Culinary journey in the Ardennes: the best gourmet addresses to discover
The Belgian Ardennes are a paradise for food lovers. With culinary traditions, exceptional local products, and authentic restaurants, this region invites you on an unforgettable culinary journey. Here’s a selection of the best places to discover the flavors of the Ardennes.
1. The essential flavors of the Ardennes
Ardennes cuisine relies on simple but flavorful products. Among the essentials :
- Ardennes ham : salted and smoked using ancestral techniques.
- Local cheeses : like Herve or the blue of the caves.
- Craft beers : Leffe, Maredsous, and many other brewing treasures.
- Liège syrup : an ideal sweet accompaniment to your dishes and desserts.
2. The best gourmet addresses
Here are some places to visit for a complete culinary immersion :
- The Rochehaut Brewery (Rochehaut)
An enchanting setting and a menu featuring dishes prepared with local produce. Their selection of house beers is a delight. - Abée’s Farm (Manhay)
A family farm offering products from their livestock. Don’t miss their dried meat and fresh cheeses. - The Lisogne Mill (Lisogne)
A restaurant nestled in a historic mill, offering dishes prepared from regional and seasonal products. - Maredsous Abbey (Denée)
Visit the abbey and taste their iconic beers and cheeses, all in a serene setting..
3. Gourmet experiences not to be missed
- Local markets : Explore the markets of Dinant or Hastière to discover fresh produce and meet passionate artisans.
- Culinary workshops : Take part in cooking classes to learn how to prepare Ardennes specialties, such as tarte al djote or pâté gaumais.
- Picnics in the great outdoors : Take home some local delicacies and enjoy them by the Meuse or in a quiet corner of the forest.
4. Gastronomy for every season
In winter, warm up with an Ardennes pot-au-feu or a raclette with local cheese. In spring and summer, head to the terraces to enjoy fresh salads and light beers. Autumn, meanwhile, is the perfect season to enjoy slow-cooked game dishes.
