The Ghent restaurant Vrijmoed, run by chef Michaël Vrijmoed, has been ranked fifth amongst the world’s best vegetable restaurants. Three other East Flemish restaurants feature in the top 100. De Vijf Seizoenen in Brakel is ranked 16th. 't Aards Paradijs in Merendree near Deinze is 36th, and Hofke van Bazel in Bazel is 63rd.
The new Top 100 Best Vegetable Restaurants of the World 2026 was announced at the We’re Smart Awards Show in Bruges (West Flanders). No fewer than 13 Belgian restaurants feature among the world’s top 100 vegetable restaurants, including four from East Flanders. Central in Lima (Peru), run by chef Virgilio Martínez, secured the top position.
Although Vrijmoed is not a strictly vegetarian restaurant, vegetables have always played an important role in its cuisine, says Michaël Vrijmoed: “The vegetable narrative has gradually evolved, both for me personally and in terms of my interest in it. Seeking out where we can find the best fresh produce in collaboration with farmers. Turning something as simple as a carrot or an onion into a complete dish. That’s very challenging and also gives me creative freedom.”
The awards were the highlight of a three-day international event that brought together more than 200 chefs and food professionals from over 50 countries in Bruges, the West Flemish capital. We’re Smart was founded in 1989 by vegetable chef Frank Fol and has grown to become one of the most prestigious guides for vegetable-focused restaurants worldwide.