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Top 5 Tapas Bars

Looking for the best spots in Ghent to enjoy authentic, flavorful tapas? 👀

Whether you're after a cozy ambiance or a culinary experience. We have curated a list of Ghent's top five tapas bars that bring a taste of Spain to Belgium. From the classic patatas bravas to creative, shareable plates. These tapas bars offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable meal with friends or family.

Here's where to find the best bites in town! 🍤💃

We have chosen to visit these 5 tapas bars in Ghent: 

🌶️Malcontenta

🌶️Guerilla Streetfood

🌶️ConTigo

🌶️Bodega 

🌶️Macho 


 


5. Malcontenta: A Flavorful Experience In The Heart Of Ghent

Friends holding plates of tapas in Malcontenta

 

📍Haringsteeg - 9000 Ghent

📞09 224 18 01

✉️info@lamalcontenta.be

 

Nestled in the heart of Ghent we visited Malcontenta, a cozy tapas bar that transports you straight to Spain. With its warm, authentic decor, this spot is the perfect escape for an evening of Spanish vibes. 💃

 

What we ordered: The menu at Malcontenta is a blend of traditional and inventive tapas dishes. We opted for a selection of their most popular offerings: the classic patatas bravas, gambas with avocado 🍤, bread with aioli 🍞and sweet patatoes with basil mayo. 🍠  It was a bit hard to choose traditional dishes because there were a lot of special dishes like mackerel, pointed cabbage and Belgian endive. 

 

The flavors: Each dish at Malcontenta delivered authenticity. The patatas bravas were crispy, with a spicy, house-made sauce. The gambas were fine, but they didn't have much flavor. The bread with aioli was tasteful, but the crust of the bread was very hard. The sweet patatoes with basil mayo were the highlight. The combination of sweet patatoe and basil were perfect. 👌💯

 

A few points on the service: The staff of Malcontenta were friendly, adding to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. However the plates were not cleared, so we ended up sitting at the table with five plates the entire time. 🙁

 

Opening hours: 
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 17:30 PM - 22:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 17:30 PM - 22:30 PM
  • Wednesday:  17:30 - 22:30 PM
  • Thursday: 17:30 PM - 22:30 PM
  • Friday: 17:30 PM - 22:30 PM
  • Saturday: 17:30 - 22:30 PM

 

Things you should know about Malcontenta: 

  • Run by two brothers
  • Has been around since the 80s
  • A bit expensive

Price level: 
💸💸💸💸
 
Our overall review:
🌶️🌶️
 

The food at Malcontenta had its highlights. It is good for people who can't chose.  If you're a picky eater, this might not be the best choice. It's also not cheap for students. 👛


 

4. Guerrilla Streetfood: A Cozy, Colorful Feast Near St. Jacobs!

Smiling with the Lucia Plate from Guerrilla

 

📍Oude Schaapmarkt 1 - 9000 Ghent

📞0486 03 82 40

✉️info@guerillastreetfood.be 

 

If you're craving a colorful feast that brings people together, let us introduce you to Guerilla Streetfood! 🎉 Even though we had a reservation, the place was nice and spacious. From the moment we stepped in, we felt the cozy, vibrant vibe - think bold colors and an interior that invites you to relax and enjoy. 😋
 
What we ordered: We went with their famous "Lucia" option, a true delight for sharing. The spread was impressive, with patatas bravas, albondigas, bruschetta, paella, calamares and croquettes. We ordered for three, but this platter could easily satisfy us with four hungry friends! 🍽️😜 Each dish was beautifully plated, and the variety was truly a treat for the taste buds! The only major downside here is that you can't choose the dishes yourself, which is a shame because it takes away the tapas experience. You're also forced to spend at least €30 per person, which is a lot of money for students for a meal. 🍜
 
The flavors: Every bite was packed with flavor! From the crispy croquettes to the rich paella, each dish was a hit. The range of textures and flavors kept things exciting, making it real to remember. Everything was delicious, but of course, there's the issue that not everyone likes everything.
 
A few notes on the service: While the food was spot-on, the service was a tad slow. Empty glasses and plates lingered on the table, which was a bit inconvenient given the limited table space. A little extra ⚠️attention⚠️ to clearing would go a long way here, especially since the vibe of the place is otherwise so welcoming.
 
Opening hours: 
Monday: 17:45 PM - 21:00 PM
Tuesday: 17:45 PM - 21:00 PM
Wednesday: 17:45 PM - 21:00 PM
Thursday: 17:45 PM - 21:00 PM
Friday: 17:45 PM - 22:00 PM
Saturday: 17:45 PM - 22:00 PM
Sunday: 17:45 PM - 21:00 PM
 
Things you should know about Guerilla Streetfood: 
  • Reservations recommended 
  • Fully decorated in theme
  • You can't choose the dishes
  • A little more expensive

Price level: 
💸💸💸💸
 
Our overall review:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
 
If you're looking for a fun spot to enjoy a flavorful meal in a lively setting, Guerilla Streetfood is worth a visit! Just be ready for a bit of splurge. 🤑
 

 

3. ConTigo: Bold flavors and authentic charm

Friends with the patatas bravas from ConTigo

 

📍Bennesteeg 19 - 9000 Ghent 

📞0470 91 39 05

✉️hola@tapascontigo.be

 

If you fancy an authentic Spanish, culinary experience that brings people together, discover tapas bar Contigo. 🤩 We had a reservation, but the restaurant was spacious and cozy with 2 floors. From the moment we stepped inside, we were surrounded by a warm, Mediterranean atmosphere. A place full of Spanish charm! 💃

 

What we ordered: We went for a mix of classic tapas and a few house specialties. We began with the patatas bravas, lightly salted but an absolute favorite! The calamares was antother standoud, cooked to perfection and oh-so tender. 😋 For the garlic lovers, we tried the garlic bread and garlic mushrooms, but they didn't quite steal the show. But their signature eggplant dish? Unforgettable! 🤤Crispy friend eggplant drizzled with honey and topped with goat cheese - a delicious combo that was a hit with everyone at the table! ✨

 

The Flavors: Every dish was a taste bomb. 💣 From the salty finish to the variants with garlic, it was perfect! but also combining the sweetness of the honey with the savouriness of the goat cheese. Each dish had flavours that complimented each other perfectly. DELICIOUS!!

 

An additional positive point: Contigo offers a wide range of suggestions and offers both a small and large versions for each dish with an adjusted price. 💸 This allows you to create a menu adapted to your group!

 

Opening hours: 
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 18:00 PM - 00:00 PM
Thursday: 18:00 PM - 00:00 PM
Friday: 18:00 PM - 00:00 PM
Saturday 17:00 PM - 00:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
 
Things you should know about ConTigo:
  • Reservations recommended
  • A small or big version of the dishes
  • Cozy Mediterranean interior

Price level:
💸💸
 
Our review:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
 
Contigo is the go-to spot for a cozy, authentic taste of Spain, where each dish is full of flavour and charm. With options for every appetite and a warm Meditteranean vibe. It's a must for anyone craving a authentic tapas experience. ✨🤩
 

 

2. Bodega: Your Go-To for Breakfast and Tasty Tapas!

The Iberico croquettes

 

📍Koningin Elisabethlaan 57 - 9000 Ghent 

📞0474 64 04 62

✉️info@bodega.gent

 

If you're in Ghent and looking for a spot that serves up both hearty breakfasts and delicious tapas, Bodega has you covered! Located near St. Pieters Station, it's easy to reach whether you're a local or just passing through. Step inside to find a cozy interior with a terrace for those sunny days 🌞, perfect for any weather. 
 

What we ordered: The menu is filled with options, from Spanish classics to unique daily specials. We suggest starting with the patatas bravas - spicy🌶️and oh-so delicious! For something a little different, check out the special board. We tried the Iberico croquettes with curry sauce and salad, and it was a fantastic combo of flavors. 😋 The scampi in garlic was also tasty, though a bit more garlic would have made it perfect.🍤 And don't skip the meatballs - simple yet full of flavor!

 

The Flavors: Each dish was packed with distinct flavors, from the rich, spicy kick of the patatas bravas to the unique blend of the curry croquettes. The scampi had a nice garlic base, while the meatballs were comforting. A satisfying, flavorful experience all around!

 

A special shout-out to the bread: One small highlight? The bread with aioli! Freshly served with a choice of white and brown bread, it's a small touch that adds a lot to the meal. 🍞

 

Opening hours: 
Monday: 8:30 AM - 15:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 15:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 15:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 15:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 22:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 15:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 14:00 PM
 
Things you should know about Bodega:
  • No reservations needed
  • Choose from the menu or daily specials
  • Breakfast and tapas available

Price level:
💸💸
 
Our overall review:
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
 
Bodega offers a warm vibe, friendly service, and some truly tasty dishes. Our food came quickly , and the staff made us feel at home. Whether you're in for breakfast 🍳 or an evening tapas experience, Bodega is a great choice for Spanish flavors in Ghent! 😍 
 

 

1. Macho: The Ultimate Tapas Spot That Stole Our Hearts

The Iberico croquettes and patatas bravas

 

📍Kuiperskaai 14 - 9000 Ghent 

📞0479 29 44 59

✉️info@machogent.be

We chose Macho as the number 1 tapas spot in Ghent.🥇 Our visit to Macho in Ghent was a great experience! Macho's concept is about sharing good times and food with friends.  It offers a mix of delicious, shareable dishes. They offer tacos, shrimp bites, and sweet potato fries, and more... all paired with delicious cocktails. The great energy, relaxed ambiance, and beautiful view over the water made for a cozy evening.  We’ll definitely be back for more and recommend it to everyone! 🤩

 

What we ordered: Macho offers a compact menu filled with great flavors! 🤤 We started off with the pinsa topped with tomatoes and cheese, very flavorful start especially woth its delicious dressing. Next up were the Iberico croquettes, which came generously portioned. We had quesadillas and patatas bravas. We wrapped things up with chicken tacos.🌮 

 

The Flavors: the flavors at Macho are amazing! The dishes are fresh and the spices make each dish stand out. The patatas bravas at Macho were hands down the best we've tried! 🙌 Crispy on the outside and perfectly soft on the inside. Each dish had a generous portion and great sauces. 

 

A special shout out to the pinsa bread: the bread had an amazing dressing. It serves great as a starter. It is a big portion and is very fresh. Trying the pinsa is a must!  😍

 

Opening hours: 
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 15:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Wednesday: 15:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Thursday: 15:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Friday: 15:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 1:00 AM
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 1:00 AM
 
Things you should know about Macho:
  • Reservations recommended
  • Big portions
  • Mexican style
  • Cozy ambiance

Price level:
💸💸
 
Our overall review:
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

 

Every dish at Macho was amazing, with perfect portions and good quality food. ✨The friendly service and cozy vibes with great prices and food makes Macho our top tapas spot in Ghent. 😍

 


 

 

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