Fritland

Fritland has been serving Belgian fries and quick bites near the old Stock Exchange in central Brussels since 1978. It sits on the Rue Henri Maus, a few steps from the Bourse and the Grand-Place, and it is one of the most convenient places in the city centre to try Belgium's favourite snack. Its long opening hours make it a fixture for lunch, a late-afternoon snack or a bite after a night out.

The fries are homemade from fresh potatoes and served either plain or with a sauce, in small and large portions. Mayonnaise is the classic choice, but there is a full range of sauces to try. The menu also includes burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and other snacks, plus soft drinks, so it is easy to turn a portion of fries into a full, cheap meal.

The atmosphere is quick and casual. It suits budget travellers, students, families who need a fast lunch between sights and anyone wandering the centre late in the evening. Portions are generous; one large portion can be shared between two if you are planning a proper meal later. Eat them hot, as fries lose their crispness quickly.

According to its website, Fritland is open every day from 11:00 to 01:00. Expect a short queue at peak times, especially at lunchtime and late on weekend nights, though service is fast. Prices are displayed on the website and at the counter. Many people take their fries outside to the pedestrian boulevards around the Bourse.

The Rue Henri Maus runs beside the former Stock Exchange building, and the Bourse premetro stop is close by. The Grand-Place is two minutes away on foot, and the bars of Saint-Géry and the Rue Dansaert are close by, which makes Fritland a handy stop at any time of day.

For the classic Belgian experience, order fries with a sauce on top and eat them straight away while they are hot and crisp. Because it stays open late, Fritland is also a practical option after an evening in the bars of the centre. If you want a sit-down meal later, a small portion makes a good snack between sights without spoiling your appetite.