Van der Valk Hotel Drongen

It is as if the sun never sets over this characterful, whitewashed street corner building on the Instagram-perfect village square of Sint-Martens-Latem. As its name suggests, it is just the spot to feast on lashings of joyful Italian cuisine with friends and family. Vitello tonnato, al dente fettuccine with ragù and parmesan, house-made tiramisu: familiar family favourites that deliver the goods every time! The menu is comforting yet interesting and is backed up by a sensibly-priced list of well-curated Italian wines. An absolute treat.

There is more to this stylish brasserie on the busy Kortrijksesteenweg than you might expect. Chef Van den Bossche's love of Asia is evident throughout the restaurant, from the decor of the izakaya to the lounge-like terrace and the cigar lounge. Although you will find sashimi options and a bento box on the menu, it is dominated by classic fare. Think sumptuous vol-au-vent, onglet à l'échalote and pan-fried ray wing – prepared the way it should be: generously and using the finest ingredients. The extensive wine list is definitely worth exploring!

This swanky, spacious brasserie flooded in light is invariably packed to the seams. Thomas endeavours to ensure that your dining experience is as pleasant as it is flavoursome. Classic brasserie fare enhanced with a few spontaneous personal touches. The inspiring choice ranges from snacks to share, luxury vol-au-vent or trendier recipes….

L'Homard Bizarre translates as "the bizarre lobster", but there is nothing at all outlandish about this elegant, cosily decorated villa. The chef does, however, have a predilection for lobster! As he is a champion of classic cuisine, his menu features timeless dishes such as fried foie gras with diced apple, or ultra-fresh lobster Bellevue with house-made sauces and a crisp salad. As ever, seafood lovers and meat enthusiasts are treated to a host of full flavours.

A meal in this elegant colonial-style villa is a must for any self-respecting food aficionado. A superb riverside terrace by the Lys, a bustling vibe and old-fashioned table service set the scene at Patyntje, without forgetting the extensive menu of Belgian brasserie favourites. Timeless classics such as eels in sorrel, vol-au-vent and carbonade flamande (stew) prepared with textbook skill and care. Don’t miss the sweetbread fritters – one of the Michelin inspectors’ favourites since time immemorial…

This characterful and tastefully renovated farmstead on the edge of well-heeled Sint-Martens-Latem is well known to local foodies, who appreciate the garden terrace and who love the enticing menu and house specials, like the Monday theme menu and the Friday North Sea sole day. The score is a model of rich, traditional flavours. Melt-in-the-mouth game terrine in season, succulent sole meunière with piping hot fresh fries and crispy salad. Everything is spot on in the exuberant culinary lineup, as is the wine list (primarily of French provenance).