The 10 Best Pizzerias in Brussels — Where Locals and Insiders Actually Eat
Brussels is a city that wears its global flair on its sleeves, offering everything from grand museums to hidden, culinary gems. For the discerning palate seeking authentic Italian craftsmanship away from tourist traps, finding true quality can feel like a quest. Forget the brightly lit chains; we’ve compiled this definitive list of pizzerias frequented by Brussels residents and those in the know. These ten spots represent peak pizza artistry—each one offering a unique slice of Italy right in the Belgian capital.
1. Pizzeria Ragusana
For many locals, Pizzeria Ragusana remains the gold standard. Tucked away near the historic bouchers’ street, it combines classic Italian charm with consistently excellent Neapolitan fare. The atmosphere feels robust and genuinely rooted in tradition.
The signature recommendation here is the *Pizza Margherita*. Don’t hesitate to supplement your order with an antipasto platter; their cured meats are exceptional. To beat potential lines, aim for a mid-afternoon lunch (1:00 PM). Expect this experience to fall into the €25–€40 per person range.
2. Nano Pizza
Nano Pizza is celebrated for delivering wood-fired perfection in a cozy setting that feels intimate and bustling. Located centrally, it has quickly established itself as a reliable favorite among the city’s food critics and younger crowd.
If you are looking to impress with variety, try their seasonal specialty pizza—the ingredients change often and always suggest an exploration. Due to its central location, booking is highly recommended for dinner reservations, especially on weekends. Prices tend toward the mid-range (€20–€35).
3. Pizzeria Méditerranée
This spot delivers a powerful punch of Mediterranean flavor that elevates the pizza experience beyond mere carbohydrates and toppings. It has earned its reputation by focusing on high-quality, regional Italian ingredients.
A true insider tip: order the *Pizza ai Quattro Stagioni*. The balance of flavors is masterful. While it may seem small given its ratings count, word-of-mouth buzz here means reservations are strongly advised. Expect a quality dinner in the €25–€40 bracket.
4. La fornace Pizzeria
La Fornace offers an almost rustic, wood-fired authenticity that immediately sets it apart. The crust here is exemplary—perfectly charred and airy, a clear sign of meticulous craftsmanship.
The expert recommendation centers on the simplicity of their Neapolitan pies, perhaps topped with fresh burrata cheese to maximize the contrast with the smoky char. For a less stressful visit, consider going slightly early or late (before 18:00). Budget around €25 per person for a fulfilling meal.
5. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Stepping into L’Antica is like stepping back in time to Naples itself. The commitment to simplicity and tradition makes this establishment a mandatory visit for any serious pizza enthusiast.
Stick strictly to their classics; they do it best. Ordering two Margheritas allows you to fully appreciate the crust-to-topping ratio. Wait times can be significant, but there are usually no formal reservations taken, so plan for patience. Pricing is generally moderate (€20–€35).
6. l’Arte Della Pizza
This venue has mastered the balance between modern pizzaiolo techniques and deep Italian tradition. The ambiance is sophisticated, making it ideal for a celebratory or semi-formal dinner.
Don’t overlook their house specialty—the *Pizza Tartufo*. It adds an elegant touch of luxury to the meal that speaks directly to the affluence of the Brussels clientele. They are highly recommended for table reservations in advance, especially if you plan to dine after 7:30 PM. Expect premium prices (€30–€50).
7. A L’Angolo
A L’Angolo maintains a neighborhood feel while delivering impeccable pizza quality. It feels less like a tourist attraction and more like a true local secret, appreciated by long-time residents.
We advise starting with their selection of house charcuterie board to complement the beginning of your meal. To bypass potential crowding, visit for an early weekday dinner reservation (around 6:00 PM). The price point remains comfortably accessible (€20–€30).
8. Pizza la toscana
Pizza la Toscana brings a taste of the rustic Tuscan countryside right into Brussels. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and focused purely on the excellence of the dough and topping pairings.
To truly experience their regional focus, choose a pizza that incorporates high-quality Italian vegetables or cheeses (e.g., eggplant, ricotta). For optimal seating during peak hours, calling ahead to make a reservation is wise. The price range here is excellent value (€25–€35).
9. NONA PIZZA St-Cat
Situated near the vibrant Saint-Catherine district, NONA PIZZA balances modern pizzeria flair with deep roots in Italian culinary excellence. It is a stylish spot that appeals to both visitors and local art patrons.
The must-try order here is anything featuring *prosciutto*—they treat it with incredible care. Since the Saint-Cat area can get extremely busy, aim for an early dinner reservation (5:30 PM). Prices are generally mid-to-high (€25–€40).
10. La Piola Pizza
La Piola offers a consistently reliable and delicious slice, making it a perfect fallback or casual gathering spot without ever sacrificing quality. It maintains a welcoming energy.
For a guaranteed satisfying meal, pair a classic pizza with their side of excellent house salad. As it’s located in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, weekdays lunchtime is often quieter than the surrounding commercial areas. This makes for an easy and affordable outing (€18–€30).
Whether you are seeking the rigorous tradition of L’Antica or the sophisticated flair of l’Arte Della Pizza, Brussels undeniably caters to the world-class pizza enthusiast. By following these ten established pillars, you are guaranteed a taste of genuine Italian craftsmanship that speaks volumes about the city’s commitment to authentic culinary experiences.
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