Restaurant recommendations in Bruges and Brussels

We had a nice dinner at Cambrinus in Brugge. That said - we had some amazing frites in the corner of the square! One of my favorite places to visit thus far! No recs for Brussels other than the fact that I had some amazing falafel from a tiny shop off the Grand Place. Caveat - spent a lot of time at Moeder Lambic prior to.

If you are in Brugge, definitely hit De Garre for the tripel and a cheese plate and the Little Bear - Daisy is lovely!

 

WIthin Bruges:
I definitely second both De Garre (get the tripel and if you don't see any seats keep in mind there;s 3 floors so just keep heading up and it's also cash only) and The Little Bear. If lookign for spot for beers with a great view go up to the Duvelorium its on the main square and has a balcony that overlooks the square but check they hours I think they are only open until 6pm.

My best meal by far was at De Bocarme in Bruges, its in a vaulted cellar close to the main town square so the atmosphere is great. They do a 3 course dinner for 38 euro, plus you can add on a wine pairing for only 19 euro and they were heavy handed on the wine, it was great food and a great value for the price. Had a good lunch at gruuthuse hof too, they have a soup entree and desert for lunch for around 20 euro a person.

In't Nieuw Museum is another great spot in Bruges, I didn't get a chance to hit it on my last trip but they have great steaks and an awesome beer selection. You can get a big t bone and it comes with frites and all sort of sides. If you want to go to either I;d say to book in advance, both are fairly small and people often get turned away without resi's.

Can't help you too much with Brussels- I typically use Bruges as a base and would definitely recommend considering staying there for more than just one day especially if you will be in Brussels for 4 or 5 days. Its much more atmospheric and has good restaurants. Spend time at Moeder Lambic, Cantillon, and get down to 3 Fountain in Lot (its a quick 15 min train ride from Midi) and the brewery is a 5 min walk from the train station.

 

I had a great dinner at Restobieres the last time I was in Brussels. I have heard that Fin de Siecle is good but have not been myself.

 

FYI, Fin de Siecle is cash only. It is really a great spot with very regional dishes. I like it quite a bit. Nuetnigenough is always good. For a good sandwich La Fruitiere is right by Moeder Fontainas. I have enjoyed every meal at Les Brigittines but not a universal truth from what I can tell. I have had great meals there though. I've heard great things about Bon-Bon but haven't made it out there.