Restaurants in Ghent: 30 Local Favourites

Looking for the best restaurants in Ghent to satisfy your cravings while exploring this charming Belgian city?

Ghent’s food scene is a mix of everything I love about Belgian cities: comforting local dishes, international flavors, student-friendly cafés, and cozy spots tucked into side streets.

But I’ve seen friends leave disappointed after chasing tourist traps or missing out on great local spots just a block away.

As someone who’s been exploring my home country since I was a kid—and eating my way through Ghent more times than I can count—I figured it was time to put everything I know in one place.

This guide features personal favorites, local classics, and a few surprises that don’t always show up in the usual lists. If you’re hungry and curious, you’re in the right spot!

Traditional Belgian Food in Ghent

Belgian cuisine isn’t flashy, but it’s comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying.

This is specially true in a city like Ghent, where traditional dishes still show up on everyday menus.

There are slow-cooked stews, creamy waterzooi, crispy fries, and those big, saucy meatballs you’ll see just about everywhere.

If you’re looking to try classic Flemish flavors, these spots do it right.

1. Balls & Glory

If you only have time for one Belgian-style lunch in Ghent, make it this one. Balls & Glory takes the humble meatball and makes it the star of the plate.

Each one is handmade, stuffed with seasonal fillings like truffle cheese or spinach and feta, then served over creamy mashed potatoes or crisp salad with a generous ladle of sauce.

The vibe is casual but stylish: long wooden tables, friendly staff, and a menu that’s easy to navigate even if you’re jet-lagged.

It’s the kind of place where locals stop for a quick lunch and end up staying for dessert. Plus, it’s a great option if you’re visiting Ghent with kids.

Address: Jakobijnenstraat 6, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily, 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Price: Mains from €13–€16
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

2. Brasserie Bridge

Overlooking one of Ghent’s prettiest canals, Brasserie Bridge leans into the old-school Belgian brasserie feel: white tablecloths, polished cutlery, and dishes that haven’t changed much in decades (and that’s a good thing!).

It’s a solid bet for trying Gentse waterzooi, the creamy chicken or fish stew that’s local to the city.

Their carbonnade flamande (beef stew with dark beer) is rich and deeply savory, and they’ve got a solid beer list to match. It’s slightly more formal than some spots, but still welcoming if you show up in jeans and a jacket.

Address: Sint-Michielsplein 21, 9000 Gent
Hours: Closed Monday and Tuesday; open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Sunday
Price: Mains from €19–€26
Try with: Gentse Gruut Blonde (local craft beer)

3. De Graslei

Yes, it’s in the heart of the tourist zone, and yes, it’s got postcard-perfect views of the river.

But don’t write it off! De Graslei is surprisingly consistent, especially if you want something classic like shrimp croquettes, moules frites, or rabbit in prune sauce (another local dish you won’t find everywhere).

If the weather’s good, grab a seat outside! You’ll get people-watching and a pretty plate of food.

Address: Graslei 7, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €18–€25
Menu notes: Strong seafood focus, some vegetarian mains available

4. Bij Koen en Marijke (In’t Nieuw Museum)

This place feels more like someone’s home than a restaurant—and that’s exactly the point. Bij Koen en Marijke is a no-menu, fire-cooked, meat-focused experience tucked into a quirky, old-school building just outside the city center.

You sit, you drink something local, and you eat whatever’s roasting in the open kitchen that night.

It’s cozy, eccentric, and deeply personal. The kind of place where the owners greet you themselves and explain every dish like you’re a guest, not a customer.

It’s not for vegetarians, but if you’re into quality meat and smoky flavors, this is a memorable evening.

Address: Sluizekenkaai 1, 9000 Gent
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, from 6:30 PM
Price: Fixed menu around €50, drinks not included
Good to know: Reservations required; no à la carte!

Student-Friendly and Budget Eats

Ghent is a university town at heart, which means cheap eats are part of the local rhythm. You’ll find generous portions, relaxed service, and menus built around comfort food (sometimes with a twist).

These spots are popular with students, but you definitely don’t have to be one to enjoy them. Just come hungry and maybe skip breakfast.

5. Multatuli Eetcafé

A local classic that never tries too hard. Multatuli is where students, artists, and longtime Ghent residents go for a laid-back meal that hits the spot without draining your wallet.

The menu changes regularly but often includes Mediterranean-inspired mains, veggie options, and rotating specials like couscous or stews.

The room itself is cozy and cluttered in a charming way: exposed brick, mismatched chairs, books, and jazz on the speakers.

It feels more like someone’s kitchen than a restaurant, which is probably why people tend to linger long after dessert.

Address: Huidevetterskaai 40, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Price: Mains from €12–€17
Good to know: Kitchen stays open later than most

6. De Kastart

If you ask a student where to get pasta in Ghent, odds are they’ll send you here. De Kastart is famous for its giant bowls of spaghetti topped with creamy tomato sauce and piles of grated cheese.

The portions are unapologetically massive, so it’s great for sharing or just refueling after a long day of walking.

It’s walk-in only and often busy, but the turnover is fast. The vibe is no-frills, just a good value meal done right.

Address: Onderbergen 42, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Price: Most pasta dishes around €14
Popular with: Students, budget travelers, families with teens

7. De Frietketel

You can’t come to Belgium and not eat fries at least once—and this place is where a lot of locals go when they’re craving the real thing.

De Frietketel is a student favorite for a reason: generous cones of fries, homemade sauces, and surprisingly good vegan burgers.

The menu has everything from loaded chicken wraps to meat-free bites like seitan satay. It’s quick, satisfying, and one of the best examples of Belgian fast food that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Address: Papegaaistraat 89, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Price: Meals from €10–€14
Tip: Try the tartar sauce, it’s homemade!

Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants

Ghent was one of the first cities in Europe to introduce a weekly “veggie day,” so it’s no surprise that plant-based dining is part of the culture here.

You don’t have to hunt for vegan or vegetarian food; it finds you.

From zero-waste cafés to colorful bowls and hearty veggie comfort food, the options are thoughtful and genuinely tasty.

8. Le Botaniste

This spot celebrates plant-based food. Le Botaniste feels like an old apothecary, with tiled floors, glass jars, and a vibe that’s part greenhouse, part lunch counter.

Everything is organic, vegan, and made fresh daily—from creamy curry bowls to chili sin carne with quinoa.

It’s great for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, especially if you’re near the city center and don’t want to sacrifice flavor for health. They also serve natural wines if you want to linger a little longer.

Address: Hoornstraat 13, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily, 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Price: Bowls from €12–€15
Dietary info: 100% vegan and organic

9. Lokaal

Tucked into a quiet residential area just outside the tourist center, Lokaal focuses on local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients.

The menu is small and changes with the produce, but everything is vegetarian (often vegan) and beautifully presented without being fussy.

Expect dishes like roasted root vegetables with tahini, homemade hummus plates, or lentil salads topped with herbs from their own garden. It’s a relaxed space with a strong neighborhood feel, and a good pick if you’re looking to eat more consciously.

Address: Nederkouter 17, 9000 Gent
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €14–€18
Good to know: Focus on local suppliers and low waste

10. Greenway

Greenway is fast-casual but done well: burgers, wraps, and warm bowls that are 100% plant-based but still feel indulgent. It’s a go-to for a quick lunch, especially if you’re near the shopping streets or hopping between sights.

Try the satay wrap or the spicy bean burger, and don’t skip the sweet potato fries. The concept started in Ghent and has grown to other cities, but this location still feels like a home base.

Address: Brabantdam 63, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily, 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Price: Meals from €10–€14
ibe: Modern, fast, very friendly to all diets

11. Superkelly

Bright, cheerful, and proudly plant-based, Superkelly makes healthy food fun and easy.

The menu covers soups, sandwiches, and salads, often with creative toppings or seasonal twists like beet hummus, pickled veggies, or miso dressings.

It’s a great lunch stop if you’re near the Zuid area, and portions are generous enough to hold you over for a busy afternoon. The staff is friendly, the space is small but inviting, and it’s one of the more relaxed vegan options in town.

Address: Vlaanderenstraat 101, 9000 Gent
Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM
Price: Bowls and sandwiches from €10–€13
Tip: Grab a window seat if you can because it fills up fast!

Trendy Brunch and Coffee Spots

Ghent knows how to do a good slow morning. Many cafés double as brunch spots, and you’ll find everything from avocado toast and poached eggs to shakshuka and homemade granola.

A lot of these places also lean into creative design—plants, old records, mismatched chairs—so it’s not just about the food. If you’re easing into your day or fueling up before a long walk, start here.

12. Koffeine

Tucked away on a quiet street near the university quarter, Koffeine is one of Ghent’s best specialty coffee bars. They’re serious about their beans but not in an intimidating way.

The staff is friendly, the espresso is excellent, and there’s a rotating selection of filter brews for those who want to explore a bit.

There’s no full food menu, but they’ve got pastries, croissants, and enough space to stay a while. The vibe is quiet, creative, and very local.

Address: Walpoortstraat 9, 9000 Gent
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Coffee from €3, pastries around €3–€5
Try if: You like pour-overs or a minimalist setting

13. Clouds In My Coffee

This café is a little out of the way, but that’s part of the charm. Clouds In My Coffee is set inside a converted chapel near Dampoort station and feels more like a hidden retreat than a regular brunch spot.

The menu covers both sweet and savory: soft-boiled eggs with toast, pancakes, granola, and solid coffee served in big mugs. There’s also a quiet garden if the weather’s decent, making it a nice place to slow down for an hour or two.

It’s popular with locals and never feels rushed, even on weekends. If you’re the kind of person who chooses a café based on atmosphere and food, this one nails both.

Address: Dendermondsesteenweg 104, 9000 Gent
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Breakfast and brunch from €9–€16
Best for: Long and relaxed mornings just outside the busy center

14. Take Five Espresso

A jazz-inspired café near the Savaanstraat shopping area, Take Five Espresso balances serious coffee with a welcoming, artsy vibe. It’s not the biggest space, but the atmosphere is warm and the playlist is always solid.

You’ll find good espresso, pastries, and a few brunch basics like toast with avocado or soft-boiled eggs.

It’s especially popular with locals looking for a quiet break or a place to read, and the windows let in great light on sunny days.

Address: Voldersstraat 10, 9000 Gent
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Breakfast items from €8–€12
Nice detail: Cozy upstairs nook if you want to stay a while

15. Café Labath

Labath was one of the first places in Ghent to take specialty coffee seriously, and it’s still one of the best.

They brew beans from top European roasters and serve everything from espresso to V60 pour-overs with quiet confidence.

There are pastries, yogurt bowls, and some light breakfast plates too, but people mostly come here for the coffee and the calm.

It’s a nice break from the busier parts of the city, perfect for reading, people-watching, or catching your breath between stops.

Address: Oude Houtlei 1, 9000 Gent
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Coffee from €3.50, light bites from €5
Known for: Great filter coffee and a peaceful vibe

Stops for Sweet Tooths

There’s plenty in Ghent for anyone with a sweet tooth. From classic Belgian waffles to vegan cakes and nostalgic candy shops, dessert is part of the experience.

You’ll find cozy tearooms, quick stop-in spots, and a few places that are worth going out of your way for. 

16. Julie’s House

This is probably the most famous dessert spot in Ghent (just around the corner from Gravensteen Castle); and for good reason. Julie’s House feels like a little fairy tale bakery, with towers of cupcakes, pies cooling on the counter, and shelves lined with teapots.

The cakes are rich but not too sweet, and there’s always something seasonal on the menu.

It’s a popular weekend stop for locals, especially for breakfast or a mid-afternoon treat. If you’re not sure what to get, the cheesecake is a safe bet. But I ordered the red velvet brownie and loved it!

Address: Kraanlei 13, 9000 Gent
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Cakes and slices from €5–€7
Tip: It gets busy, so go early or plan to take away!

17. Temmerman

A throwback in the best way. Temmerman has been around for generations, and walking inside feels like stepping into a time capsule.

The shop is tiny, but it’s packed with jars of old-fashioned Belgian sweets: everything from caramelized almonds to fruit jellies to neuzekes (cuberdons), a local specialty with a soft raspberry center.

If you’re looking for souvenirs or edible gifts, this is a great stop. Even locals still shop here for nostalgic treats.

Address: Kraanlei 79, 9000 Gent
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Cuberdons and other candies priced by weight
Known for: Traditional Belgian sweets and warm, personal service

18. Madam Bakster

A newer addition to the Ghent dessert scene, Madam Bakster is a vegan bakery that doesn’t rely on sugar highs to impress.

The cakes here are made without refined sugar, dairy, or eggs, but you honestly wouldn’t notice unless someone told you.

They do great coffee, banana bread, and raw desserts with unexpected flavors.

It’s a relaxing and stylish space with a loyal local crowd. If you’re looking for something a little lighter after a big lunch, this is your spot.

Address: Brabantdam 142, 9000 Gent
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Cakes and coffee combos from €8–€10
Vibe: Plant-based, quiet, and modern

Street Food and Casual Bites

Some of the best food in Ghent is from fry stands, market stalls, and corner counters where you grab something warm and eat it outside.

If you’re in between museums or just don’t feel like a full meal, these casual spots are quick, filling, and often just what you need.

Expect generous portions, bold sauces, and a surprising amount of flavor packed into a paper tray.

19. Frituur Tartaar

This is Ghent-style street food done right. Frituur Tartaar is a small but much-loved spot just off Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat, serving crisp fries, fried snacks, and burgers with a bit more flair than your average fry shop.

The fries are hand-cut and the sauce selection is extensive: everything from the classic andalouse to their own garlic-tartare house blend.

There are a few seats inside, but most people grab their food and go. Great for a late lunch, or even a low-key dinner if you’re in the mood for fried comfort food.

Address: Bagattenstraat 5, 9000 Gent
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Price: Fries with sauce from €4; combo meals €10–€14
Tip: Try the veggie burger—it’s homemade and holds up well!

20. Mission Masala

If you’re in the mood for bold flavors and something a little different from the usual Belgian fare, Mission Masala is one of the most exciting places to eat in Ghent right now.

This spot blends Indian street food with a modern twist: think butter chicken tacos, loaded naan wraps, and crispy samosas with creative dips. The menu is fun, shareable, and packed with flavor without feeling too heavy.

The space itself is stylish but relaxed, with colorful details and a lively atmosphere that makes it great for both quick meals and casual dinners.

Address: Oudburg 16, 9000 Gent
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €14–€20
Dietary info: Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available

21. Vrijdagmarkt Food Stalls

If you’re in Ghent on a Friday, make your way to Vrijdagmarkt. On market days, the square is full of food stalls selling everything from fresh escargots and grilled calamares to kibbeling (deep-fried fish bites) and artisan sausages.

It’s informal, fun, and one of the best ways to experience the local street food scene.

Bring cash, be ready to eat standing up, and follow the locals because some stalls are better than others!

Location: Vrijdagmarkt Square
When: Fridays, early morning to mid-afternoon
Price: Street snacks from €5–€10
Good to know: Stalls change often, so it’s a bit of a surprise each time

International Cuisine in Ghent

For a mid-sized city, Ghent punches above its weight when it comes to international food.

You’ll find everything from Middle Eastern mezze to wood-fired pizza to homemade ramen, all in walking distance from the city center.

A lot of these places are run by local families or people who’ve made Ghent their new home, which means you’re getting good food plus stories and traditions.

These spots are a solid break from Belgian classics without feeling out of place.

Local tip: make your way to the charming neighbourhood Patershol. This is the place to be for foodies looking for more exotic yumminess.

22. Souplounge

This one’s perfect for a quick and comforting lunch that won’t slow you down. Souplounge keeps things simple: you pick your soup, your bread, your toppings (like cheese, croutons, or meatballs), and you’re good to go!

The flavors rotate daily, but they usually include a creamy option, something spicy, and a veggie-heavy pick.

It’s fast, fresh, and a longtime local favorite, especially in winter. There’s limited seating inside, but it’s mostly a grab-and-go vibe.

Address: Brabantdam 82, 9000 Gent
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Price: Soup combos from €7–€9
Good to know: Student discount with ID

23. Eat Love Pizza

Not your average pizza joint. Eat Love Pizza uses sourdough bases, high-quality ingredients, and creative combos like fig and goat cheese or nduja with honey.

The oven is wood-fired and the dining room is colorful and fun, with murals and mismatched furniture that make it feel a bit like a party.

It’s a favorite with groups, couples, and families alike. If you’re craving pizza but still want something a little special, this is where to go.

Address: Ajuinlei 10a, 9000 Gent
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Pizzas from €14–€19
Dietary info: Vegan cheese and gluten-free dough available on request

24. Beiruti

Beiruti brings fresh and colorful Lebanese food to the edge of the city center.

You can get a quick falafel wrap or sit down for a full mezze spread with hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and warm flatbreads. It’s casual but nicely decorated, with warm lighting and big portions.

Great for vegetarians, but also very meat-lover-friendly. Bonus: the desserts are just as good as the mains!

Address: Ottogracht 64, 9000 Gent
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mezze dishes from €6; full meals around €18
Try if: You’re with a group and want to share plates

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Ghent

Traveling with kids doesn’t mean you have to settle for bland food or chain restaurants. Ghent has plenty of spots that balance good food with a relaxed and welcoming vibe.

If you’re dealing with picky eaters, a stroller, or just want space to spread out a bit, these restaurants work well for families. Bonus: they also happen to serve genuinely solid meals.

25. Pony’s

Pony’s has been around for decades, and it still feels like a bit of a time capsule.

The menu is pure Belgian comfort food: spaghetti bolognese, meatballs, croquettes, and the kind of rich stews that come with a big pile of fries.

Kids tend to love it here, especially because the portions are generous and the service is no-fuss.

The space is casual and unpretentious, and it’s usually full of locals. If you want to show your kids what everyday Belgian food actually looks like, this is a great place to start.

Address: Sint-Veerleplein 12, 9000 Gent
Hours: Open daily, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €14–€20
Good for: Simple meals, central location, hearty portions

26. Le Pain Quotidien

It’s part of a larger chain, but this location gets it right. Le Pain Quotidien offers organic breads, soups, salads, and breakfast dishes all day long.

There’s plenty of space for families, high chairs are available, and the menu has something for everyone: from tartines and quiches to soft-boiled eggs and fruit bowls.

The service is friendly, and it’s a good choice if you’re near the historical center and need a reliable, low-stress place to recharge.

Address: Korenmarkt 16, 9000 Gent
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Breakfasts and lunches from €8–€16
Kid-friendly: High chairs, changing table, easygoing vibe

27. Alix – Table & Jardin d’Amis

Alix’s garden space is perfect for families: plenty of room for kids to wander without bothering anyone, and the relaxed outdoor setting makes everything feel less stressful.

The weekend brunches include something for all ages and they’ve even hosted kids’ events in the past.

If you’re in town on a weekend, this is one of the best places to settle in for a long, family-friendly meal.

Address: Koning Albertlaan 68, 9000 Gent
Hours: Brunch Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Price: Brunch plates from €25
Best for: Families with younger kids, relaxed weekend meals

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Some of the best food in Ghent is tucked into quiet streets, behind unmarked doors, or in places you might walk past without a second thought.

These spots don’t always show up on travel guides, but they’ve built strong reputations with locals who keep going back.

If you want to eat like someone who actually lives here, these are the names to remember.

28. De Vitrine

This place flies under the radar for many visitors, but it’s a real gem. De Vitrine is a relaxed bistro run by the folks behind the now-closed but legendary In De Wulf.

The space used to be a butcher’s shop, and the team kept the original tiles and added just enough polish to make it feel warm and modern.

The menu changes weekly, built around seasonal ingredients and simple, thoughtful preparation. If you’re looking for something between fine dining and comfort food with zero pretense, this is it.

Address: Brabantdam 134, 9000 Gent
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Prix fixe menu around €48
Good to know: Reservations are a must

29. Publiek

This is where locals go to celebrate something, or just treat themselves to a really good dinner.

Publiek has a Michelin star, but you wouldn’t guess it walking in. The space is minimal, the staff are friendly, and the food is rooted in Flemish traditions but open to global influence.

Expect seasonal tasting menus, natural wines, and plates that balance creativity with comfort. It’s refined without being cold, which is harder to pull off than it sounds.

Address: Ham 39, 9000 Gent
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Tasting menu from €65
Style: Modern Belgian with a twist

30. Boris & Maurice

This neighborhood favorite in Sint-Amandsberg doesn’t shout for attention, but it’s doing everything right.

Boris & Maurice offers a seasonal and meat-forward menu with bold flavors, generous portions, and just enough creativity to keep regulars curious.

Dishes like slow-cooked pork belly, wild mushroom pasta, or roasted chicken with mustard sauce rotate in and out depending on the week.

The atmosphere is unfussy but warm, with friendly service and a loyal local crowd. Save room for dessert because their house-made sweets are consistently excellent.

Address: Antwerpsesteenweg 198, 9040 Gent (Sint-Amandsberg)
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, from 6:00 PM
Price: Mains from €20–€28
Vibe: Relaxed, quality-focused, just off the tourist radar

Eating Out: Practical Tips for Ghent

Ghent is a relaxed city, but eating out here comes with a few quirks that can catch visitors off guard. Knowing when kitchens close, how locals approach dining, and what to expect on your bill can make a big difference.

Here are a few simple tips to help you navigate the food scene with less confusion and fewer hungry detours.

📌 Reservations Aren’t Always Required (But Don’t Wait Too Late)

Many places in Ghent operate on a walk-in basis, especially casual cafés and lunch spots.

But for dinner, especially on weekends or at popular places like De Vitrine or Alix, it’s smart to book ahead.

Some restaurants don’t take reservations at all, but if they do, locals usually call or book online a few days in advance.

📌 Kitchens Close Earlier Than You’d Expect

This surprises a lot of visitors: most restaurant kitchens in Ghent close by 9:00 PM on weeknights, sometimes even earlier!

It’s common to see restaurants open until 10:00 PM but with the last food orders taken well before that.

If you’re used to eating late, plan ahead or make lunch your main meal.

📌 Sunday and Monday Are Quiet

Many restaurants close one or both of these days, especially the more independent or chef-owned spots.

If you’re planning a food-focused trip, make sure to check opening hours in advance.

That said, casual places, chains, and international fast-casual restaurants are often still open (although most frituren close on Mondays!).

📌 You Don’t Need to Tip (But It’s Appreciated)

Service is included in your bill in Belgium, so there’s no expectation to tip.

Still, it’s common to round up the total or leave a euro or two for good service, especially at restaurants (at casual places, not so much).

No one will chase you down if you don’t, but it’s a nice gesture.

📌 What You’ll Actually Spend

Lunch at a casual spot (like De Frietketel or Souplounge) usually costs between €8–€15. Dinner at a mid-range place runs closer to €18–€25 for a main, not including drinks.

Tasting menus or more upscale dinners can climb to €60 or more, but you’ll often find a fixed-price lunch menu at nicer places for under €30.

📌 Where to Go for a Late-Night Bite

If you’re out past 10:00 PM and still hungry, your best bet is around Overpoortstraat (the student nightlife area) or one of the frituren near Sint-Pietersstation.

They’re not fancy, but they’re open late and good at what they do: fries, burgers, and snacks to soak up a night out.

One Last Forkful Before You Go

The best meals often come from spots you didn’t plan on: a fry shop you wandered into, a café you passed three times before noticing it, or a restaurant someone casually mentioned that morning.

That’s kind of how Ghent works. You explore, you take your time, and you let the food find you.

So don’t stress too much about having the “perfect” meal. Just follow your nose, ask locals where they like to eat, and keep a lot of room for dessert!