When you think of Knokke, you picture long walks along the boardwalk, sunny terraces, and great spots to savor seafood. By the summer of 2027, the seaside resort plans to add a new string to its bow with a culinary event on an unprecedented scale. Its name? Couverts sur Mer, a concept that aims to turn the beach into Belgium’s most beautiful pop-up restaurant.
A gourmet experience right on the sand
Forget traditional banquet halls. For this first edition, the organizers are going all out with an exceptional setting! A temporary pavilion spanning nearly 5,000 m², set up right on the beach across from the Knokke Casino. Over the course of two weekends, visitors will be able to savor culinary creations—all while enjoying a breathtaking view of the North Sea.
The event will take place from June 25 to 27 and then from July 2 to 4, 2027—six days entirely dedicated to the art of living. The idea is not just to offer a food festival, but to create a true experience where the cuisine, the setting, and the atmosphere all come together. The organizers aim to welcome nearly 15,000 visitors over the course of the event.
Thirty chefs, artisans, and the flavors of the coast
At the heart of Couverts sur Mer, local cuisine will take center stage. A selection of about thirty chefs from Knokke-Heist and the Zwin region is currently being assembled. The goal is to bring together recognized figures from the culinary scene, as well as promising young talents.
The experience won’t stop at the plates. Visitors will also be able to discover artisanal producers, innovative culinary concepts, and a selection of partners specializing in premium beverages. The goal is to highlight an entire gastronomic ecosystem, from producers to chefs.
A great excuse for a getaway from Brussels
For Brussels residents looking for a gourmet getaway on the coast, the timing couldn’t be better. Whether it’s a stroll on the beach, a shopping spree through the streets of Knokke, a visit to the Zwin, or watching the sunset on the seawall, Couverts sur Mer promises to be the perfect excuse to spend a day—or even a weekend—out in the open air.
Beyond the event itself, this initiative reaffirms Knokke-Heist’s commitment to strengthening its reputation as a must-visit culinary destination. If this first edition proves as successful as expected, Couverts sur Mer could well become an annual highlight for food lovers, on par with Europe’s major culinary festivals. One thing is certain… Dining with your feet in the sand and the sea as a backdrop is sure to appeal to people far beyond the Belgian coast.
📆 Dates: June 25–27 and July 2–4, 2027
