Where to find Belgian food in Edinburgh

The words “Belgian” and “chocolate have a natural flow. Belgian chocolate is known for its high cocoa content — it typically contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids than many commercial brands, which gives it a rich and intense chocolate flavour and it is made using artisanal processes for an exceptionally creamy, smooth and rich texture. If you’re sold on the idea of Belgian chocolate for your chocoholic fix, get yourself down to Coro the Chocolate Cafe, where you can sample in it many forms — hot in a mug, ice cold as part of a creamy dessert, in a milkshake, poured on top of pancakes, as part of a fondue, and of course, as bitesize truffles of wonder. 

“Frites” is a French word for “fries,” and it is often used in the context of Belgian-style fries, which are typically thicker and served with a variety of dipping sauces. In Edinburgh, there are two branches of the casual eatery brand Frites, which specialises in the delectable salty carb, with an abundant range of sauces. Each portion is freshly made and hand cut, available in sizes of 230 grams, 400 grams and 900 grams. If you want the authentic Belgian experience, add in some of the house gourmet mayonnaise, or spice it up with some fire-roasted pepper and tomato, sweet mango curry, or the British fave of gravy. You can also add toppings such as gorgonzola and peas (yes, you read that right). The menu at Frites caters to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal diets.

Just steps from the Royal Mile and Cowgate, Salt Horse stocks 14 keg lines of beer and in the region of 250 canned and bottled varieties. While it’s a shop, where you can buy to take home, it also offers space to sit and sample the many delicious Belgian craft beers in their portfolio, whether inside or out in the garden. The staff are really knowledgeable, so you’d be well advised to let them suggest some of the native brews to Belgium. Or, if you’re looking for something specific you’ve just not been able to locate anywhere else, this is the place to come to find it.

Just steps from the Royal Mile and Cowgate, Salt Horse stocks 14 keg lines of beer and in the region of 250 canned and bottled varieties. While it’s a shop, where you can buy to take home, it also offers space to sit and sample the many delicious Belgian craft beers in their portfolio, whether inside or out in the garden. The staff are really knowledgeable, so you’d be well advised to let them suggest some of the native brews to Belgium. Or, if you’re looking for something specific you’ve just not been able to locate anywhere else, this is the place to come to find it.

But it’s not all carbs and sugar on the continent. Far from it. Traditional favourites in Flemish cuisine include fresh mussels and hearty stews prepared with lean meats and veggies. And here at La P’tite Folie (whose name means “The Little Madness”), you can get both. Technically, it’s a French restaurant, but as there’s plenty of crossover with Belgian meals, you’ll be able to get your fix here. The charming and cosy establishment is set in a Tudor House, making it a unique landmark and ideal for a special night out, or a romantic dinner a deux, European style.