Bruges is a fairy-tale city with amazing food, but eating out can get expensive, especially in tourist areas. However, you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious meals in this beautiful Belgian city!
I’ve spent days exploring the hidden food gems of Bruges, and trust me, finding affordable places to eat is easier than you might think – you just need to know where to look.
From crispy frites stands to cozy local cafés, Bruges has plenty of budget-friendly options waiting to be discovered. With this ultimate list of cheap eats, you’ll be able to savor authentic Belgian cuisine without emptying your wallet.
Table of Contents
1) The Olive Street Food
Price per person: €1–10
Olive Street Food is a must-visit spot that offers delicious, authentic Greek specialty cuisine at great prices. This Greek-inspired quick-bite place serves some of the juiciest gyros and souvlaki in town.
What makes their food special is their commitment to quality ingredients. They use fresh meat from local producers and extra virgin olive oil from the Greek island of Lesvos. You’ll notice the difference when you bite into their perfectly seasoned meat wrapped in authentic Greek pita bread. They also serve vegan and vegetarian dishes, which gives you more options.
The freshly cut potatoes fried in olive oil are a standout side dish. Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they’re a healthier version of traditional fries.
When you visit, expect a busy but efficient ordering system. The staff works quickly to serve the many customers who line up for their delicious Greek street food. It’s worth the short wait to experience these flavorful Mediterranean dishes in the heart of Bruges.
Rating: 4.6 (1081 reviews)
Location: Wollestraat 12, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 41 50 96
Opening Hours: Thursday: 12–8:30 pm, Friday: 12–8:30 pm, Saturday: 12–8:30 pm, Sunday: 12–8:30 pm, Monday: 12–8:30 pm, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: 12–8:30 pm
2) Bocca
Price per person: €1–10
Bocca offers some of Bruges’s tastiest Italian fast food at very affordable prices. Their pizza slices are huge and flavorful, making them perfect for a quick lunch while exploring the city. You can grab a slice to go or sit in their cozy space to rest your feet after sightseeing.
The pasta dishes here are freshly made and generous in portion size. You’ll love their classic carbonara with its creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Their menu is simple but executed well, focusing on Italian favorites that satisfy your hunger without complicated ingredients.
Service at Bocca is quick and friendly, ideal when you’re on a tight schedule but still want a proper meal. You can be in and out in 30 minutes if you’re in a hurry, but the casual atmosphere also welcomes you to linger if you have time. The central location makes it an easy stop during your Bruges adventures.
What makes Bocca stand out is the quality-to-price ratio. You get authentic Italian flavors at fast-food prices, which is rare in a tourist-heavy city like Bruges. Their takeout option is particularly handy if you want to enjoy your meal by one of the scenic canals nearby.
Rating: 4.5 (1644 reviews)
Location: Dweersstraat 13, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 61 61 75
Opening Hours: Thursday: 11:30 am–8 pm, Friday: 11:30 am–8 pm, Saturday: 11:30 am–8 pm, Sunday: Closed, Monday: 11:30 am–8 pm, Tuesday: 11:30 am–8 pm, Wednesday: 11:30 am–8 pm
3) HAP take aways bites
Price per person: €1–10
HAP take aways bites is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your food itinerary. This charming eatery in the heart of the city offers mouthwatering sandwiches prepared with fresh ingredients.
When you visit HAP, you’ll notice the cozy atmosphere right away. The friendly staff welcomes you with warm smiles and is happy to help you choose from their menu. Their sandwiches are generously filled and perfect for a quick lunch while exploring Bruges.
What makes HAP special is their attention to quality. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy your hunger without emptying your wallet. You can grab your food to go or enjoy it in their small but comfortable seating area.
Located in Zilverpand, HAP is easy to find during your adventures through Bruges. The shop’s convenient location makes it an ideal stop between sightseeing attractions. Their reasonable prices and quick service make this a must-visit spot for budget-conscious travelers.
Rating: 4.7 (245 reviews)
Location: Zilverpand 16, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 61 66 08
Opening Hours: Thursday: 9 am–3 pm, Friday: 9 am–3 pm, Saturday: 10 am–3 pm, Sunday: Closed, Monday: 9 am–3 pm, Tuesday: 9 am–3 pm, Wednesday: 9 am–3 pm
4) Mr.Waffle & Sandwich
Price per person: €1–10
Mr.Waffle & Sandwich is another great spot to satisfy your hunger without emptying your wallet. This charming fast-food restaurant offers delicious waffles and sandwiches that will make your taste buds dance.
When you visit, you must try their freshly made waffles topped with your choice of sweet treats. The crispy exterior gives way to a light, fluffy inside that melts in your mouth. Their sandwiches are equally impressive, filled with fresh ingredients and served with a smile.
What makes this place special, apart from the delicious food, is the friendly service and quick preparation time. Even during busy tourist seasons, you won’t have to wait long for your food. The cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal stop during your exploration of the beautiful Rozenhoedkaai area.
The prices are very reasonable, especially compared to other eateries in this tourist-heavy city. You can enjoy a satisfying meal for under 10 euros, making it a fantastic option when you’re sightseeing on a budget in Bruges.
Rating: 4.7 (997 reviews)
Location: Rozenhoedkaai 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 487 14 41 92
Opening Hours: Thursday: Closed, , Friday 9 am–7 pm
Saturday: 9 am–7 pm, Sunday: 9 am–7 pm, Monday: 9 am–7 pm, Tuesday: 9 am–7 pm, Wednesday: 9 am–7 pm
5) Pasta Maria
Price per person: €1–10
Pasta Maria offers delicious Italian takeaway in the heart of Bruges. This small restaurant has been serving traditional Italian dishes since 2006, making it a local favorite for nearly two decades. Their specialty is takeaway cornetto’s, perfect for enjoying while exploring the city.
When you visit, you’ll find fresh pasta made with passion. The food here is both tasty and affordable. Everything is prepared in their professional kitchen with authentic Italian recipes.
If you’re looking for a quick lunch or dinner, Pasta Maria is an excellent choice. You can grab one of their pasta cups and continue your sightseeing around Bruges. They’re open Monday through Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
What makes Pasta Maria special is their commitment to quality Italian food at reasonable prices. You can taste the passion in every bite of their homemade pasta dishes. It’s a convenient spot to refuel during your Bruges adventure without breaking the bank.
Rating: 4.5 (523 reviews)
Location: Sint-Salvatorskerkhof 13, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 476 80 76 13
Opening Hours: Thursday: Closed, Friday: 11:30 am–6 pm, Saturday: 11:30 am–6 pm, Sunday: Closed, Monday: 11:30 am–6 pm, Tuesday: 11:30 am–6 pm,
Wednesday: 11:30 am–6 pm
6) Frituur De Gentpoorte
Price per person: €1–10
Frituur De Gentpoorte is a spot not to miss out. This popular takeaway joint serves up some of the crispiest, most flavorful fries you’ll find in the city.
The place operates on a call-ahead system, which is super convenient. You can simply phone in your order and skip the often long queues, especially during evening hours. When you arrive, your piping hot food will be ready for pickup.
Run by Kurt and Valérie, this local gem offers traditional Belgian fast food at reasonable prices. While you can’t eat inside (it’s takeaway only), many visitors enjoy their food while strolling along the nearby Vesten (city ramparts). The quality of their potatoes is exceptional – always fresh and perfectly fried.
Remember to call between 11:00-13:15 or 16:30-21:15 to place your order. They’re open Thursday through Sunday, making them a perfect weekend food stop during your Bruges visit.
Rating: 4.7 (614 reviews)
Location: Gentpoortstraat 58, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 61 34 43
Opening Hours: Thursday: 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5–9:30 pm, Friday: 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5–9:30 pm, Saturday: 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5–9:30 pm, Sunday: 11:30 am–1:30 pm, 5–9:30 pm, Monday: Closed, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: Closed
7) That’s Toast
Price per person: €10–20
That’s Toast is a gem you won’t want to miss when you are in Bruges. This charming brunch restaurant serves some of the tastiest all-day breakfast options in town at reasonable prices for what you get.
The menu features delicious bread-based dishes that are both filling and affordable. Their barista-quality coffees and slow juices complement the food perfectly. The understated interior and terrace create a welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to linger.
What makes That’s Toast special is its dedication to quality at reasonable prices. They’re open every day of the week, making it easy to fit into your Bruges itinerary. Just remember they don’t take reservations, so you might want to arrive early (around 8:30 AM) or after 2:00 PM to avoid the rush.
Rating: 4.8 (3731 reviews)
Location: Dweersstraat 4, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 68 82 27
Opening Hours: Thursday: 8:30 am–3:30 pm, Friday: 8:30 am–3:30 pm, Saturday:
8:30 am–3:30 pm, Sunday: 8:30 am–3:30 pm, Monday: 8:30 am–3:30 pm, Tuesday 8:30 am–3:30 pm, Wednesday 8:30 am–3:30 pm
8) De Gastro
Price per person: €10–20
De Gastro is a hidden gem in Bruges, offering delicious Belgian cuisine. This family-run bistro serves up all the traditional favorites you’d hope to find, with mussels and steaks being standout dishes on their menu.
The restaurant has a warm, polished atmosphere that makes you feel welcome as soon as you walk in. You’ll notice the friendly staff who treat you like family, even if it’s your first visit. The interior is cozy yet elegant, perfect for both casual lunches and more special evenings out.
You can enjoy authentic Belgian dishes made with fresh ingredients without spending a fortune. Their portion sizes are generous too, so you definitely won’t leave hungry!
The service is consistently attentive without being intrusive. You can tell this place is run with pride and care, which shows in every aspect of your dining experience, from the food presentation to the warm atmosphere.
Rating: 4.6 (2651 reviews)
Location: Braambergstraat 6, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 34 15 24
Opening Hours: Thursday: 12–3 pm, 6–10 pm, Friday: 12–3 pm, 6–10 pm, Saturday: 12–3 pm, 6–10 pm, Sunday: 12–3 pm, 6–10 pm, Monday: 12–3 pm, 6–10 pm, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: Closed
9) Soup
Price per person: €10–20
Looking for a warm, comforting meal that won’t break the bank in Bruges? Soup is the perfect spot! This charming little restaurant on Hallestraat specializes in – you guessed it – delicious homemade soups.
When you visit, you’ll find a rotating menu of fresh, seasonal options. The portions are generous, and each soup comes with plenty of crusty bread for dipping. My favorite was the tomato bisque with a hint of basil, but the pumpkin soup with crispy bacon bits was a close second.
The space is cozy and welcoming, with simple wooden tables and a counter service setup. Don’t worry if it looks busy – the line moves quickly, and you can always take your soup to go if you’re in a hurry or want to enjoy it while exploring the city.
The prices are very reasonable, especially compared to other places in touristy Bruges. For about €8-10, you get a large bowl of hearty soup that will fill you up for hours of sightseeing.
Rating: 4.6 (1007 reviews)
Location: Hallestraat 4, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Opening Hours: Thursday: 11:30 am–3:30 pm, Friday: 11:30 am–3:30 pm, Saturday:11:30 am–3:30 pm, Sunday: 11:30 am–3:30 pm, Monday 11:30 am–3 pm, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: Closed
10) Balthasar Brugge
Price per person: €10–20
Tucked away on Sint-Amandsstraat, Balthasar Brugge is a charming breakfast and lunch spot. You’ll love their cozy atmosphere and friendly service that makes you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
Their menu shines with delicious breakfast options and sweet treats. The Brussels waffles are absolutely worth trying – fluffy, perfectly cooked, and served with creative toppings. For lunch, they offer tasty sandwiches and other light meals that satisfy without breaking the bank.
The restaurant operates Wednesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Sundays from 9 AM to 1 PM. It’s worth noting that they’re closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Making a reservation is a good idea, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak breakfast or lunch hours.
You’ll find Balthasar particularly appealing if you’re looking for a place that specializes in both savory and sweet options. Their desserts and pastries make for a perfect afternoon treat after exploring Bruges’ historic streets.
Rating: 4.6 (1121 reviews)
Location: Sint-Amandsstraat 37, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Contact: +32 50 69 81 10
Opening Hours: Thursday: 9 am–5 pm, Friday: 9 am–5 pm, Saturday: 9 am–5 pm,
Sunday: 9 am–1 pm, Monday: Closed, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: 9 am–5 pm
Budget-Friendly Local Specialties to Try
Bruges offers many delicious local foods that are extremely affordable and worth the money. So, let’s see those affordable local specialities.
Waffles are a must-try in Bruges. Places like Oyya and House of Waffles serve these sweet treats at reasonable prices. You can eat waffles on the go like many locals do or savor them in a waffle establishment as you wish. Know that it’s a little more expensive when you eat in an establishment than on the street.
Belgian fries come in paper cones or carton containers with many sauce options. Look for small fry stands (friteries) around the city center where locals go for the best deals. Since fries are one of the cheapest foods in Belgium, you can’t go wrong.
Belgian Chocolate is famous worldwide. The Chocolate Crown, The old Chocolate House, and some other great chocolate shops offer affordable tasting options, and many of them have small samples or budget-friendly small packages.
Local Beer is a big part of Belgian culture. Cambrinus serves a wide selection of Belgian beers at various price points. Many places offer smaller glasses so you can taste more varieties.
Flemish Stew (Stoofvlees) is a hearty beef stew cooked in beer. Small local eateries often have this as a daily special at lunch for better prices than dinner.
Organic Sandwiches can be found at many cafés like Li O Lait. These fresh, vegetable-packed options make for a filling, affordable lunch.
Mussels are typically expensive, but look for lunch specials or smaller portions. Some places offer “mussel pots” at lower prices during weekday afternoons.
Remember to explore small streets away from the main squares to find the best deals on authentic local food!
Tips for Eating on a Budget in Bruges
Eating well in Bruges doesn’t have to be expensive, quite the contrary. With some planning and local know-how, you can enjoy Belgian cuisine without spending too much.
Best Times to Dine
Lunch is often the cheapest time to eat out in Bruges. Many restaurants offer lunch specials or “dagschotel” (dish of the day) between 12-2 pm for much less than dinner prices. These deals usually include a main course and sometimes a drink.
Avoid eating in the main squares like Markt and Burg, where prices are higher. Instead, head to areas like Walplein, where restaurants charge less but serve quality food.
Early-bird dinner specials are worth looking for. Some places offer discounted menus if you dine before 6 pm.
Weekend brunches can be pricey, so opt for weekday breakfasts when cafés are less crowded and often more affordable.
What to Know About Tipping
In Belgium, tipping isn’t required as service charges are included in your bill. The price you see on the menu already includes tax and service.
If you receive exceptional service, leaving 5-10% is appreciated but not expected. Rounding up the bill to the nearest euro is a common practice.
Don’t feel pressured to tip taxi drivers, though rounding up is customary.
Unlike in some countries, servers and barmen receive fair wages and don’t rely on tips for their income.
Final Words!
To sum up, eating well in Bruges doesn’t have to be expensive! Just step away from the touristy main squares and explore the charming side streets instead.
That’s where the real food treasures hide. Lunch specials are a great money-saver, and following locals always leads to good, affordable meals.
I loved discovering these hidden spots that serve tasty food without the high prices.
You actually get to enjoy more authentic Belgian flavors this way! Some of my best memories in Bruges came from these cozy, budget-friendly places where I ate great food and kept my wallet happy.
Welcome to TravelOnQuest.Com! I’m Simone, and I am here to help you plan your dream European adventure without breaking the bank. Join me as we uncover hidden gems, must-see attractions, and insider tips for creating unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re exploring solo, with family, or with friends, let’s connect and make your budget-friendly European escapade a reality.