Finding something light for lunch without breaking the bank can seem a bit of a chore, as there often isn't much time. But one thing you can always rely on for a quick and tasty lunchtime snack is a sandwich.
The Brussels Times has therefore put together a selection of our favourite sandwich shops in the Belgian capital, which are all guaranteed to provide the perfect snack while supporting your local business at the same time.
Tonton Garby - Centre
This small fromagerie prides itself not just on good food, but an excellent service provided by Tonton himself and his brother. Tonton takes time to talk to each customer individually, leaving them with a smile on their face as they walk out the shop.
Credit: @leonaardoo / @wheretoeatmadrid on Instagram
The owner recommends different ingredients to help you build your dream sandwich. If you don't like it, he'll even give you another sandwich. Perfect for cheese lovers, with every kind available under the sun!
Find more information here.
Baracca Boys - Flagey
Tucked away on an unassuming corner of Place Flagey, this small Italian stall run by owners Michele and Antonio boasts big flavours. There is an array of tasty treats on the menu, from fresh pasta and crispy calamari cones to dolci for those with a sweet tooth.
Credit: The Food Tracker / Isabella Vivian
The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the grilled octopus sandwich. At €12.50, it definitely isn't the cheapest lunch option, but is worth every cent and will leave you hungry for more.
Find more information here.
Chou Sando - Centre
With soft bread, a generous and colourful filling, and spicy sauce, it's easy to see how Chou Sando quickly established itself as a favourite on the Brussels lunchtime scene, despite being relatively new.
Credit: @chousando / Instagram
Anthony, the owner, fell under the spell of this delightful sandwich during a trip to Japan and brought the concept over to Brussels.
Among the many sandwich options on offer are Japanese omelette, breaded chicken, prawn tempura, and beef in panko breadcrumbs. As well as its classic flavours, the establishment also offers a seasonal menu.
Find more information here.
Pistolet Original - Sablon
One of Brussels' better-known sandwich bars, Pistolet Original offers an extensive menu of pistolets (small, round buns) filled with typically Belgian produce, such as Américain (beef tartare), prawns, endives, and Liège black pudding.
Credit: Pistolet Original
If you're interested in trying traditional and local specialities, this is the lunch spot for you. We recommend the poulet-compote: crusty bread, homemade compote, tender chicken, salad and mayonnaise. What's not to like?
Find more information here.
El Bocadillo - Centre
Offering bocadillos for bargain prices, this sandwich shop in the heart of Brussels promises a delicious lunchtime snack. The owners Cathy and Maxime will welcome you into their shop, which has a wide range of hot and cold options from croque monsieurs to salads at just a fraction of the price (the cheapest are €3.80).
Credit: Trip Advisor / WoboX
With quality, healthy and fresh produce, and a particular focus on Mediterranean flavours, this sandwicherie will leave you wanting more.
Find more information here.
Thérèse & Dominique - Saint-Gilles
This remarkable sandwich spot is well-known for its beautifully crunchy baguettes. The highlight is the Ciccio Bello (€4.80), with crispy chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, aubergines, rocket, and freshly made tartare sauce.
Ciccio Bello. Credit: Thérèse & Dominique
There are a range of baguettes on the menu, including breaded fish, grilled vegetables, or a club sandwich. Alternatively, you can build your own sandwich. There are also bowls, panini, salads and desserts.
Find more information here.
La vérité si je mange! - Louise
Just off Avenue Louise, this small sandwicherie is a New York-style Deli with a quintessential Belgian touch. It offers a wide selection of freshly-made lunchtime snacks at very reasonable prices.
Credit: Isabella Vivian / The Brussels Times
The personable staff are more than happy to help you build your own bagel, salad or sandwich at the counter, with other ready-made dishes also available. It is takeaway only, and named after the popular 1997 French film La vérité si je mens.
Find more information here.
Boulengier - Saint Gilles
A stone's throw away from the Parvis de Saint-Gilles, this old fashioned pub-turned-bakery offers a fantastic selection of freshly baked bread and pastries as well as sandwiches.
Credit: Boulengier / Instagram
The artisanal sandwiches are made exclusively with seasonal produce and everything is made on-site by an expert French baker. It is very popular among locals, and can often be seen with queues of Saint-Gilloises waiting to pick up their daily bread on weekends.
Find more information here.
Brød - Centre
Just a short walk from Grand Place, this sandwich shop offers fresh and high-quality produce in a modern setting, with a menu that is so extensive you'll find it hard to choose. There is also a large terrace if you don't need to rush off.
Credit: Brød
This joint prides itself on offering vegetarian, vegan and lactose-free options. We recommend the delicious Maraîcher, with either olive tapenade or pesto, aubergines, courgettes and artichokes.
Find more information here.
Jeanbon - Various locations in Brussels
Jeanbon has become a real sandwich institution in Brussels, with five shops spread across the capital (Louise, Porte de Namur, Sainte-Catherine, Place de Londres and Place du Luxembourg).
Credit: Jeanbon
The cheapest sandwiches are the Hollandais (gouda, grilled courgettes, tomato, egg, spinach shoots and mayo) and the Jeanbon fromage (gouda, ham, spinach, tomato, egg, mayo). The stylish 'Comptoir Gourmand' also sells high-quality cheeses and charcuterie, salads and specialty coffee.
Find more information here.
