Regional specialities: the taste of Zeebrugge
As the home port of the Belgian fishing fleet, everything in Zeebrugge revolves around fresh fish: the town is home to the largest fish auction in the country, so the day-fresh catch of the North Sea reaches your plate literally straight from the harbour.
- The Flemish Fish Auction: fish has been auctioned at Zeebrugge's fish market since 1924; it is the largest fish auction in Belgium and the beating heart of Belgian sea fishing, a genuine piece of maritime heritage.
- The best of the North Sea: the auction handles day-fresh sole, plaice, cod, ray, turbot and shrimp, as well as langoustines and scallops, which you'll find a little further on the menus of the fish restaurants around the Rederskaai.
- Fresh from the fishmonger: in the fish-market district, around the Vismijnstraat, you'll find several fishmongers where you can buy the freshly landed catch directly, ideal for taking the taste of the North Sea home with you.
- Living fishing heritage: the bond with the sea remains very much alive, not least during the annual Sea Blessing, when residents, fishing families and visitors honour the sea together, a tradition that still shapes Zeebrugge's identity today.
- Straight from the largest fish auction: Zeebrugge is home to the Flemish Fish Auction, the biggest in the country, so the restaurants here can draw on a particularly wide and day-fresh range of North Sea fish, straight from the auction to your plate.
Restaurants
For many people, not having to cook is one of the greatest luxuries of a holiday, and the Belgian coast offers plenty of opportunity for it.
- For every occasion: settle in at a pancake house, a brasserie, a restaurant or a cosy bistro. From a quick portion of chips or a waffle to a carefully prepared multi-course dinner, in Zeebrugge there's something in every price range.
- Specialities of the coast: be sure to try the regional classics such as mussels, the fine Flemish grey shrimp (delicious in a shrimp croquette), fresh North Sea fish and the many local beers.
- Current opening times: for an overview with details and opening hours for each restaurant in Zeebrugge, see Resto.
Terraces
Thirsty after a warm day, tired from an outing, or simply fancy a drink? In the centre of Zeebrugge you can stop by all day long.
- For every thirst: all day long they pour soft drinks, beer, cocktails and more, exactly as you fancy.
- The right spot: settle down at one of the many convivial terraces or cafés in the centre, out in the sun, in the shade or sheltered from the wind.
- Convivial into the night: at the bar or around the table, with friends or to meet new people, enjoy the atmosphere and let yourself be spoilt into the small hours.
