Brussels isn’t just the capital of Belgium; it’s the heart of some of the finest culinary traditions in Europe. With its renowned chocolates, crispy waffles, hearty stews, and world-famous beers, the city offers a wealth of flavors waiting to be explored. For anyone wanting to get a real taste of Brussels, a food tour is the perfect way to go beyond the tourist spots and discover authentic local eateries and hidden culinary treasures. We especially love the Brussels: City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings because it combines a lively guide with a variety of savory and sweet tastings in the historic heart of the city. It’s a great introduction for first-timers and offers plenty of personalized options, including vegetarian choices.
If you want a more comprehensive experience that includes a full meal, chocolate, beer, and waffles, the Brussels: Food Tour with Lunch, Chocolate, Beer, & Waffles is hard to beat. Or, if your schedule is tight but you still want a rich overview of Belgian flavors, the Secret Food Tours Brussels provides a delightful mix of sights and bites in just three hours. With so many options, Brussels proves that its reputation as a gastronomic capital is well earned.
Quick Overview
Our list brings together a variety of food tours that suit different tastes and schedules. From guided walking tours with tastings like Brussels: City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings to private custom experiences like Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie, there’s something for all. Some tours focus on Belgian chocolates and beers, while others combine historic sights with culinary surprises. Each offers a unique way to learn about Brussels’ food culture and local life.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, highlighting what makes them special, their key features, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Brussels: City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings
This guided walking tour offers a delicious exploration of Brussels’ city center, led by a local guide who knows where to find the best bites. Over approximately three hours, you’ll sample various savory and sweet foods, with all tastings included. The tour is designed to be interactive and entertaining, with commentary that shares insights into Brussels’ culinary and cultural traditions. What sets this tour apart is the personalized approach—vegetarians are welcome, and guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable style. Reviewers highlight guides like Chloe and Olivia, who make the experience both fun and informative.
The tour includes visits to local establishments and a herring festival near St. Catherine’s, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience. The food is thoughtfully chosen, catering to dietary needs, and guests often leave full and happy. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a friendly, immersive introduction to Brussels’ food scene.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a personalized, friendly introduction to Brussels’ culinary scene, with flexible options for dietary restrictions. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, social experience.
2. Brussels: Food Tour with Lunch, Chocolate, Beer, & Waffles
For around $112, this four-hour tour takes you beyond just tasting — it combines sightseeing with a full Belgian lunch. Starting at the iconic Grand Place, you’ll venture past major sights while stopping at local cafes and eateries for mussels with frites or a vegetarian main. The focus on Belgian classics like waffles, chocolates, and beer makes this a well-rounded experience. Plus, there are three chocolate tastings at top chocolatiers and two Belgian beer tastings, with non-alcoholic options available.
Guests rave about the diverse food choices and the opportunity to sample local dishes in a relaxed setting. The itinerary includes a guided tour of Brussels with a focus on culinary culture, making it suitable for food lovers who want a comprehensive taste of Belgium. The only potential downside is that it may be a bit crowded during peak season.
Bottom Line: This tour balances sightseeing and tastings beautifully, making it perfect for those who want a full day of Belgian food and culture.
3. Brussels Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better
If you’re craving a sit-down meal with drinks alongside your sightseeing, this 3.5-hour tour is a winner. It includes appetizers, main courses, and desserts, with tastings of Belgian waffles, croquettes, cheeses, and more. The tour explores Grand Place and Quartier Marolles, giving you a taste of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
What makes this tour stand out is its curated menu and the chance to sample multiple courses in a relaxed atmosphere. Reviews highlight the personalized attention, noting how guides ensure everyone’s dietary needs are met. Guests report leaving full and satisfied with a deeper understanding of Belgian cuisine. It’s especially good for short-term visitors who want to maximize their tasting experience without worrying about reservations.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies who want a full meal experience with a local guide, this tour offers both culinary delights and cultural context.
4. Brussels All In Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, beer, waffles
This four-hour tour packs a lot into a single experience — from Grand Place to the Royal Galleries and Manneken Pis. You’ll sample mussels, frites, chocolates, waffles, and enjoy Belgian beer at a cozy tavern. What makes this “all-in” tour notable is its focus on Brussels’ main sights combined with tasting sessions at charming cafes and restaurants.
Guests love the variety of treats, and the learning about Belgian culinary traditions from the guide. The stops are well-paced, allowing you to see the city’s highlights and indulge in local delicacies. It’s suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and food without overeating. The only possible drawback is the duration, which might be tight for those wanting a more relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown with tastings, this tour blends culture and cuisine seamlessly.
5. Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For those who love small-group experiences, this three-hour tour offers an intimate look at Brussels’ culinary secrets. It includes visits to Grand Place and local eateries, where you’ll sample Belgian chocolates, hearty stews, and local specialties. The guide is eager to recommend the best spots for the rest of your trip, making it a valuable resource for exploring beyond the tour.
Guests report that the food is excellent and that the small-group setting allows for a more personal, relaxed experience. The tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore the city’s highlights while tasting authentic Belgian dishes. The main advantage is the personalized attention and the chance to discover off-the-beaten-path spots.
Bottom Line: This tour shines for small groups and customized experiences, making it ideal for foodies who want personalized insights.
6. Brussels: Guided Food Tour with Full Meal and Drinks
This 3.5-hour walk takes you through Brussels’ neighborhoods like Marolles and Sablon, with tastings at historic eateries and trendy restaurants. It emphasizes traditional dishes like croquettes and carbonnade, complemented by Belgian beers and local drinks. The guide’s focus on local products and city highlights provides a well-rounded taste of Brussels’ culinary landscape.
Reviewers mention the variety of foods and the informative commentary, making it perfect for food lovers interested in both history and gastronomy. Limitations include the pace, which may be quick for some, but overall, it offers good value.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine cultural insights with a variety of traditional foods, this is a solid choice.
7. Secret Food Tours Brussels
This three-hour tour promises a fun, engaging experience exploring Brussels’ signature dishes. Led by a lively guide, you’ll visit hidden spots and learn stories behind each bite, from local delicacies to culinary innovations. The tour’s emphasis on fun and culture makes it a favorite among travelers wanting a lighthearted yet insightful experience.
Guests mention the great food variety and entertaining storytelling. It’s perfect if you prefer a less formal, more playful approach to discovering Brussels’ food scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for lively travelers or families, this tour combines food, culture, and fun effortlessly.
8. Chocolate and Beer Food Tour of Brussels
Belgium’s famous chocolates and beers take center stage here in this two-and-a-half-hour experience. You’ll visit top chocolate shops to learn about the craft of Belgian chocolate-making and taste a variety of chocolates. The beer part includes stops at local breweries where you’ll sample distinct Belgian brews. This tour offers a perfect introduction to two of Belgium’s most iconic products.
Guests appreciate the quality of chocolates and the insider knowledge about beer brewing. It’s best suited for culinary enthusiasts who want to focus on Belgium’s sweet and malty side.
Bottom Line: A must for chocolate and beer lovers, this tour delivers a delicious taste of Belgium’s most famous exports.
9. The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: Private Food Tour
For those seeking a personalized experience, this private food tour features 10 tastings curated by your local host. It includes Belgian fries, chocolates, and more, exploring cultural highlights like La Bourse and Maison du Sac. The flexibility allows you to customize your itinerary based on your preferences.
Guests consistently praise the personal attention, noting that guides like Elodie and Bruno make the experience informative and fun. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting to explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: A top choice for customized, private experiences that combine culinary treats with city sightseeing.
10. Brussels: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals
This private tour offers 10 tastings of Belgian specialties like frites and chocolates in a relaxed, customizable setting. You’ll visit local hotspots and enjoy a mix of savory, sweet, and drinks while discovering Brussels’ culinary culture. The flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want a personal touch.
Guests mention how guides like Su or Bruno make the experience warm and welcoming, providing insider tips along the way. It’s best suited for those with specific dietary needs or those who prefer a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for private groups who want a customized tasting journey with personalized attention.
11. Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie
This bespoke tour allows you to design your own culinary adventure with a local guide. From family-owned brasseries to cozy taverns, you’ll visit places off the usual tourist trail and enjoy upwards of six dishes, with options for beers or soft drinks. The itinerary is completely flexible, making it ideal for foodies who know what they want.
Reviews highlight the personalized approach, with guides like Bruno or Greg tailoring each experience. It’s perfect for small groups or individuals wanting full control over their food journey.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for adventurous travelers seeking a highly personalized culinary experience.
How to Choose Your Food Tour
When selecting a food tour in Brussels, consider your budget, schedule, and what you want to experience — whether it’s a quick overview of iconic dishes (Secret Food Tours) or a full day of culinary exploration (Brussels: Food Tour with Lunch). If you prefer a private, tailored experience, options like Private Food Tours or Private Custom Food Tours are best. For those on a budget or short on time, the more concise tours like Chocolate and Beer or All In Tour offer great value.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons and choosing a tour that matches your interest level — whether that’s just Belgian chocolates or a full culinary adventure. Also, check if dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
To sum it up, Brussels offers a wide array of food tours to suit all tastes and schedules. Whether you want a guided introduction to Belgian cuisine, a private, customized experience, or a quick taste of the city’s highlights, there’s something waiting for you. For first-timers, a tour that combines sightseeing with tastings, like Brussels: City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings, is a solid choice. For foodies eager to explore at their own pace, the private options provide a more intimate experience. Whatever your preference, booking early guarantees you a spot in these popular culinary adventures.