A Perfect Belgian Pit Stop: Lunch at Grimbergen Brewery on the Road from The Hague to Paris

Driving through Belgium is like flipping through the pages of a storybook, charming villages, medieval towns, and golden fields stretch as far as the eye can see. For travelers making the journey from The Hague to Paris, there’s no better way to break up the drive than with a delicious Belgian lunch and a cold, world-famous beer. And what better place to stop than the Grimbergen Brewery, home to one of Belgium’s most legendary abbey beers?

Belgium is beer country, and Grimbergen is one of the best. Just north of Brussels, this historic brewery traces its origins back to 1128, when Norbertine monks first started brewing their signature rich, malty ales. Today, Grimbergen Abbey still stands, and while the brewing operation has grown, it still honors centuries-old traditions. The on-site restaurant and brewery taproom make for an unbeatable lunch stop, where visitors can pair their meal with a fresh-poured Grimbergen beer straight from the source.

The menu is a celebration of Belgian cuisine with hearty and packed with bold flavors. Classics like carbonnade flamande, a rich beef stew slow-cooked in dark beer, or the crispy frites served with homemade mayonnaise, make for the perfect road trip refuel. And of course, there’s moules-frites, Belgium’s iconic dish of fresh mussels steamed in white wine, garlic, and herbs, served with a side of golden fries. Pair it with a Grimbergen Blonde, Double, or the deep, caramel-rich Optimo Bruno, and you’ve got a meal that turns a quick lunch stop into an unforgettable experience.

But a visit to Grimbergen isn’t just about the food and beer, it’s also a chance to soak in some history. Just a short drive away, Brussels’ iconic Grand Place offers a quick glimpse of ornate 17th-century guild houses and the stunning gothic architecture of the Town Hall. For those with a little extra time, a quick detour to see the Atomium, Belgium’s futuristic landmark, makes for a great road trip photo.

Hitting the road again, full and satisfied, the drive from Brussels to Paris is a scenic one, passing through rolling French countryside and historic towns before reaching the City of Lights. But no matter how many kilometers are left to go, the flavors of Belgium’s own cold Grimbergen beer, the rich sauces, and crispy fries linger long after leaving the brewery. It’s these small, perfect moments that turn a simple road trip into an adventure, proving that in Belgium, even a quick stop for lunch can be an experience worth savoring.