Herbes Folles

Tucked away in the heart of the countryside, chef Florent Ladeyn, an ecological champion from the word go, is a standard-bearer of authentic and indulgent Flemish fare that is deeply rooted in the terroir yet creative, instinctive and enticing. In a simply decorated dining room with exposed beams and views of the hilly Monts de Flandre landscape, the chef gives expression to his passion for charcoal cooking, as his guests take in the show. Firmly committed to local produce, he strews his creations with flowers and plants from the region. His Maroilles cheese fries have attained almost legendar

Not far from Hazebrouck, this Auberge was once a tannery then a barroom in full-blown ‘ch’ti’ tradition, before it morphed into this friendly inn, with a focus on seasonal produce and Flemish roots courtesy of new takes on classic local recipes (Welsh, carbonade). The menu features some surprising combinations, like langoustine with haddock and green peas. Hats off to chef Antonin, who is also a wine buff and thus an excellent source of wine tips.

Don't hesitate to stop at this terminus just before the French border, which is as popular with truck drivers as with families and foodies. In the distance, you can see the farm of the Verheyde family, who has turned the nearby gas station into a gourmet delicatessen. Pieter, owner and sommelier, is justly proud of his impressive wine cellar, the fruit of his expertise and passion. The culinary score will delight connoisseurs, particularly those who appreciate big-boned, wholesome nosh. Recipes that hit the spot every time, with meat from the family farm, super fresh cod or shrimp from the Nor

This spruce, endearing bistro on the main square of Illies is smoothly and passionately run by former Top Chef contestant, Christophe Pirotais and his partner Julie Dieudonné. Their gutsy indulgent cuisine is unveiled in an inspired, big-boned surprise menu, illustrated by a delicate pannacotta of white asparagus with radish-flavoured ice cream or a fillet of seabream escorted by chickpea fritters and a creamy jus of smoked herring roe. The welcome is warm and cheerful and the service is as smooth as a silky bearnaise sauce. Lovely rear patio for alfresco dining in fine weather.

In Armentières, the hometown of popular French actor, Dany Boon, Osmose occupies the ground floor of a characteristic red-brick building not far from the town hall. The minimalist decor provides the perfect foil for polished cuisine that skilfully blends Northern French, Japanese and Nordic influences in a surprise menu that stars seasonal produce: crab, horseradish, aubergine, Artois trout, rhubarb…

At the entrance to the village, this restaurant is discreetly tucked away in a 19C red-brick building. Inside, light enters through the contemporary-style veranda, capturing the elegance of a decor dominated by black details and green velvet. In the kitchen, which opens onto the dining room, chefs Valentine and Maxime – also partners outside of the restaurant – can be seen intently focused on producing their tempting dishes with perfectly judged marriages of flavours. The fillet of pollock is topped with an anchovy viennoise and accompanied by a broccoli cream and almond milk and shellfish emu

In de Zon is a haven for foodies and cycling enthusiasts (it is located in the heart of the Heuvelland region). The decor is filled with nostalgic finds from flea markets, which add a touch of charm. On a clear day, you can see all the way to France from the gorgeous terrace. This is a restaurant that is full of character and that showcases Flemish cuisine at its best. Crispy shrimp croquettes, herby paling in 't groen (eel in a green sauce) with fresh fries, succulent pork cheeks cooked in Saint Bernard beer: this heartwarming food leaves a lasting impression.