For a country of its size, Belgium has had a disproportionate impact on the palate of diners and drinkers around the globe. Belgian beers are revered (especially Trappist beers, brewed in monasteries), and its reputation for fine chocolate is unmatched. Perhaps the most iconic Belgian meal is mussels and French fries, moules-frites. The area around Ste-Catherine’s fish market is a super spot to sample this and other seafood specialties.
You can track down bistros that serve European classics in old-world, polished-wood charm, or Michelin-starred temples to fine dining. There's a growing breed of fresh cafes, and world cuisines are nicely represented. For addictive local street food, stop at a friterie for a cone of perfectly made frites (fries - the Belgians claim to have invented them).