Belgian waffles and Belgian beer are two of the country's best known exports, and this workshop in the centre of Ghent puts them together. You bake waffles yourself under the guidance of a host, learn how the batter and the cooking method differ between the types that Belgians eat, and taste beer alongside them, so you leave with practical skills as well as a full stomach. It is a small, informal, sociable session that suits couples, groups of friends and families with older children, and it is a good idea for a rainy afternoon, a cold evening or any time when you want to do something other than walk and look. The pairing element is a bonus for adults, since the sweetness of a waffle and the character of a Belgian beer complement each other in unexpected ways. You do not need any cooking experience, only an appetite and a willingness to get a little batter on your hands.
Waffles in Belgium come in several styles. The Brussels waffle is light, rectangular and crisp, usually dusted with sugar, while the Liege waffle is denser and sweeter, made from a yeasted dough with chunks of pearl sugar that caramelise on the iron. Both are everyday foods rather than just tourist treats, and Belgian cooks have firm opinions about the toppings.
A workshop gives you the chance to see how the batter is made and cooked, to try your own, and to compare notes with other participants. The beer element introduces another national tradition. Belgian brewing is recognised by UNESCO as part of the country's cultural heritage, and the range of styles, from blonde ales and tripels to dark beers and fruit-flavoured ones, is enormous.
Expect a session of around two hours in a venue in the centre, with a host who guides you through the steps and explains what you taste. Because details such as the exact beers, the number of waffles you make and the toppings can vary, confirm them when you book.
If you have dietary requirements, such as gluten, dairy or alcohol restrictions, tell the operator in advance, since waffle batter normally contains wheat, eggs and milk. The workshop is designed for adults and older children. Drinking age rules apply to the beer, and non-alcoholic options may be available on request.
The workshop is an easy fit with the rest of a Ghent day. Do it in the afternoon after a museum or the castle, or in the evening before dinner if you are happy to make a light meal of waffles. It also works as a team activity or a birthday outing, because the format is sociable and the results are edible. The centre of Ghent is compact, so you can walk to the venue from most hotels in a few minutes, and the quays, the castle and the Korenmarkt are all close by.
Wear clothes you do not mind getting floury, wash your hands on arrival and bring your curiosity. It is worth arriving a little early so you can start on time, and booking ahead is wise at weekends and in the holiday season, since places are limited and the session is popular.
What to expect
The experience
A hands-on workshop in the city centre where you bake waffles and taste Belgian beer, guided by a host.
Best time
An afternoon or early evening, especially on a wet or cold day.
How long
Around two hours, so confirm the exact length when you book.
Tips
Tell the operator about dietary needs in advance, wear clothes that can take a little flour and book ahead at weekends.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Food and beer lovers who want a hands-on activity rather than another walk.
- Families
- Best with older children, as the session includes beer tasting for adults.
- Couples
- A fun, informal way to share a session and compare your waffles.
- Pair with
- A beer tasting walk, a chocolate tour or a visit to the Korenmarkt cafes.
- Time needed
- Allow two and a half hours including arrival.
Good questions
Do I need cooking experience for the waffle workshop?+
No, the host guides you through each step, so beginners are welcome. The session is relaxed and informal.
Is beer included?+
The workshop pairs waffles with Belgian beer, but the exact selection and quantity can vary, so confirm the details when you book.
Can children join?+
Older children can usually take part in the baking, while the beer tasting is for adults. Ask the operator about non-alcoholic options.
What about allergies?+
Waffle batter normally contains wheat, eggs and milk. Tell the operator about any dietary needs before you book so they can advise.
How long is the workshop?+
Around two hours. Confirm the start time and duration when you reserve, and arrive a few minutes early.
