Blankenberge is a paradise for food lovers, especially if you enjoy seafood. The town's fishing heritage means incredibly fresh fish and shellfish, while the busy tourist trade ensures a wide range of restaurants from cosy bistros to fine dining with sea views.
Local Specialities
When visiting Blankenberge, make sure to try these Belgian coastal classics:
- North Sea shrimp (garnalen / crevettes grises) — small, sweet grey shrimp, often served as tomate-crevette (hollowed tomato filled with shrimp and mayonnaise) or in croquettes
- Mussels (moules) — Zeeland mussels steamed with white wine, celery, and herbs. A Belgian institution, especially in summer
- Fish of the day — sole, cod, plaice, and herring prepared simply with butter and herbs
- Oysters — Blankenberge has dedicated oyster restaurants; Ostend oysters are particularly renowned in the region
- Belgian frites — thick-cut fries from a frituur, ideally with mayonnaise. Every coastal town has its favourite frituur
- Waffles & chocolate — Belgian waffles (Brussels or Liège style) and artisan chocolate are available everywhere
- Beer — West Flanders produces excellent Belgian beers; try a blond ale or wheat beer with your meal
Recommended Restaurants
These are among the most popular and well-regarded dining spots in Blankenberge. Always check current opening hours and book ahead in summer.
Restaurant Oesterput
A Blankenberge institution specialising in oysters and seafood. Known for quality produce and a classic seaside atmosphere. oesterput.com
Picardie
Popular restaurant offering Belgian and French-influenced cuisine with a focus on fresh fish and seasonal ingredients. restopicardie.be
Casanova
Beachfront restaurant with a mix of Belgian and international dishes. Great terrace for summer evenings with sea views.
Restaurants on the Zeedijk
The promenade is lined with dozens of restaurants and terraces. You will find everything from pizza and pasta to grilled fish platters and steak houses. Walking the Zeedijk and choosing based on the menu board and atmosphere is part of the Blankenberge experience.
Marina Restaurants
The harbour area (Jachthaven) has several cosy restaurants and cafés where you can watch the boats while dining. A quieter alternative to the busy Zeedijk.
Casual Eating
- Frituurs — grab a cone of frites with sauce and eat on a bench overlooking the sea
- Ice cream — numerous ice cream parlours along the Zeedijk and in the town centre
- Beach snack bars — hot dogs, hamburgers, and fried snacks directly on the beach in summer
- Bakeries — fresh bread, pastries, and smoutebollen (Belgian doughnuts) for breakfast
Weekly Market
Blankenberge holds a weekly market on Fridays at Koning Leopold III square in the town centre. It is a vibrant place to buy:
- Fresh fish and seafood directly from local fishermen
- Regional cheeses and charcuterie
- Seasonal fruit and vegetables from nearby farms
- Artisanal products, flowers, and clothing
If your holiday apartment has a kitchen, the Friday market is perfect for stocking up on ingredients for a home-cooked meal.
Cooking at Your Apartment
Staying in a self-catering apartment gives you the freedom to cook with fresh local ingredients. Visit the Friday market, pick up fish from a fishmonger on the Zeedijk, and enjoy a meal on your balcony. This is one of the advantages of apartment accommodation over a hotel.
Nearby Food Experiences
- Brewery B — local brewery in Blankenberge with tastings (visit-blankenberge.be)
- Nord.C Coffee Roasters — specialty coffee roastery with workshops
- Bruges — just 15 minutes by train; one of Belgium's great culinary cities (see our day trips page)