The First Shell. 🍬
In 1912, Jean Neuhaus invented a hard chocolate shell that could hold a soft filling. He called it the "praline." He was a pharmacist; he originally used chocolate to hide the taste of medicine.
Neuhaus
The original shop is still in the Galerie de la Reine. It is opulent and smells like heaven. Buy the "Caprice" (nougatine filled with vanilla cream).
Mary
Founded by Mary Delluc in 1919. She was the first woman to break into the chocolate boys' club. Her boxes are like floral hat boxes. A favorite of the Royal Family.
The Waffle Duel. ⚔️
There are two types. Confusing them is a crime. Do not buy the ones covered in neon kiwi sauce near Manneken Pis; those are for tourists.
Brussels Waffle
**Shape:** Rectangular.
**Texture:** Light, airy, crispy.
**Topping:** Only powdered sugar or whipped cream. Never heavy fruit.
**Where:** *Maison Dandoy*.
Liège Waffle
**Shape:** Oval / Round edges.
**Texture:** Dense, chewy, sweet.
**Secret:** Contains chunks of pearl sugar that caramelize when cooked.
**Topping:** None. It is sweet enough. Eat it hot from a street truck.
Double Fried
Beef Tallow
The Golden Stick. 🥔
They are not "French" fries. They are Belgian. They are fried twice in beef fat (blanc de bœuf) to ensure a crispy shell and soft center.
Sauce is Mandatory:
Ketchup is boring. Order **Andalouse** (mayo, tomato, pepper) or **Samurai** (mayo + chili). Or try **Brazil** (sweet pineapple mayo) if you are feeling brave.
The Speculoos. 🍪
A spiced shortcrust biscuit. Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger. It is the taste of Belgian childhood.
Maison Dandoy
They have been baking since 1829. They still use the original wooden molds. Their shop near the Grand Place is a golden, buttery temple.
The Tea Room
Go upstairs to the tea room. Order a Brussels Waffle dusted with Speculoos crumbs. It is the ultimate fusion of Brussels' sweet icons.