JULY 2021 - …
THE belgian coast ~ Seas The day
Well hello there …
Since the forecast for the Summer of 2021 was still very uncertain, due to Covid, and the chance that our children would already be fully vaccinated very small, we decided to spend our summer holiday in our own country. In West Flanders, Knokke-Heist, at only 1h30 from our doorstep.
Sun, sea and the beach are the perfect ingredients to create the ultimate holiday feeling, also in Belgium. Although we don’t have palm trees, our sunsets might be less epic than on an exotic island, and our coast has a negative connotation because of its highly urbanization. It still has got a lot to offer: wide white sandy beaches with fancy beach bars, nice boutiques, beautiful cycling and walking routes, a wide range of quality restaurants and caterers, sport clubs,…
Practical Wisdom
The Belgian Coast with a length of 65km is counting, 19 seaside resorts in 10 coastal municipalities, each with his own character. My personal favourite ones are Knokke-Heist, De Haan and Nieuwpoort. Knokke-Heist in the North, is bordering the Netherlands; De Panne in the South is bordering France.
Most places are accessible by train, and a coastal tram runs between De Panne and Knokke with no less than 68 stops. A day pass costs € 7,5 per adult and € 15 for 3-days (rates 2021). Since there was a stop within walking distance of our rental house, we have used it several times to commute between Heist - Duinbergen and Knokke. It's a convenient, affordable and time-saving way to get around.
We also rented a bike to discover the hinterland. As we stayed in Heist-Aan-Zee, we chose for “Freddy Shop” - www.rollywood.be, where we paid € 30 for a regular bike and € 56 for an electric bike, for 2 days.
In the years after Covid, we rented an apartment several times during the Summer Holidays and brought our own bikes.
The Tourist Hotspots
Heist-Aan-Zee
Where we stayed in 2021. Located between Zeebrugge and Duinbergen. Together with Knokke and Duinbergen part of the municipality Knokke-Heist.
In my personal opinion Heist is a little bit less mundane, more middle-class, less “to see and be seen” than Knokke. You will not find the same wide range of shops and restaurants as in Knokke, but “La Plage” Beachbar, caterer “De Traiteur by Vandycke”, Bob Artisan Bakery & Coffee, fishstore Atelier Depaepe, restaurant Caillou and 2 Michelin stars restaurant “Bartholomeus” are definitely worth a visit.
Knokke
The Monaco of Belgium. A street scene of chic boutiques, expensive fast cars, golf carts, fancy-dressed ladies, a large casino, dogs named Chanelle and Gucci, etc... We come here multiple times a year, as it’s the closest seaside resort to home and the range of shops here is as large as in the big cities. I also enjoy drinking a fresh glass of rosé with my feet in the sand at one of the many beach bars ( Mood Beach, Bar D’o, Yssi's, Collins Club, Zoutestrand 19, Beach n°1, … ) and eating fresh fish dishes in one of the many restaurants. During the summer many pop-up stores are popping up from the fashion city of Antwerp. Once a year the Knokke Oldtimer Rally and (Knokke Hipique an international jumping competition take place - last edition 2022). Also popular are the mini golf, approach golf and the water sports centre "Lakeside Paradise". It goes without saying that the prices here are higher than the average in Belgium. The spectacle of the "rich and famous" has also increasingly attracted an international audience the last couple of years. During the Summer holidays, underage partying Dutchmen have become a real scourge. Those from better backgrounds like to come here to party because in Belgium, drinking from the age of 16 is already legal.
Duinbergen
Located between Heist and Knokke. As the Dutch name suggests located on top of a hill. In my opinion the nicest location to buy a property. Because of the charm that this place exudes, and the beautiful sea views. Here you will also find a very nice mini-golf and one of the best restaurants ( 1 Michelin star ) where I personally have ever eaten "Sel-Gris". Another recommendation is Dunas.
Zeebrugge
A subdivision of Bruges. It is Belgium's most important fishing port and the wholesale fish market located there is one of the largest in Europe. Aside from being a passenger terminal with ferries to the United Kingdom, the harbour serves as the central port for Europe's automotive, agriculture and other industries. Here you can find a very famous fishrestaurant “’t Werftje”, the oldest establishment of Zeebrugge ( they had to move to another brand new location in 2025), serving the best shrimp croquettes of the Belgian coast, according to renowned food critics.
Cadzand
Located in the Netherlands, right next to Knokke, Cadzand is a peaceful beach resort known for its wide, white sandy beaches where dogs are welcome all year round. While it doesn't offer the same variety of shops, bars, and restaurants as the Belgian coast, it appeals to those seeking a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Since the early 2000s, Cadzand has been on the rise—thanks in part to the development of luxury accommodations like Het Strand Hotel and De Blanken Top. It also gained culinary fame through Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman, who operated several acclaimed restaurants in the area, including Pure C, Blueness, and Air Republic. However, in 2023, Herman chose to hand over his restaurants to focus on ventures in the Asian market.
By the time of our visit in 2025, signs of decline were visible. The Air Republic Café, for example, no longer had the same level of maintenance or popularity. Still, for those looking to unwind in a quiet spot among the dunes, Cadzand remains a great alternative to the busier Knokke.
One highlight not to miss is the cycling route through the Zwin Nature Park to Knokke—scenic, tranquil, and truly breathtaking, even if a bit touristic.
Sluis
Located on the shore of the Zwin, bordering Belgium. It’s an old Dutch fortified town with numerous shops and eateries, open 7/7. The town exudes pure Dutch charm and offers a very wide range of grocery stores where you can buy numerous care products at an affordable price. Sluis is easily accessible from Knokke and Cadzand by bicycle.
Damme
Is a popular side trip for tourists who are visiting Bruges or the Belgian Coast. Damme has become known as a book town, with numerous bookshops and regular book fairs. The most popular ways of traveling to Damme are by canal boat that runs during the summer high season or by bicycle, like we did. The bicycle route is along the canal path, offering really nice views. When you arrive, don’t forget to take a picture of one of the smallest candy shops.
Bruges
From Knokke Heist you can easily take a day trip to Bruges. I will not elaborate on this, as I have already devoted another blog post to Bruges.
Goodnight, sleep tight.
In 2021 we rented a home in Heist-Aan-Zee from “Zalig aan Zee”, they have/had 6 holiday homes at the Belgian Coast to rent. 2 in Heist, 2 in Knokke, 1 in Damme and 1 in Blankenberge. The houses can accommodate 10 to 20 people and are all equipped with a garden, all modern comfort, and frequent use of scaffolding wood.
We rented the one in the Pannestraat 104, with 3 double rooms, a sleeping loft with 5 to 8 single beds, and 3 bathrooms. Downstairs, you have a large open kitchen and living room with access to the comfortable garden. In my opinion, the greatest asset of the house with a partially covered terrace with a fireplace. Another great asset is the spacious garage, with enough space for 1 car and a couple of bikes. A disadvantage for me was that there was no air-conditioning, and the windows were not provided with mosquito nets. So before we went to sleep we had to kill a whole gang of mosquitos every night. Personally, I don't think the sleeping loft is suitable to accommodate 8 children for a week. Especially not when it concerns teenagers, and temperatures are running high. You enter the house with a personal access code, so not everyone needs to be in possession of a key.
We paid € 2700 for a week, not cheap! But if you can share the price between 2 or 3 families/couples and you find a spacious terrace a serious added value, like we do? Then the houses from “Zalig aan Zee” are worth considering. In the past, we also rented the house in the Meerlaan with some friends.
https://zaligaanzee.be
HOTELS
La Réserve 5*
https://la-reserve.be/en
An elegant and stylish retreat located just a few blocks from the beach, near the vibrant casino area in Knokke. The hotel combines classic sophistication with modern luxury, offering a cozy yet refined atmosphere throughout. The hotel is owned by Marck Coucke, and the rooms feature bespoke fragrances developed by his wife, Nathalie, adding a unique, personal touch to the guest experience. Guests can indulge in a breakfast that is prepared to perfection, ensuring a delicious and memorable start to the day. The hotel also boasts a cozy, vibrant bar, providing a welcoming spot to unwind with a drink in hand. Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely dinner or enjoying a special occasion, the restaurant at Hotel La Réserve offers a memorable culinary journey.
Strandhotel 5*
https://www.strandhotel.eu/
Offers a luxurious escape right on the beach of Cadzand. With its stunning views of the North Sea and elegant interiors, this five-star hotel is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy a refined coastal experience. The hotel combines modern luxury with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, offering spacious rooms, a relaxing spa, and exquisite dining options to make your stay truly memorable. In the past the restaurants ( Pure C, Air Rebublic, Air Café, Blueness ) were hosted by Michelin-star chef Sergio Herman, but in 2023 he decided to sell his share. A real pitty in my opinion, I loved dining there. A fun personal note, my husband proposed to me here in February 2023, which makes this peaceful beach a little bit special to us.
De Blanken Top 5*
https://www.blanketop.com/
This luxurious five-star hotel is also located in Cadzand, just a short walk from the beach. De Blanken Top blends contemporary design with comfort, offering guests a chic, tranquil retreat by the sea. The hotel's rooms are spacious and stylish, and the on-site restaurant serves up delicious, locally inspired cuisine. Their spa is offering froltal seaviews.
Enso District Hotel 4*
https://www.ensodistricthotel.be/
Situated in the peaceful Duinewater district of Knokke, next to the railwaystation. Enso District Hotel offers a stylish, contemporary atmosphere perfect for both business and leisure travelers. This chic four-star hotel features minimalist design, spacious rooms. For breakfast, you go downstairs to the Woyo eatery café, make sure you reserve in advance as it’s a popular breakfast and lunch spot, also open to the public.
Hotel Villa Bonnie 4*
https://www.villabonnie.be/nl/
Situated in Knokke-Heist- Duinbergen (next to the main road though), Hotel Villa Bonnie combines old-world charm with modern comfort ( restored in 2024). Just a short stroll from the beach, this elegant four-star hotel offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The red and white striped interior evokes the charm of Paris, and the elegance of the Côte d'Azur.
B&B Maison Seki 4*
https://www.maisonseki.com/
Nestled in the quiet yet vibrant area of Knokke-Heist, B&B Maison Seki offers a cozy and intimate retreat. This charming boutique bed and breakfast provides a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. Guests can unwind in the heated outdoor pool, from April till october.
Hotel Brittania 4*
https://hotelbritannia.be/
Hotel Britannia is a charming 4-star hotel in Knokke-Heist, known for its elegant Anglo-Norman architecture. Just 100 meters from the beach and Het Zoute, it offers stylishly renovated rooms with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a nice breakfast on the sunny terrace. Hotel Britannia is perfect for a relaxing and affordable coastal getaway.B&B BBruT
https://www.bbrut.be/
Nestled in the peaceful hinterland between Damme and Knokke, just a 20-minute drive or a scenic one-hour bike ride away, making it easy to enjoy both nature and the coast. Offering a stylish and intimate retreat for those seeking personal and perfect hospitality away from the crowds. As winners of “Met 4 in Bed”, this boutique stay impresses with its beautifully designed rooms, warm ambiance, and attention to detail.Residentie TYL ( appartment )
The landlords are personal friends and we stayed there ourselves a few years ago. https://bit.ly/3k8JOeY
Currently, they are rated with an average of more than 9 on booking.com. So they are doing an excellent job. It’s located close to the beach and the shops, and offers 2 bedrooms, 1 with a double bed and 1 with a bunk bed. The entire apartment is nicely decorated by the talented host Bérénice.Portwin
https://www.portwin.be/
Portwin features 10 exclusive luxury apartments right on the lively Lippenslaan, offering a sophisticated alternative to a traditional hotel stay. Each apartment combines contemporary design with home-like comfort, giving guests the freedom of a private residence paired with upscale amenities. On-site, you’ll find an inviting indoor swimming pool and a serene wellness area.Huyshoeve 3*
https://www.huyshoeve.com/
Huyshoeve is a charming boutique hotel located in the peaceful countryside of Knokke-Heist, Knokke Beach is only about 3.5 km away. Surrounded by green fields and polders, it offers a relaxing atmosphere with easy access to nature. The hotel features stylish rooms, a generous breakfast buffet, and modern amenities including bike rentals and free parking. It's ideal for couples, families, or groups, and even offers a separate farmhouse for larger gatherings.
My cup of tea
Glacier de la Poste
A fixed value, with a very wide range of fresh ice cream flavours. They have 2 locations, one in Knokke and one in Duinbergen.
Put 19
https://put19-knokke.be/
In golf, the "nineteenth hole" refers to the pub or restaurant near the golf course, and Put 19 brings this concept to life in the heart of the “Zoute”. A cozy brown pub with a warm, carefree atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for locals alike to unwind. With a selection of beer, bubbles, and smooth service, it’s the perfect place for like-minded people to gather, enjoy the ambiance, and share good times. They also offer small snacks and plates; the homemade spaghetti is many people's favourite, and I can also recommend the “steak tartaar”.
Pain-Quotidien
https://www.lepainquotidien.com/be/nl/locations/Knokke
A well-known name in Belgian culinary culture, Pain Quotidien in Knokke is the perfect place for artisanal bread, organic pastries, and wholesome meals. Their rustic, warm ambiance is ideal for enjoying freshly brewed coffee or a light breakfast. With an emphasis on fresh, natural ingredients, the café offers a selection of healthy, delicious dishes that feel both comforting and nourishing.
Marie-Rose Bakery
https://marie-roseknokke.be/
Founded in 2019 it serves up fresh‑from‑scratch pastries, excellent coffee, and healthy yet inventive dishes like eggs Benedict, avocado toast, homemade sandwiches, salads, and light bites. When it first opened, it quickly became the place to be, there were often long queues just to get a table. I remember enjoying a delicious toast with hummus and chicken on the terrace back then. In 2025, we returned for a family breakfast; while the food was still tasty, our table felt a bit cramped for four, and the service was somewhat chaotic, items were forgotten, and the overall vibe felt rushed.Pine House
https://www.strandhotel.eu/nl/restaurants/pine-house/
Nestled next to the Strand-Hotel, Pine House is a delightful spot where hotel guests and locals alike can enjoy a rich and original buffet for breakfast. The buffet offers a unique array of fresh and delicious options, making it the perfect start to the day. During the weekend big groups of friends gather to have breakfast together and it can be loud and crowdy.Chez Çois
https://chezcois.be/
Chez Çois has evolved from a simple ice cream parlour into a stylish café offering homemade ice cream (low in sugar, no cream or eggs), delicious coffee, pancakes, and a tempting menu of tapas and finger food. Its chic interior and sunny terrace make it a favourite all day long.La Terrasse du Zoute
https://laterrasseduzoute.be/la-terrasse-du-zoute/
Perfectly located in the heart of Knokke’s shopping district, it attracts a chic, relaxed crowd looking to unwind after a day of boutique hopping. The covered terrace is comfortably furnished with elegant lounge chairs, making it a cozy spot in any weather. There’s also a hotel and restaurant connected. The extensive drink list offers plenty to choose from — I can highly recommend a crisp glass of Grüner Veltliner to toast your shopping day in style. We also had dinner here, where they offer a sharing tapas-style menu for starters, followed by individual main courses. The quality of the meat was excellent but on the pricier side. The seating is cozy and relaxed, with large swivel sofa chairs that make conversation easy, though they’re a bit less practical when it comes to eating comfortably.Woyo Eatery
https://www.woyo.be/
Located at Duinewaters, next to the railway station, Woyo Eatery is a fresh and vibrant spot known for its healthy bowls, salads, and smoothies. With a focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients, the menu is filled with nourishing options that cater to various tastes. The interior has Japandi-vibes, totally my style!
Bob Artisan Bakery & Coffee
https://www.bob-artisanbakery.be/
Is a cozy, artisanal microbakery located at Graaf d’Ursellaan 12 in Knokke-Heist. Founded by Yannick Daems and his partner, Ann Vallé, the bakery specializes in traditional sourdough bread crafted with just flour, water, time, and patience, no additives or preservatives.With only twelve seats, BOB offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy freshly baked goods like delicious cinnamon rolls, coffee, and light bites.. The bakery is open Friday through Sunday from 8:00 to 17:00, and occasionally on Thursdays during school holidays.
SIMZ
https://www.simz.be/
If you're in the mood for a quick and simple lunch, or “een belegd broodje”, as the Flemish say SIMZ is the place to go. Conveniently located at the Lichttorenplein, right across from the tourist information center, SIMZ offers a variety of paninis, salads, burgers, and sandwiches. Prices vary depending on whether you choose take-away or dine-in.Boules de Berlins
Interestingly, there's no single reason why they're called Boules de Berlin or Boules de l’Yser. What is known, though, is that these sugar-dusted pastries have long been a specialty of West Flanders. Soft on the inside, filled with jam or vanilla cream, and covered in powdered sugar, they’re a true beachside indulgence—though they can get quite messy to eat! It all started between 1885 and 1894, when these sweet buns appeared in tearooms along the Belgian coast. But it was on May 22, 1905, that Rodolphe Dies, a baker from Blankenberge, made history by selling them directly on the beach—an instant hit with tourists. They are also sold at the local bakery’s like “Lievens Patisserie”.
Wine by the Sea
Beach bars are a great place to hang out, but if you’re spending time there every day during your holiday, the euros can start to add up quickly.Staying in an apartment with a nice terrace and looking for a good bottle of rosé? Or maybe you’ve prepared a pot of mussels or classic tomate crevette and are craving a crisp white wine like a Grüner Veltliner? Perhaps you’ve cooked up a tasty pasta and want to pair it with a surprising red?
At wine shop Caves Bordeaux, you’ll find a top-notch, wide-ranging selection — something for every taste, with expert advice to match. It’s located near the Rubensplein.
Another great addition to the local wine scene is Pinot on Lippenslaan. They offer a large selection of wines, mainly natural and mineral. At the back of the shop, there’s a cozy dining corner where you can enjoy a light lunch with a perfectly paired glass of wine.
Traiteurs
There’s no shortage of great traiteurs in Knokke, far too many to list them all, so here’s just a small selection worth checking out:Casa Dell'Anno, located near the Rubensplein, is a standout. Their artichokes are absolutely delicious, and the selection of pasta dishes is impressive, ranging from melanzane and cannelloni to penne arrabbiata and more.
On the Lippenslaan, a recent addition to the scene is Osteria d’Oro, offering beautifully prepared lasagnas and pizzas that look just as good as they taste.
And in Het Zoute, near the golf course, you’ll find Rõka, a stylish new spot serving Mediterranean dishes for both take-away and dine-in during lunch or apero-time.
Would you like a table?
There are so many great restaurants around here that it’s hard to choose, so I’ve picked out a few of my current favourites. I’ll keep this list updated whenever I discover something new and delicious!
Rubens
https://www.rubens-knokke.be/
Located just off the promenade, Rubens is one of those places everyone knows, and for good reason. A true institution, this restaurant has stood the test of time, known for its consistently good seafood and efficient service. Please be ready to wait, especially if you want a coveted spot on the terrace. Rubens doesn't take reservations for outside seating, and during peak hours, the queue is part of the ritual. You can, however, book a table indoors if you're not keen on lining up. Once seated, start with the house-favorite shrimp croquettes (garnaalkroketten)—perfectly crisp on the outside and bursting with North Sea flavor. They're finger-licking good and set the tone for a classic Belgian meal. For the main course, the sole meunière or fried sliptong are perennial favorites, prepared simply and flawlessly. And don’t miss the tomaat-garnaal, another local classic that's treated with the respect it deserves here.
Royale
https://www.royaleknokke.be/A few steps further down the Zeedijk, you’ll find Royale, another staple in the Knokke dining scene. With its spacious terrace overlooking the beach, it’s a perfect spot to soak up the sea breeze while enjoying well-prepared Belgian dishes. There’s no reservation system here either, so expect a wait, particularly for terrace seating on sunny days. I enjoyed their mussels, a great choice for anyone craving a taste of the sea. The menu features other Belgian brasserie classics, and service is smooth and to the point, just like at Rubens.
Côte Belges
https://www.cotebelge.be/
Nice bistro bar, with a beautiful and rural location in Ramskapelle. They offer an extensive menu and wine list. Seated on the roofed terrace or at the beautiful bar … I am sure you will enjoy. The place can be quit busy, certainly in high season. From Knokke it’s a 20-30min bikeride and 10 minutes by car.
Brasserie Couteau
https://brasserie-couteau.be/
According to the tabloids they serve the best Belgian stew at the Belgian Coast. They also receive excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. Just that little bit more … people say. I have never eaten here, but next time I am at the coast I will certainly consider.Blanco
https://www.blanco-knokke.be/
An original mix between Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine, in a very fancy and warm interior. I really enjoyed dining here. The interior is entirelly my style and the menu tasteful and original. It’s also not cheap, but we will certainly return!
Il Trionfo
https://www.iltrionfo.be/
Family run Italian restaurant with a strong reputation. Fine-dining setting for the upper middle class. The food and service were certainly good, but a bit safe. No surprising flavor bombs. We had a vitello tonnato and steak tagliatta.
Boo Raan *
https://booraan.be/
This Michelin-starred Thai restaurant offers an experience unlike any other fine dining spot I’ve visited so far, unpretentious and refreshingly down-to-earth. Expect pure, flavorful Thai dishes, made with bold spices and authentic techniques, without unnecessary fuss. Almost the entire staff is Thai, which adds even more authenticity to the overall experience. A sharing menu costs €70 per person, with options ranging from mild to truly spicy. We chose the surprise menu with a medium spice level, a great choice. It started with a Tom Kha Kai soup, followed by a selection of crispy street food bites to share, then three main dishes (beef, chicken, and scampi) served with sticky rice. Dessert is not included. Reservations open two months in advance and fill up quickly, especially during holidays. We managed to get a last-minute table by signing up through the YEAT app.
De Kruier
https://kruier.be/nl
A hidden gem with a rustic setting, offering traditional Belgian cuisine with a modern touch. The intimate setting and carefully curated dishes make it an excellent spot for those who appreciate authenticity with a twist. Also located in Ramskapelle. Mentioned by both Michelin and Gault Millau. Very pleasant to sit and the service was professional, smooth and super friendly. Just a 10-minute drive from Knokke, this one is definitely among my favourites.
Caillou
https://www.restaurantcaillou.be/nl
Chef Sander earned his stripes in many star restaurants like Sel Gris, Hof van Cleve, etc… He has a penchant for desserts. Co-motivator is Sel Gris chef Frederick. We had the 4-course tasting menu at €85 and took pairing wines per glass. Before and after you receive several amuse-bouches and extra sweets to make it a real fine-dining experience. The interior is stylish and contemporary, our table had an excellent view on the open-kitchen.
Sel Gris *
https://www.selgris.be/nl
As I mentioned before, one of the best diners I ever had. Even though the interior seems a bit classic, the service and menu are far from this. The 1st time we enjoyed it at the fullest from start to finish, and what a top service we had! The second time, a couple of years later, we were a little bit less enthusiastic, one menu suits you more than the other I suppose.Dunas
https://www.dunasdine.be/nl
A modern dining spot known for its fresh seafood and cozy atmosphere. Located on the sea dyke of Duinbergen, it boasts a chic interior and a fine-dining experience that emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced seafood.Jett
https://www.resto-jett.be/
A charming bistro offering a mix of classic Belgian and French cuisine with a contemporary twist. The welcoming ambiance and carefully crafted dishes make it a great spot for casual yet refined dining.Dah Makan
https://www.dahmakan.be/
A unique fusion of Southeast Asian flavors with a creative and refined presentation. The balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors creates a dynamic dining experience that keeps guests coming back.Carcasse *
https://www.carcasse.be/
A paradise for meat lovers, known for its high-quality cuts and expert preparation. The focus on dry-aged meats and exceptional butchery skills ensures a standout steakhouse experience.Cuines 33 *
https://cuines33.be/
An innovative dining experience with a mix of global flavors and creative plating. The tasting menus offer an adventurous journey through different culinary influences, making every visit exciting. We dined here in the very beginning; in the meantime, they have changed their concept a bit.Bistro Chou
Situated slightly outside the city center. The bistro features an intimate, homey ambiance, complete with traditional red and white checkered tablecloths. The menu offers simple yet flavorful dishes. Guests can enjoy a generously filled platter of fine charcuterie with mustard, a lavish presentation of a gray shrimp cocktail, or a well-prepared steak tartare accompanied by a variety of garnishes. The bistro is known for its friendly and attentive staff, contributing to a calm and welcoming atmosphere.Bristol
https://brasseriebristol.be/
A classic brasserie with a rich history, serving refined Belgian and French dishes. The timeless elegance and commitment to quality make it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.Tatau
https://tatau.be/
A trendy new spot close to the Casino on the seafront promenade. Tatau offers a sharing concept inspired by Oriental flavors — think sushi, fresh Asian bites, and creative small plates to enjoy together. Our daughter worked here in the Summer of 2025.Eyecandy
https://www.eyecandy-knokke.be/
Located at the Casino, Eyecandy is a new, sleek, and contemporary spot known for its inventive cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. The venue is helmed by a former patissier of renowned chef Sergio Herman, adding a touch of culinary artistry to its stylish drinks experience.Bartholomeus **
https://www.restaurantbartholomeus.be/
An exceptional two-star experience by the sea. Expect culinary artistry, elegant plating, and flawless service, one of the coast’s top fine dining destinations.Tablàvins
https://tablavins.be/
A wine lover’s paradise where fine wine and delicious small plates come together. The intimate atmosphere and curated wine list make it a lovely spot for a relaxed evening with friends. In the past, they had a Michelin Star, which they lost, but the quality remains outstanding! We chose the €85 menu, where a series of refined dishes followed one another: delicious vongole pasta, a perfectly cooked piece of beef, and a wonderfully surprising dessert. Hats off to the team—this is a place we’ll return to!La Bistro de la Mer
https://lebistrodelamer.be/
Is a cozy Franco-Belgian bistro located at Oosthoekplein, slightly away from the busy tourist crowds, offering fresh seafood, classic dishes, and seasonal specials in a warm, welcoming setting. Reviews praise its quality, charming terrace, and friendly atmosphere.
Studio MCCC
https://www.studiomccc.be/
A stylish new Italian hotspot serving refined classics in a modern setting. Fresh pasta, elegant antipasti — perfect for lovers of contemporary Italian dining. Worth a reservation! Also amongst one of our favourites!
Spaghetti Café
https://www.spaghetticafe-takeout.be/
Sometimes you just crave a good, simple, affordable plate of pasta, and you'll find exactly that at Spaghetticafé on Dumortierlaan in Knokke-Heist. After years of success in Asse, owners Ben and Bettina decided to follow their hearts and relocate their beloved pasta spot to the coast. The secret? A handful of homemade sauces, including their legendary Bolognese, all freshly prepared by Ben himself. With 42 seats inside and 34 outside, this family-style eatery is already a hit in its new seaside home.
I could give up shopping, but I am not a quitter.
Shopping in Knokke is a unique experience, blending international luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès with Belgium’s own high-end designers such as Essentiel, Nathalie Vleeschouwer, Odette Lunettes, and Cesar Casier. Add to that a mix of hidden gems, seasonal pop-up stores, and stylish boutiques — there’s always something new to discover at the coast. I always make time to stop by a few of my favorites:
Les Sœurs - Knokke
https://www.lessoeurs.be/
3 Sisters with a full-time passion for exclusive jewellery, cool clothes, and original accessories, all with a personal touch and created in Belgium.
Les Jumelles – Knokke
https://lesjumelles.be/
Les Jumelles is an Antwerp-based webshop leaded by Magalie Aerts. Due to the great success of her affordable and sophisticated collection, she was able to open this pop-up store in Knokke. Not always my style, and I don't always find the value for money justified. At theirs, you often find the same garments than in other small fashion stores but at least twice as expensively labelled.
Yaya
https://yaya.eu/nl-be/pages/knokke
YAYA's Knokke boutique embodies a refined, feminine atmosphere with its elegant fabrics and timeless, neutral shades. The collection is effortlessly stylish, offering a mix of classy, versatile pieces that blend comfort with sophistication. To enhance the shopping experience, the store features a cozy in-store coffee corner, inviting customers to unwind while exploring the curated selection. My personal favourite!
Heavenly – Dumortierlaan
https://www.heavenlyshopsknokke.be/
A fun and trendy boutique on Dumortierlaan, Heavenly stocks contemporary brands like Jeff, Samsoe Samsoe, Stella Forest, Sun68, Rae, …. It’s not cheap, prices are similar to “Jack Russell”, but the selection feels fresher and modern.
Sissy-Boy
https://www.sissy-boy.com/
From lush floral prints to delicate insect embroidery, Sissy-Boy is the place for unique designs with a playful touch. They put just as much emphasis on comfort, using natural materials like recycled and organic cotton, linen, and viscose. On top of that, they have a lovely home collection filled with must-haves for your kitchen or bathroom.Must Have
https://musthave.be/
Must Have is probably the most beautiful and largest multi-brand concept store on the entire Belgian coast. You’ll find the latest trends in fashion, interior design, and accessories here, with brands like Assouline, Baobab, Aesop, Moncler, Birkenstock, Ami Paris, and many more.Mei-Li
https://mei-li.be/
Mei-Li is an online store with physical shops in Ostend and Knokke, offering affordable, colourful fashion mainly for young people. They also have a fun jewellery collection to complete your look.Hogan
https://www.hogan.com/
Hogan is a luxury footwear brand known for stylish, premium sneakers, a pair easily costs between €300 and €500. The exceptional wearing comfort makes them worth the splurge, though I try to score a pair at a good discount during the sales period.Rocco
Normally, I’m in and out of gadget shops in no time, but Rocco (Lippenslaan) completely won me over — it’s fun, original, and packed with clever, quirky finds. From surprising gifts to unique home accessories, there’s something eye-catching around every corner. It’s the perfect stop if you’re looking for a fun and surprising gift that brings a smile home.Daniel Ost
Daniël Ost is een wereldvermaarde bloemkunstenaar uit Sint-Niklaas, bekend om zijn poëtische creaties die florale kunst tot een hoger niveau tillen. Hij werkte voor prestigieuze evenementen zoals Tomorrowland, het Belgisch koningshuis en zelfs de keizer van Japan. Zijn stijl verenigt oosterse finesse met westers vakmanschap, wat hem internationale erkenning opleverde. In Knokke vind je zijn verfijnde signatuur in de stijlvolle bloemenboetiek op de Dumortierlaan.Rituals Mind Oasis
A serene wellness pop-up at the Kustlaan, celebrating Rituals’ 25th anniversary with sensory décor and relaxing treatments. I tried the Brain Massage + Recharge & Hydro Massage, one hour of pure bliss for €49.50.
Jimmy Fairly
https://www.jimmyfairly.com/nl-be
Is a stylish French eyewear brand known for its trendy sunglasses and optical frames, all priced at €135. The brand combines fashion-forward styles with quality materials like bio-acetate. With locations across Europe, it’s a great stop for anyone looking for chic, affordable eyewear with a purpose.
”the tans will fade but the memories will last forever!”