Brugge, with its picturesque canals and cobblestone streets, has always been a haven for food lovers, especially those with a sweet tooth. Historically known for its rich, buttery waffles and decadent chocolate, this charming Belgian city is now embracing a more inclusive culinary trend: vegan options! During our recent visit, we were delighted to discover two fantastic places offering vegan Brugge waffles and crêpes, proving that you don’t have to compromise on taste or experience to enjoy plant-based treats.
Art of Chocolate Chocolate Bar Vegan Brugge
Tucked away in a quieter corner of Brugge, the Art of Chocolate Chocolate Bar offers a serene escape from the bustling city centre. This charming café, with its cosy interior and lovely outdoor seating, quickly became our favourite spot for a relaxed afternoon treat.
Their vegan crêpe options were a revelation, and we couldn’t resist the Speculoos (Lotus Biscoff) crêpe. The crêpe was perfectly thin and slightly crispy at the edges, with a generous spread of sweet Speculoos. The flavour was a delightful balance of rich caramel creating a comforting and indulgent treat that was hard to beat.
We also tried their vegan waffle, topped with fresh fruit and a drizzle of dark chocolate. The waffle was light and crispy, providing the perfect canvas for the vibrant strawberries, bananas, melon and rich, dark chocolate. However, while the waffle was undoubtedly enjoyed, it was the Speculoos crêpe that stole our hearts with its flavour and impeccable texture.
The Art of Chocolate Chocolate Bar’s setting further enhanced our experience. The quaint, quiet location away from the main tourist spots allowed us to savour our treats in peace, while the cute interior and inviting outdoor seating made it an ideal place to relax and unwind. This café is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in vegan sweets in a charming and tranquil setting.
Otto Waffle Atelier Katelijnestraat
Another gem we discovered that had expanded its menu to include vegan options was Otto Waffle Atelier on Katelijnestraat, a place renowned for its exquisite premium waffles. During our visits to Brugge, we had always checked if their oat-based waffles were vegan, but until recently, they only had dairy free and did not offer a vegan alternative without egg. So, discovering their new vegan options was incredibly exciting. Otto Waffle Atelier’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in their entirely vegan topping selection and their newly introduced oat-based vegan waffle mix (upon request – maybe in the future the vegan alternative may be as standard?).
Despite the long queue outside, the wait was well worth it and service is very quick. The anticipation built as we watched the skillful staff craft each waffle with precision and care. When our turn came, we opted for a waffle topped with chocolate, strawberries, blueberries, and a scoop of their vegan strawberry ice cream.
The waffle itself was a revelation. It was wonderfully chewy and fluffy, a perfect balance, and achieved with vegan batter! The toppings elevated the experience to new heights. The fresh strawberries and blueberries added a burst of natural sweetness, while the rich Belgian chocolate provided a luxurious touch. The vegan strawberry ice cream was the pièce de résistance – creamy, with a marshmallow-like texture that complemented the waffle perfectly. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, making it a truly unforgettable opulent and sumptuous treat.
Otto Waffle Atelier’s unique and distinctive waffle design also adds to the experience. The bright, airy space with its modern decor and efficient service made it a pleasant place collect your waffle to enjoy as you meander the streets of Bruges. The popularity of this spot is well-deserved, and the quick-moving queue ensures that everyone gets to enjoy their waffles without too much delay.
A Sweet Vegan Future for Brugge
It’s heartening to see the vegan Brugge food scene evolving to include more options. Just a few years ago, finding a vegan waffle in the city was impossible. Now, with places like Art of Chocolate Chocolate Bar and Otto Waffle Atelier leading the charge, vegans and those seeking plant-based alternatives have delicious options to choose from.
The availability of these vegan Brugge treats is a testament to the growing demand for more inclusive dining experiences. We can only hope that more waffle houses in Brugge will follow suit, making it even easier for everyone to enjoy the city’s famous culinary delights.
So, if you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Brugge, be sure to stop by either of these two fantastic vegan Brugge spots. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just curious to try something new, the vegan waffles and crêpes at Art of Chocolate Chocolate Bar and Otto Waffle Atelier are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you with a smile.
Continue reading some vegan travel highlights here.