Regional specialities: the taste of the region
Westende is a quiet seaside resort without a big cuisine of its own, but it shares fully in the rich culinary tradition of the Belgian coast and the municipality of Middelkerke, from fresh fish to artisanal regional beer.
- The grey shrimp: the fine grey North Sea shrimp is the delicacy of the coast, at its best in the famous shrimp croquette, which as a recognised Flemish regional product features on the menu in almost every brasserie.
- Fresh from the North Sea: as a coastal town it's all about the catch of the day here, from mussels and shrimp to fresh flatfish such as sole and plaice, served in the fish restaurants and on the sunny terraces along the promenade.
- Regional beer from Middelkerke: the municipality of Middelkerke has no fewer than three brewers of its own producing flavourful regional beers, which you can taste in many local establishments, ideal alongside a shrimp snack.
- Belgian classics: let yourself be tempted too by the enduring coastal classics, from a cone of fresh chips and a waffle on the promenade to an artisanal ice cream on a stroll along the beach.
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 Westende 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 Westende, see Resto.
- From the coast and the region: many places are happy to serve local classics, from day-fresh North Sea fish and grey shrimp to a regional beer from one of the brewers in the municipality of Middelkerke, so you'll find the taste of the region on your plate and in your glass too.
Terraces
Thirsty after a warm day, tired from an outing, or simply fancy a drink? In the centre of Westende 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.