Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Brussels Free Time: Les French Fries (Frites)

Les French Fries

One of the absolutely best things in Brussels is frites. Although called French by some (ahem, my American friends), Belgians claim that fries originated here and that the term “French fries” was introduced when American soldiers arrived in Belgium during World War I.
Originally Belgian or not, they sure know how to make them. They are made with Belgian Bintje potatoes, cooked twice and served in a paper cone. A great way to sample frites is from a friterie or fritkot – one of the many street vendors specializing in fries and other deep-fried delights.
I know there is great debate on where to find the best ones, but these three places usually top the list. If you want more ideas, check out the list from the Brussels tourism office, or you can even download the Fritkots Bruxelles app which gives a story and location for frites shops around Brussels.
 

Where to get the best fries?

Maison Antoine – Place Jourdan, 1040 Etterbeek
Founded in 1948, La Maison Antoine is a permanent friterie on Place Jourdan in the EU district. These guys are serious – they even have a website!  Enjoy your fries in one of the “partner” bars across the street and wash them down with a good Belgian beer.

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