Groot Vleeshuis

Groot Vleeshuis: shopping and dining of authentic regional products

Major chains such as H&M, McDonald’s or Zara can be found in any European city and have a similar look wherever they are. For a more unique experience, one you can only have in this area, it’s more interesting to check out places that promote and work with regional products. One of these is Het Groot Vleeshuis “The Great Butchers’ Hall”.

Even if you’re not up for eating or buying something, the building is already worthwhile the visit. Construction started in 1407 and the building functioned as a market for the sales of meat. It’s very well preserved and an authentic and historic landmark of Ghent, free to visit.

Since 2002 it’s on this location you can find the promotion center of East-Flemish products. You’ll find more than 50 artisan products, ranging from beers to cheeses to meat to chocolates and cuberdons (the latter is a candy that originates from this region). You’ll find several packets of regional specialties, ideal for doing some home degustation or to give as a present. All these product carry a story. A local story, a story of artisan work and a cultural story.

The restaurant also serves typical regional dishes elaborated with ingredients from East-Flanders (which is one of Belgium’s ten provinces, with Ghent as a capital). As an interesting asset, several of the ingredients used in the restaurant are also on sale in the shop. The menu includes a nice variety of craft beers as well, interesting for you beer-lovers out there.

Groot Vleeshuis is a must on any trip to Ghent, not only for its cultural and historic heritage, but also for its future importance!

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