Anaïs Gaudemer, combines technical pastry-making with artistic sensitivity to create delicate, innovative desserts inspired by nature and the seasons. Its wide range of pastries, macaroons, confectionery and customizable cakes seduce with their creativity and delicate flavors. A must-visit address in Brussels for those who like to be surprised by gourmet delights.
📍Address: Chaussée de boondael 66B, 1050 Ixelles
Succulente
At Succulente, Damien and Victoria offer Brussels’ first 100% vegan bakery-pastry shop, combining passion and artisanal know-how. With no eggs, butter or milk, their gourmet creations exploit original, seasonal flavors, using ingredients grown in the garden. An ideal address to enjoy delicious pastries and breads, without compromising on ethics or taste.
📍Address: Rue docteur Huet 108, 1070 Anderlecht
Gingko
Located in Saint-Gilles, Ginkgo Pâtisserie seduces with its refined artisan creations and authentic flavors. We loved the pistachio N-Y Roll, but the house also offers a wide range of classic and original pastries that promise a refined, gourmet moment on every visit.
📍 Address: Place Julien Dillens, 8, 1060 Saint-Gilles