Craving a taste of the sea without driving miles to the coast? Good news: Brussels hides spots where the fish is fresher than the breeze from the Zwin. Whether you’re a fan of oysters, lobsters, or giant platters to share, here are the seafood restaurants that are taking the capital by storm.
La Quincaillerie
Set in the spectacular settingof a former Art Nouveau hardware store designed by Victor Horta, this iconic spot serves seasonal oysters, seafood platters, and small plates to share. Committed to sustainability, the restaurant sources from local producers and even its own farm in Bresse! It thus offers a cuisine where authenticity and quality come together with flair.
Noordzee – North Sea
You can’t miss this legendary fish bar, a true landmark of Brussels street food. On the sidewalk of Place Sainte-Catherine, people crowd around the high tables. Here you can enjoy shrimp croquettes, fresh oysters, house-made kibbeling, or a steaming bouillabaisse. And all of it, of course, washed down with a nice glass of white wine! Here, the fish arrives ultra-fresh every day. It’s enjoyed “à la plancha” in a friendly atmosphere, bathed in sunshine, conviviality, and pure Brussels spirit.
Toucan-sur-Mer
On the chic Avenue Louis Lepoutre, Toucan sur Mer is the seaside spot that forms a duo with the neighboring Brasserie. Here, oysters from the finest regions (Gillardeau, Belon, Normandy, Zeeland…) line the oyster bar. Meanwhile, the seafood platters and fish à la plancha appeal to those who appreciate impeccable freshness. You can also enjoy delicious shrimp croquettes or octopus carpaccio, under the watchful eye of the owner, Paulo Campos, a key figure in the industry. For special occasions, the menu even offers caviar, fine sparkling wines, and custom pairings.
Les Brasseries Georges
Since 1986, Les Brasseries Georges has embodied the elegance of a French brasserie in Brussels, set in a sumptuous Art Deco decor, while also being named “Belgium’s Best Oyster Shucker 2022” thanks to Saïd Alaoui for his speed, meticulous shucking, and creative presentation. With the largest oyster bar in the country, you’ll find premium oysters, shellfish, and a variety of platters—perfect for discerning connoisseurs or for enjoying a convivial moment on the large shaded terrace.
The Beautiful Market Gardener
A Brussels institution since 1973, La Belle Maraîchère carries on the art of classic seafood dishes, from shrimp croquettes to impeccable sole meunière. In this elegant bistro, where loyal Brussels locals, food connoisseurs, and visiting celebrities (Eddy Merckx foremost among them) rub shoulders, the Devreker family cooks with consistency and passion, offering a true immersion in the culinary history of the Poissonniers district.
Crab Club
As we mentioned in a previous article, the Crab Club has moved to the Flagey area! Its cuisine remains raw and inventive, where the sea sometimes meets the land. From mackerel sashimi with ginger to razor clams with chanterelle mushrooms or a bold surf & turf featuring crispy pork and grilled octopus, every dish surprises with its intensity. A vibrant spot, perfect for foodies seeking off-the-beaten-path seafood experiences .
Fish Tank
Nestled in the Marolles neighborhood, this new spot reimagines the seafood bar and fish & chips concept in a laid-back atmosphere. Ideal for grabbing a quick bite of high-quality seafood street food, with a true mastery of Belgian fries.
Master Crab
Located in the heart of the city, this newcomer offers the trendy Louisiana-style “seafood boil” concept. Here you’ll enjoy generous portions of seafood (langoustines, shrimp, lobsters) bathed in spicy sauces, all served in buckets to share and eat with your fingers.