If you are planning a trip to Bruges, especially during the holiday season, this storybook city of canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval charm has no shortage of places to eat. That said, Poules Moules Bruges should be right at the top of your food list.
Instead of filling up on Christmas market food you can find anywhere in Europe, sit down for a proper meal at this popular restaurant located directly in front of the Christmas market at Simon Stevinplein.
At first glance, the location might make it look like a tourist trap, but do not let that fool you. Poules Moules is genuinely excellent, and if you do not make a reservation, there is a good chance you will not get a table. It is that popular for a reason.
With over 3,000 Google Maps reviews and an impressive 4.3 star rating, this is one of the most trusted and loved restaurants in Bruges. If you only have time for one sit down meal in the city, this should be it.
Poules Moules is a classic Belgian restaurant serving some of the best traditional moules frites, along with other local dishes, in a cozy wooden interior that feels warm and inviting. It is the kind of meal and atmosphere you will remember long after you leave Bruges.
What is Moules-Frites
Moules frites is one of Belgium’s most iconic dishes and a true national classic. The dish consists of fresh mussels cooked in a flavorful broth, most commonly with white wine, onions, celery, and herbs, and served with a generous portion of crispy fries on the side.
The mussels are usually steamed in a large pot until they open, allowing them to absorb all the aromas from the broth. The fries are not just a side dish but an essential part of the meal, traditionally double fried to achieve a crispy exterior and soft center.
In Belgium, moules frites is more than just food. It is a comfort meal often shared with friends and family, especially during cooler months. The dish is simple, hearty, and deeply tied to Belgian food culture, making it a must eat when visiting Bruges.
Why Poules Moules Bruges is Popular
Poules Moules is tucked inside a charming 17th century renovated building with a distinctly Flemish stepped gable, and the old world ambience carries straight through to the interior. Original wooden beams, warm lighting, and cozy seating make it an inviting place to slow down and enjoy a proper meal. Located on Simon Stevinplein, the restaurant also offers great people watching as the square comes alive, especially during the holiday season.
Aside from the beautiful setting, the food itself is what truly makes Poules Moules stand out. The mussels are fresh and generously portioned, cooked in rich and flavorful broths, and paired perfectly with crispy fries. Every dish feels thoughtfully prepared rather than rushed, proving that this is far more than a restaurant riding on its location. It is the combination of atmosphere and consistently excellent food that keeps both locals and visitors coming back.
What to Order at Poules Moules Bruges
While the name gives it away, the real star at Poules Moules is the moules, served in a variety of delicious styles. You can try natural mussels for a simple, fresh taste, white wine mussels for a classic Belgian flavor, mussels in Bruges beer for a fun local twist, or the house mussels with Pernod or fresh basil, rich and aromatic.
I went with the House mussels with Pernod and was thrilled with my choice. The French liquor adds a subtle licorice flavor that makes each bite unique and memorable. Every mussel dish comes with a side of perfectly crisp fries, the ideal match for the flavorful broth, and generous portions that leave you fully satisfied after a day of exploring Bruges.
Beyond the classic moules, the mussel gratin was out of this world — creamy, cheesy, and indulgent, easily one of the best dishes I had anywhere in Belgium. I would happily return to Poules Moules just for this dish.
To round out the meal, I enjoyed a light and refreshing local Belgian beer, which complemented the rich flavors perfectly. Other dishes, like the beef carpaccio, were also excellent and a great option if you’re sharing the table with friends or family.
At Poules Moules, every dish feels thoughtfully prepared, making the food just as memorable as the cozy, charming atmosphere of the restaurant.
Atmosphere and Dining
Poules Moules is housed in a charming 17th century building with three floors, each adding its own cozy touch to the dining experience. We sat on the second floor without a reservation (lucky!), overlooking the Christmas market below, and it was truly amazing. From up here, you can watch the festive crowds and twinkling lights while enjoying your meal in a warm and inviting space.
The restaurant’s layout adds even more character. There’s a spiral staircase by the main entrance leading to the upper floors, and a straight, narrow stairway toward the back of the restaurant. The restroom is located on the third floor, making a short climb part of the experience rather than a chore. The combination of the historic building, three-level layout, and views of Simon Stevinplein creates a dining atmosphere that is both intimate and lively — a memory you’ll take home with you.
Inside, the chatter of people speaking different languages shows just how popular the restaurant is with travelers from all over. We happened to sit next to a friendly group of Japanese tourists who were so curious about our meal that they decided to order exactly what we had. Moments like that make dining at Poules Moules feel even more special and memorable.
Location and Tips for Visiting
Poules Moules is perfectly located on Simon Stevinplein, right in front of the Christmas market and just a short walk from many of Bruges’ main attractions. The central location makes it easy to combine a meal with sightseeing, but it also means the restaurant can get very busy, especially during the holidays.
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
- Reservations are recommended — While we got lucky with walk-in seating, a reservation is the safest way to guarantee a table, particularly for evenings and weekends.
- Arrive early for a view — If you want to sit on the second floor overlooking the Christmas market, try to arrive a bit earlier before it fills up.
- Dress comfortably — The spiral staircase by the main entrance and the straight narrow stair toward the back mean you’ll be doing a little climbing, so comfy shoes are a plus.
- Try a variety of dishes — While the moules are the highlight, the mussel gratin, beef carpaccio, and local beers are all worth sampling.
- Plan for some wait time during peak season — Even with a reservation, the popularity of Poules Moules means you may have a short wait, but it’s well worth it.
With its central location, charming historic building, and fantastic food, Poules Moules is easy to fit into any Bruges itinerary and should definitely be on your list when visiting the city.
Is Poules Moules Bruges Worth It?
Poules Moules delivers on every level — from its 17th century building with three floors and cozy, historic charm, to the stunning views over Simon Stevinplein and the Christmas market. The atmosphere alone makes dining here memorable.
But the real reason it stands out is the food. The mussels are fresh and flavorful, with the house mussels with Pernod offering a unique licorice‑tinged taste you won’t find anywhere else. The creamy, cheesy mussel gratin is unforgettable, and other dishes like the beef carpaccio are equally satisfying. Pair it all with a light, refreshing local Belgian beer, and you have a meal that is both comforting and indulgent.
Poules Moules isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a full Belgian experience. If you only have time for one sit‑down meal in Bruges, this should be the one.
