Belgian Waffles in Brussels: A Must-Try… But Not for Everyone?

If there’s one thing you must try when visiting Brussels, it’s a Belgian waffle. From the cobblestone streets of the Old Town to the peaceful city parks, the sweet, warm smell of waffles is everywhere—it’s almost impossible to resist. In fact, if someone asked, “What does Brussels smell like?” the sweet scent of fresh waffles would be my first answer.

A Brief History of Belgian Waffles

Waffles date back to the Middle Ages, when they began as simple flat cakes made of grain and water, cooked between metal plates over an open flame. Over time, ingredients like eggs, butter, and yeast were added, transforming waffles into something much more indulgent.

In Belgium, waffles became an art form, and two regional varieties stand out:

• Brussels Waffle: Light, crispy, and rectangular with deep square pockets. Traditionally served with powdered sugar but now often loaded with fruit, chocolate, or cream.

• Liège Waffle: Dense, chewy, and sweet with chunks of pearl sugar that caramelize on the outside when cooked. Richer in flavor and often eaten plain, right from a paper napkin.

Though both are beloved by locals, the Brussels waffle is the version that captured international attention.

The Global Waffle Boom

Belgian waffles went global thanks to the 1964 New York World’s Fair, where they were introduced to the American public by Belgian chef Maurice Vermersch. Originally called “Brussels waffles,” they were renamed to “Belgian waffles” for a broader appeal. Served with strawberries and whipped cream, they became an instant hit—and an American breakfast staple.

But in Belgium? They’re not breakfast. Waffles here are usually enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a street food indulgence.

But What About Allergies?

As magical as waffles are, not everyone can safely enjoy them. Traditional Belgian waffles are typically made with wheat flour, eggs, milk, and butter, which means they’re off-limits for people with gluten, egg, or dairy allergies.

Toppings can also be a hidden danger—nuts, soy, and cross-contamination are all possible risks. And since many waffle stands operate like street food stalls, it’s common for staff not to know the full ingredient list or contamination risks.

So What’s the Solution?

Luckily, there are ways to enjoy waffles more safely:

 Gluten-Free Waffles

Some cafes and shops in Brussels offer gluten-free options. Here are a few worth checking out:

• Veganwaf (Galerie Agora 48) – 100% vegan and gluten-free, offering classic Brussels-style waffles.

• The Sister Brussels Café – A completely gluten-free café serving waffles with a variety of allergy-conscious toppings.

 Vegan Waffles

Vegan options skip the eggs and dairy, but be aware—soy can be in the batter, and nuts are often used as toppings. Always ask about the ingredients before ordering.

Craft Your Own Allergen-Friendly Waffles in Brussels

Looking for a fun, hands-on experience that caters to your dietary needs? The Brussels Waffle Workshop offers interactive sessions where you can learn to make traditional Belgian waffles from scratch. They accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options upon request. https://thingstodobrussels.com/activity/waffle-workshop-brussels.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Helpful Tips for Allergic Travelers:

• Carry a card listing your allergens in French or Dutch, the two main languages in Brussels.

• Don’t rely on perfect English; language barriers can lead to misunderstandings.

• If you’re unsure, it’s better to skip it than risk it—some staff might say "yes, it’s fine" just to be polite or because they didn’t fully understand.

 Enjoy Safely

Belgian waffles are a highlight of visiting Brussels—but your health comes first. With a little planning, you might still get a taste of this sweet tradition while staying safe.

A Personal Note

As someone with nut and egg allergies, I haven’t yet found a spot in Brussels where I can safely enjoy a waffle on the go. Even vegan options often come with nut milks or nut-based toppings, which isn’t ideal for me.

That’s why I’ve been making my own waffles at home—and they’re honestly some of the best I’ve had. Want to give them a try too? Check out the allergen-safe recipe I use, coming up in the next post!