Mussel season is one of the most comforting times of the year when temperatures drop! And with it, of course, comes the irresistible urge to sample this emblematic dish at some of the city’s best addresses. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or prefer more daring variations, the Belgian capital is brimming with restaurants where moules-frites take pride of place. Here’s our selection of the must-try places to treat your taste buds this autumn!
Au Vieux Bruxelles
Since 1882, Au Vieux Bruxelles has embodied the culinary soul of the capital, with its moules-frites celebrating Belgian flavors. The house specialty, combining chicory, bacon and cream, is a delight not to be missed. Other delicious recipes include mussels with curry or Grimbergen blonde, for example. To top it all off, the French fries are perfectly browned, thanks to traditional “blanc de boeuf” cooking, and make all the difference.
📍 Address: 35 rue Saint-Boniface 1050 Brussels
Le Chou de Bruxelles
This restaurant in Ixelles, known for its local Belgian cuisine, boasts an impressive menu. You’ll be able to choose from 30 variations of mussels, from classics to more daring recipes like moules à l’Ardennaise or moules diables rouges. With crispy home fries and a unique Belgian wine, the experience is authentic and unforgettable. Especially in summer, when the terrace becomes a favorite spot.
📍 Address: Rue de florence 26, 1050 Brussels
Zinneke
At Le Zinneke, located in Schaerbeek since 1956, Belgian tradition comes in no fewer than 69 mussel recipes! Whether you opt for garlic and ginger, Indonesian or Normandy-style mussels, each dish is a unique taste journey. With homemade fries, homemade sauces and generously portioned Golden mussels, this restaurant with its typical Brussels ambience is a veritable paradise for mussel lovers. What’s more, it promotes a Slow Food approach and organic beers.
📍 Address: 26 place de la Patrie, 1030 Brussels
Stekerlapatte
At Le Stekerlapatte, in the heart of the Marolles district, the Brussels ambience comes into its own with a typical Belgian brasserie decor. There may not be many mussels here, but the version with hommelbier, a top-fermented beer, is worth the detour alone. Add to that crispy home fries and exquisite homemade mayonnaise! All this, in a warm setting where tradition meets quality.
📍 Address: Rue des Prêtres 4, 1000 Brussels
Chez Léon
A classic! Chez Léon, located in the heart of Brussels, is the place to go for a good mussel dish in the capital. For over 125 years, this family-run restaurant has been serving mussels prepared in the traditional way, and served with golden fries to perfection. In a lively, friendly atmosphere, Chez Léon embodies the essence of Brussels!
📍 Address: Rue des Bouchers 18, 1000 Brussels
Friture René
Friture René, open since 1932, is a true Brussels institution, preserving the charm of bygone years with its emblematic red and white check tablecloths. Please note: this is not a French fry shop! This historic restaurant, specializing in traditional Belgian dishes, offers an authentic experience and continues to seduce with its retro ambience and timeless flavors.
📍 Address: 14 place de la Résistance, 1070 Brussels
Aux Armes de Bruxelles
Aux Armes de Bruxelles has been a landmark of Brussels gastronomy for over 100 years. This restaurant offers a culinary experience where moules-frites are prepared with a touch of sophistication. Each dish is a tribute to Brussels culinary tradition, served in a prestigious setting.
📍 Address: Rue des Bouchers 13, 1000 Brussels