Of Moules Frites, Escargots and Waffles!!

Belgium is known for moules-frites (a popular combination of mussels and fries), escargots (garden snails) and waffles. These dishes are served in elite restaurants as well as in street corners.

I tried some of these national favorites a few weeks ago during one of our random wanderings. We ordered moules-frites from a tavern near the grand place (city center).

A pot of steaming mussels and a plate of fries were soon placed on the table. The sight of half open mussels in a huge pot disgusted me at first. I just didn't want to open the shells and eat the morsel of meat.

I was tempted by the aroma of mussels cooked with garlic and leeks in dollops of butter. I decided to try a few mussels.

I can still feel the taste of the first mussel I tried. It was moist and packed with flavor. The broth was even more savoury. I couldn't resist finishing the pot and sipping the warm broth.


Escargots or garden snails are eaten as appetizers by the Belgians. We found an old couple selling escargots soup in a crowded street near the mannekin pis, the popular statue near the city center.

I did not try the snail soup. I could not even consider eating slimy garden snails.

This was not a problem for adventurous Frank. He had the snail soup and proclaimed that it tasted just the same as mussels.


Waffles are another Belgian gastronomical speciality. Hot waffles are sold at corner shops and food stalls in Brussels.

I like having the Liege waffles topped with strawberries and cream once in a while. It melts in the mouth and tastes simply divine. Waffles, chocolates and pastries are some of the sweet pleasures of Belgian cuisine.