What a treat to be in a city that feels really human, truly authentic. Ghent is a charmer; there's no doubt about that. Quaint but relaxed, this Flemish city is one of our favourites for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Astro Boy is not only incredibly cool but incredibly delicious. Enjoy classic Japanese dishes like gyozas or slow cooked ribs with their selection of natural wines or even better, their remarkable cocktails. Head to this ultimate hit of Ghent for a splendid dinner with friends.
The Verhaegen is a fantastic bed and breakfast in the heart of the city. Stunning suites with sublime decor and a magnificent garden to enjoy during sunset. This is an ideal stay for those design aficionados with an eye for detail and luxurious travellers.
Beiruti brings the magical flavours of Lebanon to the streets of Ghent. This restaurant is known for its freshly baked flatbreads paired with various flavorful dips, refreshing salads and plenty of grilled meals. Visit them if you crave an authentic taste of Beirut’s extraordinary cuisine.
Many fall in love with the minimalistic interior of the store as they walk through the door not knowing what awaits. Arguably the best chocolatier in Ghent with the poshest packaging seen in a chocolate confectionary of this calibre. The major chocolate connoisseurs and masters of handmade Belgian chocolate celebrate each day by selling the best pralines and the most interesting flavours in assorted boxes. If you love chocolate as much as we do, you must visit this chocolate emporium.
Located in the heart of the city is the beloved and modern wine bar: Chubby Cheeks. A magnificent selection of natural wines, non-alcoholic wines and fun flavours one could never imagined paired with bites or as Spaniards would say “tapas”. We suggest you go in a group to order as many delicacies and wines as possible. Tartare, oysters, ham, you name it. Sip away the afternoon in this local gem.
Take a seat at the ‘chef table’ -the bar overlooking the open kitchen- and prepare for a culinary spectacle. Many fine diners and gourmands claim this is the best restaurant in Ghent...we wholeheartedly agree. The ambience is peaceful, charming and effortlessly stylish, and the tasting menu and natural wines list are otherworldly, nothing short of extraordinary. The menu changes constantly based on the local produce and home-grown ingredients available. Every dish is a testament to their commitment to craftsmanship, from the garden to your plate.
Talk about chocolate coins and rock-hard peppermint swirls, sour gummies and fruit-looking marzipan. Confiserie Temmerman does it all. Head to this candy emporium for an exquisite sugar overload.
De Superette is a pizzeria that makes spectacular entrees and even better wood-fired pizzas. Think stracciatella, pistachio, olives, honey, San Daniele ham, pecorino crème. The finest ingredients are smothered in a perfect light dough. After dinner, get a fresh loaf for a guaranteed heavenly week of breakfasts.
In an old building, you will now find the cool concept of DOK. A brewery, a bar, a restaurant and a laid-back hanging-out spot. A treat for beer fanatics and those who like trying artisanal beers, lagers, IPAs, and sour or dark brews. Besides their niche but excellent selection of beers, they are famous for their barbecue dishes and burgers. If you want to take a step further as a true beer lover, join their beer-tasting tours for a delightful and fizzy afternoon.
Dulle Griet is a classic cozy bar with a supreme variety of Belgian beers. For those enthusiasts of La Chouffe, Leffe and Duvel, you must make your way to this iconic pub. The most fun crowds and beer lovers enjoy sunny days on the terrace and foggy days inside, chanting and cheering.
Edgar Kaasbar is the best place to enjoy a charcuterie board or an entree that involves melted cheese, walnuts and honey and always a pairing of wine and friends over a Saturday afternoon. If you are more of a stay-at-home gal, pick up your favourite Manchego or Roquefort to enjoy a sophisticated cheese plate from bed.
In the city of Ghent, many know and think that Elders is unmatched. This gem offers tasting menus and carte dishes. Of course, we advise you to go for the menu: a series of dishes with mind-blowing combinations of flavours. This restaurant is eclectic, stylish and the master of making fine dining more laidback and casual. Sit at the bar and sip one of their underground wines as you see the kitchen flaming with passion. This is a unique experience from beginning to end that you certainly can’t miss.
Graslei is a picturesque and iconic street in Ghent, known for its stunning medieval architecture and historical buildings along the Lys River. Walk along the streets that capture Ghent’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere as you walk in a pub, sit and chat on the waterfront and have a treat in one of the cafes that decorate this scenic route.
White chocolate bonbons with sea salt caramel filling, dark chocolate tablets with mint crème, lavender pralines and chocolate toffees. Every item they offer will melt in your mouth and will force you to take plenty of boxes home for a night in the bath with the best bubbles and the best Belgian chocolate.
Jigger’s is a heavenly cocktail bar that will make you completely indecisive about which signature drink to get. They are original, classy and inspired by seasons and themes. This splendid spot is immaculate for a chic night out in the city.
Who doesn’t love an all-day breakfast place? Luv l’oeuf serves classic breakfast dishes with a fun and delicious twist. If you visit them for lunch, go for the chicken and waffles and if you go for brekkie, consider eggs Benedict or their French toast…maybe both. For brunch with the ladies, you will be surprised by their selection of bubbles and cocktails. Clink those Bellinis up high for the blissful brunch this place has to offer.
Miglot is a Belgian fragrance lab that crafts bespoke perfumes, body lotions, diffusers and candles. If you are in search of a new signature scent for yourself or your home, step into their sleek & minimalistic store for a unique scent handmade to perfection.
Where better to grab a cup of coffee than in the first coffee bar in Ghent? Mokabon roasts their beans fresh every week since 1937. This cozy interior is usually full with coffee lovers, a safe haven from the always-changing, rapid everyday world. Read a newspaper or have chat and enjoy your cup, always with a side of fluffy whipped cream.
Stroll around this vibrant neighbourhood to get a taste of Ghent’s medieval charm, narrow cobbled streets and beautiful architecture. Back in the day, it was home to monks, nowadays it is a blend of old-world atmosphere and modern culture.
Trust us, you will certainly have a remarkable fine dining experience in Restaurant Publiek. Although it has a Michelin-star restaurant, it is not the typical high-end establishment. Publiek is all about closeness and simplicity. Chef Olly Ceulenaere's purpose is to create the most fun and exquisite combinations of locally sourced and ordinary ingredients. Live it up with the constantly innovative menu, good company and a glass of natural wine to have an unparalleled evening.
Heaven for pastry lovers and chocolate enthusiasts. This top-tier bakery is an elite option for those who like fresh artisanal sourdough for breakfast in bed. However, it is even better for those who love to waltz around town and sit on a sunny terrace to enjoy a cinnamon roll and a warm latte.
Ghent has a lot of cool places to shop and sip. Twiggy is one of them. If you are looking for interesting pieces to fill your wardrobe, you must visit this absolute gem. Not only are they masters of impeccable styling but the store offers a wide collection of not so easy to find brands and pieces. Very laidback and extremely hip.
