Where to eat the best shrimp croquettes in Brussels?
Updated on December 7, 2022 by Pierre
Shrimp croquette, a culinary specialty in Brussels
If there's one dish you absolutely must try if you're in Brussels, it's shrimp croquettes . They're a Belgian culinary specialty , and Belgians love them, especially when they visit the Belgian coast. It's no wonder that since 2018 there's even been a competition to determine the best shrimp croquette in Brussels. If you've already tried moules frites (mussels and fries ), carbonnade , or stoemp ( mashed potatoes and vegetables), then go for the shrimp croquettes.
For the story, it would seem that they were born during the First World War. In the trenches the soldiers needed calories and few ingredients within their reach.
This dish at a time crispy and soft can be found on the menu of many restaurants. It's hard to know where to eat the best croquette. Avoid the surprises of frozen croquettes. We have found for you the best places to eat shrimp croquettes in Brussels.
On the menu of many restaurants, it is sometimes difficult to know where to enjoy the best croquettes. Some Belgians will sometimes call it "fondue aux croquettes" (French speakers) or "garnaalkroketten" (Dutch speakers). If you want to eat the best, you'll know everything below.
Did you say “Shrimp croquette”?! »
Yes, you're not mistaken. We haven't confused cheese with shrimp. Inside, there are indeed " shrimp ," those aquatic crustaceans that swim in the North Sea. The preparation, however, is similar. It's also a deep-fried croquette. Inside, there's a mixture of brown shrimp and a béchamel sauce . The best croquettes are those made with real butter and good milk. They're then breaded and deep-fried. Some Brussels chefs enhance them by adding Parmesan cheese or parsley. This classic of Belgian cuisine is served with fried parsley, a slice of lemon, or tartar sauce.
The best restaurants to eat shrimp croquette in Brussels?
If the recipe for shrimp croquette seems simple to you, don't get me wrong… The achievement lies in the art of assembling the components… The quantity of shrimp in each croquette must be harmonious. Also, the appearance of the breadcrumbs must be crispy. Ditto for the fried parsley that traditionally accompanies it.
1. Georges Breweries
We've already told you about Brasseries Georges. It's true that in Brussels, it's the most Parisian of all Brussels restaurants. The place is known and renowned for serving the best seafood . It's also known for its sublime setting; a chic and romantic restaurant in Brussels. It's no wonder you can taste one of the best shrimp croquettes there.
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📍 Avenue Winston Churchill 259, 1180 Uccle
2. Ferdinand Obb Delicatessen
The exterior is rather unassuming. The interior is quite small: a kitchen counter and a dining room with a few tables for two. Don't be fooled, though, because this is one of the best places to eat Brussels shrimp croquettes in Saint-Gilles. Be warned, it's not big, the decor is minimalist… You can tell the sole aim is to delight your taste buds. The prices are reasonable, and the dishes are simple and very, very Belgian. Nice atmosphere. No reservations, like a Brooklyn restaurant. It won the award for best croquette two years in a row. Expect to pay €7,50 per croquette.
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📍 Rue de Tamines 27, 1060 Saint-Gilles
3. The Hardware Store
We also mentioned it in our article about where to eat seafood in Brussels. The place has real character… a hardware store converted into a restaurant. The portions are generous, and the service is impeccable. For seafood lovers, this is a must-try in the Chatelain district of Ixelles. There's a nice wine list to complement your meal. The only downside is the hefty bill. But when you know you'll be eating the best shrimp croquette of your life… you quickly forget about the price. Ideal for a romantic dinner. It also has a lovely terrace.
4. Noordzee
If you happen to be near one of their establishments and you're a seafood lover… Go for it without hesitation. The prices are a bit high, but it's worth the trip… A real treat. Note the somewhat unusual service. Service is only outdoors and exclusively for seafood. The products are fresh and high-quality. An original, delicious, and fun evening awaits you. On the menu: the shrimp croquettes are a delight, the razor clams are delicious (especially the spiced marinade), and the scampi are fabulous! Noordzee is featured in our list of the best street food spots in Brussels.
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5. The 1040
If you have a preconception about hotel restaurants go your way, you are wrong. The restaurant at Sofitel Brussels Europe is worth it. On the menu, a unique setting in Brussels, a neat brasserie menu. Dishes with resolutely black-yellow-red accents await you. Jean-Philippe Watteyne, the former Top Chef, took over the kitchen. Don't miss the shrimp croquettes
📍 Place Jourdan 1, 1040 Etterbeek
6. Arms of Brussels
My grandmother adored this restaurant. It's no wonder it's been around for so long. Despite being near the Grand-Place , it's not a tourist trap. On the contrary, it's the perfect place to treat yourself in the heart of Brussels. You'll find all the classic Belgian dishes there. And on the menu, the famous shrimp croquette awaits you.
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📍Rue des Bouchers 13, 1000 Brussels
7. Restaurant Francois
📍Quai aux Briques 2, 1000 Brussels
Barely a foot in the Belgian capital, Pierre launched “InsideBrussels.be” more than 10 years ago, the idea is simple: “What to do? Where to go to eat or have a drink? “. Entrepreneur at heart, this is not his first project! Far from there. EatLocal.io; KingCard.be, Bricabrac.be … Like wine, with time the project improves!
Pierre does not hesitate to share his favorites and his best addresses of Brussels restaurants that he could recommend to you with his eyes closed.
