Hello, fellow vegan adventurers!
This is Vegan Adventure's vegan travel guide to Brussels, Belgium. This vibrant city, just a quick train ride away from London, exceeded all expectations during my weekend visit. While Brussels may not boast a loud and proud vegan scene like Brooklyn or Brighton, the abundance of vegan options suggests a thriving vegan community eagerly awaiting discovery. At Vegan Adventures, we celebrate the global vegan community and uncover plant-based gems worldwide. Let's delve into Brussels and explore the treasures reflecting the popularity of veganism in this captivating cosmopolitan city.
A Quick Note about Vegan Adventure's Travel Guides
This is the very first Vegan Adventure Travel Guide, formatted according to my essential 5 vegan planning tips (previously discussed here!). As a work in progress, I welcome your feedback and suggestions for additional coverage of a city's vegan food scene. Together, we can create a valuable resource for vegan travelers seeking comprehensive information before booking their trips.
Brussels' Vegan Must-Eats
NoNA: Step into this cozy Italian eatery. NONA offers a handful of vegan options that will surely satisfy your cravings. NoNa is split into two sides, the pizza side and the pasta side. We went to the pasta side, which I felt had more creative vegan options. But the menu is constantly changing, so definitely check out both sides before deciding which one to eat in.
Wolf Market: Voyage through a tapestry of cultures and flavors at Wolf Market, a testament to Brussels' cosmopolitan nature. Wolf Market is a food hall with seventeen restaurants and two bars, all serving a style of food from a different part of the world. I’d recommend that you try the delectable offerings of Hanoi Station, where I had some delicious Vietnamese wok-fried noodles and tofu. And it’s Belgium of course, so definitely get a pint of beer that is brewed on-site! Get here before too close to closing, as vegan options tend to run out before the end of the night.
Delirium Village: Speaking of beer, Delirium Village is probably the most popular spot in Brussels. Get ready to paint the town pink at Delirium Village, a vibrant haven for drinks and dancing. This iconic hotspot, with its famous pink elephant, is a must-visit. Comprising a series of interconnected bars, each with its own unique vibe and theme, Delirium Village holds the Guinness World Record for the largest selection of beer brands carried by a bar. We highly recommend the beer meter to embark on a taste adventure with 10 of their most intriguing brews. Brace yourself for an unforgettable night out in Brussels!
A Closer Look at Brussels’ the Food Landscape
One of the true delights of Brussels lies in its cosmopolitan nature, reflected in the city's diverse culinary landscape. Here, finding vegan options is a breeze, whether you're in the mood for a flavorful noodle box, mouthwatering falafel, or tempting empanadas. Rest assured, you will never go hungry as a vegan in Brussels!
Iconic Vegan Dishes you Need to Eat When you Visit Brussels
Belgium Waffles: Brussels may not have an overwhelming number of dedicated vegan waffle joints, but VeganWaf's presence demonstrates the vegan community's commitment to making their mark in the culinary landscape. Located within what looks like a shopping mall, this hidden gem should not be skipped. VeganWafs proves that even amidst traditional favorites, veganism has found its place.
Belgian Fries: While Belgian fries are typically cooked in animal fat, Frites Atelier stands out for using plant-based oils. This makes it a safe and delicious choice for vegans seeking crispy and satisfying fries.In each golden fry, you can taste the progress and dedication of the vegan community, striving for inclusivity and mindful choices. Most sauce choices won't be vegan- ketchup is always safe but if you want to try something a bit more fun the curry ketchup is a great vegan choice as well!
Belgian Chocolate: Known for its pralines, Brussels offers vegan chocolate options at many of it’s famous chocolate shops, even if it’s an accidental dark chocolate. But vegans really hit the jackpot at Mary, an artisanal chocolate shop, which boasts the largest variety of vegan pralines. Here, you can truly appreciate the efforts of the vegan community, who have paved the way for a diverse selection of vegan delights. Sample the flavors that go beyond the traditional dark chocolate offerings, and savor the fruits of the vegan community's passion and dedication.
Accommodation Considerations: aka. the Fridge Dilemma
Fortunately, you likely won't need a fridge in your accommodation unless you want to store your chocolate purchases. We were lucky enough to have an oat-themed cafe in our hotel’s lobby so we had plenty of breakfast options (vegan and non-vegan), ensuring we were well-fueled for the day. And with so many vegan options available throughout the city, making sure you have your own snacks won’t be a necessity.
Overall Vegan-Friendly Rating: 5/5
Vegan adventurers, rest assured that Brussels embraces the vegan community with open arms, albeit in its own unique way. The vegan movement in Brussels may not shout its presence with several vegan-only restaurants or a ‘vegan side’ of the neighborhood, but its influence is unmistakable throughout this progressive city. It is a community that thrives quietly, waiting to be discovered by those who are either fully vegan or just want to try something new. In this city, you will find a community that values diversity, acceptance, and an open mind for delicious vegan cuisine.
Relax and live your best vegan life while exploring this vegan-friendly city. From its diverse food landscape to iconic dishes, Brussels ensures a delightful culinary adventure for all plant-based enthusiasts.
Brussels' Vegan Food Scene
As we conclude our vegan adventure through Brussels, let us celebrate the presence of a vibrant vegan community, quietly leaving its mark on the culinary landscape. While the vegan scene may not be as visibly loud and proud as in other cities, the diversity of vegan food options in Brussels tells a different story. The global vegan community has found its place here, influencing and shaping the city's foodie offerings. So, fellow vegan adventurers, immerse yourself in the tapestry of flavors, embrace the spirit of the vegan community, and embark on your own journey of discovery. Brussels is waiting to share its plant-powered treasures with you!