The 5 coolest places to eat in Ghent

This vibrant Basque grill restaurant occupies an abandoned petrol station on the edge of town. It’s a fun spot with an open fire where the team prepare pintxos, grilled octopus and roast turbot. Book a seat at the bar to watch the young crew fire up flame-grilled seafood on the authentic asador grill.

Located on the edge of the old town in a former launderette, Superkelly is open all day long for lunch, dinner or an afterwork cocktail. It’s a lively spot with a healthy vegan menu that includes soup, salads and sandwiches. The beer list includes some unusual bottles including Yak from the local Stroom brewery.

This friendly burger bar feels like an American roadside diner. It has big glass windows looking out on a busy traffic intersection and a playlist that favours 1950s songs. The staff are charming and bring glasses of water to the table as soon as you have sat down. The burgers are made with the best meat and served in a metal serving dish along with chunky wedge potatoes

The acclaimed Belgian chef Gert De Mangeleer has turned his talents from fine dining to informal Asian street food. Inspired by the street barbecues of Bangkok and Hong Kong, he has created a relaxed spot in Ghent’s student quarter where the kitchen serves burger-style homemade buns (or bunners). You can order a Boston bunner stuffed with pulled pork and coleslaw, or a Brighton filled with fried fish. And obviously, being Ghent, there are also veggie options.

A short walk from the centre brings you to this relaxed neighbourhood bistro located in a former meat wholesale store. The two intimate rooms have a rather sober look with Formica tables, white walls and modern art. The kitchen offers a simple, affordable five-course menu featuring innovative dishes, along with an imaginative wine list and rare craft beers.